bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diverse and conserved nano‐ and mesoscale structures of diatom silica revealed by atomic force microscopy
Authors: HILDEBRAND M. , HOLTON G. , JOY D.C. , DOKTYCZ M.J. , ALLISON D.P.
Published: July 2009

An outstanding example of biological pattern formation at the single cell level is the diversity of biomineral structures in the silica cell walls of the unicellular eukaryotic algae known as diatoms. We present a survey of cell wall silica structures of 16 diatom species, which included all major cell wall components (valves, girdle bands and setae), imaged across the nano‐, meso‐ and microscales using atomic force microscopy. Because of atomic force microscopy's superior ability to image surface topology, this approach enabled visualization of the organization of possible underlying organic molecules involved in mineral structure formation. Diatom nanoscale silica structure varied greatly comparing the same feature in different species and different features within a single species, and frequently on different faces of the same object. These data indicate that there is not a strict relation between nanoscale silica morphology and the type of structure that contains it. On the mesoscale, there was a preponderance of linear structures regardless of the object imaged, suggesting that assembly or organization of linear organic molecules or subcellular assemblies that confine a linear space play an essential and conserved role in structure formation on that scale. Microscale structure imparted an overall influence over nano‐ and mesoscale structure, indicating that shaping of the silica deposition vesicle plays a key role in structure formation. These results provide insights into the design and assembly principles involved in diatom silica structure formation, facilitating an understanding of the native system and potentially aiding in development of biomimetic approaches.
PRECLINICAL STUDY: Stimulation of 5‐HT1Breceptors enhances cocaine reinforcement yet reduces cocaine‐seeking behavior
Authors: Pentkowski Nathan S. , Acosta Jazmin I. , Browning Jenny R. , Hamilton Elizabeth C. , Neisewander Janet L.
Published: July 2009

Paradoxically, stimulation of 5‐HT1Breceptors (5‐HT1BRs) enhances sensitivity to the reinforcing effects of cocaine but attenuates incentive motivation for cocaine as measured using the extinction/reinstatement model. We revisited this issue by examining the effects of a 5‐HT1BR agonist, CP94253, on cocaine reinforcement and cocaine‐primed reinstatement, predicting that CP94253 would enhance cocaine‐seeking behavior reinstated by a low priming dose, similar to its effect on cocaine reinforcement. Rats were trained to self‐administer cocaine (0.75 mg/kg, i.v.) paired with light and tone cues. For reinstatement experiments, they then underwent daily extinction training to reduce cocaine‐seeking behavior (operant responses without cocaine reinforcement). Next, they were pre‐treated with CP94253 (3–10 mg/kg, s.c.) and either tested for cocaine‐primed (10 or 2.5 mg/kg, i.p.) or cue‐elicited reinstatement of extinguished cocaine‐seeking behavior. For reinforcement, effects of CP94253 (5.6 mg/kg) across a range of self‐administered cocaine doses (0–1.5 mg/kg, i.v.) were examined. Cocaine dose‐dependently reinstated cocaine‐seeking behavior, but contrary to our prediction, CP94253 reduced reinstatement with both priming doses. Similarly, CP94253 reduced cue‐elicited reinstatement. In contrast, CP94253 shifted the self‐administration dose‐effect curve leftward, consistent with enhanced cocaine reinforcement. When saline was substituted for cocaine, CP94253 reduced response rates (i.e. cocaine‐seeking behavior). In subsequent control experiments, CP94253 decreased open‐arm exploration in an elevated plus‐maze suggesting an anxiogenic effect, but had no effect on locomotion or sucrose reinforcement. These results provide strong evidence that stimulation of 5‐HT1BRs produces opposite effects on cocaine reinforcement and cocaine‐seeking behavior, and further suggest that 5‐HT1BRs may be a novel target for developing medications for cocaine dependence.
BRIEF REPORT: No association of alcohol dependence with SLC6A5 and SLC6A9 glycine transporter polymorphisms
Authors: Koller Gabriele , Zill Peter , Fehr Christoph , Pogarell Oliver , Bondy Brigitta , Soyka Michael , Preuss Ulrich‐Wilkelm
Published: July 2009

To determine whether glycine transporter polymorphisms are associated with alcoholism, three genetic variants of SLC6A5 and two polymorphisms of SLC6A9 were genotyped in 463 German non‐alcoholic controls and 644 German alcohol‐dependent subjects. Association was investigated employing chi‐square statistics and haplotype analysis. There was a significant association between the SLC6A5 polymorphism (rs1443547) and alcohol dependence as alcoholic individuals had a lower rate of AG‐allele (χ2 = 6.048, P = 0.049, d.f. = 2), which did not remain significant after correction for multiple testing. There was no association between SLC6A9 glycine transporter polymorphisms and alcohol dependence, and also none in haplotype analysis.
EAACI/GA2LEN task force consensus report: the autologous serum skin test in urticaria
Authors: Konstantinou G. N. , Asero R. , Maurer M. , Sabroe R. A. , Schmid‐Grendelmeier P. , Grattan C. E. H.
Published: July 2009

Injection of autologous serum collected during disease activity from some patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CU) into clinically normal skin elicits an immediate weal and flare response. This observation provides a convincing demonstration of a circulating factor or factors that may be relevant to the understanding of the pathogenesis and management of the disease. This test has become known as the autologous serum skin test (ASST) and is now widely practised despite incomplete agreement about its value and meaning, the methodology and the definition of a positive response. It should be regarded as a test for autoreactivity rather than a specific test for autoimmune urticaria. It has only moderate specificity as a marker for functional autoantibodies against IgE or the high affinity IgE receptor (FcεRI), detected by the basophil histamine release assay, but high negative predictive value for CU patients without them. It is usually negative in other patterns of CU, including those that are physically induced. Positive ASSTs have been reported in some subjects without CU, including those with multiple drug intolerance, patients with respiratory allergy and healthy controls, although the clinical implications of this are uncertain. It is essential that failsafe precautions are taken to ensure that the patient’s own serum is used for skin testing and aseptic procedures are followed for sample preparation and handling. CU patients with a positive ASST (ASST+) are more likely to be associated with HLADR4, to have autoimmune thyroid disease, a more prolonged disease course and may be less responsive to H1‐antihistamine treatment than those with a negative ASST (ASST−) although more evidence is needed to confirm these observations conclusively.
Human neural stem cell transplantation attenuates apoptosis and improves neurological functions after cerebral ischemia in rats
Authors: ZHANG P. , Li J. , LIU Y. , CHEN X. , KANG Q. , ZHAO J. , LI W.
Published: July 2009

Background: Neuroprotection is a major therapeutic approach for ischemic brain injury. We investigated the neuroprotective effects induced by transplantation of human embryonic neural stem cells (NSCs) into the cortical penumbra 24 h after focal cerebral ischemia.

Methods: NSCs were prepared from human embryonic brains obtained at 8 weeks of gestation. Focal cerebral ischemia was induced in adult rats by permanent occlusion of the middle cerebral artery. Animals were randomly divided into two groups: NSCs‐grafted group and medium‐grafted group (control). Infarct size was assessed 28 days after transplantation by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Neurological severity scores were evaluated before ischemia and at 1, 7, 14, and 28 days after transplantation. The terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay and immunohistochemical analysis of Bcl‐2 and Bax were performed at 7, 14, and 28 days after transplantation.

Results: Physiological parameters of the two groups were comparable, but not significantly different. NSC transplantation significantly improved neurological function (P<0.05) but did not reduce the infarct size significantly (P>0.05). Compared with the control, NSC transplantation significantly reduced the number of TUNEL‐ and Bax‐positive cells in the penumbra at 7 days. Interestingly, the number of Bcl‐2‐positive cells in the penumbra after NSC transplantation was significantly higher than that after medium transplantation (P<0.05).

Conclusions: The results indicate that NSC transplantation has anti‐apoptotic activity and can improve the neurological function; these effects are mediated by the up‐regulation of Bcl‐2 expression in the penumbra.
Mitigating on‐call symptoms through organizational justice and job control: a cross‐sectional study among Finnish anesthesiologists
Authors: LINDFORS P. M. , HEPONIEMI T. , MERETOJA O. A. , LEINO T. J. , ELOVAINIO M. J.
Published: July 2009

Background: On‐call duty has been shown to be associated with health problems among physicians. However, it cannot be abolished, as patient safety has to be assured. Thus, we need to find factors that could mitigate the negative health effects of on‐call duty.

Methods: The cross‐sectional questionnaire of the buffering effects of organizational justice, job control, and social support on on‐call stress symptoms was sent to all working Finnish anesthesiologists (n=550).

Results: The response rate was 60% (n=328, 53% men). High organizational justice, job control, and social support were associated with a low number of symptoms while on call or the day after in crude analysis and when adjusted for age, gender, and place of work. Only the association between justice and symptoms was robust to additional adjustments for on‐call burden and self‐rated health. In the interaction analysis among those being on call at the hospital, we found that the higher the levels of job control or organizational justice, the lower the number of symptoms.

Conclusions: Job control and organizational justice successfully mitigated stress symptoms among those who had on‐call hospital duties. It would be worth enhancing decision‐making procedures, interpersonal treatment, and job control routines when aiming to prevent on‐call stress and related symptoms.
Molecular pathways mediating differential responses to lipopolysaccharide between human and baboon arterial endothelial cells
Authors: Shi Qiang , Cox Laura A. , Glenn Jeremy , Tejero Maria E. , Hondara Vida , VandeBerg John L. , Wang Xing Li
Published: July 2009

1. Vascular inflammation plays a critical role in atherogenesis. Previously, we showed that baboon arterial endothelial cells (BAEC) were hyporesponsive to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) compared with human arterial endothelial cells (HAEC).

2. In the present study, we investigated mechanisms underlying differential responses between HAEC and BAEC to tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and LPS.

3. Both HAEC and BAEC responded similarly to TNF‐α. However, BAEC showed retarded responses to LPS in expression of E‐selectin, intercellular adhesion molecule‐1, monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 and interleukin‐8 (P < 0.05). These changes were confirmed at the mRNA level. Tumour necrosis factor‐α activated nuclear factor‐κB members such as p50, p52, p65, c‐rel and RelB in both HAEC and BAEC. In contrast, LPS activated p50 and p65 only in HAEC. Using microarray assays, we found that TNF receptor‐associated factor 2 (TRAF‐2), TNF receptor superfamily, member 1A‐associated via death domain (TRADD) and nuclear factors such as nuclear factor of kappa in B‐cells inhibitor, α (NFKBIA) and nuclear factor of kappa in B‐cells inhibitor, β (NFKBIB) were upregulated by LPS only in HAEC. Although the baseline expression of Toll‐like receptor (TLR) 4 was low in both HAEC and BAEC, TNF‐α activated TLR4 expression in both cell types. Although LPS increased TLR4 expression only in HAEC, human and baboon peripheral blood mononuclear cells exhibited similar TLR4 expression and response to LPS. Transfecting BAEC with TLR4/myeloid differentiation protein‐2 overexpression vector conferred BAEC responsiveness to LPS.

4. The findings of the present study indicate that an altered TLR4 system may be responsible for the resistance of baboon endothelial cells to LPS. Given the importance of TLR4 in human immune responses and vascular diseases, the natural resistance of baboons to LPS/TLR4‐initiated inflammation could make the baboon a valuable animal model in which to study how inflammation affects atherogenesis.
CYP1A1 MSPI (T6235C) gene polymorphism is associated with mortality in acute coronary syndrome patients
Authors: Jarvis Martin D , Palmer Barry R , Pilbrow Anna P , Ellis Katrina L , Frampton Chris M , Skelton Lorraine , Doughty Rob N , Whalley Gillian A , Ellis Chris J , Yandle Tim G , Richards A Mark , Cameron Vicky A
Published: July 2009

1. The CYP1A1 T6235C polymorphism (rs4646903) gene polymorphism has been linked to the development of coronary heart disease and cigarette smoking‐related lung cancer. The present study investigated associations between survival in acute coronary syndromes (ACS), smoking and the CYP1A1 T6235C polymorphism.

2. Patients with ACS (n = 1251) were genotyped for the CYP1A1 T6235C polymorphism. Patients had a mean age of 67.0 years, 69.8% were male and follow up occurred over a median of 1.9 years.

3. Overall genotype frequencies were CC 2.2%, TC 21.7% and TT 76.1%. The CC genotype was associated with baseline characteristics of a higher incidence of Type 2 diabetes (P = 0.017), elevated body mass index (P = 0.001) and younger age (P = 0.045). Patients with the CC genotype had significantly worse survival than TT/TC patients (P = 0.014), independent of ethnicity and established clinical risk factors. When survival was stratified by smoking history, the T6235C genotype was particularly associated with mortality in past or current smokers (mortality 23.5 vs 9.4% in CC and TT/TC patients, respectively; P = 0.019) compared with those who had never smoked (mortality 11.1 vs 11.5% in CC and TT/TC patients, respectively; P = 0.853).

4. The results indicate that the homozygous CYP1A1 6235C genotype is associated with greater mortality following the onset of ACS, independent of ethnicity and clinical risk factors, but related to smoking history.
Effects of interview on mood status of pregnant women with high‐risk delivery
Authors: Kitamura Naoyuki , Nagahama Teruyo , Ishizaki Yuko , Kinoshita Yo , Kaneko Kazunari
Published: July 2009

Background:  Expectant mothers at high risk for preterm labor admitted to the Mother and Child Health Centers (MCH) often have psychological problems and mood disturbances. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effects of an interview by health professionals on their mood status.

Methods:  Participants consisted of 52 women admitted to the MCH of Kansai Medical University (KMU) hospital and who had delivered between December 2006 and September 2007. Interview sessions by health professionals consisting of a neonatologist and a clinical psychologist, termed ‘KMU baby doctor‐team interview', were held once a week. During the interview the neonatologist discussed the physiology of preterm infants and treatment for the possible complications while the clinical psychologist listened to the expectant mothers talk about their anxieties or complaints and responded to their requests as much as possible. To investigate their mood status objectively, the participants were asked to complete the Japanese version of the Profile of Mood States (POMS) before and after the first session.

Results:  On admission, more than 20% of participants ranging from 19 to 42 years of age had mood disturbances in Tension–Anxiety, Depression–Dejection, and Vigor categorized by POMS. The average score for Depression–Dejection, however, significantly improved after the first interview sessions.

Conclusions:  Mood disturbances were observed in a considerable number of expectant mothers at high risk for preterm labor. Interviews by health professionals consisting of a neonatologist and a clinical psychologist may alter their mood status.
Diagnostic determination system for high‐risk screening for inborn errors of bile acid metabolism based on an analysis of urinary bile acids using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry: Results for 10 years in Japan
Authors: Nittono Hiroshi , Takei Hajime , Unno Atsushi , Kimura Akihiko , Shimizu Toshiaki , Kurosawa Takao , Tohma Sadahiko , Une Mizuho
Published: July 2009

Background:  Some patients with cholestasis of unknown cause may have inborn errors of bile acid metabolism (IEBAM) thus causing abnormalities of bile acid biosynthesis. Although seven types of bile acid synthetic defects have thus far been reported for this disorder, no detailed information on its incidence and so on in Japan is yet available. In order to elucidate the current status of IEBAM in Japan, in July 1996 a diagnostic determination system was established for high‐risk screening for IEBAM.

Methods:  Urinary bile acids were analyzed on gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) and quantitative analysis was done using selected ion monitoring (SIM).

Results and conclusions:  In a total of 576 samples analyzed over the 10 year period prior to June 2005, 159 patients were found with cholestasis of unknown etiology. Of these patients, 10 (6.3%) were found to have IEBAM by this system, while 91 (61.1%) had cholestasis without a definitive diagnosis. This diagnostic determination system with GC‐MS of urinary bile acids is therefore considered useful for detecting IEBAM.
Rethinking Economic Growth in a Globalizing World: An Economic Geography Lens*
Authors: Venables Anthony J.
Published: July 2009

Abstract: This paper argues that cumulative causation processes are fundamental to understanding growth and development. Such processes derive from spatially concentrated increasing returns to scale including thick market effects, knowledge spillovers, sectoral and urban clustering, and self‐reinforcing improvements in physical and social infrastructure. These sources of agglomeration have been extensively analyzed in the economic geography literature. They imply that spatial unevenness in economic activity and incomes is an equilibrium outcome. Growth tends to be ‘lumpy’, with some sectors in some countries growing fast while other countries lag. The policy challenge is to lift potential new centers of economic activity to the point where they can reap the productivity and investment climate advantages of increasing returns and cumulative causation.
The Emotional Reengineering of Loss: On the Grief‐Anger‐Social Action Continuum
Authors: Lebel Udi , Ronel Natti
Published: July 2009

This article deals with the role of bereaved parents' anger as a motivating force for political and public activism. After reviewing the place of anger in the experience of processing loss and bereavement and presenting anger as a factor that leads to public initiative, the article deals with the place that anger occupies in the bereaved sector of Israeli society. The claim is made that Israeli society has changed since its early years, when “the national management of emotions” did not allow anger to be present in the public discourse of bereaved parents, to the current era in which anger is an inseparable part of Israeli bereavement discourse. The following section of the article includes an interpretive analysis of the place of anger among the research subjects, bereaved parents who later became public and political entrepreneurs. All of the research subjects lost a son in one of three circumstances that are part of the Israeli security agenda: operational accidents, terrorist attacks, and IDF combat in Lebanon. Finally, the study attempts to answer how anger structures both public and private bereavement in Israel, shaping the bereaved parents as instant celebrities.
A Motivational Model of Authoritarianism: Integrating Personal and Situational Determinants
Authors: Jugert Philipp , Duckitt John
Published: July 2009

We describe and test a collective security model of authoritarianism. This model sees Right Wing Authoritarianism (RWA) as directly caused by collective security motivation (CSM), which is in turn influenced jointly by personality (with its effects mediated through group identification and dangerous world beliefs) and social threat (with its effects mediated through dangerous world beliefs). Two studies tested this model using student samples—one was correlational (N = 218), while the other included an experimental manipulation of threat using future scenarios (N = 136). Structural equation analyses partially supported the model suggesting that CSM fully mediated the effects of threat and group identification on RWA, but only partially mediated the effect of personality, which also had important direct effects.
Dry season habitat use by critically endangered white‐shouldered ibis in northern Cambodia
Authors: Wright H. L. , Buckingham D. L. , Dolman P. M.
Published: July 2009

We present the first scientific study of white‐shouldered ibis Pseudibis davisoni habitat preferences in dry dipterocarp forest. Foraging sites included seasonal pools, forest understorey grasslands and fallow rice fields, with terrestrial sites used more following rainfall. Habitat and anthropogenic effects in logistic models of foraging site selection were examined by multimodel inference and model averaging. White‐shouldered ibis preferred pools with greater cover of short vegetation (<25 cm) and less of the boundary enclosed, and forest sites with greater cover of bare substrate and lower people encounter rate. At forest sites, livestock density was positively related to bare substrate extent and thus may improve suitability for foraging ibis. At pools, livestock removed tall vegetation between the early and late dry season indicating their importance in opening up foraging habitats after wet season growth. However, by the late dry season, pools with greater livestock density had less short vegetation, the habitat favoured by ibis. Conservation strategies for white‐shouldered ibis must consider a range of habitats, not just seasonal wetlands, and should incorporate extensive grazing and associated burning practises of local communities. Further understanding of the effects of these practices on vegetation, prey abundance and prey availability are therefore needed for effective conservation of this species. This will also develop our understanding of potentially beneficial anthropogenic influences in tropical environments.
A novel fluorescent α‐conotoxin for the study of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors
Authors: Hone Arik J. , Whiteaker Paul , Christensen Sean , Xiao Yingxian , Meyer Erin L. , McIntosh J. Michael
Published: July 2009

Homomeric α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are a well‐established, pharmacologically distinct subtype. The more recently identified α9 subunit can also form functional homopentamers as well as α9α10 heteropentamers. Current fluorescent probes for α7 nicotinic ACh receptors are derived from α‐bungarotoxin (α‐BgTx). However, α‐BgTx also binds to α9* and α1* receptors which are coexpressed with α7 in multiple tissues. We used an analog of α‐conotoxin ArIB to develop a highly selective fluorescent probe for α7 receptors. This fluorescent α‐conotoxin, Cy3‐ArIB[V11L;V16A], blocked ACh‐evoked α7 currents inXenopus laevisoocytes with an IC50value of 2.0 nM. Observed rates of blockade were minute‐scale with recovery from blockade even slower. Unlike FITC‐conjugated α‐BgTx, Cy3‐ArIB[V11L;V16A] did not block α9α10 or α1β1δε receptors. In competition binding assays, Cy3‐ArIB[V11L;V16A] potently displaced [125I]‐α‐BgTx binding to mouse hippocampal membranes with aKivalue of 21 nM. Application of Cy3‐ArIB[V11L;V16A] resulted in specific punctate labeling of KXα7R1 cells but not KXα3β2R4, KXα3β4R2, or KXα4β2R2 cells. This labeling could be abolished by pre‐treatment with α‐cobratoxin. Thus, Cy3‐ArIB[V11L;V16A] is a novel and selective fluorescent probe for α7 receptors.
Chronic ethanol treatment potentiates ethanol‐induced increases in interstitial nucleus accumbens endocannabinoid levels in rats
Authors: Alvarez‐Jaimes Lily , Stouffer David G. , Parsons Loren H.
Published: July 2009

We employedin vivomicrodialysis to characterize the effect of an ethanol challenge injection on endocannabinoid levels in the nucleus accumbens of ethanol‐naïve and chronic ethanol‐treated rats. Ethanol (0.75 and 2 g/kg, i.p.) dose‐dependently increased dialysate 2‐arachidonoylglycerol (to a maximum 157 ± 20% of baseline) and decreased anandamide (to a minimum 52 ± 9% of baseline) in ethanol‐naïve rats. The endocannabinoid clearance inhibitorN‐(4‐hydrophenyl) arachidonoylamide (AM404; 3 mg/kg) potentiated ethanol effects on 2‐arachidonoylglycerol levels but did not alter ethanol‐induced decreases in anandamide. AM404 alone did not alter dialysate levels of either endocannabinoid. Then, we characterized the effect of ethanol challenge on nucleus accumbens endocannabinoid levels in rats previously maintained on an ethanol‐containing liquid diet. Ethanol challenge produced a greater and more prolonged increase in 2‐arachidonoylglycerol (to a maximum 394 ± 135% of baseline) in ethanol‐experienced than in ethanol‐naïve rats. The profile in ethanol‐experienced rats was similar to that produced by AM404 pre‐treatment in ethanol‐naïve rats. AM404 in ethanol‐experienced rats led to a further enhancement in the 2‐arachidonoylglycerol response to ethanol challenge (to a maximum 704 ± 174% of baseline). Our findings demonstrate that ethanol‐induced increases in nucleus accumbens 2‐arachidonoylglycerol are potentiated in animals with a history of ethanol consumption.
Garnet exsolution in pyroxene from clinopyroxenites in the Moldanubian zone: constraining the early pre‐convergence history of ultramafic rocks in the Variscan orogen
Authors: FARYAD S. W. , DOLEJŠ D. , MACHEK M.
Published: July 2009

Exsolution lamellae of garnet in clinopyroxene and orthopyroxene porphyroclasts from garnet pyroxenites in the Moldanubian zone were studied to elucidate the pressure–temperature conditions of the exsolution process and to reconstruct the burial and exhumation path of ultramafic rocks in the Variscan orogen. The porphyroclasts occur in a fine‐grained matrix with metamorphic fabrics, which consists of clinopyroxene and small amounts of garnet, orthopyroxene and amphibole. The clinopyroxene porphyroclasts contain garnet + orthopyroxene lamellae as well as ilmenite rods that have orientation parallel to (100) planes of the porphyroclasts. Orthopyroxene porphyroclasts host garnet and clinopyroxene lamellae, which show the same lattice preferred orientation. In both cases, lamellar orthopyroxene, clinopyroxene and garnet were partially replaced by secondary amphibole. Composition of exsolution phases and that of host pyroxene were reintegrated according to measured modal proportions and demonstrate that the primary pyroxene was enriched in Al and contained 8–11 mol.% Tschermak components. Conventional thermobarometry and thermodynamic modelling on the reintegrated pyroxene indicate that primary clinopyroxene and orthopyroxene megacrysts crystallized at 1300–1400 °C and 2.2–2.5 GPa. Unmixing and exsolution of garnet and a second pyroxene phase occurred in response to cooling and pressure increase before the peak pressure of 4.5–5.0 GPa was reached at ∼1100 °C. This scenario is consistent with a burial of hot upper‐mantle ultramafics into a cold subcratonic environment and subsequent exhumation through 900 °C and 2.2–3.3 GPa, when the pyroxenites would have partially recrystallized during tectonic incorporation into eclogites and felsic granulites.
Restoration of Degraded Grazing Lands through Grazing Management: Can It Work?
Authors: Papanastasis Vasilios P.
Published: July 2009

Grazing lands are the most degraded land use type in the world, particularly in arid and semiarid areas, as a result of improper human activities such as overgrazing coupled with drought. For restoration of degraded grazing lands, large‐scale projects are implemented, which include extensive vegetation improvements (e.g., reseeding, weed control, shrub plantations, reforestations, etc.). Such interventions, apart from being very expensive, often create environmental problems. In situations where the abiotic function of the degraded grazing land has not been irreversibly damaged, application of appropriate grazing management is an ecologically viable solution to their restoration. This is especially necessary for grazed lands with a long history of grazing by large herbivores, including livestock. Excluding domestic animals from such ecosystems may lead to several ecological problems such as loss of biodiversity and devastating wildfires. Appropriate grazing management should include an adjusted stocking rate to the grazing capacity of the restored land, the right kind of animal species, and an appropriate grazing system. In addition, grazing management should be implemented on the basis of a plan that is part of the restoration project. It is concluded that grazing management should become a priority option in restoration of the biotic function of degraded grazing lands, especially in those that have had a long history with the presence of domestic animals.
Agro‐Successional Restoration as a Strategy to Facilitate Tropical Forest Recovery
Authors: Vieira Daniel L. M. , Holl Karen D. , Peneireiro Fabiana M.
Published: July 2009

With the increasing need to restore former agricultural lands worldwide and in the tropics, in particular, it is critical to explore different models for how to restore these lands in a cost‐effective manner which best simulates natural forest recovery and provides for human livelihoods. We propose that agro‐successional restoration, which we define as incorporating a range of agroecology and agroforestry techniques as a transition phase early in forest restoration, could be used more widely to overcome socioeconomic and ecological obstacles to restoring these lands. Over centuries, farmers and scientists have developed various agroforestry techniques that aim to cultivate crops and trees, in a range of crop types, time periods of cultivation (a few years to several decades), and complexity of species planted. The management practices used in these systems, such as weeding and increasing soil fertility, parallel those used in many forest restoration efforts. The synergism between these approaches is evidenced by many existing agro‐successional examples currently used by smallholders in the tropics. Benefits of the agro‐successional model include extending the management period of restoration, offsetting some management costs, providing food security for small landholders, and involving small landholders in the restoration process.
To what extent does the crown–implant ratio affect the survival and complications of implant‐supported reconstructions? A systematic review
Authors: Blanes Rafael Juan
Published: July 2009

Objective: To evaluate the occurrence of biological and technical complications with respect to the crown–implant (C/I) ratio of implant‐supported reconstructions.

Material and methods: Electronic (MEDLINE) and hand searches were conducted for longitudinal prospective studies with a follow‐up period of at least 4 years. One reviewer performed screening and data abstraction. The following complications were evaluated: implant survival, peri‐implant crestal bone loss, implant fracture, and technical complications related to implant components and suprastructure.

Results: The search provided 41 articles and abstracts, seven of which were selected for full‐text analysis. Only two articles were finally included. A qualitative data analysis revealed that the survival rate of implant‐supported reconstructions with a C/I ratio of more than 2 was 94.1%. In addition, peri‐implant crestal bone loss seemed not to be influenced by the C/I ratio of the implant rehabilitation, except in one study, which noted greater crestal bone loss with lower (<1) compared with higher (>2) C/I ratios. Technical complications related to implant components and suprastructure according to different C/I ratios were not found in any of the studies.

Conclusions: Despite the diversity among studies with respect to data collection and study design, the current literature shows that the C/I ratios of implant‐supported reconstructions do not influence peri‐implant crestal bone loss.
What influence do anticoagulants have on oral implant therapy? A systematic review
Authors: Madrid Carlos , Sanz Mariano
Published: July 2009

Objectives:This systematic review aims to assess the risks (both thromboembolic and bleeding) of an oral anticoagulation therapy (OAT) patient undergoing implant therapy and to provide a management protocol to patients under OAT undergoing implant therapy.

Material and methods:Medline, Cochrane Data Base of Systematic Reviews, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and EMBASE (from 1980 to December 2008) were searched for English‐language articles published between 1966 and 2008. This search was completed by a hand research accessing the references cited in all identified publications.

Results:Nineteen studies were identified reporting outcomes after oral surgery procedures (mostly dental extractions in patients on OAT following different management protocols and haemostatic therapies). Five studies were randomized‐controlled trials (RCTs), 11 were controlled clinical trials (CCTs) and three were prospective case series. The OAT management strategies as well as the protocols during and after surgery were different. This heterogeneity prevented any possible data aggregation and synthesis. The results from these studies are very homogeneous, reporting minor bleeding in very few patients, without a significant difference between the OAT patients who continue with the vitamin K antagonists vs. the patients who stopped this medication before surgery. These post‐operative bleeding events were controlled only with local haemostatic measures: tranexamic acid mouthwashes, gelatine sponges and cellulose gauzes's application were effective. Post‐operative bleeding did not correlate with the international normalised ratio (INR) status. In none of the studies was a thromboembolic event reported.

Conclusions:OAT patients (INR 2–4) who do not discontinue the AC medication do not have a significantly higher risk of post‐operative bleeding than non‐OAT patients and they also do not have a higher risk of post‐operative bleeding than OAT patients who discontinue the medication. In patients with OAT (INR 2–4) without discontinuation, topical haemostatic agents were effective in preventing post‐operative bleeding. OAT discontinuation is not recommended for minor oral surgery, such as single tooth extraction or implant placement, provided that this does not involve autogenous bone grafts, extensive flaps or osteotomy preparations extending outside the bony envelope. Evidence does not support that dental implant placement in patients on OAT is contraindicated.
Effects of different implant surfaces and designs on marginal bone‐level alterations: a review
Authors: Abrahamsson Ingemar , Berglundh Tord
Published: July 2009

Objective: The purpose of this review was to evaluate the effect of different implant surfaces and designs on marginal bone‐level (MBL) alterations.

Material and methods: A MEDLINE search (PubMed) was performed to identify clinical, prospective and controlled studies using a sufficient sample size (>10 subjects) and with a follow‐up time of ≥3 years.

Results: Ten publications fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Two studies evaluated the influence of implant surface characteristics and two studies reported on the effect of implant design on MBL changes. Six publications analyzed the combined effect of different implant surfaces and designs on MBL alterations. As revealed from available studies, there is no evidence that modified surfaces are superior to non‐modified implant surfaces in marginal bone preservation. One study reported on significantly improved MBL preservation for implants with a conical and micro‐threaded marginal collar than implants with a cylindrical and non‐threaded marginal portion after 3 years in function. No implant system was found to be superior in marginal bone preservation.
A systematic review assessing soft tissue augmentation techniques
Authors: Thoma Daniel S. , Benić Goran I. , Zwahlen Marcel , Hämmerle Christoph H. F. , Jung Ronald E.
Published: July 2009

Aim: The aim of the present review was to systematically assess the dental literature in terms of soft tissue grafting techniques. The focused question was: is one method superior over others for augmentation and stability of the augmented soft tissue in terms of increasing the width of keratinized tissue (part 1) and gain in soft tissue volume (part 2).

Methods: A Medline search was performed for human studies focusing on augmentation of keratinized tissue and/or soft tissue volume, and complemented by additional hand searching. Relevant studies were identified and statistical results were reported for meta‐analyses including the test minus control weighted mean differences with 95% confidence intervals, the I‐squared statistic for tests of heterogeneity, and the number of significant studies.

Results: Twenty‐five (part 1) and three (part 2) studies met the inclusion criteria; 14 studies (part 1) were eligible for comparison using meta‐analyses. An apically positioned flap/vestibuloplasty (APF/V) procedure resulted in a statistically significantly greater gain in keratinized tissue than untreated controls. APF/V plus autogenous tissue revealed statistically significantly more attached gingiva compared with untreated controls and a borderline statistical significance compared with APF/V plus allogenic tissue. Statistically significantly more shrinkage was observed for the APF/V plus allogenic graft compared with the APF/V plus autogenous tissue. Patient‐centered outcomes did not reveal any of the treatment methods to be superior regarding postoperative complications. The three studies reporting on soft tissue volume augmentation could not be compared due to lack of homogeneity. The use of subepithelial connective tissue grafts (SCTGs) resulted in statistically significantly more soft tissue volume gain compared with free gingival grafts (FGGs).

Conclusions: APF/V is a successful treatment concept to increase the width of keratinized tissue or attached gingiva around teeth. The addition of autogenous tissue statistically significantly increases the width of attached gingiva. For soft tissue volume augmentation, only limited data are available favoring SCTGs over FGG.
Are ceramic implants a viable alternative to titanium implants? A systematic literature review
Authors: Andreiotelli Marina , Wenz Hans J. , Kohal Ralf‐Joachim
Published: July 2009

Aim: The aim of this systematic review was to screen the literature in order to locate animal and clinical data on bone–implant contact (BIC) and clinical survival/success that would help to answer the question ‘Are ceramic implants a viable alternative to titanium implants?’

Material and methods: A literature search was performed in the following databases: (1) the Cochrane Oral Health Group's Trials Register, (2) the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), (3) MEDLINE (Ovid), and (4) PubMed. To evaluate biocompatibility, animal investigations were scrutinized regarding the amount of BIC and to assess implant longevity clinical data were evaluated.

Results: The PubMed search yielded 349 titles and the Cochrane/MEDLINE search yielded 881 titles. Based upon abstract screening and discarding duplicates from both searches, 100 full‐text articles were obtained and subjected to additional evaluation. A further publication was included based on the manual search. The selection process resulted in the final sample of 25 studies. No (randomized) controlled clinical trials regarding the outcome of zirconia and alumina ceramic implants could be found.

The systematic review identified histological animal studies showing similar BIC between alumina, zirconia and titanium. Clinical investigations using different alumina oral implants up to 10 years showed survival/success rates in the range of 23 to 98% for different indications. The included zirconia implant studies presented a survival rate from 84% after 21 months to 98% after 1 year.

Conclusions: No difference was found in the rate of osseointegration between the different implant materials in animal experiments. Only cohort investigations were located with questionable scientific value. Alumina implants did not perform satisfactorily and therefore, based on this review, are not a viable alternative to titanium implants. Currently, the scientific clinical data for ceramic implants in general and for zirconia implants in particular are not sufficient to recommend ceramic implants for routine clinical use. Zirconia, however, may have the potential to be a successful implant material, although this is as yet unsupported by clinical investigations.
A systematic review on the accuracy and the clinical outcome of computer‐guided template‐based implant dentistry
Authors: Schneider David , Marquardt Pascal , Zwahlen Marcel , Jung Ronald E.
Published: July 2009

Introduction: The aim of this systematic review was to analyze the dental literature regarding accuracy and clinical application in computer‐guided template‐based implant dentistry.

Materials and methods: An electronic literature search complemented by manual searching was performed to gather data on accuracy and surgical, biological and prosthetic complications in connection with computer‐guided implant treatment. For the assessment of accuracy meta‐regression analysis was performed. Complication rates are descriptively summarized.

Results: From 3120 titles after the literature search, eight articles met the inclusion criteria regarding accuracy and 10 regarding the clinical performance. Meta‐regression analysis revealed a mean deviation at the entry point of 1.07 mm (95% CI: 0.76–1.22 mm) and at the apex of 1.63 mm (95% CI: 1.26–2 mm). No significant differences between the studies were found regarding method of template production or template support and stabilization. Early surgical complications occurred in 9.1%, early prosthetic complications in 18.8% and late prosthetic complications in 12% of the cases. Implant survival rates of 91–100% after an observation time of 12–60 months are reported in six clinical studies with 537 implants mainly restored immediately after flapless implantation procedures.

Conclusion: Computer‐guided template‐based implant placement showed high implant survival rates ranging from 91% to 100%. However, a considerable number of technique‐related perioperative complications were observed. Preclinical and clinical studies indicated a reasonable mean accuracy with relatively high maximum deviations. Future research should be directed to increase the number of clinical studies with longer observation periods and to improve the systems in terms of perioperative handling, accuracy and prosthetic complications.
Cannabinoid system in the skin – a possible target for future therapies in dermatology
Authors: Kupczyk Piotr , Reich Adam , Szepietowski Jacek C.
Published: July 2009

Abstract: Cannabinoids and their derivatives are group of more than 60 biologically active chemical agents, which have been used in natural medicine for centuries. The major agent of exogenous cannabinoids is Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9‐THC), natural psychoactive ingredient of marijuana. However, psychoactive properties of these substances limited their use as approved medicines. Recent discoveries of endogenous cannabinoids (e.g. arachidonoylethanolamide, 2‐arachidonoylglycerol or palmithyloethanolamide) and their receptors initiated discussion on the role of cannabinoid system in physiological conditions as well as in various diseases. Based on the current knowledge, it could be stated that cannabinoids are important mediators in the skin, however their role have not been well elucidated yet. In our review, we summarized the current knowledge about the significant role of the cannabinoid system in the cutaneous physiology and pathology, pointing out possible future therapeutic targets.
The mesenchymal component of hair follicle neogenesis: background, methods and molecular characterization
Authors: Ohyama Manabu , Zheng Ying , Paus Ralf , Stenn Kurt S.
Published: July 2009

Please cite this paper as: The mesenchymal component of hair follicle neogenesis: background, methods and molecular characterization. Experimental Dermatology 2010; 19: 89–99.

Abstract:  Hair follicle morphogenesis and regeneration occur by an extensive and collaborative crosstalk between epithelial and mesenchymal skin components. A series of pioneering studies, which revealed an indispensable role of follicular dermal papilla and dermal sheath cells in this crosstalk, has led workers in the field to study in detail the anatomical distribution, functional properties, and molecular signature of the trichogenic dermal cells. The purpose of this paper was to provide a practical summary of the development and recent advances in the study of trichogenic dermal cells. Following a short review of the relevant literature, the methods for isolating and culturing these cells are summarized. Next, the bioassays, both in vivo and in vitro, that enable the evaluation of trichogenic properties of tested dermal cells are described in detail. A list of trichogenic molecular markers identified by those assays is also provided. Finally, this methods review is completed by defining some of the major questions needing resolution.
Parents, siblings and grandparents in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit A survey of policies in eight European countries
Authors: Greisen Gorm , Mirante Nadia , Haumont Dominique , Pierrat Veronique , Pallás‐Alonso Carmen R. , Warren Inga , Smit Bert J. , Westrup Björn , Sizun Jacques , Maraschini Alice , Cuttini Marina ,   for the ESF Network
Published: July 2009

Objective:  To describe policies towards family visiting in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) and compare findings with those of a survey carried out 10 years earlier.

Methods:  A questionnaire on early developmental care practices was mailed to 362 units in eight European countries (Sweden, Denmark, the UK, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Spain and Italy). Of them 78% responded, and among those responded, 175 reported caring for at least 50 very low birth weight infants every year and their responses were analysed further.

Results:  A majority of all units allowed access at any time for both parents. This was almost universal in northern Europe and the UK, whereas it was the policy of less than one‐third of NICU in Spain and Italy, with France in an intermediate position. Restrictions on visiting of grandparents, siblings and friends, as well as restricting parents’ presence during medical rounds and procedures followed the same pattern. A composite visiting score was computed using all the variables related to family visiting. Lower median values and larger variability were obtained for the southern countries, indicating more restrictive attitudes and lack of national policy.

Conclusions:  The presence of parents and other family members in European NICUs has improved over a 10‐year period. Several barriers, however, are still in place, particularly in the South European countries.
Rotavirus gastroenteritis complicated with toxic megacolon
Authors: Hung Chia‐Wei , Wu Wei‐Fong , Wu Chen‐Long
Published: July 2009

Rotavirus is a leading cause of gastroenteritis in young children, which may indicate hospitalization due to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Most cases are self‐limited with good prognosis. The association between rotavirus and toxic megacolon has never been mentioned in the literature. We report a case of toxic megacolon secondary to rotavirus gastroenteritis.

Conclusion:  Toxic megacolon can occur in patients with rotavirus gastroenteritis. An abdominal radiograph should be taken for patients with rotavirus gastroenteritis who have systemic toxicity and persistent abdominal fullness.