bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modification of spontaneous activity patterns in the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto when presented with host‐associated stimuli
Authors: HAWKES FRANCES , YOUNG STEPHEN , GIBSON GABRIELLA
Published: August 2012

Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto Giles (Diptera: Culicidae) is the main malaria vector in sub‐Saharan Africa. Mated females show a circadian rhythm of spontaneous activity under constant environmental conditions that extends across the scotophase (subjective night). The effect of host‐associated cues [i.e. human foot odour supplemented with carbon dioxide (CO2)] on this nocturnal activity pattern is studied in laboratory‐reared A. gambiae s.s. M molecular form. Sixteen mated females (5–10 days old) are held in individual chambers (diameter 3.5 cm, length 4.5 cm) in a wind‐tunnel with a continuous flow (8.0 cm s−1) of clean air. At the onset of hours 3, 6 and 10 of the scotophase, their behaviour is recorded on video for 15 min in clean moving air and then for the next 15 min, with a specific treatment present in the clean airstream: (i) constant CO2 (4.8%) plus human odour; (ii) pulsed CO2 (5 s of every 30 s) plus human odour or (iii) control (clean air). Activities of individual mosquitoes are scored by direct observation of the video records for the incidents of ‘resting’, ‘walking’, ‘jumping’ and ‘flying’ in each of the 15‐min observation periods. There is a significant interaction between hour and treatment on mean changes in female activity level (P = 0.00004). Constant treatment increases the level of activity of A. gambiae females significantly, although only in hour 3 of the scotophase (P < 0.01), whereas pulsed and control treatments show no significant effect throughout the scotophase. Patterns of spontaneous activity in individual A. gambiae females thus appear to be modulated by host‐associated cues, resulting in a more active phase early in the night than might be expected from records of spontaneous activity under constant environmental conditions. Possible ecological and experimental implications of such an increase in activity are discussed in relation to host‐seeking behaviour.
Effects of photoperiod and temperature on the rhythm and free‐running of adult eclosion in the Indian meal moth Plodia interpunctella
Authors: KIKUKAWA SHIGERU , HASHIZUME RYOU , HONDA MIHO , INOUE YUKA , MAEKAWA TATSUYA , MIYABAYASHI MINA , MORI NATSUKO , SAKATA RISA , TAKAHASHI NANAKO , TAKIGAURA YUKI , TANAKA KUNIAKI , UCHIDA YU
Published: August 2012

The rhythm of adult eclosion in the Indian meal moth Plodia interpunctella Hübner (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) is investigated under various photoperiods and temperatures aiming to determine the nature of the temperature compensation and the free‐running period. Insects that are committed to a nondiapause larval development show diel rhythms of adult eclosion at 30, 25 and 20 °C. At 30 °C, the eclosion peak (i.e. the mean time of eclosion) occurs approximately 20 h after lights off under an LD 4 : 20 h photocycle, and at approximately 15 h under an LD 20 : 4 h photocycle. At 25 °C, the peak of eclosion occurs approximately 19 h after lights off under an LD 2 : 20 h photocycle and at approximately 16 h under an LD 20 : 4 h photocycle. At 20 °C, the eclosion peak is significantly advanced under long days of >12 h (i.e. approximately 20 h after lights off under an LD 4 : 20 h photocycle and approximately 9 h under an LD 20 : 4 h photocycle), indicating an effect of both lights‐off and lights‐on signals on the timing of the adult eclosion. To determine the involvement of a self‐sustained oscillator, the rhythm of adult eclosion is examined under darkness at different temperatures (30 to 21 °C). The mean free‐running periods are 22.4, 22.8, 22.0 and 22.5 h at 30, 24, 23 and 22 °C, respectively, indicating that the eclosion rhythm is temperature‐compensated. However, this rhythm does not free‐run under constant darkness at 21 °C. Because a clear diel rhythm is observed under 24‐h photocycles at 20 °C, the oscillator might be damped out within 24 h at the lower temperature.
The reorganization of actin filaments is required for vacuolar fusion of guard cells during stomatal opening in Arabidopsis
Authors: LI LI‐JUAN , REN FEI , GAO XIN‐QI , WEI PENG‐CHENG , WANG XUE‐CHEN
Published: August 2012

The reorganization of actin filaments (AFs) and vacuoles in guard cells is involved in the regulation of stomatal movement. However, it remains unclear whether there is any interaction between the reorganization of AFs and vacuolar changes during stomatal movement. Here, we report the relationship between the reorganization of AFs and vacuolar fusion revealed in pharmacological experiments, and characterizing stomatal opening in actin‐related protein 2 (arp2) and arp3 mutants. Our results show that cytochalasin‐D‐induced depolymerization or phalloidin‐induced stabilization of AFs leads to an increase in small unfused vacuoles during stomatal opening in wild‐type (WT) Arabidopsis plants. Light‐induced stomatal opening is retarded and vacuolar fusion in guard cells is impaired in the mutants, in which the reorganization and the dynamic parameters of AFs are aberrant compared with those of the WT. In WT, AFs tightly surround the small separated vacuoles, forming a ring that encircles the boundary membranes of vacuoles partly fused during stomatal opening. In contrast, in the mutants, most AFs and actin patches accumulate abnormally around the nuclei of the guard cells, which probably further impair vacuolar fusion and retard stomatal opening. Our results suggest that the reorganization of AFs regulates vacuolar fusion in guard cells during stomatal opening.
Bioavailability of different chemical forms of dissolved silica can affect marine diatom growth
Authors: Capellacci Samuela , Battocchi Cecilia , Casabianca Silvia , Giovine Marco , Bavestrello Giorgio , Penna Antonella
Published: August 2012

In this study, we demonstrate that dissolved silica obtained from mineral (crystalline quartz), biogenic amorphous (diatomaceous earth) and artificial amorphous sources (Aerosil) influence the growth rate of two marine diatoms, Chaetoceros sp. and Skeletonema marinoi. Diatoms were reared in four different experimental conditions in artificial seawater containing either dissolved silica previously obtained through dissolution of the mineral crystalline quartz or two amorphous substrates, biogenic diatomaceous earth or artificial Aerosil silica. Sodium metasilicate was used as control. When the silica in the different media reached concentrations higher than 107 μm, particles were eliminated by filtration and the diatom cells were inoculated. Maximum cell density, growth and silica assimilation rates of both species in the presence of dissolved silica derived from crystalline quartz and metasilicate were higher than those obtained with the other silica sources. These results are discussed against the background of previous geochemical studies that have shown that silica–water interactions are strictly dependent on the silica polymorphs involved and on the ionic composition of the solution. Our results demonstrate that the soluble silicon compounds generated in seawater by crystalline sources are highly bioavailable compared with those generated by biogenic and amorphous materials. These findings are potentially of considerable ecological importance and may contribute to clarifying anomalous spatial and temporal distributions of siliceous organisms with respect to the presence of lithogenic or biogenic silica sources in marine environments.
Evaluation of narrow‐band imaging in the diagnosis of colorectal lesions: Is a learning curve involved?
Authors: Dai Jun , Shen Yu‐Feng , Sano Yasushi , Li Xiao‐Bo , Xue Han‐Bin , Zhao Yun‐Jia , Gao Yun‐Jie , Song Yan , Ge Zhi‐Zheng
Published: August 2012

Background

The usefulness of endoscopy narrow‐band imaging (NBI) in differentiating colorectal lesions has been demonstrated. However, the learning curve associated with this technique is a concern for endoscopists.

Methods

Prior to carrying out these colonoscopies, four endoscopists attended a training course designed to teach the principles of NBI and application of the Sano Capillary Pattern (CP) classification criteria. Following a pre‐test, endoscopists used NBI with magnification and CP analysis for real‐time colonoscopy exams to predict lesion histology. Three sets of 15 lesions were imaged. These three sets included both lesions requiring endoscopic treatment (e.g. target lesions) and lesions that were not, or could not be, treated by endoscopy (e.g. non‐target lesions). The diagnostic accuracy of each endoscopist for each set of lesions was evaluated to assess the learning curve associated with the application of NBI.

Results

Overall accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity for differentiating neoplastic and non‐neoplastic lesions were 95.4%, 98.0%, and 92.0%, respectively. For target lesions versus non‐target lesions, the diagnostic accuracy associated with the second set of lesions was better than that achieved with the first set of lesions (78.3% vs 96.7% (P = 0.02) and 70.0% vs 96.7% (
P < 0.01), respectively in each case). In contrast, the difference in diagnostic accuracy between the second and third sets of lesions was not significant.

Conclusion

NBI with magnification is a useful tool for the diagnosis of colorectal lesions. Moreover, following a short training program and with minimal clinic practice, less experienced endoscopists were able to become competent in the method.
The Bologna Process in Italy
Authors: Ballarino Gabriele , Perotti Loris
Published: August 2012

Italy was among the promoters of the Bologna Process and the early adopters of the reform. If one looks at its impact on the formal structure of curricula and study programmes, the reform undertaken under the Bologna banner seems to have been one of the major educational reforms ever achieved in Italy. This article describes how the Bologna Process has unfolded in Italy, looking at the reasons why a reform that for long eluded Italian policymakers and higher education managers finally succeeded. The theme is approached from the point of view of the contemporary theories of institutional change, looking at the actors and interactions that made this reform possible despite strong opposition. In fact, it was a series of contingent events that weakened the balance of powers governing Italian HE, thus making institutional change possible.
How much food does man require? New insights
Authors: Henry C. J. K.
Published: August 2012

The transition from hunter gatherers to modern man is categorized by the enormous decrease in the number of plant species utilized today. Four main staples, rice, wheat, corn and potato, feed almost 80% of the world's population. An additional characteristic of our modern diet is the rich energy density of our meals. In order to estimate human energy requirements, new predictive equations to estimate basal metabolic rate have been developed. These equations will enable us to estimate human energy requirements in both developed and developing countries.
Milk ingestion in athletes and physically active individuals
Authors: James L.
Published: August 2012

Milk is a cheap drink that naturally contains nutrients in similar amounts as found in typical carbohydrate‐electrolyte sports drinks, as well as providing some protein (36 g/l). While there is little information about the ingestion of milk during exercise, the available evidence suggests that milk might enhance certain aspects of recovery when ingested after resistance and endurance exercise. The protein content of milk means that ingestion of milk immediately after resistance exercise acutely increases muscle protein synthesis, and if used chronically during a resistance training programme, milk ingestion enhances lean mass gains and fat mass losses compared with other protein sources (e.g. soy protein) or ingestion of carbohydrate. Ingesting milk after muscle damaging exercise also appears to alleviate some of the symptoms of exercise‐induced muscle damage, while the electrolytes naturally occurring in milk, as well as the milk protein, appear to enhance rehydration after endurance exercise. In summary, milk appears to be an appropriate post‐exercise drink for athletes and physically active individuals that are not intolerant to lactose and/or dairy. Milk might enhance some aspects of recovery after exercise and it appears that the proteins contained in milk are responsible for most of these enhancements.
The quality of dietary intake methodology and reporting in child and adolescent obesity intervention trials: a systematic review
Authors: Burrows T. , Golley R. K. , Khambalia A. , McNaughton S. A. , Magarey A. , Rosenkranz R. R. , Alllman‐Farinelli M. , Rangan A. M. , Truby H. , Collins C.
Published: August 2012

Assessing dietary intake is important in evaluating childhood obesity intervention effectiveness. The purpose of this review was to evaluate the dietary intake methods and reporting in intervention studies that included a dietary component to treat overweight or obese children. A systematic review of studies published in the English language, between 1985 and August 2010 in health databases. The search identified 2,295 papers, of which 335 were retrieved and 31 met the inclusion criteria. Twenty‐three studies reported energy intake as an outcome measure, 20 reported macronutrient intakes and 10 studies reported food intake outcomes. The most common dietary method employed was the food diary (n = 13), followed by 24‐h recall (n = 5), food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) (n = 4) and dietary questionnaire (n = 4). The quality of the dietary intake methods reporting was rated as ‘poor’ in 15 studies (52%) and only 3 were rated as ‘excellent’. The reporting quality of FFQs tended to be higher than food diaries/recalls. Deficiencies in the quality of dietary intake methods reporting in child obesity studies were identified. Use of a dietary intake methods reporting checklist is recommended. This will enable the quality of dietary intake results to be evaluated, and an increased ability to replicate study methodology by other researchers.
RATIONALITY AND MORAL REALISM
Authors: Zangwill Nick
Published: August 2012

What can a moral realist say about why we should take morality seriously and about the relation between morality and rationality? I take off from Christine Korsgaard's criticism of moral realism on this score. The aim is to achieve an understanding of the relation between moral and rational properties and of the role of practical deliberation on a realist view. I argue that the justification for being concerned with rational and moral normative properties may not be an aspect of our minds to which we have access. I argue against a view that gives automatic pride of place to the rational properties of our mind by drawing attention to valuable non‐rational modes of thought such as creative, imaginative and instinctive thought. Thus the value of taking account of rationality is contingent on its benefits. But this is not why we should be taking account of morality.
Using Thermal Remote Sensing in Environmental Studies
Authors: Kubiak Marta , Dzieszko Piotr
Published: August 2012

Thermovision is a relatively new method of remote sensing with applications in areas such as military operations, residential monitoring, technological process control and emergency management. Surprisingly, it has not seen much application in environmental studies. The article presents a method of using thermovision for topoclimatic studies. The method is based on the spatial distribution of land surface temperature (LST). The LST distribution indicates the amount of solar energy reaching the Earth surface and depends primarily on terrain shape and land cover types. By analyzing the LST distribution, one can determine spatial topoclimatic variability. The LST derived topoclimatic classification was compared with the theoretical topoclimatic classification based on heat balance. New classes of topoclimates were created and some of the existing types were diversified into more detailed subtypes. The analysis of selected lowland areas in north‐western Poland revealed that both land cover and terrain shape characteristics had a significant impact on the LST distribution, contrary to the expectation of land cover characteristics being more important than terrain shape. The article demonstrates the possibilities of using thermovision in environmental research and presents a new method of topoclimate delimitation based on thermal remote sensing data and geographical information systems (GIS) techniques comparing. The LST classification method with conventional methods based on DEM and land cover analysis.
Diverse unity: creole contributions to interethnic integration in Guinea‐Bissau
Authors: Kohl Christoph
Published: August 2012

The paper explores how creole categories of people who have constituted a small but influential minority in Guinea‐Bissau for centuries contributed to a countrywide, integrated national culture since the eve of independence in 1974. Since independence, several cultural representations previously exclusive to creole communities have been – driven by the nationalist independence movement and the early postcolonial state – transformed into representations of a new national culture, crossing ethnic and religious boundaries. The fact that creole identity and culture had been transethnic – i.e. creole identity brings together individuals of heterogeneous cultural, ethnic and geographic descent – during the colonial period, has fostered in postcolonial times the countrywide spread of previously exclusively creole cultural features. I argue that this ‘transethnicisation’ of creole cultural representations has unified Bissau‐Guineans across ethnic lines, causing a strong commitment with their nation ‘from below’.
The Mother and Baby Interaction Scale: a valid broadband instrument for efficient screening of postpartum interaction? A preliminary validation in a Norwegian community sample
Authors: Høivik Magnhild S. , Burkeland Nina A. , Linaker Olav M. , Berg‐Nielsen Turid Suzanne
Published: August 2012

Background and aims:  The mother–infant relationship may represent a risk or a protective factor for child development. Hence, an early focus on the relationship may be a worthwhile preventive measure. A simple 10‐item instrument, the Mother and Baby Interaction Scale, could be a convenient screening instrument for early bonding failure. In this pilot study, preliminary indications of the internal consistency, stability, principal components validity of the Mother and Baby Interaction Scale were investigated.

Methods:  Seventy‐six postpartum women participated. The Mother and Baby Interaction Scale and Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire were completed together with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. The internal reliability of the Mother and Baby Interaction Scale, and its correlations with the Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, was examined. Principal component analysis of the Mother and Baby Interaction Scale was conducted, and the emerging subscales were compared with the Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire.

Results:  The principal component analysis yielded four subscales: Bonding problems, Worries about caretaking, Regulation and routine and Sensitivity and separation. We found acceptable internal consistency of the Mother and Baby Interaction Scale. The total score of the Mother and Baby Interaction Scale correlated better (r = 0.72) with the Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire than the four subscales. The correlation between the total scores of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and the Mother And Baby Interaction Scale was r = 0.49.

Conclusions:  The total score of the Mother and Baby Interaction Scale is a promising measure for early screening of the quality of the mother–infant relationship and is suitable for general practitioners, midwives and other health workers dealing with postpartum women and their children.
Cardiovascular Implantable Electronic Device Leads in CKD and ESRD Patients: Review and Recommendations for Practice
Authors: Saad Theodore F. , Hentschel Dirk M. , Koplan Bruce , Wasse Haimanot , Asif Arif , Patel Daniel V. , Salman Loay , Carrillo Roger , Hoggard Jeff ,   ASDIN Clinical Practice Committee Workgroup
Published: August 2012

Cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) are frequently utilized for management of cardiac dysrhythmias in patients with chronic kidney disease or end‐stage renal disease receiving hemodialysis. The survival benefit from use of implantable cardioverter defibrillators in patients with CKD or ESRD is not as clear as in the general population, particularly when used for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death. Transvenous CIED leads are associated with central vein stenosis resulting in significant adverse consequences for existing or future arteriovenous access. Venous hypertension from CIED lead‐related central vein stenosis is a challenging clinical problem and may require repeated percutaneous interventions, replacement of the CIED, or creation of alternative arteriovenous access. Infections associated with transvenous CIED leads are more frequent and associated with worse outcomes in patients with renal disease. Epicardial CIED leads or other nontransvenous devices may reduce complications of both central venous stenosis and endovascular infection in these vulnerable patients. Consensus recommendations are offered for avoidance and management of complications arising from the use of CIEDs and arteriovenous hemodialysis access.
Longitudinal Assessment of Hemodynamic Endpoints in Predicting Arteriovenous Fistula Maturation
Authors: Rajabi‐Jagahrgh Ehsan , Krishnamoorthy Mahesh K. , Roy‐Chaudhury Prabir , Succop Paul , Wang Yang , Choe Ann , Banerjee Rupak K.
Published: August 2012

Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) nonmaturation is currently a significant clinical problem; however, the mechanisms responsible for this have remained unanswered. Previous work by our group and others has suggested that anatomical configuration and the corresponding hemodynamic endpoints could have an important role in AVF remodeling. Thus, our goal was to assess the longitudinal (temporal) effect of wall shear stress (WSS) on remodeling process of AVFs with two different configurations. The hypothesis is that early assessment of hemodynamic endpoints such as temporal gradient of WSS will predict the maturation status of AVF at later time points. Two AVFs with curved (C‐AVF) and straight (S‐AVF) configurations were created between the femoral artery and vein of each pig. Three pigs were considered in this study and in total six AVFs (three C‐AVF and three S‐AVF) were created. The CT scan and ultrasound were utilized to numerically evaluate local WSS at 20 cross‐sections along the venous segment of AVFs at 2D (D: days), 7D, and 28D postsurgery. These cross‐sections were located at 1.5 mm increments from the anastomosis junction. Local WSS values at these cross‐sections were correlated with their corresponding luminal area over time. The WSS in C‐AVF decreased from 22.3 ± 4.8 dyn/cm2 at 2D to 4.1 ± 5.1 dyn/cm2 at 28D, while WSS increased in S‐AVF from 13.0 ± 5.0 dyn/cm2 at 2D to 36.7 ± 5.3 dyn/cm2 at 28D. Corresponding to these changes in WSS levels, luminal area of C‐AVF dilated (0.23 ± 0.14 cm2 at 2D to 0.87 ± 0.14 cm2 at 28D) with attendant increase in flow rate. However, S‐AVF had minimal changes in area (0.26 ± 0.02 cm2 at 2D to 0.27 ± 0.03 cm2 at 28D) despite some increase in flow rate. Our results suggest that the temporal changes of WSS could have significant effects on AVF maturation. Reduction in WSS over time (regardless of initial values) may result in dilation (p < 0.05), while increase in WSS may be detrimental to maturation. Thus, creation of AVFs in a specific configuration which results in a decline in WSS over time may reduce AVF maturation failure.
Advances in Peritoneal Dialysis: A Review
Authors: Bargman Joanne M.
Published: August 2012

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a simple, “low‐tech” form of renal replacement therapy that is less expensive than conventional in‐center hemodialysis in many parts of the world. Despite the advantages associated with this modality, it has not been as embraced as it deserves to be in many countries, including the United States. This brief review will focus on recent interesting and germane publications related to therapy with PD, centering on three broad themes: (i) “biocompatible” PD solutions; (ii) encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis; and (iii) comparisons of survival between PD and conventional hemodialysis. Recent publications concerning biocompatible solutions are hampered by varying trial designs, confounding by indication, and solutions with different compositions. Perhaps the most robust result, a reduction in peritonitis, has not been a consistent finding across studies. The results are generally disappointing with respect to clinically relevant endpoints such as membrane function and patient survival. The rarity of encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis, still a vexing and worrying complication, hampers any systematic examination of pathogenesis and treatment. The establishment of registries may help to better understand this condition. In the absence of randomized, controlled trials of PD versus hemodialysis, survival analyses are fraught with enormous methodological and statistical pitfalls. Nevertheless, many investigators remain focused on small differences in survival between the two modalities; even more inappropriately, some clinicians use these imperfect data to guide their modality recommendations. Recent outcome studies suggest that the survival of patients on PD compared with conventional hemodialysis is astonishingly similar, and differences between early and late survival are more explainable by the circumstances around initiation than by the modality itself.
The influence of peri‐implant mucosal level on the satisfaction with anterior maxillary implants
Authors: Suphanantachat Supreda , Thovanich Ketsuda , Nisapakultorn Kanokwan
Published: August 2012

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine variables associated with implant satisfaction and to evaluate the influence of peri‐implant mucosal level on implant satisfaction.

Materials and Methods

Forty patients restored with single‐tooth anterior maxillary implants were recruited for the study. The facial and inter‐proximal mucosal level of implants was measured. The patients and clinicians were asked to rate their satisfaction with dental implants on various aspects, using the visual analog scale (VAS). The VAS scores of patients and clinicians were compared and correlated. Variables associated with implant satisfaction as well as the influence of peri‐implant mucosal level on implant satisfaction were determined.

Results

The patients showed high overall esthetic satisfaction (84.5%) with their implants. However, their satisfaction on the harmonization of gingiva (67.4%) was relatively low. The patient's overall esthetic satisfaction was significantly associated with crown color, crown shape, and confidence when smiling, but not the harmonization of gingival margin. The patient's satisfaction with the worth for expense was significantly associated with overall esthetic satisfaction, confidence when smiling, and speaking well. The presence of facial mucosal level ≥1 mm (compared with the contralateral tooth) and less than half papilla fill had no significant effect on the overall esthetic satisfaction assessed by patients. However, the presence of less than half papilla fill affected the patient's satisfaction on speech.

Conclusions

Peri‐implant mucosal level is not a significant factor for the patient's esthetic satisfaction with their anterior maxillary implants. Papillary recession, however, appeared to affect their satisfaction on speech.
Bone formation with a biphasic calcium phosphate combined with fibrin sealant in maxillary sinus floor elevation for delayed dental implant
Authors: Wagner Wilfried , Wiltfang Jörg , Pistner Hans , Yildirim Murat , Ploder Bettina , Chapman Miranda , Schiestl Nina , Hantak Edith
Published: August 2012

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the extent and quality of new bone 6 months after sinus lift with biphasic micro‐ and macroporous calcium phosphate combined with fibrin sealant (MBCP‐FS) and the 1‐year implant success rate in the augmented site.

Material and methods

MBCP‐FS was applied to one sinus in 96 subjects requiring augmentation for delayed dental implant placement. In subjects who required bilateral lifts (N = 33), the MBCP‐FS sinus was randomly selected; the contralateral sinus was grafted with autologous bone (mixed with Bio‐Oss when harvested bone volume was insufficient. Panoramic views were taken periodically prior to and up to 18 months post‐lift. Histomorphometric analysis was conducted on biopsies taken during implant placement 6 months after augmentation. Implant functionality and prosthesis success were assessed clinically 1 year after implant placement.

Results

In MBCP‐FS sinuses, 20.6 ± 8.5% new, mainly lamellar bone was observed. Implants were placed as planned in 78/85 evaluable subjects (91.8%) 6 months after sinus lift. Graft heights remained stable 1 year after placement; 94.7% (142/150) of implants were functional. The amount and quality of new bone and implant success rates with MBCP‐FS were similar to autologous bone graft (mixed with Bio‐Oss in 30/31 evaluable subjects). MBCP‐FS was safe and well‐tolerated.

Conclusions

MBCP‐FS is safe and effective in sinus floor elevation for dental implant placement, supporting bone regeneration and with high 1‐year implant success rates similar to autologous bone mixed with Bio‐Oss.
Where on earth can animals use a geomagnetic bi‐coordinate map for navigation?
Authors: Boström Jannika E. , Åkesson Susanne , Alerstam Thomas
Published: August 2012

Many animal taxa have been shown to possess the ability of true navigation. In this study we investigated the possibilities for geomagnetic bi‐coordinate map navigation in different regions of the earth by analysing angular differences between isolines of geomagnetic total intensity and inclination. In ‘no‐grid’ zones where isolines were running almost parallel, efficient geomagnetic bi‐coordinate navigation would probably not be feasible. These zones formed four distinct areas with a north‐south extension in the northern hemisphere, whereas the pattern in the southern hemisphere was more diffuse. On each side of these zones there was often a mirror effect where identical combinations of the geomagnetic parameters appeared. This may potentially cause problems for species migrating long distances east‐west across longitudes, since they may pass areas with identical geomagnetic coordinates. Migration routes assumed for four populations of migratory passerine birds were used to illustrate the possibilities of geomagnetic bi‐coordinate map navigation along different routes. We conclude that it is unlikely that animal navigation is universally based on a geomagnetic bi‐coordinate map mechanism only, and we predict that the relative importance of geomagnetic coordinate information differs between animals, areas and routes, depending on the different conditions for bi‐coordinate geomagnetic navigation in different regions of the earth.
The formation of friction blisters on the foot: the development of a laboratory‐based blister creation model
Authors: Hashmi Farina , Richards Barry S , Forghany Saeed , Hatton Anna L , Nester Christopher J
Published: August 2012

Background/Purpose

Friction blisters on the foot are a debilitating pathology that have an impact on activities of daily living and can severely impair function. The purpose of this study was to test the hypotheses that digital infrared thermographic imaging will reveal: 1) a correlation between load application to the skin and the creation of blisters, and 2) a correlation between thermographic readings and contact thermometric temperatures.

Methods

Apparatus was developed to cause the formation of heel blisters through controlled load application (70 kPa). One foot of each of the 30 healthy volunteers (21 men and 9 women), with an age range of 31 ± 8 years, was subjected to load until a blister formed, after which load application ceased and temperature measurements were taken at set times during the following 5.5 h. Temperature measurements were also taken using a contact thermometer.

Results

The majority of the participants (77%) blistered within 18 min of load application. All the blisters created showed significant increases in local temperature compared to baseline during blister creation (P < 0.001) and 30 min post‐blister creation (P < 0.001). There was a strong correlation between contact thermometry and thermographic temperature data (r > 8).

Conclusion

These results suggest that thermographic images may prove useful for the remote assessment of traumatically damaged foot skin.
Both complete clearing and thinning of invasive trees lead to short‐term recovery of native riparian vegetation in theWesternCape,SouthAfrica
Authors: Ruwanza Sheunesu , Gaertner Mirijam , Esler Karen J. , Richardson David M.
Published: August 2012

Questions

Most rivers in theWesternCapeProvince ofSouthAfrica are heavily invaded by alien trees, often resulting in profound changes in biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. Although large‐scale management operations are underway to clear invasive trees and restore ecosystem function, little is known regarding native species recovery after alien clearing. HasEucalyptusinvasion along theBergRiver altered the distribution and composition of native vegetation? How does the removal of invasive trees through complete clearing and thinning facilitate the recovery of native vegetation?

Location

BergRiver,WesternCape,SouthAfrica.

Methods

We assessed the recovery of native vegetation after 4 yr of complete clearing of the invasive treeEucalyptus camaldulensis(100% alien cover removal) and thinning (40–50% alien cover removal) along theBergRiver in theWesternCape,SouthAfrica. Native and alien plant cover, species richness and diversity were recorded on completely cleared and thinned sites and compared to natural (non‐invaded control sites) andE. camaldulensisinvaded sites.

Results

Species richness and diversity were significantly higher in both completely cleared and thinned sites compared to natural and invaded sites. Increases in species richness and diversity in completely cleared and thinned sites were a result of re‐invasion by alien herbaceous and graminoid species, which have the potential to hinder native species recovery. Cover of native trees and shrubs was higher in both completely cleared and thinned sites compared to invaded sites. Species composition (relative cover) in completely cleared and thinned sites was similar to species composition in natural sites.

Conclusions

Both complete clearing and thinning methods promote indigenous vegetation recovery and a positive trajectory towards recovery of ecosystem structure and composition can be expected in future. To improve management operations, a four‐stage thinning process that has the potential to facilitate native species recovery is suggested.
The role of hyaluronan in wound healing
Authors: Frenkel Joseph S
Published: August 2012

The polysaccharide hyaluronan (HA) (synonyms – hyaluronic acid, hyaluronate) is a versatile, polymorphic, glycosoaminoglycan with vast biological functions. HA is found throughout the body, primarily residing in skin, thus playing an important role in wound healing. Research regarding HA's function has changed over the years, primarily focussing on a particular aspect or function. The contribution of HA in each stage of normal wound healing as well as its clinical wound dressing applications will be examined.
The Prevalence of Peyronie’s Disease in Japan: A Study in Men Undergoing Maintenance Hemodialysis and Routine Health Checks
Authors: Shiraishi Koji , Shimabukuro Tomoyuki , Matsuyama Hideyasu
Published: August 2012

Introduction

The incidence of Peyronie’s disease (PD) in the general population is believed to be as high as 20%. However, most of the data concerning the prevalence of PD have been obtained from Caucasian populations.

Aim

The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of PD in Asia and among men undergoing hemodialysis and discuss the pathophysiology of PD.

Methods

A total of 1,090 men who received a routine health check at our hospital (control group) as well as 130 male patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis were enrolled. The diagnosis of PD was based on a palpable penile plaque.

Main Outcome Measures

Hemodialysis patients were asked about their sexual activity and completed the International Index of Erectile Function-5 questionnaires. The differences between patients’ and hemodialysis-associated factors, comorbidities, and medications were statistically assessed for patients with and without PD.

Results

The prevalence of PD was significantly increased among hemodialysis patients (12 patients: 9.2%) relative the control group (six men: 0.6%) (P < 0.0001, odds ratio: 18.4). In both groups, the plaques were primarily allocated dorsally. In the hemodialysis patients with PD, the frequency of masturbation (P < 0.05) and the incidence of moderate or severe erectile dysfunction (P < 0.01) were significantly higher than those among hemodialysis patients without PD. In comparison with patients without PD, the number of acetate dialysate users was significantly higher among patients with PD (P < 0.05), and none of the PD patients used angiotensin-related antihypertensive drugs (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The prevalence of PD in healthy Japanese men is low (0.6%), which suggests the existence of racial differences in the prevalence of PD. Moreover, these results indicate that hemodialysis increases the incidence of PD. The differences in the characteristics between male hemodialysis patients with and without PD provide new insights into the pathophysiology and therapeutic window of PD.
Balancing Tissue and Tumor Formation in Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Bailey Alexander M.
Published: August 2012

A set of general principles can guide preclinical testing strategies for evaluating the tumorigenicity of regenerative medicine products.
Targeted Tumor-Penetrating siRNA Nanocomplexes for Credentialing the Ovarian Cancer Oncogene
ID4
Authors: Ren Yin , Cheung Hiu Wing , von Maltzhan Geoffrey , Agrawal Amit , Cowley Glenn S. , Weir Barbara A. , Boehm Jesse S. , Tamayo Pablo , Karst Alison M. , Liu Joyce F. , Hirsch Michelle S. , Mesirov Jill P. , Drapkin Ronny , Root David E. , Lo Justin , Fogal Valentina , Ruoslahti Erkki , Hahn William C. , Bhatia Sangeeta N.
Published: August 2012

Tumor-penetrating siRNA nanocomplexes credential
ID4
as a therapeutic oncogene target in human ovarian cancer.
Elicitation of Broadly Neutralizing Influenza Antibodies in Animals with Previous Influenza Exposure
Authors: Wei Chih-Jen , Yassine Hadi M. , McTamney Patrick M. , Gall Jason G. D. , Whittle James R. R. , Boyington Jeffrey C. , Nabel Gary J.
Published: August 2012

Broadly neutralizing antibodies to influenza can be elicited by vaccination in animals previously infected or immunized by the virus.
Brain Superhighways
Authors: Begley David J.
Published: August 2012

Gliovascular pathways guide water flow and solute clearance in the brain.
Sleepy Time for Tumor Cells
Authors: Mashour George A.
Published: August 2012

General anesthetics inhibit matrix metalloproteinase-9 and limit invasiveness of colon cancer cells.
Cutting the Supply Lines in Cancer and Retinal Disease
Authors: Baker Aaron B.
Published: August 2012

Inhibition of a new pathway may provide a means to block neovascularization in cancer and ocular disease.
The Bone Marrow: Friend or Foe of the Heart?
Authors: Nahrendorf Matthias
Published: August 2012

The bone marrow may play a major role in atherosclerosis and its complications.
Identification, Characterization, and
In Vitro
Culture of Highly Divergent Arenaviruses from Boa Constrictors and Annulated Tree Boas: Candidate Etiological Agents for Snake Inclusion Body Disease
Authors: Stenglein Mark D. , Sanders Chris , Kistler Amy L. , Ruby J. Graham , Franco Jessica Y. , Reavill Drury R. , Dunker Freeland , DeRisi Joseph L.
Published: August 2012

Inclusion body disease (IBD) is an infectious fatal disease of snakes typified by behavioral abnormalities, wasting, and secondary infections. At a histopathological level, the disease is identified by the presence of large eosinophilic cytoplasmic inclusions in multiple tissues. To date, no virus or other pathogen has been definitively characterized or associated with the disease. Using a metagenomic approach to search for candidate etiologic agents in snakes with confirmed IBD, we identified and
de novo
assembled the complete genomic sequences of two viruses related to arenaviruses, and a third arenavirus-like sequence was discovered by screening an additional set of samples. A continuous boa constrictor cell line was established and used to propagate and isolate one of the viruses in culture. Viral nucleoprotein was localized and concentrated within large cytoplasmic inclusions in infected cells in culture and tissues from diseased snakes. In total, viral RNA was detected in 6/8 confirmed IBD cases and 0/18 controls. These viruses have a typical arenavirus genome organization but are highly divergent, belonging to a lineage separate from that of the Old and New World arenaviruses. Furthermore, these viruses encode envelope glycoproteins that are more similar to those of filoviruses than to those of other arenaviruses. These findings implicate these viruses as candidate etiologic agents of IBD. The presence of arenaviruses outside mammals reveals that these viruses infect an unexpectedly broad range of species and represent a new reservoir of potential human pathogens.

IMPORTANCE
Inclusion body disease (IBD) is a common infectious disease of captive snakes. IBD is fatal and can cause the loss of entire animal collections. The cause of the disease has remained elusive, and no treatment exists. In addition to being important to pet owners, veterinarians, breeders, zoological parks, and aquariums, the study of animal disease is significant since animals are the source of virtually every emerging infectious human disease. We searched for candidate causative agents in snakes diagnosed with IBD and found a group of novel viruses distantly related mainly to arenaviruses but also to filoviruses, both of which can cause fatal hemorrhagic fevers when transmitted from animals to humans. In addition to providing evidence that strongly suggests that these viruses cause snake IBD, this discovery reveals a new and unanticipated domain of virus biology and evolution.
Poly-
N
-Acetylglucosamine Expression by Wild-Type Yersinia pestis Is Maximal at Mammalian, Not Flea, Temperatures
Authors: Yoong Pauline , Cywes-Bentley Colette , Pier Gerald B.
Published: August 2012

Numerous bacteria, including
Yersinia pestis
, express the poly-
N
-acetylglucosamine (PNAG) surface carbohydrate, a major component of biofilms often associated with a specific appearance of colonies on Congo red agar. Biofilm formation and PNAG synthesis by
Y. pestis
have been reported to be maximal at 21 to 28°C or “flea temperatures,” facilitating the regurgitation of
Y. pestis
into a mammalian host during feeding, but production is diminished at 37°C and thus presumed to be decreased during mammalian infection. Most studies of PNAG expression and biofilm formation by
Y. pestis
have used a low-virulence derivative of strain KIM, designated KIM6+, that lacks the pCD1 virulence plasmid, and an isogenic mutant without the pigmentation locus, which contains the hemin storage genes that encode PNAG biosynthetic proteins. Using confocal microscopy, fluorescence-activated cell sorter analysis and growth on Congo red agar, we confirmed prior findings regarding PNAG production with the KIM6+ strain. However, we found that fully virulent wild-type (WT) strains KIM and CO92 had maximal PNAG expression at 37°C, with lower PNAG production at 28°C both in broth medium and on Congo red agar plates. Notably, the typical dark colony morphology appearing on Congo red agar was maintained at 28°C, indicating that this phenotype is not associated with PNAG expression in WT
Y. pestis
. Extracts of WT sylvatic
Y. pestis
strains from the Russian Federation confirmed the maximal expression of PNAG at 37°C. PNAG production by WT
Y. pestis
is maximal at mammalian and not insect vector temperatures, suggesting that this factor may have a role during mammalian infection.

IMPORTANCE
Yersinia pestis
transitions from low-temperature residence and replication in insect vectors to higher-temperature replication in mammalian hosts. Prior findings based primarily on an avirulent derivative of WT (wild-type) KIM, named KIM6+, showed that biofilm formation associated with synthesis of poly-
N
-acetylglucosamine (PNAG) is maximal at 21 to 28°C and decreased at 37°C. Biofilm formation was purported to facilitate the transmission of
Y. pestis
from fleas to mammals while having little importance in mammalian infection. Here we found that for WT strains KIM and CO92, maximal PNAG production occurs at 37°C, indicating that temperature regulation of PNAG production in WT
Y. pestis
is not mimicked by strain KIM6+. Additionally, we found that Congo red binding does not always correlate with PNAG production, despite its widespread use as an indicator of biofilm production. Taken together, the findings show that a role for PNAG in WT
Y. pestis
infection should not be disregarded and warrants further study.
Salmonella
“Sops” Up a Preferred Electron Receptor in the Inflamed Intestine
Authors: Bliska James B. , van der Velden Adrianus W. M.
Published: August 2012

The microbiota of the mammalian intestinal tract represents a formidable barrier to colonization by pathogens. To overcome this resistance to colonization, bacterial pathogens use virulence factors to induce intestinal inflammation, which liberates nutrients for selective use by the infecting microbe. Studies of
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium (
S
. Typhimurium) infection in a streptomycin-treated mouse colitis model show how virulence factor-induced inflammation can produce nutrients used selectively by the pathogen. Type III secreted effectors of invading
S
. Typhimurium induce inflammation in the intestine (epithelial cells and lamina propria macrophages) that causes changes in the composition of the lumen. For example, neutrophils entering the intestine produce superoxide, resulting in production of tetrathionate, which
S
. Typhimurium in the lumen uses as an electron acceptor for anaerobic respiration. In their recent study, Lopez et al. demonstrate that
S
. Typhimurium strains that are lysogenized with a phage encoding type III effector SopE induce the host to produce nitric oxide synthetase (iNOS) in the intestine (C. A. Lopez et al., mBio 3:e00143-12, 2012). Nitric oxide is converted to a highly favorable electron acceptor, nitrate. As a result, growth of
sopE
+
S
. Typhimurium in the intestine lumen is boosted by nitrate respiration. This is a striking example of how acquisition of a virulence factor by horizontal gene transfer can increase the metabolic fitness of a pathogen. Interestingly, survival of the invading bacteria is probably decreased as a result of the SopE-induced immune response, and yet the
S
. Typhimurium bacteria that multiply in the lumen of the intestine can efficiently disseminate to another host, ensuring success for the pathogen.