bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phylogenetic placement of a new species of Asian buffalo leech (Arhynchobdellida:Hirudinidae), and confirmation of human-mediated dispersal of a congener to the Caribbean
Authors: Phillips Anna J.
Published: September 2012

A new species of the genus Hirudinaria from Thailand is distinguished from its congeners by the dorsal colour pattern and reproductive structures. Scanning electron microscopy provided novel information on the jaw morphology of Hirudinaria bpling, sp. nov. and also of the previously described Hirudinaria manillensis. During the study, the genus name Hirudinaria in reference to leeches was found to be a homonym and, in this case, precedence is reversed. Phylogenetic analyses based on the nuclear genes 18S rDNA and 28S rDNA as well as the mitochondrial genes 12S rDNA and cytochrome c oxidase I, supported the new species as nested within the monophyletic genus Hirudinaria. Two individuals from the Caribbean, nominally identified as H. manillensis, included in the phylogenetic analyses were strongly supported as members of that species.
TGF-β blockade improves the distribution and efficacy of therapeutics in breast carcinoma by normalizing the tumor stroma
Authors: Liu Jieqiong , Liao Shan , Diop-Frimpong Benjamin , Chen Wei , Goel Shom , Naxerova Kamila , Ancukiewicz Marek , Boucher Yves , Jain Rakesh K. , Xu Lei
Published: September 2012

Although the role of TGF-β in tumor progression has been studied extensively, its impact on drug delivery in tumors remains far from understood. In this study, we examined the effect of TGF-β blockade on the delivery and efficacy of conventional therapeutics and nanotherapeutics in orthotopic mammary carcinoma mouse models. We used both genetic (overexpression of sTβRII, a soluble TGF-β type II receptor) and pharmacologic (1D11, a TGF-β neutralizing antibody) approaches to block TGF-β signaling. In two orthotopic mammary carcinoma models (human MDA-MB-231 and murine 4T1 cell lines), TGF-β blockade significantly decreased tumor growth and metastasis. TGF-β blockade also increased the recruitment and incorporation of perivascular cells into tumor blood vessels and increased the fraction of perfused vessels. Moreover, TGF-β blockade normalized the tumor interstitial matrix by decreasing collagen I content. As a result of this vessel and interstitial matrix normalization, TGF-β blockade improved the intratumoral penetration of both a low-molecular-weight conventional chemotherapeutic drug and a nanotherapeutic agent, leading to better control of tumor growth.
Underexploited targets in lipopolysaccharide biogenesis for the design of antibacterials.
Authors: Cipolla L. , Gabrielli L. , Bini D. , Russo L.
Published: September 2012

This chapter discusses current knowledge on the role of Kdo in bacterial lipopolysaccharide synthesis, highlighting its potential as a target for new antimicrobial drug design.
In vivo high-throughput antimicrobial discovery screens utilizing Caenorhabditis elegans as an alternative host.
Authors: Coleman J. J. , Mylonakis E.
Published: September 2012

This chapter discusses the advantages of using Caenorhabditis elegans as an alternative host in in vivo screening of potential antimicrobial compounds. In general, using the versatile nematode for antimicrobial drug discovery allows the simultaneous assessment of antimicrobial activity, potential toxicities, and relevant physicochemical properties.
An efficient flexible white organic light-emitting device with a screen-printed conducting polymer anode
Authors: Wang Yan , Liu Shihao , Dang Fangyuan , Li Yang , Yin Yongming , Liu Jian , Xu Kai , Piao Xuecheng , Xie Wenfa
Published: September 2012

A screen-printed poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) : poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT : PSS) layer was used as the anode for a flexible white organic light-emitting device (FWOLED). After 700 bending cycles, the sheet resistance of the anode was increased to 1.8 times the initial value (296 Ω/□). The average transmission of the PEDOT : PSS layer on the PET substrate was 74% in the visible light region. At a brightness of 1000 cd m−2, the current and power efficiency of the FWOLED were 26.4 cd A−1 and 10.8 lm W−1, respectively. And after 100 outer bending cycles, the device also had a power efficiency of 5.0 lm W−1 at 1000 cd m−2.
Microwave absorption capability of microcapsules by coating FeSiAlCr with SiO2
Authors: Huang Weirong , Zhang Penghua , Yan Wenjing , Zhou Liang , Xu Hui
Published: September 2012

Electromagnetic wave absorption of microcapsules by coating FeSiAlCr with SiO2 is investigated. The absorption amplitude of the microcapsules is found to increase significantly in the lower frequency of microwave compared with the corpuscles of FeSiAlCr alloy. Reflection loss (RL) exceeding −10 dB can be obtained for all frequencies within 2.6–7.3 GHz, covering half of the S-band, and the whole C-band when the absorber layer thickness is 2 mm. The maximum RL can exceed −18 dB at 4.3 GHz, while the RL is only −4 dB with the corpuscles of FeSiAlCr alloy. The reason is that the microcapsules's conductance is decreased and the absorption of electromagnetic wave in the microcapsule materials is easier.
Surface modes enhanced magneto-optical Kerr effect in Fe films underneath two-dimensional array of polystyrene spheres
Authors: Zhang X , Shi L , Li J , Xia Y J , Shi Z , Zi J , Zhou S M
Published: September 2012

For bilayers consisting of 20 nm Fe film and top two-dimensional arrays of hexagonal close-packed polystyrene spheres, fine structures are observed in the reflection R and magneto-optical polar Kerr rotation θ

K
spectra. The θ

K
achieves narrow peaks or dips near R minima and are both shifted with the sphere diameter. All phenomena are attributed to the excited guided waves and surface plasmonic modes. The θ

K
peaks and dips near the R minima can be mainly explained as a result of the pure optical constant effect.
Tunable bead-on-string microstructures fabricated by mechano-electrospinning
Authors: Bu Ningbin , Huang YongAn , Deng Huixu , Yin Zhouping
Published: September 2012

In this paper, bead-on-string microstructures are fabricated by the mechano-electrospinning (MES) process in a continuously tunable manner. The thin jet is pulled onto the substrate by the stable electric field force and tunable mechanical drawing force, and then the bead-on-string structures are generated by means of the force exerted on the jet, which changes from capillary force and resisting viscosity force to friction force at the contact point in the horizontal direction. In a stable bead-on-string formation process, one cycle can be divided into three stages from the point of view of the jet behaviour: being anchored, being stretched, and skipping. The bead size and the bead gap are continuously tunable through the MES process. The fabrication mechanisms of the bead-on-string microstructure are uncovered through theoretical analysis and experimental characterization. When a critical velocity is achieved, the jet directly falls on the substrate without accumulation since the mechanical drawing force in the horizontal direction overtakes the capillary force, which leads the bead-on-string microstructures to a continuous fibre line. It is a flexible and highly controllable method to fabricate bead-on-string microstructures.
Modelling dielectric-constant values of concrete: an aid to shielding effectiveness prediction and ground-penetrating radar wave technique interpretation
Authors: Bourdi Taoufik , Rhazi Jamal Eddine , Boone François , Ballivy Gérard
Published: September 2012

A number of efficient and diverse mathematical methods have been used to model electromagnetic wave propagation. Each of these methods possesses a set of key elements which eases its understanding. However, the modelling of the propagation in concrete becomes impossible without modelling its electrical properties. In addition to experimental measurements; material theoretical and empirical models can be useful to investigate the behaviour of concrete's electrical properties with respect to frequency, moisture content (MC) or other factors. These models can be used in different fields of civil engineering such as (1) electromagnetic compatibility which predicts the shielding effectiveness (SE) of a concrete structure against external electromagnetic waves and (2) in non-destructive testing to predict the radar wave reflected on a concrete slab. This paper presents a comparison between the Jonscher model and the Debye models which is suitable to represent the dielectric properties of concrete, although dielectric and conduction losses are taken into consideration in these models. The Jonscher model gives values of permittivity, SE and radar wave reflected in a very good agreement with those given by experimental measurements and this for different MCs. Compared with other models, the Jonscher model is very effective and is the most appropriate to represent the electric properties of concrete.
Plasma generation by inductive coupling with a planar resonant RF network antenna
Authors: Lecoultre S , Guittienne Ph , Howling A A , Fayet P , Hollenstein Ch
Published: September 2012

The full text of this corrigendum is available in the PDF.
The triangular theorem of eight and representation by quadratic polynomials
Authors: Bosma Wieb , Kane Ben
Published: September 2012

We investigate here the representability of integers as sums of triangular numbers, where the

n
n

-th triangular number is given by

T
n

=

T_n=

n
(
n
+
1
)

/

2

n(n+1)/2

. In particular, we show that

f
(

x
1

,

x
2

,
…
,

x
k

)
=

b
1

T

x
1

+
⋯
+

b
k

T

x
k

f(x_1, x_2, \ldots , x_k)=b_1T_{x_1}+\cdots +b_kT_{x_k}

, for fixed positive integers

b
1

,

b
2

,
…
,

b
k

b_1, b_2, \ldots , b_k

, represents every nonnegative integer if and only if it represents

1
1

,

2
2

,

4
4

,

5
5

, and

8
8

. Moreover, if ‘cross-terms’ are allowed in

f
f

, we show that no finite set of positive integers can play an analogous role, in turn showing that there is no overarching finiteness theorem which generalizes the statement from positive definite quadratic forms to totally positive quadratic polynomials.
Propofol at Clinically Relevant Concentrations Increases Neuronal Differentiation But Is Not Toxic to Hippocampal Neural Precursor Cells In Vitro
Authors: Sall Jeffrey W. , Stratmann Greg , Leong Jason , Woodward Elliott , Bickler Philip E.
Published: September 2012

Background

Propofol in the early postnatal period has been shown to cause brain cell death. One proposed mechanism for cognitive dysfunction after anesthesia is alteration of neural stem cell function and neurogenesis. We examined the effect of propofol on neural precursor or stem cells (NPCs) grown in vitro.

Methods

Hippocampal-derived NPCs from postnatal day 2 rats were exposed to propofol or Diprivan. NPCs were then analyzed for bromodeoxyuridine incorporation to measure proliferation. Cell death was measured by lactate dehydrogenase release. Immunocytochemistry was used to evaluate the expression of neuronal and glial markers in differentiating NPCs exposed to propofol.

Results

Propofol dose dependently increases the release of lactate dehydrogenase from NPCs under both proliferating and differentiating conditions at supraclinical concentrations (more than 7.1 µM). Both Diprivan and propofol had the same effect on NPCs. Propofol-mediated release of lactate dehydrogenase is not inhibited by blocking the γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor or extracellular calcium influx and is not mediated by caspase-3/7. Direct γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor activation did not have the same effect. In differentiating NPCs, 6 h of propofol at 2.1 µM increased the number neurons but not glial cells 4 days later. Increased neuronal differentiation was not blocked by bicuculline.

Conclusions

Only supraclinical concentrations of propofol or Diprivan kill NPCs in culture by a non-γ-aminobutyric acid type A, noncaspase-3 mechanism. Clinically relevant doses of propofol increase neuronal fate choice by a non-γ-aminobutyric acid type A mechanism.
Intraoperative Neuromuscular Monitoring Site and Residual Paralysis
Authors: Thilen Stephan R. , Hansen Bradley E. , Ramaiah Ramesh , Kent Christopher D. , Treggiari Miriam M. , Bhananker Sanjay M.
Published: September 2012

Background

Residual paralysis is common after general anesthesia involving administration of neuromuscular blocking drugs (NMBDs). Management of NMBDs and reversal is frequently guided by train-of-four (TOF) monitoring. We hypothesized that monitoring of eye muscles is associated with more frequent residual paralysis than monitoring at the adductor pollicis.

Methods

This prospective cohort study enrolled 180 patients scheduled for elective surgery with anticipated use of NMBDs. Collected variables included monitoring site, age, gender, weight, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status class, type and duration of surgery, type of NMBDs, last and total dose administered, TOF count at time of reversal, dose of neostigmine, and time interval between last dose of NMBDs to quantitative measurement. Upon postanesthesia care unit admission, we measured TOF ratios by acceleromyography at the adductor pollicis. Residual paralysis was defined as a TOF ratio less than 90%. Multivariable logistic regression was used to account for unbalances between the two groups and to adjust for covariates.

Results

150 patients received NMBDs and were included in the analysis. Patients with intraoperative TOF monitoring of eye muscles had significantly greater incidence of residual paralysis than patients monitored at the adductor pollicis (P < 0.01). Residual paralysis was observed in 51/99 (52%) and 11/51 (22%) of patients, respectively. The crude odds ratio was 3.9 (95% CI: 1.8-8.4), and the adjusted odds ratio was 5.5 (95% CI: 2.1-14.5).

Conclusions

Patients having qualitative TOF monitoring of eye muscles had a greater than 5-fold higher risk of postoperative residual paralysis than those monitored at the adductor pollicis.
CHOROIDITIS AND CHOROIDAL NEOVASCULARIZATION IN ACUTE DISSEMINATED ENCEPHALOMYELITIS
Authors: Panou Nikol , Kim Ivana K. , Sobrin Lucia
Published: September 2012

Purpose:

To present a case with bilateral choroidal neovascularization (CNV) secondary to acute disseminated encephalomyelitis–associated choroiditis requiring immunomodulatory therapy for prevention of recurrence.

Methods:

The clinical course of a patient diagnosed with acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, who developed bilateral choroiditis at the time of his neurologic diagnosis and bilateral CNV 6 years later, is reviewed.

Patient:

A 57-year-old man developed CNV in both eyes, 6 years after the initial diagnosis of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis–associated choroiditis. The patient was initially treated successfully with intravitreal bevacizumab injections and oral prednisone, but CNV recurred with steroid tapering. Mycophenolate mofetil was initiated as steroid-sparing immunomodulatory therapy.

Results:

There was no CNV recurrence for 1.5 years without the need for additional antiangiogenic therapy.

Conclusion:

To our best knowledge, this is the first report of choroiditis and secondary CNV associated with acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. In cases of recurrent CNV associated with choroiditis, systemic therapy should be strongly considered in conjunction with antiangiogenic therapy. The recurrence of CNV with tapering of oral steroids and the remission of CNV with steroid-sparing immunomodulatory therapy support the role of ongoing inflammation in the pathogenesis.
Ni2Sn2Zn from single-crystal X-ray diffraction
Authors: Schmetterer Clemens , Rajamohan Divakar , Effenberger Herta Silvia , Flandorfer Hans
Published: September 2012

Dinickel ditin zinc, Ni2Sn2Zn, crystallizes in the cubic space group Pm\overline{3}m, with a lattice parameter ofa= 8.845 (1) Å and with all atoms occupying special positions. The crystal structure exhibits pronounced similarities with that of the quaternary compound Ni5.20Sn8.7Zn4.16Cu1.04. It shares structural features with other compounds in the Ni–Sn–Zn system, such as Ni5Sn4Zn and Ni3Sn2.
[Te8][NbOCl4]2containing an infinite chain-like {[Te–Te–Te–(Te5)]2+}npolycation
Authors: Feldmann Claus , Freudenmann Dominic
Published: September 2012

The title compound, [Te8][NbOCl4]2, was obtained as translucent black crystals by reaction of elemental tellurium, niobium(V) chloride and niobium(V) oxychloride in the ionic liquid BMImCl (BMImCl is 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride). The synthesis was performed in argon-filled glass ampoules. According to X-ray structure analysis based on single crystals, the title compound crystallizes with triclinic lattice symmetry and consists of infinite {[Te8]2+}ncations associated with pyramidal [NbOCl4]−anions. The novelcatena-octatellurium(2+) cation is composed of Te5rings that are linkedviaTe3units [Te—Te = 2.6455 (18)–2.8164 (19) Å]. The composition and purity of [Te8][NbOCl4]2were further confirmed by energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDX) analysis.
Quantitative visualization of biological data in Google Earth using R2G2, an R CRAN package
Authors: Arrigo Nils , Albert Loren P. , Mickelson Pascal G. , Barker Michael S.
Published: September 2012

We briefly introduce R2G2, an R CRAN package to visualize spatially explicit biological data within the Google Earth interface. Our package combines a collection of basic graph‐editing features, including automated placement of dots, segments, polygons, images (including graphs produced with R), along with several complex three‐dimensional (3D) representations such as phylogenies, histograms and pie charts. We briefly present some example data sets and show the immediate benefits in communication gained from using the Google Earth interface to visually explore biological results. The package is distributed with detailed help pages providing examples and annotated source scripts with the hope that users will have an easy time using and further developing this package. R2G2 is distributed on http://cran.r-project.org/web/packages.
De novo assembly of the transcriptome of an invasive snail and its multiple ecological applications
Authors: Sun J. , Wang M. , Wang H. , Zhang H. , Zhang X. , Thiyagarajan V. , Qian P. Y. , Qiu J. W.
Published: September 2012

Studying how invasive species respond to environmental stress at the molecular level can help us assess their impact and predict their range expansion. Development of markers of genetic polymorphism can help us reconstruct their invasive route. However, to conduct such studies requires the presence of substantial amount of genomic resources. This study aimed to generate and characterize genomic resources using high throughput transcriptome sequencing for Pomacea canaliculata, a nonmodel gastropod indigenous to Argentina that has invaded Asia, Hawaii and southern United States. De novo assembly of the transcriptome resulted in 128 436 unigenes with an average length of 419 bp (range: 150–8556 bp). Many of the unigenes (2439) contained transposable elements, showing the existence of a source of genetic variability in response to stressful conditions. A total of 3196 microsatellites were detected in the transcriptome; among 20 of the randomly tested microsatellites, 10 were validated to exhibit polymorphism. A total of 15 412 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were detected in the ORFs. LC‐MS/MS analysis of the proteome of juveniles revealed 878 proteins, of which many are stress related. This study has demonstrated the great potential of high throughput DNA sequencing for rapid development of genomic resources for a nonmodel organism. Such resources can facilitate various molecular ecological studies, such as stress physiology and range expansion.
Consistent divergence times and allele sharing measured from cross‐species application of SNP chips developed for three domestic species
Authors: Miller J. M. , Kijas J. W. , Heaton M. P. , McEwan J. C. , Coltman D. W.
Published: September 2012

Recent advances in technology facilitated development of large sets of genetic markers for many taxa, though most often model or domestic organisms. Cross‐species application of genomic technologies may allow for rapid marker discovery in wild relatives of taxa with well‐developed resources. We investigated returns from cross‐species application of three commercially available SNP chips (the OvineSNP50, BovineSNP50 and EquineSNP50 BeadChips) as a function of divergence time between the domestic source species and wild target species. Across all three chips, we observed a consistent linear decrease in call rate (~1.5% per million years), while retention of polymorphisms showed an exponential decay. These results will allow researchers to predict the expected amplification rate and polymorphism of cross‐species application for their taxa of interest, as well as provide a resource for estimating divergence times.
Capwire: a R package for estimating population census size from non‐invasive genetic sampling
Authors: Pennell Matthew W. , Stansbury Carisa R. , Waits Lisette P. , Miller Craig R.
Published: September 2012

Non‐invasive genetic sampling is an increasingly popular approach for investigating the demographics of natural populations. This has also become a useful tool for managers and conservation biologists, especially for those species for which traditional mark–recapture studies are not practical. However, the consequence of collecting DNA indirectly is that an individual may be sampled multiple times per sampling session. This requires alternative statistical approaches to those used in traditional mark–recapture studies. Here we present the R package capwire, an implementation of the population size estimators of Miller et al. (Molecular Ecology 2005; 14: 1991), which were designed to deal specifically with this type of sampling. The aim of this project is to enable users across platforms to easily manipulate their data and interact with existing R packages. We have also provided functions to simulate data under a variety of scenarios to allow for rigorous testing of the robustness of the method and to facilitate further development of this approach.
Sensitization to acid‐hydrolyzed wheat protein by transdermal administration to BALB/c mice, and comparison with gluten
Authors: Adachi R. , Nakamura R. , Sakai S. , Fukutomi Y. , Teshima R.
Published: September 2012

Background

An increasing number of studies have shown that hydrolyzed wheat protein (HWP) can induce IgE‐mediated hypersensitivity by skin contact and/or food ingestion. However, there has been no study of the sensitizing potential of HWP. In this study, the possibility of transdermal pathway for sensitization to acid‐HWP (HWP1) was investigated using BALB/c mice, and compared with that of gluten.

Methods

HWP1 or gluten (500 μg/mouse) was transdermally administered using patches. After three or four cycles of sensitization for 3 days/week, active systemic anaphylaxis (ASA) was induced by intraperitoneal injection of the antigen, and rectal temperatures, scores of anaphylactic responses, and plasma histamine levels were determined. Because HWP1 was included in facial soap in Japan, the effect of detergent on the sensitizing potential was also investigated.

Results

Transdermal administration of HWP1 induced dose‐dependent production of IgE and IgG1. After sensitization for 3 or 4 weeks, intraperitoneal injection of HWP1 caused ASA, leading to decreased rectal temperatures, increased anaphylaxis scores, and increased plasma histamine levels. In addition, splenocytes harvested after ASA produced IL‐4, IL‐5, and IL‐10 by re‐stimulation with HWP1. Transdermal exposure to gluten also induced IgE and IgG1 production, and intraperitoneal injection of gluten also induced ASA only in mice sensitized in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate.

Conclusions

Transdermal exposure to HWP1 is sufficient to activate key immune pathways necessary for sensitizing mice for immediate hypersensitivity reactions. This study shows that HWP has a sensitizing potential as well as gluten, whereas its allergenicity may be different from that of gluten.
Environmental bacteria and childhood asthma
Authors: Ege M. J. , Mayer M. , Schwaiger K. , Mattes J. , Pershagen G. , van Hage M. , Scheynius A. , Bauer J. , von Mutius E.
Published: September 2012

Background

We have previously found an inverse association of bacterial diversity with childhood asthma. It remains unclear whether certain bacteria account for the protective effect.

Methods

The high variability of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene allows assessing diversity and specificity of bacterial communities by single‐strand configuration polymorphism (SSCP). DNA was extracted from mattress dust samples of 489 school‐age children from rural and suburban regions in Germany. A fragment of the bacteria‐specific 16S rRNA gene was amplified by PCR, digested to single‐strand DNA, and subjected to electrophoresis. The resulting band patterns reflect the underlying DNA sequences. The individual bands were tested for associations with asthma, hay fever, and atopy in quantitative and qualitative multivariable analyses. Significantly associated bands were isolated and sequenced. The sequences were compared to a database, and distinct bacteria were identified.

Results

Seven of 76 independent bands were found to be inversely associated with asthma, atopic sensitization, and hay fever with odds ratios ranging from 0.17 to 0.73. The bands contained the sequences of Acinetobacter sp., Lactobacillus spp., Neisseria spp., Staphylococcus sciuri, Jeotgalicoccus sp., Corynebacterium spp., and others.

Conclusions

In a diverse microbial environment, certain bacteria may account for the protective effect on the development of asthma and atopy.
Mechanisms of tolerance induction in allergic disease: integrating current and emerging concepts
Authors: Wisniewski J. , Agrawal R. , Woodfolk J. A.
Published: September 2012

The prevalence of atopy and allergic disease continues to escalate worldwide. Defining immune mechanisms that suppress the underlying Th2‐driven inflammatory process is critical for the rational design of new treatments to prevent or attenuate disease. Allergen immunotherapy has provided a useful framework for evaluating changes in the immune response that occur during the development of tolerance. Despite this, elucidating the phenotypic and functional properties of regulatory cells, has proven challenging in humans with allergic disease. This article provides an overview of our current understanding of the immune pathways that orchestrate allergen tolerance, with an emphasis on emerging concepts related to human disease. A variety of regulatory cell types, including IL‐10‐secreting T and B cells, play a pivotal role in suppressing allergic responses to inhaled, ingested and injected allergens. These cells may inhibit Th2 effectors directly, or else indirectly, through other cell types and mediators. Protective antibodies, including IgG4, Fc sialylated IgG, and IgA, have the capacity to modulate the response by preventing allergen binding to surface‐bound IgE, or inhibiting dendritic cell maturation. Immune cell plasticity may augment suppression of Th2 cells by T regulatory cells, through mechanisms that involve T cell conversion, or else unconventional roles of classical effector cells. These actions depend upon external cues provided by the in vivo milieu. As such, specific anatomical sites may preferentially favour tolerance induction. Recent scientific advances now allow a global analysis of immune parameters that capture novel markers of tolerance induction in allergic patients. Such markers could provide new molecular targets for assessing tolerance, and for designing treatments that confer long‐lasting protection in a safe and efficacious fashion.
First successful double‐factor PGD for Lynch syndrome: monogenic analysis and comprehensive aneuploidy screening
Authors: Daina G , Ramos L , Obradors A , Rius M , Martinez‐Pasarell O , Polo A , del Rey J , Obradors J , Benet J , Navarro J
Published: September 2012

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) has been applied worldwide for a great variety of single‐gene disorders over the last 20 years. The aim of this work was to perform a double‐factor preimplantation genetic diagnosis (DF‐PGD) protocol in a family at risk for Lynch syndrome. The family underwent a DF‐PGD approach in which two blastomeres from each cleavage‐stage embryo were biopsied and used for monogenic and comprehensive cytogenetic analysis, respectively. Fourteen embryos were biopsied for the monogenic disease and after multiple displacement amplification (MDA), 12 embryos were diagnosed; 5 being non‐affected and 7 affected by the disease. Thirteen were biopsied to perform the aneuploidy screening by short‐comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). The improved DF‐PGD approach permitted the selection of not only healthy but also euploid embryos for transfer. This has been the first time a double analysis of embryos has been performed in a family affected by Lynch syndrome, resulting in the birth of two healthy children. The protocol described in this work offers a reliable alternative for single‐gene disorder assessment together with a comprehensive aneuploidy screening of the embryos that may increase the chances of pregnancy and birth of transferred embryos.
Implant‐Supporting Telescopic Maxillary Prostheses and Immediate Loading
Authors: Romanos Georgios E. , May Stephan , May Dittmar
Published: September 2012

Immediate loading (IL) in the maxilla is a successful concept when implants are splinted together using a fixed restoration. This concept is associated with high number of implants or difficulties in the plaque control underneath the restoration, which may reduce the patient comfort and satisfaction and compromise the implant prognosis.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long‐term clinical outcome of implants placed in the maxilla using telescopic‐retained removable prostheses under immediate functional loading protocol.

Material and Methods

The present retrospective study included 117 implants with a progressive thread design placed in 26 patients (age 57.04 ± 8.87 years old) with clinical and radiographic evaluation for a period of at least 2 years. A total of 29 implants (24.79%) were placed in fresh extraction sockets. All implants were placed 1–3 mm subcrestally from the mid‐facial crest of bone level. The implants were connected immediately after placement with conical prefabricated abutments (4‐ to 6‐degree angle) using a final torque of 15 Ncm immediately after surgery. Secondary prefabricated copings with precise fit for the abutments were placed and the partial dentures were relined chair‐side. The restorations were palate‐free and were to remain in place without removal for 10 days to splint the implants together.

Results

After a loading period of 54.42 ± 15.68 months (min. 26 months/max. 87 months), the study showed 7 failures (5.98% failure rate), and 10 implants presented a crestal bone loss of more than 2 mm (8.55%). This represented a cumulative survival rate of 94.02% and a success rate for the evaluated implants of 85.47%. All patients were satisfied with the stability of their prostheses and no complications were reported.

Conclusions

Telescopic implant‐supported maxillary prostheses in conjunction with IL present an alternative prosthetic solution for the edentulous maxilla, providing long‐term predictability and improving the patient comfort and clinical outcome.
High Volume Local Anesthesia as a Postoperative Factor of Pain and Swelling in Dental Implants
Authors: Sánchez‐Siles Mariano , Torres‐Diez Luis Carlos , Camacho‐Alonso Fabio , Salazar‐Sánchez Noemi , Ballester Ferrandis Jose Francisco
Published: September 2012

Objective

To determine whether the administration of high‐volume local anesthesia can influence postoperative pain and swelling, and the degree of patient satisfaction, following dental implant placement.

Material and Methods

One hundred patients (45 women and 55 men) between 19 and 80 years old were divided into two groups: group A (n = 50, with placement of an implant using an atraumatic approach in each patient, with sub‐periosteal injection of a volume of Ultracain® ≤0.9 mL [half a carpule]) and group B (n = 50, involving the same surgical procedure but infiltrating a local anesthetic volume of ≥7.2 mL [four carpules]). Visual analog scales were used in all patients to rate intraoperative pain and postoperative pain and swelling. After the first week, the patients completed a questionnaire evaluating satisfaction with treatment.

Results

The intraoperative pain scores were similar in both groups (p = 0.363), while the postoperative pain and swelling scores were significantly lower in group A at all time points. Patient rated satisfaction with the surgical treatment was higher in group A.

Conclusions

Excess injected volume of local anesthetic in dental implant surgery has a negative impact upon both postoperative pain and swelling, and on patient rated satisfaction.
The burden of diabetes mellitus and impaired fasting glucose in an urban population of Sri Lanka
Authors: Pinidiyapathirage M. J. , Kasturiratne A. , Ranawaka U. K. , Gunasekara D. , Wijekoon N. , Medagoda K. , Perera S. , Takeuchi F. , Kato N. , Warnakulasuriya T. , Wickremasinghe A. R.
Published: September 2012

Aims

To describe the burden of diabetes mellitus and impaired fasting glucose in middle‐aged residents (35–64 years) in an urban area of Sri Lanka.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted in the Ragama Medical Officer of Health area, from which 2986 participants (1349 men and 1637 women) were randomly selected from the electoral registry between January and December 2007. The participants underwent a physical examination and had their height, weight, waist and hip circumferences and blood pressure measured by trained personnel. Fasting blood samples were taken for measurement of glucose, HbA1c and lipids. The prevalence of diabetes (fasting plasma glucose > 7 mmol/l) and impaired fasting glycaemia (fasting plasma glucose 5.6–6.9 mmol/l) and major predictors of diabetes in Sri Lanka were estimated from the population‐based data.

Results

Age‐adjusted prevalence of diabetes mellitus in this urban population was 20.3% in men and 19.8% in women. Through the present screening, 263 patients with diabetes and 1262 with impaired fasting glucose levels were identified. The prevalence of newly detected diabetes was 35.7% of all patients with diabetes. Among patients with diabetes, only 23.8% were optimally controlled. In the regression models, high BMI, high waist circumference, high blood pressure and hypercholesterolaemia increased the fasting plasma glucose concentration, independent of age, sex and a family history of diabetes.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate the heavy burden of diabetes in this urban population. Short‐ and long‐term control strategies are required, not only for optimal therapy among those affected, but also for nationwide primary prevention of diabetes.
Deprivation and ethnicity impact on diabetes control and use of treatment regimen
Authors: Thompson R. J. , Agostini K. , Potts L. , Luscombe J. , Christie D. , Viner R. , White B. , Hindmarsh P. C.
Published: September 2012

Aims

Deprivation and/or ethnicity impact on care delivery. We have assessed how these factors influence diabetes care in a paediatric clinic.

Methods

We related access to care [type of insulin treatment regimen—twice daily, multiple daily injections and insulin pump therapy (continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion)], measures of care process (HbA1c) and an approximate measure of satisfaction with the service (clinic attendance rate) in 325 (170 male) children and young people with Type 1 diabetes (mean age 10.6 years, mean duration of diabetes of 4.5 years), with indices of deprivation and ethnicity.

Results

Of the 325 children and young people, 2.7% received twice‐daily insulin, 48.4% multiple daily injections and 48.9% continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion. Median clinic HbA1c was 62 mmol/mol (7.8%) and those receiving the insulin pump therapy had the lowest HbA1c. Four ethnic groups were represented; White British 81.6%, Asian non‐Indian 6.5%, African 8.1% and Asian Indian 3.8%. Mean deprivation score was 21.06. White British and Asian Indian groups were more likely to receive insulin pump therapy (χ2 = 50.3; P < 0.001). Attendance rates were 94.1% and did not differ across ethnic groups. Deprivation was related to ethnicity and HbA1c (R2 = 0.02; P = 0.02). There was no relationship between clinic attendance and deprivation. Insulin regimen and ethnicity were associated with HbA1c (R2 = 0.096; P < 0.001). Similar findings were obtained when analysis was confined to the White British population.

Conclusions

These data suggest that deprivation and ethnicity influence diabetes control and how intensive insulin therapy is utilized. A better consideration of the needs of different ethnic groups is required to ensure equitable care delivery in paediatric diabetes.
Vibration thresholds are increased at low frequencies in the sole of the foot in diabetes—a novel multi‐frequency approach
Authors: Nelander J. , Speidel T. , Björkman A. , Dahlin L. B.
Published: September 2012

Aims

To evaluate multi‐frequency tactilometry as a method to measure vibrotactile sense in the sole of the foot in subjects with diabetes.

Methods

Vibration thresholds were investigated at five frequencies (8, 16, 32, 64 and 125 Hz) at three sites (first and fifth metatarsal heads and heel) in the sole of the foot in subjects with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes (n = 37). Thresholds were compared with healthy, age‐ and gender‐matched subjects (n = 37) and related to glycaemic levels, subjective estimation of sensation in the feet and to perception of touch.

Results

Vibration thresholds were significantly higher in subjects with diabetes compared with healthy subjects at low frequencies (8, 16 and 32 Hz) at all measured sites, and also at 64 Hz for the metatarsal heads. Perception of touch and subjective estimation of sensation were significantly impaired in subjects with diabetes. Glycaemic levels, which were higher in subjects with diabetes, did not correlate with vibration thresholds at 32 Hz (most sensitive to Meissner′s corpuscles) or with touch thresholds in subjects with diabetes. Vibration thresholds at 32 Hz correlated significantly with perception of touch (rho = 0.45–0.65; P < 0.01) and with subjective sensation (rho = −0.38 to −0.52; P < 0.001) in subjects with diabetes. Perception of touch and subjective estimation of sensation did also correlate (rho = −0.51 to −0.80; P < 0.002).

Conclusions

Tactilometry is effective in detecting neuropathy in the sole of the foot at low frequencies of mainly 8–32 Hz, indicating that at least Meissner's corpuscles, or their related large nerve fibres, are affected by diabetes.
Levels of domestication in fish: implications for the sustainable future of aquaculture
Authors: Teletchea Fabrice , Fontaine Pascal
Published: September 2012

The agricultural world today is dominated by a few domesticated mammal species, that is, animals modified from their wild ancestors through selective breeding in captivity for traits beneficial to human usages. As a result, a clear dichotomy exists between wild (from hunting) and domesticated mammals (produced in farms) used for human consumption. Similar to agriculture, aquaculture is often viewed as the only solution that can provide more fish products given that harvesting wild stocks have reached an upper limit. Aquaculture is considerably younger than agriculture relying on natural sources to farm numerous species. To better describe the diverse strategies for fish production, we propose a new classification comprising five levels of ‘domestication’ with 1 being the least to 5 being the most domesticated. Our classification places 70% of the 250 farmed finfish species recorded in the 2009 FAO database into levels 1, 2 and 3 representing a transitory form of fish production dependent on the availability of the wild resource. In contrast, only a few species, or more accurately populations, can be considered truly domesticated, similar to cattle or sheep. Based on this classification, two scenarios for the future of aquaculture are discussed: either the industry focuses on few truly domesticated species, similar to the path taken by agriculture, but avoiding its negative impacts or aquaculture proceeds with inter‐specific diversification by focusing primarily on the domestication of native species.
Geochemistry and origin of natural gases dissolved in brines from gas fields in southwest Japan
Authors: SAKATA S. , MAEKAWA T. , IGARI S. , SANO Y.
Published: September 2012

Previous geochemical studies indicated that most natural gases dissolved in brines in Japan are of microbial origin, consisting of methane produced via carbonate reduction. However, some of those from gas fields in southwest Japan contain methane relatively enriched in 13C, whose origin remains to be clarified. To address this issue, chemical and isotopic analyses were performed on natural gases and brines from the gas fields in Miyazaki and Shizuoka prefectures, southwest Japan. Methane isotopic signatures (δ13C ≈ −68‰ to −34‰ VPDB; δ2H ≈ −183‰ to −149‰ VSMOW) suggest that these gases are of microbial (formed via carbonate reduction) or of mixed microbial and thermogenic origin. The relatively high δ2H‐CH4 values and their relationship with the δ2H‐H2O values argue against the possibility of their formation via acetate fermentation. The δ13C‐CO2 values (≈−5‰), together with the slope of the correlation between δ2H‐CH4 and δ13C‐CH4 (Δδ2H‐CH4/Δδ13C‐CH4 ≈ 1), contradict the possibility of their formation via carbonate reduction followed by partial oxidation by methanotrophs. The 3He/4He ratios of the gases from Miyazaki (≈0.11–1.3 Ra) and their low correlation with δ13C‐CH4 values do not support an abiogenic origin. It is inferred therefore that the high δ13C‐CH4 values of natural gases dissolved in brines from gas fields in southwest Japan are indications of the contribution of thermogenic hydrocarbons, although whether abiogenic hydrocarbons contribute significantly to the gases from Shizuoka requires further investigation. This study has clarified that, for the future exploration of natural gases in southwest Japan, we should adopt the strategies for conventional thermogenic gas accumulations, such as checking the content, type and maturity of organic matter in the underlying sedimentary rocks.
Bleeding disorders, menorrhagia and iron deficiency: impacts on health‐related quality of life
Authors: Rae C. , Furlong W. , Horsman J. , Pullenayegum E. , Demers C. , St‐Louis J. , Lillicrap D. , Barr R.
Published: September 2012

von Willebrand disease (VWD) is a bleeding disorder that occurs in up to 1% of the general population. The great majority of females with VWD experience menorrhagia. The morbidity burden in females with VWD may relate to iron deficiency resulting from menorrhagia. To explore relationships between bleeding disorders, menorrhagia, iron deficiency and the outcomes of health‐related quality of life (HRQL) and educational attainment. All subjects with VWD, and females with other bleeding disorders, in the Canadian national registry who were more than 12 years of age were eligible for survey. Survey measures included the HEALTH UTILITIES INDEX®; abridged Clinical History Assessment Tool; socio‐demographic questions and serum ferritin. Statistical analyses included testing differences among groups of means using analysis of variance and of proportions using chi‐squared test. Significant size differences in mean HRQL scores were detected between VWD females and both females with other bleeding disorders [diff = (−0.08); P = 0.017] and VWD males [diff = (−0.07); P = 0.039]. Mean HRQL scores differed between females with and without menorrhagia (P < 0.001). Mean HRQL scores were not significantly different between females with and without iron deficiency. Educational attainment was not associated with disease group, menorrhagia status or iron status. Females with VWD have a greater morbidity burden than females in the general population, females with other bleeding disorders and males with VWD. Menorrhagia is associated with low HRQL scores in females with bleeding disorders, including VWD. Further investigation should assess how menorrhagia impacts HRQL in females with bleeding disorders.
Acute diesel exhaust particle exposure increases viral titre and inflammation associated with existing influenza infection, but does not exacerbate deficits in lung function
Authors: Larcombe Alexander N. , Foong Rachel E. , Boylen Catherine E. , Zosky Graeme R.
Published: September 2012

Please cite this paper as: Larcombe et al. (2012) Acute diesel exhaust particle exposure increases viral titre and inflammation associated with existing influenza infection, but does not exacerbate deficits in lung function. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses DOI:10.1111/irv.12012.

Background  Exposure to diesel exhaust particles (DEP) is thought to exacerbate many pre‐existing respiratory diseases, including asthma, bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, however, there is a paucity of data on whether DEP exacerbates illness due to respiratory viral infection.

Objectives  To assess the physiological consequences of an acute DEP exposure during the peak of influenza‐induced illness.

Methods  We exposed adult female BALB/c mice to 100 μg DEP (or control) 3·75 days after infection with 104·5 plaque forming units of influenza A/Mem71 (or control). Six hours, 24 hours and 7 days after DEP exposure we measured thoracic gas volume and lung function at functional residual capacity. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was taken for analyses of cellular inflammation and cytokines, and whole lungs were taken for measurement of viral titre.

Results  Influenza infection resulted in significantly increased inflammation, cytokine influx and impairment to lung function. DEP exposure alone resulted in less inflammation and cytokine influx, and no impairment to lung function. Mice infected with influenza and exposed to DEP had higher viral titres and neutrophilia compared with infected mice, yet they did not have more impaired lung mechanics than mice infected with influenza alone.

Conclusions  A single dose of DEP is not sufficient to physiologically exacerbate pre‐existing respiratory disease caused by influenza infection in mice.
Population‐level effects of automated smoking cessation help programs: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Borland Ron , Balmford James , Benda Peter
Published: September 2012

Aims

To test the population impact of offering automated smoking cessation interventions via the internet and/or by mobile phone.

Design

Pragmatic randomized controlled trial with five conditions: offer of (i) minimal intervention control; (ii) QuitCoach personalized tailored internet‐delivered advice program; (iii) onQ, an interactive automated text‐messaging program; (iv) an integration of both QuitCoach and onQ; and (v) a choice of either alone or the combined program.

Setting

Australia, via a mix of internet and telephone contacts.

Participants

A total of 3530 smokers or recent quitters recruited from those interested in quitting, and seeking self‐help resources (n = 1335) or cold‐contacted from internet panels (n = 2195).

Measurements

The primary outcome was self‐report of 6 months sustained abstinence at 7 months post‐recruitment.

Findings

Only 42.5% of those offered one of the interventions took it up to a minimal level. The intervention groups combined had a non‐significantly higher 6‐month sustained abstinence rate than the control [odds ratio (OR) = 1.48; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.98–2.24] (missing cases treated as smokers), with no differences between the interventions. Among those who used an intervention, there was a significant overall increase in abstinence (OR = 1.95; CI: 1.04–3.67), but not clearly so when analysing only cases with reported outcomes. Success rates were greater among those recruited after seeking information compared to those cold‐contacted.

Conclusions

Smokers interested in quitting who were assigned randomly to an offer of either the QuitCoach internet‐based support program and/or the interactive automated text‐messaging program had non‐significantly greater odds of quitting for at least 6 months than those randomized to an offer of a simple information website.