bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inequalities in Use of the Internet for Job Search: Similarities and Contrasts by Economic Status in Great Britain
Authors: Green Anne E , Li Yuxin , Owen David , de Hoyos Maria
Published: October 2012

By 2009 four in every five job seekers in Great Britain were making use of the Internet in job search, generally alongside other methods. While the Internet has created new opportunities for job seekers, there are concerns that inequalities in use of and access to the Internet will intensify difficulties experienced by disadvantaged groups in finding work. This paper analyses the incidence and determinants of online job search in Great Britain, using Labour Force Survey data for 2006 to 2009. Use of the Internet increased over this period, with employed job seekers most likely to undertake online job search. A probit model reveals that age and highest qualification are key factors affecting individuals' use of the Internet for job search, with older job seekers and those with lower education levels most likely to ‘lose out’ in terms of accessing employment opportunities via the Internet. Some significant urban and regional differences are revealed, indicating that job seekers from less prosperous regions and those outside major metropolitan areas are least likely to make use of the Internet for job search.
After initial invigoration by heading, young pear trees show reduction in axis vigour and increased propensity to flower
Authors: Seleznyova Alla N. , Dayatilake Geegana A. , Watson Amy E. , Tustin D. Stuart
Published: October 2012

Fast establishment of the canopy in young trees, followed by reduced vegetative vigour and precocity are desirable traits in fruit production. Severe heading (cutting back the primary axis of the tree after the first year of growth) to induce branching is a nursery practice to increase early fruit yield. Our aim was to provide a systematic study of the responses of young pear trees to severe heading. We used an experimental system with two scion genotypes and three rootstocks to create trees with contrasting branching habits and vigour. The trees’ trunks were headed and a single bud was allowed to outgrow in the following season. Architectural analysis was used to quantify the development of regenerated trees. In the first year after heading, the growth of the primary axes and, depending on the scion genotype, the sylleptic branching of regenerating trees, were invigorated. In the second year, the percentage of budbreak was also increased, but the shoot growth was greatly reduced. Axis propensity to flower in spring of the third year of growth was increased. The new insights into the effects of heading on tree aging and flowering will be used for guiding the best approaches to managing young pear trees.
Metabolomic characterisation of the functional division of nitrogen metabolism in variegated leaves
Authors: Tcherkez Guillaume , Guérard Florence , Gilard Françoise , Lamothe Marlène , Mauve Caroline , Gout Elisabeth , Bligny Richard
Published: October 2012

Many horticultural and natural plant species have variegated leaves, that is, patchy leaves with green and non-green or white areas. Specific studies on the metabolism of variegated leaves are scarce and although white (non-green) areas have been assumed to play the role of a ‘nitrogen store’, there is no specific studies showing the analysis of nitrogenous metabolites and the dynamics of nitrogen assimilation. Here, we examined the metabolism of variegated leaves of Pelargonium × hortorum. We show that white areas have a larger N : C ratio, more amino acids, with a clear accumulation of arginine. Metabolomic analyses revealed clear differences in the chemical composition, suggesting contrasted metabolic commitments such as an enhancement of alkaloid biosynthesis in white areas. Using isotopic labelling followed by nuclear magnetic resonance or liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry, we further showed that in addition to glutamine, tyrosine and tryptophan, N metabolism forms ornithine in green area and huge amounts of arginine in white areas. Fine isotopic measurements with isotope ratio mass spectrometry indicated that white and green areas exchange nitrogenous molecules but nitrogen export from green areas is quantitatively much more important. The biological significance of the metabolic exchange between leaf areas is briefly discussed.
Latitudinal and insular variation in morphology of a small Australian passerine: consequences for dispersal distance and conservation
Authors: Major Richard E.
Published: October 2012

Dispersal ability is a fundamental attribute of threatened species that influences their prognosis for survival in fragmented habitats. More vagile species are considered to be under lower threat from habitat fragmentation than more sedentary species. This study investigates morphological variation amongst island and mainland populations of a threatened Australian passerine, the white-fronted chat (Epthianura albifrons), to review previous conclusions about levels of population differentiation and consequent conclusions about dispersal ability. Standard body measurements were taken from wild-caught birds from three islands and three mainland regions of Australia, ranging over a latitudinal distance of 1150 km and a longitudinal distance of 3300 km. Significant size variation in wing, bill and headbill lengths were found amongst populations, revealing a significant latitudinal trend consistent with ‘Bergmann’s Rule’. Even after accounting for the latitudinal trend, island populations showed significant differentiation from mainland populations in some attributes, although island populations were not consistently larger than mainland populations, as predicted by the ‘Island Rule’. A lack of size variation between island and mainland museum specimens has historically been used to conclude that white-fronted chats are capable of crossing an oceanic barrier of at least 30 km. The level of population differentiation identified in this study suggests that previous estimates of dispersal capacity may be overestimated.
Action strategies of individuals during aperture crossing in nonconfined space
Authors: Hackney Amy L. , Vallis Lori Ann , Cinelli Michael E.
Published: October 2012

Walking through cluttered environments is a requirement of everyday locomotion, and individuals will walk toward open space and adjust their actions in order to prevent injury. When walking in a confined space, individuals require a shoulder rotation to pass through apertures smaller than 1.3 times their shoulder widths. The current study aimed to identify the action strategies employed by young adults to avoid contacting two obstacles placed in the travel path when walking in a nonconfined space. Participants ( N = 12) walked along a 10-m path towards a goal while avoiding two vertical obstacles specifically placed to create an aperture (of 0.6 to 1.8 times the participants' shoulder widths) on opposite sides of the travel path midline. Results showed that participants walked around obstacles that were separated by less than 1.4 times their shoulder width (i.e., critical point). When participants deviated from their initial travel path, they did so by maintaining a consistent protective zone, regardless of the aperture width. The protective zone had dimensions of 3.80 m in the plane of progression and of 0.30 m between themselves and the obstacles at the time of crossing. This study demonstrates that individuals use body-scaled information to control actions in nonconfined space similar to that used in confined space.
On the Role of Length of Stay in Healthcare-Associated Bloodstream Infection
Authors: Jeon Christie Y. , Neidell Matthew , Jia Haomiao , Sinisi Matt , Larson Elaine
Published: October 2012

Design.

We conducted a retrospective cohort study to examine the role played by length of hospital stay in the risk of healthcare-associated bloodstream infection (BSI), independent of demographic and clinical risk factors for BSI.

Patients.

We employed data from 113,893 admissions from inpatients discharged between 2006 and 2008.

Setting.

Large tertiary healthcare center in New York City.

Methods.

We estimated the crude and adjusted hazard of BSI by conducting logistic regression using a person-day data structure. The covariates included in the fully adjusted model included age, sex, Charlson score of comorbidity, renal failure, and malignancy as static variables and central venous catheterization, mechanical ventilation, and intensive care unit stay as time-varying variables.

Results.

In the crude model, we observed a nonlinear increasing hazard of BSI with increasing hospital stay. This trend was reduced to a constant hazard when fully adjusted for demographic and clinical risk factors for BSI.

Conclusion.

The association between longer length of hospital stay and increased risk of infection can largely be explained by the increased duration of stay among those who have underlying morbidity and require invasive procedures. We should take caution in attributing the association between length of stay and BSI to a direct negative impact of the healthcare environment.
On the exponential stability of switching-diffusion processes with jumps
Authors: Yuan Chenggui , Bao Jianhai
Published: October 2012

In this paper we focus on the pathwise stability of mild solutions for a class of stochastic partial differential equations which are driven by switching-diffusion processes with jumps. In comparison to the existing literature, we show that: (i) the criterion to guarantee pathwise stability does not rely on the moment stability of the system; (ii) the sample Lyapunov exponent obtained is generally smaller than that of the counterpart driven by a Wiener process; (iii) due to the Markovian switching the overall system can become pathwise exponentially stable although some subsystems are not stable.
A Structural Land‐Use Analysis of Agricultural Adaptation to Climate Change: A Proactive Approach
Authors: Kaminski Jonathan , Kan Iddo , Fleischer Aliza
Published: October 2012

This article proposes a proactive approach for analyzing agricultural adaptation to climate change wherein agricultural production technologies are regarded as potential targets of research and development (R&D) efforts. We develop a structural land‐use model wherein farmers maximize profit by allocating their land among crop‐technology bundles. Proactive R&D directions are derived by identifying the technological attributes through which climate change reduces overall agricultural profitability, despite farmers reallocating their land into bundles. We find that in Israel, long‐term losses stem from increases in crops' input requirements and changes in the inter‐ and intra‐annual distribution of precipitations. Therefore, we identify these vulnerable points as the main potential targets of further R&D efforts.
Lengthening of 3′UTR increases with morphological complexity in animal evolution
Authors: Chen Cho-Yi , Chen Shui-Tein , Juan Hsueh-Fen , Huang Hsuan-Cheng
Published: October 2012

Motivation: Evolutionary expansion of gene regulatory circuits seems to boost morphological complexity. However, the expansion patterns and the quantification relationships have not yet been identified. In this study, we focus on the regulatory circuits at the post-transcriptional level, investigating whether and how this principle may apply.

Results: By analysing the structure of mRNA transcripts in multiple metazoan species, we observed a striking exponential correlation between the length of 3′ untranslated regions (3′UTR) and morphological complexity as measured by the number of cell types in each organism. Cellular diversity was similarly associated with the accumulation of microRNA genes and their putative targets. We propose that the lengthening of 3′UTRs together with a commensurate exponential expansion in post-transcriptional regulatory circuits can contribute to the emergence of new cell types during animal evolution.

Contact:  yukijuan@ntu.edu.tw or hsuancheng@ym.edu.tw.

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
In situ target strength estimates of visually verified orange roughy
Authors: Macaulay Gavin J. , Kloser Rudy J. , Ryan Tim E.
Published: October 2012

Macaulay, G. J., Kloser, R. J., and Ryan, T. E. 2013. In situ target strength estimates of visually verified orange roughy. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 70:215–222. The first estimates of orange roughy (Hoplostethus atlanticus) target strength at 38 and 120 kHz with visual verification were obtained from a self-contained echosounder and video camera system affixed to a demersal trawl towed through dense aggregations of spawning orange roughy. Mean target strength estimates were obtained from 24 tracks of orange roughy containing 83 echoes. The mean target strength at 38 kHz was –52.0 dB with a 95% confidence interval of –53.3 to –50.9 dB for fish with a mean length of 33.9 cm. At 120 kHz the mean target strength was –47.9 dB (confidence interval of –48.8 to –46.4 dB). This work makes two significant advances: in situ TS measurements have been made that can be confidently attributed to orange roughy, and using a trawl to herd orange roughy past the system resolved the previously intractable problem of fish avoidance.
Red blood cell distribution in simplified capillary networks
Authors: Obrist Dominik , Weber Bruno , Buck Alfred , Jenny Patrick
Published: October 2012

A detailed model of red blood cell (RBC) transport in a capillary network is an indispensable element of a comprehensive model for the supply of the human organism with oxygen and nutrients. In this paper, we introduce a two-phase model for the perfusion of a capillary network. This model accounts for the special role of RBCs, which have a strong influence on network dynamics. Analytical results and numerical simulations with a discrete model and a generic network topology indicate that there exists a local self-regulation mechanism for the flow rates and a global de-mixing process that leads to an inhomogeneous haematocrit distribution. Based on the results from the discrete model, we formulate an efficient algorithm suitable for computing the pressure and flow field as well as a continuous haematocrit distribution in large capillary networks at steady state.
Computational simulation methodologies for mechanobiological modelling: a cell-centred approach to neointima development in stents
Authors: Boyle C. J. , Lennon A. B. , Early M. , Kelly D. J. , Lally C. , Prendergast P. J.
Published: October 2012

The design of medical devices could be very much improved if robust tools were available for computational simulation of tissue response to the presence of the implant. Such tools require algorithms to simulate the response of tissues to mechanical and chemical stimuli. Available methodologies include those based on the principle of mechanical homeostasis, those which use continuum models to simulate biological constituents, and the cell-centred approach, which models cells as autonomous agents. In the latter approach, cell behaviour is governed by rules based on the state of the local environment around the cell; and informed by experiment. Tissue growth and differentiation requires simulating many of these cells together. In this paper, the methodology and applications of cell-centred techniques—with particular application to mechanobiology—are reviewed, and a cell-centred model of tissue formation in the lumen of an artery in response to the deployment of a stent is presented. The method is capable of capturing some of the most important aspects of restenosis, including nonlinear lesion growth with time. The approach taken in this paper provides a framework for simulating restenosis; the next step will be to couple it with more patient-specific geometries and quantitative parameter data.
A multiscale lattice Boltzmann model of macro- to micro-scale transport, with applications to gut function
Authors: Wang Yanxing , Brasseur James G. , Banco Gino G. , Webb Andrew G. , Ailiani Amit C. , Neuberger Thomas
Published: October 2012

Nutrient absorption in the small intestine cannot occur until molecules are presented to the epithelial cells that line intestinal villi, finger-like protrusions under enteric control. Using a two-dimensional multiscale lattice Boltzmann model of a lid-driven cavity flow with ‘villi’ at the lower surface, we analyse the hypothesis that muscle-induced oscillatory motions of the villi generate a controlled ‘micro-mixing layer’ (MML) that couples with the macro-scale flow to enhance absorption. Nutrient molecules are modelled as passive scalar concentrations at high Schmidt number. Molecular concentration supplied at the cavity lid is advected to the lower surface by a lid-driven macro-scale eddy. We find that micro-scale eddying motions enhance the macro-scale advective flux by creating an MML that couples with the macro-scale flow to increase absorption rate. We show that the MML is modulated by its interactions with the outer flow through a diffusion-dominated layer that separates advection-dominated macro-scale and micro-scale mixed layers. The structure and strength of the MML is sensitive to villus length and oscillation frequency. Our model suggests that the classical explanation for the existence of villi—increased absorptive surface area—is probably incorrect. The model provides support for the potential importance of villus motility in the absorptive function of the small intestine.
Patient-specific models of human trachea to predict mechanical consequences of endoprosthesis implantation
Authors: Pérez del Palomar A. , Trabelsi O. , Mena A. , López-Villalobos J. L. , Ginel A. , Doblaré M.
Published: October 2012

Nowadays, interventions associated with the implantation of tracheal prostheses in patients with airway pathologies are very common. This surgery may promote problems such as migration of the prosthesis, development of granulation tissue at the edges of the stent with overgrowth of the tracheal lumen or accumulation of secretions inside the prosthesis. Among the movements that the trachea carries out, swallowing seems to have harmful consequences for the tracheal tissues surrounding the prosthesis. In this work, a finite-element-based tool is presented to construct patient-specific tracheal models, introducing the endotracheal prosthesis and analysing the mechanical consequences of this surgery during swallowing. A complete description of a patient-specific tracheal model is given, and a fully experimental characterization of the tracheal tissues is presented. To construct patient-specific grids, a mesh adaptation algorithm has been developed and the implantation of a tracheal prosthesis is simulated. The ascending deglutition movement of the trachea is recorded using real data from each specific patient from fluoroscopic images before and after implantation. The overall behaviour of the trachea is modified when a prosthesis is introduced. The presented tool has been particularized for two different patients (patient A and patient B), allowing prediction of the consequences of this kind of surgery. In particular, patient A had a decrease of almost 30 per cent in his ability to swallow, and an increase in stresses that were three times higher after prosthesis implantation. In contrast, patient B, who had a shorter trachea and who seemed to undergo more damaging effects, did not have a significant reduction in his ability to swallow and did not present an increase in stress in the tissues. In both cases, there are clinical studies that validate our results: namely, patient A underwent a further intervention whereas the outcome of patient B’s surgery was completely successful. Notwithstanding the fact that there are a lot of uncertainties relating to the implantation of endotracheal prostheses, the present work gives a new insight into these procedures, predicting their mechanical consequences. This tool could be used in the future as pre-operative planning software to help thoracic surgeons in deciding the optimal prosthesis as well as its size and positioning.
Cellular modelling: experiments and simulation to develop a physiological model of G-protein control of muscarinic K
+
channels in mammalian atrial cells
Authors: Murakami Shingo , Suzuki Shingo , Ishii Masaru , Inanobe Atsushi , Kurachi Yoshihisa
Published: October 2012

The first model of G-protein–K
ACh
channel interaction was developed 14 years ago and then expanded to include both the receptor–G-protein cycle and G-protein–K
ACh
channel interaction. The G-protein–K
ACh
channel interaction used the Monod–Wyman–Changeux allosteric model with the idea that one K
ACh
channel is composed of four subunits, each of which binds one active G-protein subunit (G
βγ
). The receptor–G-protein cycle used a previous model to account for the steady-state relationship between K
ACh
current and intracellular guanosine-5-triphosphate at various extracellular concentrations of acetylcholine (ACh). However, simulations of the activation and deactivation of K
ACh
current upon ACh application or removal were much slower than experimental results. This clearly indicates some essential elements were absent from the model. We recently found that regulators of G-protein signalling are involved in the control of K
ACh
channel activity. They are responsible for the voltage-dependent relaxation behaviour of K
ACh
channels. Based on this finding, we have improved the receptor–G-protein cycle model to reproduce the relaxation behaviour. With this modification, the activation and deactivation of K
ACh
current in the model are much faster and now fall within physiological ranges.
Medicago truncatula ERN Transcription Factors: Regulatory Interplay with NSP1/NSP2 GRAS Factors and Expression Dynamics throughout Rhizobial Infection
Authors: Cerri Marion R. , Frances Lisa , Laloum Tom , Auriac Marie-Christine , Niebel Andreas , Oldroyd Giles E.D. , Barker David G. , Fournier Joëlle , de Carvalho-Niebel Fernanda
Published: October 2012

Rhizobial nodulation factors (NFs) activate a specific signaling pathway in Medicago truncatula root hairs that involves the complex interplay of Nodulation Signaling Pathway1 (NSP1)/NSP2 GRAS and Ethylene Response Factor Required for Nodulation1 (ERN1) transcription factors (TFs) to achieve full ENOD11 transcription. ERN1 acts as a direct transcriptional regulator of ENOD11 through the activation of the NF-responsive “NF box.” Here, we show that NSP1, when combined with NSP2, can act as a strong positive regulator of ERN1 and ENOD11 transcription. Although ERN1 and NSP1/NSP2 both activate ENOD11, two separate promoter regions are involved that regulate expression during consecutive symbiotic stages. Our findings indicate that ERN1 is required to activate NF-elicited ENOD11 expression exclusively during early preinfection, while NSP1/NSP2 mediates ENOD11 expression during subsequent rhizobial infection. The relative contributions of ERN1 and the closely related ERN2 to the rhizobial symbiosis were then evaluated by comparing their regulation and in vivo dynamics. ERN1 and ERN2 exhibit expression profiles compatible with roles during NF signaling and subsequent infection. However, differences in expression levels and spatiotemporal profiles suggest specialized functions for these two TFs, ERN1 being involved in stages preceding and accompanying infection thread progression while ERN2 is only involved in certain stages of infection. By cross complementation, we show that ERN2, when expressed under the control of the ERN1 promoter, can restore both NF-elicited ENOD11 expression and nodule formation in an ern1 mutant background. This indicates that ERN1 and ERN2 possess similar biological activities and that functional diversification of these closely related TFs relies primarily on changes in tissue-specific expression patterns.
2,4-Dimethyl-1,3-thiazole-5-carboxylic acid: an X-ray structural study at 100 K and Hirshfeld surface analysis
Authors: Hazra Dipak K. , Mukherjee Monika , Helliwell Madeleine , Mukherjee Alok K.
Published: October 2012

The crystal structure of the title thiazolecarboxylic acid derivative, C6H7NO2S, (I), has been determined from single-crystal X-ray analysis at 100 K. In the crystal packing, an interplay of O—H...N and C—H...O hydrogen bonds connects the molecules to formC(6)R22(8) polymeric chains, which are further linkedviaweak C—H...O hydrogen bonds into a two-dimensional supramolecular framework. The relative contributions of different interactions to the Hirshfeld surface in (I) and a few related thiazolecarboxylic acid derivatives indicate that the H...H, N...H and O...H contacts can account for about 50–70% of the total Hirshfeld surface area in this class of compound.
Structural studies on the folded domain of the human prion protein bound to the Fab fragment of the antibody POM1
Authors: Baral Pravas Kumar , Wieland Barbara , Swayampakula Mridula , Polymenidou Magdalini , Rahman Muhammad Hafiz , Kav Nat N. V. , Aguzzi Adriano , James Michael N. G.
Published: October 2012

Prion diseases are neurodegenerative diseases characterized by the conversion of the cellular prion protein PrPcinto a pathogenic isoform PrPsc. Passive immunization with antiprion monoclonal antibodies can arrest the progression of prion diseases. Here, the crystal structure of the Fab fragment of an antiprion monoclonal antibody, POM1, in complex with human prion protein (huPrPc) has been determined to 2.4 Å resolution. The prion epitope of POM1 is in close proximity to the epitope recognized by the purportedly therapeutic antibody fragment ICSM18 Fab in complex with huPrPc. POM1 Fab forms a 1:1 complex with huPrPcand the measuredKdof 4.5 × 10−7 Mreveals moderately strong binding between them. Structural comparisons have been made among three prion–antibody complexes: POM1 Fab–huPrPc, ICSM18 Fab–huPrPcand VRQ14 Fab–ovPrPc. The prion epitopes recognized by ICSM18 Fab and VRQ14 Fab are adjacent to a prion glycosylation site, indicating possible steric hindrance and/or an altered binding mode to the glycosylated prion proteinin vivo. However, both of the glycosylation sites on huPrPcare positioned away from the POM1 Fab binding epitope; thus, the binding mode observed in this crystal structure and the binding affinity measured for this antibody are most likely to be the same as those for the native prion proteinin vivo.
Modeling the SHG activities of diverse protein crystals
Authors: Haupert Levi M. , DeWalt Emma L. , Simpson Garth J.
Published: October 2012

A symmetry-additiveab initiomodel for second-harmonic generation (SHG) activity of protein crystals was applied to assess the likely protein-crystal coverage of SHG microscopy. Calculations were performed for 250 proteins in nine point-group symmetries: a total of 2250 crystals. The model suggests that the crystal symmetry and the limit of detection of the instrument are expected to be the strongest predictors of coverage of the factors considered, which also included secondary-structural content and protein size. Much of the diversity in SHG activity is expected to arise primarily from the variability in the intrinsic protein response as well as the orientation within the crystal lattice. Two or more orders-of-magnitude variation in intensity are expected even within protein crystals of the same symmetry. SHG measurements of tetragonal lysozyme crystals confirmed detection, from which a protein coverage of ∼84% was estimated based on the proportion of proteins calculated to produce SHG responses greater than that of tetragonal lysozyme. Good agreement was observed between the measured and calculated ratios of the SHG intensity from lysozyme in tetragonal and monoclinic lattices.
Presidential election scenarios
Authors: Marren Patrick
Published: October 2012

Purpose

The aim is to demonstrate the necessity of a scenario approach to decision making where non‐experts are forced to choose between expert opinions about which they cannot possibly form their own expert opinion.

Design/methodology/approach

This is an opinion column.

Findings

The 2012 presidential election is almost sure to result in more of an austerity approach to the economy – and the level of that austerity may actually be greater under a re‐elected Obama than under a new President Romney.

Practical implications

Decision makers and strategists should be prepared for more of an austerity approach to economic policy, no matter who is elected in November.

Social implications

Few people are thinking through the actual implications of this election. A scenario analysis makes it fairly clear that the range of plausible policy outcomes is far narrower than is commonly believed.

Originality

The article gives a possibly unique outlook on the 2012 presidential election.
Effect of incorporating whey protein concentrate into stevia‐sweetened Kulfi on physicochemical and sensory properties
Authors: Giri Apurba , Rao H G Ramachandra , V Ramesh
Published: October 2012

In 50% sugar replaced with 0.05% stevia‐added Kulfi, whey protein concentrate (WPC) at 0, 2, 3 and 4% levels were separately incorporated. Increase in WPC level resulted in significant (P < 0.05) decrease in freezing point, melting rate, hardness and moisture percentage and significant (P < 0.05) increase in specific gravity, protein percentage and total calorie content in the product. Among 0, 2, 3 and 4% WPC‐added Kulfi, 3% WPC‐added Kulfi was adjudged as best by a panel of judges. Above 3% WPC addition, the product was very soft and possessed undesirable whey flavour.
Purifying and Concentrating Genomic DNA from Mock Forensic Samples Using Millipore Amicon Filters
Authors: Garvin Alex M. , Fritsch Anja
Published: October 2012

Regenerated cellulose filters are used for concentrating and purifying genomic DNA from casework samples, due to the high yields and low retentate volumes that these filters provide. The Millipore Ultracel YM‐100 is an example of this filter type and has been available to the forensics community for this application since 1990. In 2002, Millipore introduced the Amicon line of vertical filters that provide a larger area for filtration and have a dead space to prevent spinning to dryness. In the present study, Amicon filters were optimized in terms of g force and spin times for their ability to concentrate and purify genomic DNA. The Amicon Ultra 0.5 mL 30 K was used with mock forensic samples containing as little as 160 buccal cells, 20 nL of blood, or 8 nL of semen. In conclusion, the Amicon line of filters can be used to purify genomic DNA from small numbers of cells.
A Collation of Recently Published Western European Formulae for Age Estimation of Subadult Skeletal Remains: Recommendations for Forensic Anthropology and Osteoarchaeology
Authors: Rissech Carme , Márquez‐Grant Nicholas , Turbón Daniel
Published: October 2012

The aim of this study is to provide an effective and quick reference guide based on the most useful European formulae recently published for subadult age estimation. All of these formulae derive from studies on postnatal growth of the scapula, innominate, femur, and tibia, based on modern skeletal data (173 ♂, 173 ♀) from five documented collections from Spain, Portugal, and Britain. The formulae were calculated from Inverse Regression. For this reason, these formulae are especially useful for modern samples from Western Europe and in particular on 20th century human remains from the Iberian Peninsula. Eleven formulae were selected as the most useful because they can be applied to individuals from within a wide age range and in individuals of unknown sex. Due to their high reliability and because they derive from documented European skeletal samples, we recommend these formulae be used on individuals of Caucasoid ancestry from Western Europe.
Proteomic Analysis of Bovine Axonemes Exposed to Acute Alcohol: Role of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase and Heat Shock Protein 90 in Cilia Stimulation
Authors: Simet Samantha M. , Pavlik Jacqueline A. , Sisson Joseph H.
Published: October 2012

Background

Cilia are finger‐like motor‐driven organelles, which propel inhaled particles and mucus from the lung and airways. We have previously shown that brief alcohol exposure stimulates ciliary motility through an endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS)‐dependent pathway localized in the ciliary metabolon. However, the signaling molecules of the ciliary metabolon involved in alcohol‐triggered ciliary beat frequency (CBF) stimulation upstream of eNOS activation remain unknown.

Methods

We hypothesized that brief alcohol exposure alters threonine and serine phosphorylation of proteins involved in stimulating CBF. Two‐dimensional electrophoresis indicated both increases and decreases in the serine and threonine phosphorylation states of several proteins. One of the proteins identified was heat shock protein 90 (HSP90), which undergoes increased threonine phosphorylation after brief alcohol exposure. Because HSP90 has been shown to associate with eNOS in lung tissue, we hypothesized that HSP90 is a key component in alcohol‐triggered eNOS activation and that these 2 proteins co‐localize within the ciliary metabolon.

Results

Immunofluorescence experiments demonstrate that eNOS and HSP90 co‐localize within basal bodies of the ciliary metabolon and partially translocate to the axoneme upon brief alcohol exposure. Pretreatment with geldanamycin, which disrupts HSP90 chaperone functions, prevented eNOS‐HSP90 association and prevented the translocation of eNOS from the ciliary metabolon to the axoneme. Functional cilia motility studies revealed that geldanamycin blocked alcohol‐stimulated ciliary motility in bovine bronchial epithelial cells and mouse tracheal rings.

Conclusions

On the basis of the HSP90 localization with eNOS, alcohol activation of HSP90 phosphorylation, and geldanamycin's ability to inhibit HSP90‐eNOS association, prevent eNOS translocation to the axoneme, and block alcohol‐stimulated ciliary motility, we conclude that alcohol‐induced cilia stimulation occurs through the increased association of HSP90 with eNOS. These data help further elucidate the mechanism through which brief alcohol exposure stimulates CBF.
A novel evaluation method for optical integration of Class IV composite restorations
Authors: Dietschi D , Abdelaziz M , Krejci I , Di Bella E , Ardu S
Published: October 2012

Background:  This aim of this study was to compare traditional visual appreciation with spectrophotometry to evaluate the optical integration of anterior composite restorations.

Methods:  Eleven restorations were evaluated in eight patients receiving dental treatment at fourth and fifth year student clinics at the dental school of the University of Geneva, Switzerland. Colour integration of completed restorations was assessed by visual observation according to USPHS criteria and spectrophotometric analysis; both methods were then compared.

Results:  A mean ΔE of 1.1 (range 0.7 to 1.7) corresponded to an optimal visual integration between natural tooth and restoration (alpha score) while a mean ΔE of 3.3 (range 2.6 to 3.8) corresponded to clinically ‘non‐acceptable’ visual integration (charlie score). Restorations scored as ‘bravo’, corresponded to a suboptimal but not disturbing visual integration, had a mean ΔE of 2. L* and b* values present at the bevel area and into the composite bulk tended to be lower than that of the natural tooth while a* composite values were slightly higher.

Conclusions:  The spectrophotometric method employed in this pilot study has confirmed the published range of ΔE (global difference of L*a*b* values) corresponding to clinically ‘optimal’, ‘acceptable’ and ‘unacceptable’ colour integration.
Do antibacterial mouthrinses affect bacteraemia in third molar surgery? A pilot study
Authors: Tuna A , Delilbasi C , Arslan A , Gurol Y , Tazegun Tekkanat Z
Published: October 2012

Background:  The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the effects of mouthrinses containing 7.5% povidone iodine and 0.2% chlorhexidine on bacteraemia following impacted third molar surgery.

Methods:  Thirty‐four patients were enrolled in this study. Patients in the first group were asked to rinse their mouth with the mouthrinse containing 7.5% povidone iodine, patients in the second group were asked to rinse with the mouthrinse containing 0.2% chlorhexidine and patients in the third group were asked to rinse with 0.9% NaCl (sterile saline) solution. All rinses were used for one minute preoperatively. Peripheral venous blood samples were collected at baseline (preoperatively), 1 and 15 minutes after the completion of surgical tooth removal. Each blood sample was divided in two, placed in aerobic and anaerobic culture bottles and processed for microbiological examination.

Results:  Bactaeremia was detected in 33% of the povidone iodine group, 33% of the chlorhexidine group and 50% of the control group. Isolated bacteria were 58% anaerobes and predominantly 92%Streptococcus species. Incidence of bacteraemia was reduced with chlorhexidine and povidone iodine mouthrinses in third molar surgery, although the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05).

Conclusions:  Bacteraemia was reduced with antibacterial mouthrinses in third molar surgery. The results of this study should be confirmed with further studies conducted on a larger patient population and with different antibacterial mouthrinses.
Evolution of Helicobacter pylori susceptibility to antibiotics during a 10‐year period in Lithuania
Authors: Kupcinskas Limas , Rasmussen Lone , Jonaitis Laimas , Kiudelis Gediminas , Jørgensen Marianne , Urbonaviciene Neringa , Tamosiunas Vytas , Kupcinskas Juozas , Miciuleviciene Jolanta , Kadusevicius Edmundas , Berg Douglas , Andersen Leif P.
Published: October 2012

The study evaluated the changes in the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori strains with primary resistance to antibiotics during the last 10 years in Lithuania. H. pylori susceptibilities to antibiotics were tested in 89 patients in 1998, in 81 patients in 2001 and in 90 patients in 2007/2008. Susceptibility to metronidazole, clarithromycin, amoxicillin and tetracycline was tested using E‐test or agar dilution method. Susceptibility to ciprofloxacin was only tested in 2007/2008. Data about utilization of all authorized and available on market macrolides and clindamycin in Lithuania during 2003–2007 were evaluated using WHO ATC/DDD methodology. A total of 260 H. pylori strains cultured from untreated adult patients were investigated. Primary resistance rates (1998, 2001 and 2007/2008) for metronidazole were 24.7%, 33.3%, and 35.6%, for clarithromycin 1.1%, 3.7%, and 3.3% and for tetracycline 0%, 2.5% and 0% respectively. No cases of amoxicillin resistance have been detected. The resistance rate for ciprofloxacin was 5.6% in 2007/2008. Data of total macrolides and clarithromycin utilization in Lithuania revealed that despite an increase of consumption of these drugs in Lithuania during 2003–2007 in 1.5 times, the total macrolide consumption remains one of the lowest in Europe. We have not observed any significant changes in the susceptibility of H. pylori to the most widely used antibiotics during the recent 10‐year period. The low resistance rate to clarithromycin might be related to the policy to avoid use of macrolides as first‐line treatment for pulmonary and other infections.
Methanogenic archaea in subgingival sites: a review
Authors: Nguyen‐Hieu Tung , Khelaifia Saber , Aboudharam Gerard , Drancourt Michel
Published: October 2012

Archaea are non‐bacterial prokaryotes associated with oral microbiota in humans, but their roles in oral pathologies remain controversial. Several studies reported the molecular detection of methanogenic archaea from periodontitis, but the significance of this association has not been confirmed yet. An electronic search was therefore conducted in MEDLINE‐Pubmed to identify all papers published in English connecting archaea and periodontal infections. Data analysis of the selected studies showed that five genera of methanogenic archaea have been detected in the subgingival microbiota, Methanobrevibacter oralis being the most frequently detected species in 41% of periodontitis patients and 55% of periodontal pockets compared to 6% of healthy subjects and 5% of periodontally‐healthy sites (p < 10−5, Chi‐squared test). Based on the five determination‐criteria proposed by Socransky (association with disease, elimination of the organism, host response, animal pathogenicity and mechanisms of pathogenicity), M. oralis is a periodontal pathogen. The methanogenic archaea load correlating with periodontitis severity further supports the pathogenic role of methanogenic archaea in periodontitis. Therefore, detection and quantification of M. oralis in periodontal pockets could help the laboratory diagnosis and follow‐up of periodontitis. Determining the origin, diversity and pathogenesis of archaea in periodontal infections warrants further investigations.
Bioequipotency of idraparinux and idrabiotaparinux after once weekly dosing in healthy volunteers and patients treated for acute deep vein thrombosis
Authors: Trellu Marc , Fau Jean‐Baptiste , Cortez Pierre , Cheng Sue , Paty Isabelle , Boëlle Emmanuelle , Donat François , Sanderink Ger‐Jan
Published: October 2012

Aim

To assess the bioequipotency of equimolar doses of idraparinux (2.5 mg) and idrabiotaparinux (3.0 mg).

Method

In a phase I study, 48 healthy male volunteers were randomized to a single subcutaneous injection of idrabiotaparinux or idraparinux, followed by plasma sampling over 27 days. In a prospective substudy of the phase III EQUINOX trial, 228 patients treated for acute symptomatic deep vein thrombosis received idrabiotaparinux or idraparinux once weekly for 6 months. Plasma sampling was performed within 5 days following the last injection. The primary pharmacodynamic endpoint was the inhibition of activated factor X (FXa) activity. Maximal anti‐FXa activity (Amax) and area under anti‐FXa activity vs. time curve (AAUC) were calculated. Safety and tolerability were also assessed.

Results

In both studies, pharmacodynamic anti‐FXa vs. time profiles of idrabiotaparinux and idraparinux were superimposable. Ratio estimates (90% confidence intervals [CIs]) for idrabiotaparinux : idraparinux were 0.96 (0.89, 1.04) for Amax and 0.95 (0.87, 1.04) for AAUC in the phase I study, and 1.11 (1.00, 1.22) for Amax and 1.06 (0.96, 1.16) for AAUC at month 6 in the EQUINOX substudy. Idrabiotaparinux and idraparinux were considered bioequipotent because 90% CIs were within the pre‐specified interval (0.80, 1.25). Study treatments were well tolerated.

Conclusion

Pharmacodynamic parameters reported after single dose in healthy volunteers and after repeated once weekly dosing in patients demonstrated the bioequipotency of idrabiotaparinux and idraparinux based on FXa inhibition. These outcomes support the use of an idrabiotaparinux dose bioequipotent to an idraparinux dose in large clinical trials, and the possibility to substitute idrabiotaparinux to idraparinux for the treatment of venous thromboembolism.
(E)‐2,4‐bis(p‐hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐butenal has an antiproliferative effect on NSCLC cells induced by p38 MAPK‐mediated suppression of NF‐κB and up‐regulation of TNFRSF10B (DR5)
Authors: Kollipara Pushpa Saranya , Jeong Heon Sang , Han Sang Bae , Hong Jin Tae
Published: October 2012

Background And Purpose

The Maillard Reaction Products (MRPs) are known to be effective in chemoprevention. Here we focused on the anticancer effects of (E)‐2,4‐bis(p‐hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐butenal (a MRP) on human non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells and its mechanism of action.

Experimental Approach

We analysed the activity of (E)‐2,4‐bis(p‐hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐butenal on NSCLC cells (NCI‐H460 and A549) by use of Western blot analysis for major apoptotic proteins, MAPK, NF‐κB and death receptor expression. We also used RT‐PCR to determine its effects on death receptor mRNA expression, EMSA for effects on NF‐κB DNA binding activity and colony formation assay for effects of inhibitors on (E)‐2,4‐bis(p‐hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐butenal's actions.

Key Results

(E)‐2,4‐bis(p‐hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐butenal induced a concentration (10–40 μg·mL−1)‐ and time (30 min–72 h)‐dependent inhibitory effect on the growth of NSCLC cells due to induction of apoptosis. Concomitantly, it significantly increased the expression of apoptotic proteins such as cleaved caspase‐3, cleaved caspase‐9, Bax and p53, but down‐regulated the expression of anti‐apoptotic proteins Bcl‐2, cIAP1 and cIAP2. This effect was induced by up‐regulation of MAPK and death receptor proteins TNFRSF12, TNFRSF10B and TNFRSF21, but suppression of NF‐κB. Of the death receptors activated, only TNFRSF10B knock down with siRNA reversed the effect of (E)‐2,4‐bis(p‐hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐butenal. Even though all the MAPKs were activated, only pretreatment with a p38 MAPK inhibitor reversed (E)‐2,4‐bis(p‐hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐butenal‐induced cell growth inhibition, increase in cleaved caspase‐3, ‐9 and TNFRSF10B expression, and NF‐κB inactivation.

Conclusions And Implications

(E)‐2,4‐bis(p‐hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐butenal induces apoptosis in NSCLC cells by p38 MAPK‐mediated suppression of NF‐κB and activation of TNFRSF10B, which then activates the caspase‐3 and caspase‐9 pathways.
Antithrombotic effect of Z4A5 on coronary thrombosis in a canine model of acute unstable angina
Authors: Jing Bo‐Bin , Li Ying‐Xue , Zhang Hui , Ren Shu‐Ting , Wang Mei , Li Yi‐Ping , Shen Xin‐Liang , Wang Yi‐Li , Zang Wei‐Jin , Wang Bing
Published: October 2012

Background and Purpose

The glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor is the final common pathway of platelet aggregation, regardless of the agonist, and thus represents an ideal therapeutic target for blocking coronary thrombosis. In this study, the anti‐platelet and antithrombotic actions of Z4A5, a new glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor inhibitor, were evaluated in a canine model of acute unstable angina.

Experimental Approach

Z4A5 was given i.v. as a bolus followed by 60 min of continuous infusion at doses of 30 μg·kg−1 + 1 μg·kg−1·min−1, 30 μg·kg−1 + 5 μg·kg−1·min−1 or 300 μg·kg−1 + 5 μg·kg−1·min−1. Its antithrombotic effect was evaluated in a model of coronary thrombosis, the injured, stenosed left circumflex coronary artery, in which platelet‐dependent cyclic flow reductions (CFRs) were induced by vascular compression and constriction to simulate clinical acute unstable angina. Platelet aggregation and coagulation parameters were determined in platelet‐rich plasma and platelet poor plasma respectively.

Key Results

The Z4A5 infusion induced a dose‐dependent reduction in CFR frequency, which returned to baseline levels after the termination of the infusion at low doses. At medium dose that inhibited most part of platelet aggregation, it increased tongue bleeding time marginally with no dramatic changes in haemodynamic and coagulation parameters. Furthermore, the inhibition of ADP‐induced platelet aggregation and prolonged bleeding time observed during Z4A5 infusion reverted to baseline levels after the termination of the infusion.

Conclusions and Implications

Z4A5 is an effective antithrombotic agent for coronary artery thrombosis with a rapid‐on and rapid‐off pharmacological profile, and could be used as an alternative treatment of coronary artery ischaemic syndromes.