bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Altered synaptic transmission at olfactory and vomeronasal nerve terminals in mice lacking N‐type calcium channel Cav2.2
Authors: Weiss Jan , Pyrski Martina , Weissgerber Petra , Zufall Frank
Published: September 2014

We investigated the role of voltage‐activated calcium (Cav) channels for synaptic transmission at mouse olfactory and vomeronasal nerve terminals at the first synapse of the main and accessory olfactory pathways, respectively. We provided evidence for a central role of the N‐type Cav channel subunit Cav2.2 in presynaptic transmitter release at these synapses. Striking Cav2.2 immunoreactivity was localised to the glomerular neuropil of the main olfactory bulb (MOB) and accessory olfactory bulb (AOB), and co‐localised with presynaptic molecules such as bassoon. Voltage‐clamp recordings of sensory nerve‐evoked, excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) in mitral/tufted (M/T) and superficial tufted cells of the MOB and mitral cells of the AOB, in combination with established subtype‐specific Cav channel toxins, indicated a predominant role of N‐type channels in transmitter release at these synapses, whereas L‐type, P/Q‐type, and R‐type channels had either no or only relatively minor contributions. In Cacna1b mutant mice lacking the Cav2.2 (α1B) subunit of N‐type channels, olfactory nerve‐evoked M/T cell EPSCs were not reduced but became blocker‐resistant, thus indicating a major reorganisation and compensation of Cav channel subunits as a result of the Cav2.2 deletion at this synapse. Cav2.2‐deficient mice also revealed that Cav2.2 was critically required for paired‐pulse depression of olfactory nerve‐evoked EPSCs in M/T cells of the MOB, and they demonstrated an essential requirement for Cav2.2 in vomeronasal nerve‐evoked EPSCs of AOB mitral cells. Thus, Cacna1b loss‐of‐function mutations are unlikely to cause general anosmia but Cacna1b emerges as a strong candidate in the search for mutations causing altered olfactory perception, such as changes in general olfactory sensitivity and altered social responses to chemostimuli.
Higher‐moment Risk Exposures in Hedge Funds
Authors: Hübner G. , Lambert M. , Papageorgiou N.
Published: September 2014

This paper singles out the key roles of US equity skewness and kurtosis in the hedge fund return generating process. We propose a conditional higher‐moment model with location, trading, and higher‐moment factors to describe the dynamics of the equity hedge, event‐driven, relative value, and fund of funds styles. If the volatility, skewness, and kurtosis implied in US options are used by fund managers as instruments to anticipate market movements, managers should adjust their market exposure in response to variations in these moments. We indeed show that higher‐moment premia improve the conditional asset pricing model across all hedge fund styles.
Occult hepatitis B virus infection of hemodialysis patients: A cross‐sectional study in a hepatitis B virus‐endemic region
Authors: Kim So Mi , Kim Hyun Woo , Lee Ji Eun , Lee Eun Kyoung , Shin Hyun Deok , Song Il Han
Published: September 2014

Occult hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is defined as the presence of HBV DNA in the liver tissue and/or serum of subjects seronegative for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Occult HBV infection of hemodialysis (HD) patients is informative in terms of virus transmission, reactivation after kidney transplantation, and the progression of liver disease. However, there is little detailed information about occult HBV infection in the context of virus endemicity. We tried to investigate the seroprevalence and clinical features of occult HBV infection in HD patients in HBV‐endemic regions. We enrolled a total of 159 HD patients and 121 apparently healthy subjects at Dankook University Hospital and Jeju National University Hospital in Korea. HBsAg, anti‐HBs, anti‐HBc, and anti‐hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody levels were measured by radioimmunoassay. Serum levels of HBV DNA were measured by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. The seroprevalence of occult HBV infection was 1.3% in HD patients and 2.5% in the healthy controls. This difference was not significant. The HBV load in all subjects with occult infection was <116 copies/mL, and all were positive for IgG anti‐HBc, regardless of the presence of anti‐HBs. None of the occult HBV‐infected subjects were co‐infected with HCV. One of the 2 HD patients with occult HBV infection had no history of blood transfusion. In this HBV‐endemic region, the seroprevalence of occult HBV infection in HD patients with a very low viral load was not significantly different from that in apparently healthy subjects.
Update on implications and mechanisms of angiogenesis in liver fibrosis
Authors: Zhang Zili , Zhang Feng , Lu Yin , Zheng Shizhong
Published: September 2014

Liver fibrosis occurs as a compensatory response to the process of tissue repair in a wide range of chronic liver injures. It is characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix in liver tissues. As the pathogenesis progresses without effective management, it will lead to formation of liver fiber nodules and disruption of normal liver structure and function, finally culminating in cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. A new discovery shows that liver angiogenesis is strictly associated with, and may even favor fibrogenic progression of chronic liver diseases. Recent basic and clinical investigations also demonstrate that liver fibrogenesis is accompanied by pathological angiogenesis and sinusoidal remodeling, which critically determine the pathogenesis and prognosis of liver fibrosis. Inhibition of pathological angiogenesis is considered to be a new strategy for the treatment of liver fibrosis. This review summarizes current knowledge on the process of angiogenesis, the relationships between angiogenesis and liver fibrosis, and on the molecular mechanisms of liver angiogenesis. On the other hand, it also presents the different strategies that have been used in experimental models to counteract excessive angiogenesis and the role of angiogenesis in the prevention and treatment of liver fibrosis.
Efficacy of telaprevir‐based therapy for difficult‐to‐treat patients with genotype 2 chronic hepatitis C in Japan
Authors: Kumada Hiromitsu , Sato Ken , Takehara Tetsuo , Nakamuta Makoto , Ishigami Masatoshi , Chayama Kazuaki , Toyota Joji , Suzuki Fumitaka , Nakayasu Yoshiyuki , Ochi Miyoko , Yamada Ichimaro , Okanoue Takeshi
Published: September 2014

Aim

This study assessed the efficacy and safety of telaprevir in combination with peginterferon‐α‐2b (PEG IFN) and ribavirin (RBV), for Japanese difficult‐to‐treat patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 2 who had not achieved sustained virological response (SVR) during prior treatment.

Methods

In total, 108 relapsed (median age, 59.0 years) and 10 non‐responding (median age, 59.0 years) patients with genotype 2 HCV participated. Patients received telaprevir (750 mg, every 8 h) for 12 weeks and PEG IFN/RBV for 24 weeks.

Results

The SVR rates for relapsers and non‐responders were 88.0% (95/108) and 50.0% (5/10), respectively. The SVR rates did not differ significantly between patients with rs8099917 TT and non‐TT. The SVR rates for relapsers and non‐responders with extended rapid viral response (eRVR) were 97.6% (82/84) and 100% (5/5), respectively. On the other hand, the SVR rates for relapsers and non‐responders completing the treatment protocol were 98.4% (61/62) and 100% (5/5), respectively. The overall safety profiles of telaprevir‐based regimens were similar for Japanese patients with genotype 1 and 2 HCV infection who experienced treatment failure.

Conclusion

Telaprevir, in combination with PEG IFN/RBV, provided a high SVR rate for genotype 2 HCV, difficult‐to‐treat patients who had not achieved SVR during prior IFN‐based treatment. The eRVR had a strong influence on the cure rate of telaprevir‐based therapy. In addition, the continuation of telaprevir‐based treatment for up to 24 weeks was a significant predictor of SVR.
Role of transcription factor CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein alpha in human fetal liver cell types in vitro
Authors: Gerlach Jörg C. , Over Patrick , Foka Hubert G. , Turner Morris E. , Thompson Robert L. , Gridelli Bruno , Schmelzer Eva
Published: September 2014

Aim

The transcription factor CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein alpha (C/EBPα) has been shown to play an important role in liver development, cell proliferation and differentiation. It is, however, largely unknown if C/EBPα regulates cell differentiation and proliferation differently in the diverse cell types of the human liver. We investigated the role of C/EBPα in primary human fetal liver cells and liver cell subpopulations in vitro using a 3‐D perfusion bioreactor as an advanced in vivo‐like human organ culture model.

Methods

Human fetal liver cells were investigated in vitro. C/EBPα gene expression was knocked down using siRNA or overexpressed by plasmid transfection. Cell type‐specific gene expression was studied, cell populations and their proliferation were investigated, and metabolic parameters were analyzed.

Results

When C/EBPα gene expression was knocked down, we observed a significantly reduced expression of typical endothelial, hematopoietic and mesenchymal genes such as CD31, vWF, CD90, CD45 and α‐smooth muscle actin in fetal cells. The intracellular expression of hepatic proteins and genes for liver‐specific serum proteins α‐fetoprotein and albumin were reduced, their protein secretion was increased. Fetal endothelial cell numbers were reduced and hepatoblast numbers were increased. C/EBPα overexpression in fetal cells resulted in increased endothelial numbers, but did not affect mesenchymal cell types or hepatoblasts.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that the effects of C/EBPα are specific for the different human fetal liver cell types, using an advanced 3‐D perfusion bioreactor as a human in vivo‐like model.
Additive Manufacturing of Graphene–Hydroxyapatite Nanocomposite Structures
Authors: Azhari Amir , Toyserkani Ehsan , Villain Carole
Published: September 2014

In this article, a powder‐bed class of additive manufacturing (AM) is incorporated into the manufacturing of graphene nanocomposite 3D structures. For AM of graphene‐based 3D structures, graphene oxide (GO)/hydroxyapatite (Hap) nanocomposite (GHN) was synthesized at different GO to Hap percentage (wt.%), including 0.2% and 0.4% to develop a printable powder. The synthesized powder was utilized in a powder‐bed AM system to fabricate 3D porous structures of GHN powder. It was shown that at layer thickness of 125 μm and core binder saturation level of 400%, the compressive mechanical strength of the samples with higher content of graphene was improved significantly.
Strengthening of Gadolinia‐Doped Ceria (Ce0.80Gd0.20O2‐δ) Thick Ceramic Membranes with Co‐Doping of 1 mol% CuO
Authors: Cao Jingjie , Dong Xinfa , Dong Yingchao , Feng Xuyong
Published: September 2014

Nano‐sized Ce0.79Gd0.2Cu0.01O2‐δ (CGCO) and Ce0.80Gd0.2O2‐δ (CGO) powders were synthesized via a facile PVA‐assisted combustion method. Full densification can be achieved at much lower temperature (950°C) with minor CuO doping (1 mol%, CGCO) as compared with CGO (1400°C); meanwhile, mechanical strength can be enhanced with CuO co‐doping. The CGCO sintered at 1100°C possesses a relative density of 98.80% and biaxial flexural strength of 302 ± 35 MPa, which is higher than those of CGO sintered at 1400°C (96.43%, 250 ± 39 MPa). A tentative microstructural analysis indicates that this strength enhancement can be attributed to a change in fracture mode from partial to complete transgranule dominant.
An Improved Method for Simple, Assumption-Free Ordinal Analysis of the Modified Rankin Scale Using Generalized Odds Ratios
Authors: Churilov Leonid , Arnup Sarah , Johns Hayden , Leung Tiffany , Roberts Stuart , Campbell Bruce C. V. , Davis Stephen M. , Donnan Geoffrey A.
Published: September 2014

Background and Purpose

: Developing improved methods for analysis of the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) remains a critical issue for the stroke research community. A recently proposed permutation-based approach is assumption-free and easily interpretable but computationally intensive and does not provide confidence intervals to quantify the precision of the effect size estimate. We aimed to develop a method to overcome these limitations.

Methods

: We propose a procedure using generalized odds ratios to estimate the odds that a patient who received the investigational treatment will have a better outcome than a patient receiving standard treatment. This approach was validated against the permutation method using hypothetical clinical trial scenarios of neuroprotective effect, early recanalization effect, late recanalization effect, and random benefit.

Results

: The generalized odds ratio approach had strong agreement with the permutation approach provided sample size was >15 patients per treatment arm. Simulation established that the confidence intervals generated were accurate. Ignoring patient pairs with tied mRS scores overestimates the treatment effect compared with splitting tied mRS scores.

Conclusions

: In addition to all the advantages of the recently proposed permutation-based approach, our method generates confidence intervals without the need for intensive computational power. The resulting generalized odds ratios are particularly suitable for inclusion in meta-analyses and have a simple and intuitive connection with the number-needed-to-treat measure.
Primary small cell carcinoma of prostate without immunoreactive neuroendocrine proteins but with expressions of KIT and platelet‐derived growth factor‐α
Authors: Terada Tadashi
Published: September 2014

Primary small cell carcinoma of the prostate is extremely rare. Herein reported is a case of primary small cell carcinoma of the prostate with immunohistochemical examination of KIT and platelet‐derived growth factor‐α. The present case is unique in that the small cell carcinoma did not express neuroendocrine antigens. A 68‐year‐old man was found to have high serum prostate‐specific antigen, and biopsy showed malignant small tumor cells fulfilling the small cell carcinoma criteria of the World Health Organization. Immunohistochemically, tumor cells were positive for pan‐cytokeratin, KIT, platelet‐derived growth factor‐α, p53, Ki‐67 labeling = 65%, prostate‐specific antigen and alpha‐methylacyl‐CoA racemase. Tumor cells were negative for vimentin, CD56, synaptophysin, chromogranin and neuron‐specific enolase. Imaging modalities showed multiple metastases, and the patient was treated by chemotherapy. The present report is the fifth with immunohistochemistry of prostatic small cell carcinoma.
SLOPPGEN: a problem generator for the two‐dimensional rectangular single large object placement problem with defects
Authors: Neidlein Vera , Scholz André , Wäscher Gerhard
Published: September 2014

In this paper, a problem generator for the two‐dimensional rectangular single large object placement problem is presented in which the large object includes one or several defective areas. The parameters defining this problem are identified and described. In this paper, we have pointed out the features of the problem generator and shown how the program can be used for the generation of reproducible random problem instances.
High‐Temperature Creep Behavior ofSiOCGlass‐Ceramics: Influence of Network Carbon Versus Segregated Carbon
Authors: Ionescu Emanuel , Balan Corneliu , Kleebe Hans‐Joachim , Müller Mathis M. , Guillon Olivier , Schliephake Daniel , Heilmaier Martin , Riedel Ralf
Published: September 2014

Three silicon oxycarbide samples with different carbon contents are analyzed in the present study with respect to their high‐temperature creep behavior. The tests were performed in compression at 1100°C, 1200°C, and 1300°C; in this temperature range the mechanism of creep relies on viscoelastic flow within the samples and has been modeled with the Jeffreys viscoelastic model. After the release of the applied mechanical stress, a viscoelastic recovery behavior was observed in all samples. The creep behavior of the investigated samples indicates two rheological contributions inSiOC: (i) a high viscous answer, coming from the silica‐rich network, and (ii) an elastic response from the segregated carbon phase within the samples. Furthermore, two distinct effects of the carbon phase on theHTcreep behavior ofSiOCwere identified and are discussed in the present paper: the effect of the carbon presence within theSiOCnetwork (the “carbidic” carbon), which induces a significant increase in the viscosity and a strong decrease in the activation energy for creep, as compared to vitreous silica; and the influence of the segregated carbon phase (the “free” carbon), which has been shown to affect the viscosity and the activation energy of creep and dominates the creep behavior in phase‐separated silicon oxycarbides.
Can (elaborated) imagined contact interventions reduce prejudice among those higher in intergroup disgust sensitivity (ITG‐DS)?
Authors: Hodson Gordon , Dube Blaire , Choma Becky L.
Published: September 2014

Intergroup disgust sensitivity (ITG‐DS) reflects an affect‐laden revulsion toward out‐groups. Previous attempts to weaken its prediction of prejudice have failed. Given that clinical approaches to disgust sensitivity successfully utilize mental imagery, we consider contact simulation interventions. Participants were randomly assigned to control, standard imagined contact, or an elaborated contact condition (elaborated imagined contact [EIC]; detailed imagination involving physical contact with a homeless person, with relaxation instructions). Both contact conditions (vs. control) significantly weakened the link between ITG‐DS and prejudice, yet only EIC weakened the relation between ITG‐DS and out‐group trust. Mediated moderation analysis confirmed that EIC significantly attenuated the link between ITG‐DS and prejudice through increasing trust. Clinically relevant treatments are thus valuable in severing the association between (a) ITG‐DS and (b) lower out‐group trust and greater out‐group prejudice.
A meta‐analysis of the strength and nature of cytoplasmic genetic effects
Authors: Dobler R. , Rogell B. , Budar F. , Dowling D. K.
Published: September 2014

Genetic variation in cytoplasmic genomes (i.e. the mitochondrial genome in animals, and the combined mitochondrial and chloroplast genomes in plants) was traditionally assumed to accumulate under a neutral equilibrium model. This view has, however, come under increasing challenge from studies that have experimentally linked cytoplasmic genetic effects to the expression of life history phenotypes. Such results suggest that genetic variance located within the cytoplasm might be of evolutionary importance and potentially involved in shaping population evolutionary trajectories. As a step towards assessing this assertion, here we conduct a formal meta‐analytic review to quantitatively assess the extent to which cytoplasmic genetic effects contribute to phenotypic expression across animal and plant kingdoms. We report that cytoplasmic effect sizes are generally moderate in size and associated with variation across a range of factors. Specifically, cytoplasmic effects on morphological traits are generally larger than those on life history or metabolic traits. Cytoplasmic effect sizes estimated at the between‐species scale (via interspecies mix‐and‐matching of cytoplasmic and nuclear genomes) are larger than those at the within‐species scale. Furthermore, cytoplasmic effects tied to epistatic interactions with the nuclear genome tend to be stronger than additive cytoplasmic effects, at least when restricting the data set to gonochorous animal species. Our results thus confirm that cytoplasmic genetic variation is commonly tied to phenotypic expression across plants and animals, implicate the cytoplasmic–nuclear interaction as a key unit on which natural selection acts and generally suggest that the genetic variation that lies within the cytoplasm is likely to be entwined in adaptive evolutionary processes.
Conception, Pregnancy, and Birth Experiences of Male and Gender Variant Gestational Parents: It's How We Could Have a Family
Authors: Ellis Simon Adriane , Wojnar Danuta M. , Pettinato Maria
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Like members of any other population, transgender and gender variant people ‐ individuals whose gender identity varies from the traditional norm or from the sex they were assigned at birth ‐ often seek parenthood. Little is known about the decision making and experiences of these individuals, including male‐identified and gender‐variant natal females who wish to achieve parenthood by carrying a pregnancy. This pilot qualitative study used grounded theory methodology to explore the conception, pregnancy, and birth experiences of this population of parents.

Methods

A grounded theory methodology was used to guide data collection and analysis. Eight male‐identified or gender‐variant gestational parents participated in the study. Data collection included individual 60‐minute to 90‐minute interviews conducted by recorded online video calls, as well as a self‐administered online demographic survey. Data were collected from September 2011 through May 2012. Data saturation was achieved at 6 interviews, after which 2 more interviews were conducted. The interviews were transcribed verbatim, and a constant comparative method was used to analyze the interview transcripts.

Results

Loneliness was the overarching theme that permeated participants’ experiences, social interactions, and emotional responses during every stage of achieving biologic parenthood. Within this context of loneliness, participants described complex internal and external processes of navigating identity. Navigating identity encapsulated 2 subthemes: undergoing internal struggles and engaging with the external world. The preconception period was identified as participants’ time of greatest distress and least involvement with health care.

Discussion

The findings of this study suggest that culturally‐sensitive preconception counseling could be beneficial for transgender and gender‐variant individuals. The grounded theory produced by this pilot investigation also provides insights that will be useful to health care providers and others working with male‐identified and gender‐variant prospective parents.
Jules Wabbes (1919–1974): Creating Total Works of Art in Interiors
Authors: Pombo Fátima
Published: September 2014

Despite the remarkable success achieved during his lifetime, the Belgian self–made designer and interior architect Jules Wabbes (1919–1974) is still poorly represented whether in museum collections or in interior design history. However, he is now being acknowledged as a multi–talented creator and for his particular vision of interior design and space. Wabbes believed design is a construction of meaning for life, advocating responsible design. The intention of this paper is to: (1) interpret to what extent Wabbes’ interiors were based on a personal conception of interiors as total works of art and (2) to reflect on his high–quality furniture as contributing to interior concepts. On the basis of the available writings and mainly on his body of work, our goal is to portray his practice as interior designer. Our research perspective stems from a concept present in all of his works, design quality, and attitudes, from which we can derive the main thesis of this paper: for Jules Wabbes, each piece of furniture or decorative object should hold value in itself in order to be integrated in an ensemble, creating an atmosphere of well–being and fruition of space, in literal and metaphoric terms. On the basis of the simplicity of forms and flawless manufacture, his work exemplifies a feeling of timeless aesthetics. Case studies include Wabbes’ own home and two public interiors: Live at School as at Home, and Drugstore Louise.
Presentation, diagnosis and treatment of angioedema without wheals: a retrospective analysis of a cohort of 1058 patients
Authors: Mansi M. , Zanichelli A. , Coerezza A. , Suffritti C. , Wu M. A. , Vacchini R. , Stieber C. , Cichon S. , Cicardi M.
Published: September 2014

Background

The first classification of angioedema without wheals was recently reported and comprises different forms of the disease distinguished by aetiology, mediator of oedema and inheritance.

Methods

In total, 1725 consecutive patients with angioedema without wheals were examined at our centre between 1993 and 2012. We excluded from the analysis 667 patients because of incomplete data or because angioedema was related to a specific factor.

Results

According to the new classification of angioedema, the 1058 patients included in this analysis were diagnosed with hereditary (HAE; n = 377) or acquired angioedema (AAE; n = 681). The former group included HAE with C1‐inhibitor (C1‐INH) deficiency (C1‐INH‐HAE; n = 353) and HAE with normal C1‐INH levels (n = 24), of which six had a factor XII mutation (FXII‐HAE) and 18 had disease of unknown origin (U‐HAE). The AAE group included disease with C1‐INH deficiency (C1‐INH‐AAE; n = 49), AAE related to angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor treatment (n = 183), idiopathic histaminergic (IH‐AAE; n = 379) and idiopathic nonhistaminergic angioedema (InH‐AAE; n = 70). We compared hereditary and AAE with uncertain aetiopathogenesis: the FXII‐HAE and U‐HAE groups pooled (FXII/U‐HAE) versus InH‐AAE. The median age at onset of FXII/U‐HAE and InH‐AAE was 26 and 38 years, respectively. In addition, 56% of patients with FXII/U‐HAE and 81% of those with InH‐AAE reported more than five attacks per year (median duration of 48 h). The location of angioedema in patients with FXII/U‐HAE versus those with InH‐AAE was the following: face, 70% versus 86%; tongue, oral cavity or larynx, 55% versus 68%; limbs, 70% versus 56%; and gastrointestinal mucosa, 50% versus 20%. Prophylaxis with tranexamic acid was effective in all six patients with U‐HAE and in 37 of 38 with InH‐AAE who were started on this treatment.

Conclusion

Our findings in this cohort of patients with angioedema provide new information on the clinical characteristics, diagnosis and treatment of this disease.
Quality of reporting of dental survival analyses
Authors: Layton D. M. , Clarke M.
Published: September 2014

To explore the quality of reporting (writing and graphics) of articles that used time‐to‐event analyses to report dental treatment outcomes. A systematic search of the top 50 dental journals in 2008 produced the sample of articles for this analysis. Articles reporting treatment outcomes with (n = 95) and without (n = 91) time‐to‐event statistics were reviewed. Survival descriptive words used in the two groups were analysed (Pearson's chi‐square). The quality of life tables, survival curves and time‐to‐event statistics were assessed (Kappa analysed agreement) and explored. Words describing dental outcomes ‘over time’ were more common in time‐to‐event compared with control articles (77%, 3%, P < 0·001). Non‐specific use of ‘rate’ was common across both groups. Life tables and survival curves were used by 39% and 48% of the time‐to‐event articles, with at least one used by 82%. Construction quality was poor: 21% of life tables and 28% of survival curves achieved an acceptable standard. Time‐to‐event statistical reporting was poor: 3% achieved a high and 59% achieved an acceptable standard. The survival statistic, summary figure and standard error were reported in 76%, 95% and 20% of time‐to‐event articles. Individual statistical terms and graphic aids were common within and unique to time‐to‐event articles. Unfortunately, important details were regularly omitted from statistical descriptions and survival figures making the overall quality poor. It is likely this will mean such articles will be incorrectly indexed in databases, missed by searchers and unable to be understood completely if identified.
Diagnosis and treatment of severely malnourished children with diarrhoea
Authors: Iannotti Lora L , Trehan Indi , Clitheroe Kathryn L , Manary Mark J
Published: September 2014

Children with severe acute malnutrition complicated by diarrhoea require special care due to their unique physiological vulnerability and increased mortality risks. A systematic literature review (1950–2013) was conducted to identify the most effective diagnostic and therapeutic measures for the community‐based management of severely malnourished children with diarrhoea. No studies directly addressed this question, so the search was broadened to include inpatient care. Of the 129 studies identified, 32 were selected for full review and found to contain varying degrees of indirectness, inconsistency and bias. Evidence from diagnostic studies point to the use of both prolonged and persistent diarrhoea as morbidity markers, rapid hypoglycaemia diagnosis and the frequent aetiological role of Cryptosporidium. Therapeutic studies suggest benefits from routine antiparasitic medication and feeding regimens with ready‐to‐use‐therapeutic foods, lactose‐free diets and zinc supplementation. Existing rehydration treatment guidelines were affirmed, but the utility of glutamine and low osmolarity feeds were inconclusive.
Realgar nanoparticle-based microcapsules: preparation and in-vitro/in-vivo characterizations
Authors: Shi Feng , Feng Nianping , Omari-Siaw Emmanuel
Published: September 2014

Objectives

The aim of this study was to prepare microcapsules for the oral delivery of realgar nanoparticles (RN) that are also capable of improving its stability.

Methods

RN and RN-based microcapsules (RNM) were prepared using ball milling and solvent evaporation techniques, respectively. Properties such as particle size, ζ-potential (ZP), morphology and X-ray diffractometer (XRD) were investigated. In addition, drug release, bioavailability and antitumour studies were also performed.

Key findings

The nanoparticles appeared round or elliptical in shape with a mean size of 85.4 ± 3.5 nm and a ZP of −34.3 ± 1.7 mV. The obtained RNM appeared spherical and not aggregated with a relatively narrow size distribution. XRD analysis revealed that ball milling technique did not change the crystallinity of the realgar powder. RN and RNM exhibited considerable higher release of As2S2, bioavailability and antitumour efficacies compared with crude realgar. Furthermore, RNM could protect RN directly exposed to the air and light, and therefore increased the stability of the RN.

Conclusions

The developed RNM demonstrated a greater potential as a delivery system for realgar.
Cigarette smoke condensate modulates migration of human gingival epithelial cells and their interactions with Porphyromonas gingivalis
Authors: Imamura K. , Kokubu E. , Kita D. , Ota K. , Ishihara K. , Saito A.
Published: September 2014

Background and Objective

Epithelial cells are recognized as the first line of defense against bacterial infection and environmental harmful stimuli such as cigarette smoke (CS). Although previous studies explored the effects of nicotine on host cells, mechanisms by which CS affects cellular functions remain uncertain. The present study investigated the effects of CS condensate (CSC) on in vitro wound closure of gingival epithelial cells and their potential interactions with a major periodontal pathogen, Porphyromonas gingivalis.

Material and Methods

Human gingival epithelial cells (Ca9‐22) were treated with CSC for 24 h. Cell proliferation was determined using a WST‐1 assay. Cell migration was assessed using a wound closure model. The expression of integrins was analyzed by confocal scanning laser microscopy and real‐time PCR. Intracellular invasion of P. gingivalis was evaluated by confocal scanning laser microscopy and an antibiotic protection assay.

Results

Low concentrations (1–10 μg/mL) of CSC showed no significant effect on cell proliferation. CSC demonstrated dual effects on epithelial wound closure of Ca9‐22 cells: high concentrations (i.e. 250 μg/mL) significantly inhibited the wound closure whereas low concentrations (i.e. 10 μg/mL) promoted it (p < 0.01). CSC induced distinct changes in cytoskeleton. When CSC‐exposed cells were infected with P. gingivalis for 2 h, a significant inhibition of wound closure was observed concurrent with a decrease in integrin α3 expression near the wound area. A significantly increased P. gingivalis invasion into Ca9‐22 was observed when exposed to low concentrations of CSC.

Conclusion

Low concentrations of CSC increased invasion of human gingival epithelial cells by P. gingivalis and induced changes in cytoskeleton and integrin expression, thereby modulating the cell migration.
Post‐operative complications and owner satisfaction following partial caudectomies: 22 cases (2008 to 2013)
Authors: Simons M. C. , Ben‐Amotz R. , Popovitch C.
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVES

To report complications and owner satisfaction for dogs and cats following partial caudectomy.

METHODS

Medical records of dogs and cats (n = 22) that underwent partial caudectomy between 2008 and 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. Signalment, reason for amputation, level of amputation, and complications were recorded. Owners were contacted via telephone to obtain follow‐up data.

RESULTS

The most common reason for partial caudectomy was tail wounds (16 of 22; 72 · 7%). Complications were typically minor incisional crusting (4 of 20; 20%). Major complications (3 of 20; 15%) included prolonged healing after partial incisional dehiscence, continued self‐trauma requiring revision surgery, and severe inflammation with ulceration requiring revision surgery. The majority of owners surveyed (10 of 12; 83 · 3%) were satisfied with the post‐operative outcome and would recommend this procedure if warranted.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Partial caudectomy is well tolerated in both dogs and cats with no loss of function. Pet owners did not perceive any behavioural changes following partial caudectomy. However, in cases of continued self‐mutilation and/or incisional dehiscence, revision procedures may be required.
Prolonged Therapy with the Soluble Guanylyl Cyclase Activator BAY 60-2770 Restores the Erectile Function in Obese Mice
Authors: Silva Fábio H. , Leiria Luiz O. , Alexandre Eduardo C. , Davel Ana Paula C. , Mónica Fabíola Z. , De Nucci Gilberto , Antunes Edson
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Cardiovascular and endocrine-metabolic diseases associated with increased oxidative stress such as obesity lead to erectile dysfunction (ED). Activators of soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) such as BAY 60-2770 reactivate the heme-oxidized sGC in vascular diseases.

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of 2-week oral intake with BAY 60-2270 on a murine model of obesity-associated ED.

Methods

C57BL/6 male mice were fed for 12 weeks with standard chow or high-fat diet. Lean and obese mice were treated with BAY 60-2770 (1 mg/kg/day, 2 weeks).

Main Outcome Measures

Measurements of intracavernosal pressure (ICP), along with acetylcholine (10−9 to 10−5 M) and electrical field stimulation (EFS; 4–10 Hz)-induced corpus cavernosum relaxations in vitro, were obtained. Levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and sGC protein expressions in cavernosal tissues were measured.

Results

Cavernous nerve stimulation caused frequency-dependent ICP increases, which were significantly lower in obese compared with lean mice (P < 0.05). Two-week therapy with BAY 60-2770 fully reversed the decreased ICP in obese group. Acetylcholine-induced cavernosal relaxations were 45% lower (P < 0.001) in obese mice, which were fully restored by BAY 60-2770 treatment. Likewise, the EFS-induced relaxations in obese mice were restored by BAY 60-2770. Basal cGMP content in erectile tissue was 68% lower (P < 0.05) in obese mice, an effect normalized by BAY 60-2770. Levels of ROS were 52% higher (P < 0.05) whereas protein expression of α1 sGC subunit was reduced in cavernosal tissue of obese mice, both of which were normalized by BAY 60-2770. In lean group, BAY 60-2770 did not significantly affect any functional, biochemical, or molecular parameter analyzed.

Conclusions

Two-week therapy with BAY 60-2770 restores the erectile function in obese mice that is associated with reduced ROS levels, up-regulation of α1 sGC subunit, and increased cGMP levels in the erectile tissue.
Does Education Develop or Diminish Spirituality in Taiwan?
Authors: Voas David
Published: September 2014

There has been little research on the effects of education on religion and spirituality in Chinese societies. This gap is addressed through quantitative analysis of a new dataset, the Religious Experience Survey in Taiwan, in conjunction with the repeated cross‐sectional Taiwan Social Change Survey. In Taiwan, people with higher education are less likely than others to say that they have a religion, to worship or pray frequently, and to regard those activities as important. They are more likely, however, to express an interest in mystical or supernatural things, and to report a variety of religious experiences. This paradox arises not because the educated Taiwanese are spiritual but not religious, but rather because they are somewhat polarized: those who have no religion and those reporting religious experiences are not the same individuals. Although education is highly correlated with both birth cohort and income, the findings strongly suggest that education is the key explanatory variable. The official promotion of Confucian thought and its adoption by the educated elite helps to explain the surprising conjunction of declining religious affiliation and increased engagement with spirituality.
Truly Inclusive or Uniformly Liberal? An Analysis of the Politics of the Emerging Church
Authors: Burge Ryan P. , Djupe Paul A.
Published: September 2014

The emergent church movement has fashioned itself as an alternative for Christians who do not want to walk away from their faith, but feel uncomfortable with the dogmatic conservatism found in mainstream evangelicalism. The emerging church movement has portrayed itself as diverse and inclusive, which is a direct result of evading ingroup‐outgroup boundaries. However, despite the desire for a plurality of opinions, the movement's leaders have been known to take political positions that are largely left‐leaning. We use the first dataset known to gather this identity from a sample of Protestant clergy, and assess whether denominationally connected emergent church clergy do, in fact, present a distinctive political profile. Emergent clergy are what they say they are—diverse and inclusive—while they are, on average, more liberal than nonemergent clergy in the sample.
The Effects of Descriptive Associational Leadership on Civic Engagement: The Case of Clergy and Gender in Protestant Denominations
Authors: Djupe Paul A.
Published: September 2014

Given the attention that has been paid to the presence of women in leadership positions throughout the economy and society as well as the role that associations play in shaping citizen political participation, it is surprising that their confluence has not been systematically studied. What effect does men's versus women's associational leadership have on the political engagement of women and men members? Using a set of surveys drawn from Protestant denominations that ordain women as part of the 2001 U.S. Congregational Life Study, I investigate clergy gender effects on church leadership and political participation conditional on member gender using hierarchical models. Across four denominations, I find descriptive evidence but little systematic evidence supporting an effect due to clergy gender, though somewhat more evidence on church leadership than on political activity.
Immigrant Acculturation and Transnationalism: Israelis in the United States and Europe Compared
Authors: Rebhun Uzi
Published: September 2014

This article examines relations between social integration into host societies, religio‐ethnic acculturation into group belonging, and ties to home country among Israeli émigrés in the United States and Europe. I use data from a 2009–2010 Internet survey into which I incorporated country‐contextual characteristics. The results of multivariate analyses show that a social integration combining duration of residence abroad and local citizenship enhances religio‐ethnic identification. Another measure of integration, social networks, deters group behaviors. All measures of general integration inhibit attachment to the home country, whereas religio‐ethnic acculturation is largely insignificant for transnationalism. The religiosity of the new country does not influence immigrants’ religio‐ethnic patterns or homeland attachment. Insofar as group size is a significant determinant of particularistic behaviors, it weakens them. The more policy‐based opportunities newcomers receive, the more they dissociate from group behaviors and homeland ties. Irrespective of individual and contextual factors, living in the United States encourages group affiliation more than living in Europe does. The results are discussed in reference to four working hypotheses—marginalization, integration, assimilation, and separation—and from a U.S.‐European comparative perspective.
The Application of Temporal Dominance of Sensations (TDS) for Oral Processing Studies: An Initial Investigation
Authors: Cheong Jean Ne , Foster Kylie D. , Morgenstern Marco P. , Grigor John M.V. , Bronlund John E. , Hutchings Scott C. , Hedderley Duncan I.
Published: September 2014

Sensory trajectories of foods can be described using the temporal dominance of sensations method (TDS). This study aims to investigate the influence of TDS on oral processing variables and understand the optimum number of subjects required for oral processing studies. The work was carried out with a solid model food system (biscuits). Formulation differences in the model biscuits influenced texture perception but did not affect oral processing parameters apart from chewing frequency. Completing the TDS task influenced both mastication duration and the number of chews, although the different natural chewing behaviors observed between products were not affected. Training of subjects resulted in quicker attribute selection and greater dominance rates being observed even though the resulting TDS curves were similar. Analysis using a correlation technique suggests that 15–20 untrained subjects may be required to generate useful TDS curves for oral processing research assessing food properties.

Practical Applications

The dynamic and simple nature of temporal dominance of sensations (TDS) has given the technique great potential for use while simultaneously measuring oral processing parameters such as jaw movement, muscle activity and food bolus assessment. This study shows the differences in basic oral processing behavior between subjects who are, and are not, using the TDS technique. It shows that TDS can influence oral processing, but it has also potential for use with oral processing research. The research shows that slightly greater number of subjects than those commonly used in oral processing trials may be needed to generate a TDS curve effectively.
A novel cholesterol‐insensitive mode of membrane binding promotes cytolysin‐mediated translocation by Streptolysin O
Authors: Mozola Cara C. , Magassa N'Goundo , Caparon Michael G.
Published: September 2014

Cytolysin‐mediated translocation (CMT), performed by Streptococcus pyogenes, utilizes the cholesterol‐dependent cytolysin Streptolysin O (SLO) to translocate the NAD+‐glycohydrolase (SPN) into the host cell during infection. SLO is required for CMT and can accomplish this activity without pore formation, but the details of SLO's interaction with the membrane preceding SPN translocation are unknown. Analysis of binding domain mutants of SLO and binding domain swaps between SLO and homologous cholesterol‐dependent cytolysins revealed that membrane binding by SLO is necessary but not sufficient for CMT, demonstrating a specific requirement for SLO in this process. Despite being the only known receptor for SLO, this membrane interaction does not require cholesterol. Depletion of cholesterol from host membranes and mutation of SLO's cholesterol recognition motif abolished pore formation but did not inhibit membrane binding or CMT. Surprisingly, SLO requires the coexpression and membrane localization of SPN to achieve cholesterol‐insensitive membrane binding; in the absence of SPN, SLO's binding is characteristically cholesterol‐dependent. SPN's membrane localization also requires SLO, suggesting a co‐dependent, cholesterol‐insensitive mechanism of membrane binding occurs, resulting in SPN translocation.
Demography of the Pacific walrus (Odobenus rosmarus divergens): 1974–2006
Authors: Taylor Rebecca L. , Udevitz Mark S.
Published: September 2014

Global climate change may fundamentally alter population dynamics of many species for which baseline population parameter estimates are imprecise or lacking. Historically, the Pacific walrus is thought to have been limited by harvest, but it may become limited by global warming‐induced reductions in sea ice. Loss of sea ice, on which walruses rest between foraging bouts, may reduce access to food, thus lowering vital rates. Rigorous walrus survival rate estimates do not exist, and other population parameter estimates are out of date or have well‐documented bias and imprecision. To provide useful population parameter estimates we developed a Bayesian, hidden process demographic model of walrus population dynamics from 1974 through 2006 that combined annual age‐specific harvest estimates with five population size estimates, six standing age structure estimates, and two reproductive rate estimates. Median density independent natural survival was high for juveniles (0.97) and adults (0.99), and annual density dependent vital rates rose from 0.06 to 0.11 for reproduction, 0.31 to 0.59 for survival of neonatal calves, and 0.39 to 0.85 for survival of older calves, concomitant with a population decline. This integrated population model provides a baseline for estimating changing population dynamics resulting from changing harvests or sea ice.
Do ship strikes threaten the recovery of endangered eastern North Pacific blue whales?
Authors: Monnahan Cole C. , Branch Trevor A. , Punt André E.
Published: September 2014

Blue whales were targeted in the North Pacific from 1905–1971 and are listed as endangered by the IUCN. Despite decades without whaling, abundance estimates for eastern North Pacific (ENP) blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus) suggest little evidence for a recent increase. One possible reason is fatal strikes by large ships, which have affected populations of other cetaceans and resulted in mitigation. We used a population dynamics model to assess the trends and status of ENP blue whales, and the effects of ship strikes. We estimate the population likely never dropped below 460 individuals, and is at 97% of carrying capacity (95% interval 62%–99%). These results suggest density dependence, not ship strikes, is the key reason for the observed lack of increase. We also estimate future strikes will likely have a minimal impact; for example, an 11‐fold increase in vessels would lead to a 50% chance the long‐term population would be considered depleted. Although we estimate ship strike mitigation would have minimal impacts on population trends and status, current levels of ship strikes are likely above legal limits set by the U.S. The recovery of ENP blue whales from whaling demonstrates the ability of blue whale populations to rebuild under careful management.