bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fire history and its relations with land use and climate over three centuries in the central Appalachian Mountains, USA
Authors: Aldrich Serena R. , Lafon Charles W. , Grissino‐Mayer Henri D. , DeWeese Georgina G.
Published: July 2014

Aim

Our aims were to: (1) reconstruct the fire history of pine–oak forests in the central Appalachian Mountains, USA, with an annual resolution over as long a time period as possible using dendroecological techniques; (2) estimate the frequency of fire in the study area before the fire‐suppression era; and (3) investigate how variations in land use and climate have affected the occurrence of fire in the study area.

Location

Temperate forests at three study sites within the central Appalachian Mountains, Virginia, USA.

Methods

Cross‐sections were taken (sawn) from fire‐scarred pine (Pinus L.) trees growing in pine‐dominated patches within a hardwood forest matrix. Dendroecological techniques were used to date the scars, which were used to calculate fire intervals. A variety of analyses were carried out: Pearson correlation analysis, to investigate whether fire activity varied over time (under changing land uses); Kruskal–Wallis analysis, to examine whether fire frequency varied spatially (among study sites); chi‐square analysis, to test whether scar seasonality changed temporally; and superposed epoch analysis, to explore whether fire activity was associated with interannual climatic variations in moisture, as characterized by the Palmer drought severity index (PDSI).

Results

Fire scars dated back to the 17th or early 18th century (depending on site). The filtered composite fire interval, considered to be a particularly reliable estimate of fire interval, averaged between 6 and 8 years. Fire frequency remained fairly constant from the beginning of the record until effective fire suppression began in the early 20th century, after which burning virtually ceased. Fire occurred more frequently at the easternmost site, which was located in the Blue Ridge province of the Appalachian Mountains, than at the other two sites, in the Ridge and Valley province. Scar seasonality showed no discernible trend over time. Fire was associated with low PDSI (i.e. dry years) at two of the study sites.

Main conclusions

Fire occurred frequently at these central Appalachian study sites during the period of aboriginal depopulation that preceded European colonization, and throughout the periods of European settlement and industrialization (with mining, logging and railroads) that followed. Our results match those from other fire‐history sites in the central and southern Appalachian Mountains, and suggest that fire was an important factor influencing vegetation development in the temperate forests covering this region.
Choosing the right journal for your systematic review
Authors: Betini Marluci , Volpato Enilze S. N. , Anastácio Guilherme D. J. , de Faria Renata T. B. G. , El Dib Regina
Published: July 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

The importance of systematic reviews (SRs) as an aid to decision making in health care has led to an increasing interest in the development of this type of study. When selecting a target journal for publication, authors generally seek out higher impact factor journals. This study aimed to determine the percentage of scientific medical journals that publish SRs according to their impact factors (>2.63) and to determine whether those journals require tools that aim to improve SR reporting and meta‐analyses.

Methods

In our cross‐sectional study showing how to choose the right journal for a SR, we selected and analysed scientific journals available in a digital library with a minimum Institute for Scientific Information impact factor of 2.63.

Results

We analysed 622 scientific journals, 435 (69.94%) of which publish SRs. Of those 435 journals, 135 (21.60%) provide instructions for authors that mention SRs. Three hundred journals (48.34%) do not discuss criteria for article acceptance in the instructions for authors section, but do publish SRs. Only 118 (27.00%) scientific journals require items to be reported in accordance with the specific SR reporting forms.

Conclusions

The majority of the journals do not mention the acceptance of SRs in the instructions for authors section. Only a few journals require that SRs meet specific reporting guidelines, making interpretation of their findings across studies challenging. There is no correlation between the impact factor of the journal and its acceptance of SRs for publication.
Evidence‐based medicine use in pharmacy practice: a cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Abu Farha Rana , Alefishat Eman , Suyagh Maysa , Elayeh Eman , Mayyas Amal
Published: July 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the awareness, attitude, knowledge and use of evidence‐based medicine (EBM) among pharmacists in Jordan.

Methods

A cross‐sectional self‐reported survey was conducted on 122 pharmacists (both hospital and community) who were asked to fill a validated structured questionnaire.

Results

The participants showed a positive attitude towards EBM; more than 80% thought that EBM improves patient care, improves quick knowledge update, helps to unify the quality of care provided, is a good educational tool and a convenient source of advice. But despite this positive attitude, pharmacists showed partial understanding of the technical terms used in EBM; also they relied on their own judgment, medical representatives and standard textbooks in making their decision, resources that can no longer be considered sufficiently updated and/or evidence based. Patient overload, lack of personal time and limited access to EBM sources were the most commonly identified barrier to practicing EBM. Also this study suggest that pharmacist's experience is negatively associated with EBM knowledge score (Spearman's rho value −0.187, P‐value 0.04).

Conclusions

In spite of the positive attitude towards EBM, this study showed numerous personal and institutional barriers towards implementing EBM in Jordan, which necessitate immediate action by all health care decision makers to formulate a national plan to overcome such barriers, and to further investigate the evidence that teaching, learning and daily application of EBM in practice can improve the quality of care and reduce the cost.
Synthesizing complex data on functional decline in older people using partial least squares (PLS) analysis
Authors: King Ellena Sophia A. , Grimmer Karen A. , Atlas Alvin P. , Milanese Steve Francesco
Published: July 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

Declining capacity to function safely and independently in the community is a manifestation of ageing. Multiple measures are used to define and predict functional decline. This paper explores the use of partial least squares (PLS) analysis to understand the interaction between overtime measures of functional decline.

Methods

Comprehensive information was captured on individuals aged 65+ who presented at a large metropolitan Australian hospital Emergency Department (ED) for a complaint, which did not result in a hospital admission. They were followed‐up by telephone 1 and 3 months, post‐ED discharge. Information was collected each time on home situations (living alone, using community services, using a gait aid and having a formal carer), recent falls, hospitalizations and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). PLS analysis was applied to identify overtime relationships between measures.

Results

Valid information was provided by 147 individuals at all three time points. The eight individual IADL items clustered clearly around physical, mental or combined mental and physical IADLs. These clusters were strongly related to increased use of community supports, gait aid and carer, and living alone. The relationship was less convincingly for hospitalizations, and falls were not explained well.

Conclusion

PLS analysis offers a novel and comprehensive way of analysing complex health data, which allows sense to be made of relationships over a 3‐month period. This analysis provides a better understanding of declining function over time, than could be provided by current health modelling methods.
The effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness of clinical nurse specialists in outpatient roles: a systematic review
Authors: Kilpatrick Kelley , Kaasalainen Sharon , Donald Faith , Reid Kim , Carter Nancy , Bryant‐Lukosius Denise , Martin‐Misener Ruth , Harbman Patricia , Marshall Deborah Anne , Charbonneau‐Smith Renee , DiCenso Alba
Published: July 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

Increasing numbers of clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) are working in outpatient settings. The objective of this paper is to describe a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the cost‐effectiveness of CNSs delivering outpatient care in alternative or complementary provider roles.

Methods

We searched CINAHL, MEDLINE, EMBASE and seven other electronic databases, 1980 to July 2012 and hand‐searched bibliographies and key journals. RCTs that evaluated formally trained CNSs and health system outcomes were included. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool and the Quality of Health Economic Studies instrument. We used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation to assess quality of evidence for individual outcomes.

Results

Eleven RCTs, four evaluating alternative provider (n = 683 participants) and seven evaluating complementary provider roles (n = 1464 participants), were identified. Results of the alternative provider RCTs (low‐to‐moderate quality evidence) were fairly consistent across study populations with similar patient outcomes to usual care, some evidence of reduced resource use and costs, and two economic analyses (one fair and one high quality) favouring CNS care. Results of the complementary provider RCTs (low‐to‐moderate quality evidence) were also fairly consistent across study populations with similar or improved patient outcomes and mostly similar health system outcomes when compared with usual care; however, the economic analyses were weak.

Conclusions

Low‐to‐moderate quality evidence supports the effectiveness and two fair‐to‐high quality economic analyses support the cost‐effectiveness of outpatient alternative provider CNSs. Low‐to‐moderate quality evidence supports the effectiveness of outpatient complementary provider CNSs; however, robust economic evaluations are needed to address cost‐effectiveness.
Measurement of pain and anthropometric parameters in women with chronic pelvic pain
Authors: Gurian Maria Beatriz Ferreira , Mitidieri Andréia Moreira de Souza , da Silva Joyce Beatriz , Silva Ana Paula Moreira da , Pazin Carolina , Poli‐Neto Omero Benedicto , Nogueira Antônio Alberto , dos Reis Francisco José Candido , Rosa‐e‐Silva Júlio César
Published: July 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

To analyse anthropometric parameters, clinical pain and experimental pain in women with chronic pelvic pain (CPP).

Methods

Ninety‐one women with a clinical diagnosis of CPP, mean age of 40.03 ± 9.97 years, submitted to anthropometric evaluation based on body mass index (BMI) and percent body fat (%BF) using bioimpedance body composition monitor; pain intensity was determined by visual analogue scale (VAS), numerical categorical scale (NCS) and McGill Pain Questionnaire; experimental pain was determined by transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), and anxiety and depression symptoms were determined by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale.

Results

A total of 54.8% of the women showed %BF >32 risk of disease associated with obesity. Regarding the anthropometric data, a statistically significant difference was observed between groups for both BMI and %BF (P < 0.0001). In the analysis of pain intensity by the VAS, NCS and total McGill, there was no significant difference between the groups, and experimental pain by TENS revealed significant difference only between the normal weight and overweight groups (P = 0.0154). The results of anxiety symptoms were above the cut‐off point in all groups, with no significant difference between them (P = 0.3710). The depression symptoms were below the cut‐off point in the normal weight group and above the cut‐off point in the overweight and obese groups, 9.469(4.501) and 9.741(4.848), respectively, with no significant difference between them (P = 0.6476).

Conclusion

Evaluation of anthropometric parameters and pain measurements can be applied in clinical practice, making a contribution to the diagnosis and influencing the choice of a more effective treatment for women with CPP.
Peripheral and cognitive signs: delineating the significance of impaired catecholamine metabolism in Parkinson's disease progression
Authors: Salvatore Michael F. , Disbrow Elizabeth A. , Emborg Marina E.
Published: July 2014

Read the full article ‘A vesicular sequestration to oxidative deamination shift in myocardial sympathetic nerves in Parkinson's disease’ on page 219.
The Neuroplastin adhesion molecules: key regulators of neuronal plasticity and synaptic function
Authors: Beesley Philip W. , Herrera‐Molina Rodrigo , Smalla Karl‐Heinz , Seidenbecher Constanze
Published: July 2014

The Neuroplastins Np65 and Np55 are neuronal and synapse‐enriched immunoglobulin superfamily molecules that play important roles in a number of key neuronal and synaptic functions including, for Np65, cell adhesion. In this review we focus on the physiological roles of the Neuroplastins in promoting neurite outgrowth, regulating the structure and function of both inhibitory and excitatory synapses in brain, and in neuronal and synaptic plasticity. We discuss the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms by which the Neuroplastins exert their physiological effects and how these are dependent upon the structural features of Np65 and Np55, which enable them to bind to a diverse range of protein partners. In turn this enables the Neuroplastins to interact with a number of key neuronal signalling cascades. These include: binding to and activation of the fibroblast growth factor receptor; Np65 trans‐homophilic binding leading to activation of p38 MAPK and internalization of glutamate (GluR1) receptor subunits; acting as accessory proteins for monocarboxylate transporters, thus affecting neuronal energy supply, and binding to GABAA α1, 2 and 5 subunits, thus regulating the composition and localization of GABAA receptors. An emerging theme is the role of the Neuroplastins in regulating the trafficking and subcellular localization of specific binding partners. We also discuss the involvement of Neuroplastins in a number of pathophysiological conditions, including ischaemia, schizophrenia and breast cancer and the role of a single nucleotide polymorphism in the human Neuroplastin (NPTN) gene locus in impairment of cortical development and cognitive functions.

image

Neuroplastins are neuronal cell adhesion molecules, which induce neurite outgrowth and play important roles in synaptic maturation and plasticity. This review summarizes the functional implications of Neuroplastins for correct synaptic membrane protein localization, neuronal energy supply, expression of LTP and LTD, animal and human behaviour, and pathophysiology and disease. It focuses particularly on Neuroplastin binding partners and signalling mechanisms, and proposes perspectives for future research on these important immunoglobulin superfamily members.
Telomere shortening over 6 years is associated with increased subclinical carotid vascular damage and worse cardiovascular prognosis in the general population
Authors: Baragetti A. , Palmen J. , Garlaschelli K. , Grigore L. , Pellegatta F. , Tragni E. , Catapano A. L. , Humphries S. E. , Norata G. D. , Talmud P. J.
Published: July 2014

Introduction

Leucocyte telomere length (LTL) is an important determinant of telomere function and cellular replicative capacity. The aim of the present study was to examine prospectively the associations between telomere shortening (TS) and both the progression of atherosclerosis and the incidence of cardiovascular events (CVEs).

Materials and methods

Leucocyte telomere length was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction to determine the ratio of telomere length to single‐copy gene (T/S) in 768 subjects (462 female and 306 male) enrolled in a large general population survey [the Progressione della Lesione Intimale Carotidea (PLIC study)]. Common carotid artery intima–media thickness was determined at baseline and after 6 years of follow‐up, and the associations between TS and the progression of atherosclerosis and incidence of CVEs were evaluated.

Results

Mean LTL was 1.25 ± 0.92 T/S (median 1.14) at baseline and 0.70 ± 0.37 T/S (median 0.70) after 6 years of follow‐up. Median 6‐year LTL change was −0.46 T/S [interquartile range (IQR) −0.57 to 1.06], equating to −0.078 T/S [IQR(−0.092 to 0.176)] per year. Of note, telomere lengthening occurred in 30.4% of subjects. After adjustment for classical cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors (age, gender, smoking, physical activity, alcohol consumption, systolic blood pressure, glucose levels, lipid profile and therapies), TS was associated with incident subclinical carotid vascular damage [hazard ratio (HR) 5.19, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.20–22.4, P = 0.028]. Finally, subjects in whom LTL shortened over time showed an increased risk of incident CVE, compared to those in whom LTL lengthened (HR 1.69, CI 1.02–2.78, P = 0.041).

Conclusion

These data indicate that TS is associated with increased risk of subclinical carotid vascular damage and increased incidence of CVEs beyond CVD risk factors in the general population, whereas LTL lengthening is protective.
Parturitional Injury of the Head and Neck
Authors: Huisman Thierry A.G.M. , Phelps Timothy , Bosemani Thangamadhan , Tekes Aylin , Poretti Andrea
Published: July 2014

Parturitional injuries refer to injuries sustained during and secondary to fetal delivery. The skull, brain, and head and neck regions are frequently involved. Accurate differentiation and classification of the various injuries is essential for treatment, prognosis, and parental counseling. In this review, we discuss the various “bumps and lumps” that maybe encountered along the neonatal skull as well as the most frequent calvarial and intracranial parturitional injuries. In addition, a short discussion of the most common head and neck, facial, and spinal lesions is included. Various mimickers and risk factors are also presented.
Effect of dietary Schizochytrium microalga oil and fish oil on plasma cholesterol level in rats
Authors: Komprda T. , Škultéty O. , Křížková S. , Zorníková G. , Rozíková V. , Krobot R.
Published: July 2014

The purpose of the study was to test the hypothesis that the dietary oils with different content of n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) + docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) affect plasma lipid level in rats in a different degree. The diets with 6% of fish oil (FO) and Schizochytrium microalga oil (SchO; EPA+DHA content in the diets 9.5 + 12.3 and 2.6 + 29.5% of the sum of total fatty acids, respectively) were used; the diet with 6% of safflower oil (high content of n‐6 PUFA linoleic acid, 65.5%; EPA+DHA content 0.7 + 0.9%) was used as a control. The difference between FO and SchO was established only in the case of plasma triacylglycerol (TAG) level: plasma TAG of the FO‐fed rats did not differ from the control rats (p > 0.05), while SchO decreased (p < 0.05) plasma TAG to 46% of the control. On the other hand, FO and SchO decreased (p < 0.05) total plasma cholesterol (TC) in rats in the same extent, to 73% of the control. Regarding the underlying mechanisms for the TC decrease, both SchO and FO up‐regulated hepatic Insig‐1 gene (181 and 133% of the control; p < 0.05), which tended (p = 0.15 and p = 0.19 respectively) to decrease the amount of hepatic nSREBP‐2 protein (61 and 66% of the control). However, neither SchO nor FO influenced hepatic 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methyl‐glutaryl‐CoA reductase gene expression (p > 0.05); SchO (but not FO) increased (p < 0.05) low‐density lipoprotein receptor mRNA in the liver. It was concluded that the decrease of total plasma cholesterol might be caused by an increased cholesterol uptake from plasma into the cells (in the case of SchO), but also by other (in the present study not tested) mechanisms.
Digestive physiology of captive giant anteaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla): determinants of faecal dry matter content
Authors: Gull J. M. , Stahl M. , Osmann C. , Ortmann S. , Kreuzer M. , Hatt J.‐M. , Clauss M.
Published: July 2014

Giant anteaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) are specialized insectivores and consume mainly ants and termites in the wild. In captivity, giant anteaters are either fed a complete diet, or a combination of a domestic carnivore diet with leaf eater pellets, or a traditional gruel‐type diet. Soft faeces are a frequently encountered problem with this type of feeding. In the present study, we analysed diet and faeces composition, calculated digestibility and measured mean retention time on various diets in eight giant anteaters (total of n = 64 experiments). The results suggest that the digestive physiology of giant anteaters is similar to that of domestic dogs and cats in terms of nutrient digestibility and digesta retention. When testing correlations between faecal dry matter content and other variables, no relationship with dietary crude fibre content or mean digesta retention time could be detected. However, acid insoluble ash intake was significantly and positively correlated with faecal dry matter content. The amount of acid insoluble ash excreted with the faeces was higher than that ingested with the diet offered, indicating that the giant anteaters ingested soil from their enclosure of up to 93 g per day. This finding is consistent with observation of faeces of wild giant anteaters that contain soil or sand most likely due to indiscriminate feeding. It also corresponds to reports that indigestible materials such as peat, soil, chitin or cellulose contribute to a firmer faecal consistency in various carnivore species. Therefore, offering giant anteaters the opportunity to voluntarily ingest soil from their enclosure might be beneficial.
Adhesion molecules from the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum (Bacillariophyceae): genomic identification by amino‐acid profiling and in vivo analysis
Authors: Willis Anusuya , Eason‐Hubbard Maeve , Hodson Oliver , Maheswari Uma , Bowler Chris , Wetherbee Richard
Published: July 2014

Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) are important in prokaryotes and eukaryotes for cell–cell and cell–substratum interactions. The characteristics of adhesive proteins in the model diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum were investigated by bioinformatic analysis and in vivo characterization. Bioinformatic analysis of the protein coding potential of the P. tricornutum genome used an amino‐acid profile that we developed as a new system to identify uncharacterized or novel CAMs. Putative diatom CAMs were identified and seven were characterized in vivo, by generation of transgenic diatom lines overexpressing genes encoding C‐terminal yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) fusion proteins. Three of these selected genes encode proteins with weak similarity to characterized proteins, a c‐type lectin and two fasciclins, whereas the others are novel. The resultant cell lines were investigated for alterations in their adhesive ability. Whole cell‐substratum adhesion strength was measured in a fully turbulent flow chamber, while atomic force microscopy was used to quantify the relative frequency of adhesion, as well as the length and strength of single molecules in the secreted mucilage. Finally, quartz crystal microbalance analysis characterized the visco‐elastic properties and interaction of the mucilage–substratum interface. These combined studies revealed a range of phenotypes affecting adhesion, and led to the identification of candidate proteins involved in diatom adhesion. In summary, our study has for the first time combined bioinformatics and molecular physiological studies to provide new insights into diatom adhesive molecules.
Antigenic variation in mucilage secreted by members of the genus Symbiodinium (Dinophyceae)
Authors: Mazzillo Mays Maria , Kempf Stephen C.
Published: July 2014

Symbiodinium reside intracellularly in a complex symbiosome (host and symbiont‐derived) within cnidarian hosts in a specific host‐symbiont association. Symbiodinium is a diverse genus with variation greater than other dinoflagellate orders. In this paper, our investigation into specificity examines antigenic variation in the algal mucilage secretions at the host‐symbiont interface. Cultured Symbiodinium from a variety of clades were labeled with one of two antibodies to symbiont mucilage (PC3, developed using a clade B alga cultured from Aiptasia pallida; BF10, developed using a clade F alga cultured from Briareum sp.). The labeling was visualized with a fluorescent marker and examined with epifluorescence and confocal microscopy. PC3 antigen was found in cultured Symbiodinium from clades A and B, but not clades C, D, E and F. The correlation between labeling and clade may account for some of the specificity between host and symbiont in the field. Within clades A and B there was variation in the amount of label present. BF10 antigen was more specific and only found in cultures of the same cp23S‐rDNA strain the antibody was created against. These results indicate that the mucilage secretions do vary both qualitatively and quantitatively amongst Symbiodinium strains. Since the mucilage forms the host‐symbiont interface, variation in its molecular composition is likely to be the source of any signals involved in recognition and specificity.
Periodontitis mainly increases osteoclast formation via enhancing the differentiation of quiescent osteoclast precursors into osteoclasts
Authors: Lee D.‐E. , Kim J.‐H. , Choi S.‐H. , Cha J.‐H. , Bak E.‐J. , Yoo Y.‐J.
Published: July 2014

Background and objectives

Tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)‐positive multinucleated osteoclasts are formed in sequential steps: proliferation and differentiation of hematopoietic progenitors into quiescent osteoclast precursors (QOPs), followed by fusion of QOPs. In this study, we investigated whether enhancement of osteoclast formation by periodontitis is derived from the stimulation of proliferation of hematopoietic progenitors or the differentiation of QOPs into osteoclasts.

Material and methods

Ligatures were placed around the first molars in the left mandibles of Fischer 344 inbred rats. The rats received drinking water containing bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) (which can be incorporated into dividing nuclei) after ligation during the experimental period. The number of inflammatory cells in the distal area was counted. Alveolar bone loss was histologically estimated by measuring the distance from the cementoenamel junction to the alveolar bone crest in the distal area and determining the percentage of periodontal ligament area in the furcation. The number of osteoclasts and percentage of BrdU+ nuclei in total osteoclasts nuclei were counted after TRAP and BrdU double labeling.

Results

The number of polymorphonuclear cells increased on day 1 and then rapidly decreased. The number of mononuclear cells increased in a time‐dependent manner up to day 5 and remained the same until day 10. Alveolar bone loss of ligatured teeth increased in a time‐dependent manner. The number of osteoclasts peaked on day 3 then gradually decreased. At peak, the percentage of BrdU+ nuclei in total osteoclasts nuclei in the distal and furcation areas were 7.9% and 4.1%, respectively.

Conclusion

These results indicate that most of the osteoclasts formed after periodontitis induction are derived from preformed QOPs, suggesting that enhancement of osteoclast formation by periodontitis might be mainly caused by stimulating the differentiation of QOPs into osteoclasts.
The complement system and its role in the pathogenesis of periodontitis: current concepts
Authors: Damgaard C. , Holmstrup P. , Van Dyke T. E. , Nielsen C. H.
Published: July 2014

Periodontitis is a highly prevalent inflammatory disease in tooth supporting tissues, induced by bacteria growing in a biofilm on tooth surfaces. Components of the complement system are present in the periodontal tissue and the system is activated in periodontitis. Continuous complement activation and modulation by bacteria within the biofilm in periodontal pockets, however, may enhance local tissue destruction, providing the biofilm with both essential nutrients and space to grow. A more profound understanding of the mechanisms involved in complement‐derived tissue degradation may facilitate the development of new treatment concepts for periodontitis. Further studies on the role of complement in periodontitis pathogenesis may also contribute to the understanding of why some individuals fail to resolve periodontitis. Here, we review evidence that links complement to the pathogenesis of periodontitis with an emphasis on interaction of complement with bacteria from periodontitis‐associated biofilm.
Voles don't take taxis
Authors: Pease Ken
Published: July 2014

Johnson's paper advances understanding of sequences of burglaries committed by the same offender. Furthermore, it has heuristic value in suggesting new avenues for applicable research. Each of the current data shortcomings represents an opportunity for novel research approaches, and the optimum forager metaphor holds continuing appeal as an organizing principle helpful to operational policing.
How do offenders choose where to offend? Perspectives from animal foraging
Authors: Johnson Shane D.
Published: July 2014

Purpose

Research suggests that offender spatial decision‐making is not random. However, little is known about if or how offences in a series influence where an offender will target next. Drawing on concepts and empirical findings from environmental criminology and the ecology literature, in this article I consider what spatial patterns might be expected in the sequential crimes committed by serial offenders and provide an empirical example.

Methods

Data for detected burglars are analysed and patterns in the inter‐event distances for sequential offences compared with those signatures typically associated with three types of foraging behaviour – central place foraging, Brownian walks and Lévy walks. Analyses involve the use of a Monte Carlo simulation to derive an expected distribution for central place foraging, while the observed probability density function of sequential inter‐event distances is compared to exponential and power law distributions to test for evidence of Brownian and Lévy walks, respectively.

Results

Analyses suggest that patterns in burglar sequential inter‐event distances cannot be explained by a simple central place foraging strategy. The distribution of sequential inter‐event distances is found to be consistent with both Brownian and Lévy walks.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that there are regularities in the sequential spatial choices made by offenders, and that these are similar to those observed across species. Reasons for why there is evidence of both Brownian and Lévy walks are discussed. The implications of the findings for forensic techniques such as crime linkage analysis, geographic offender profiling and crime forecasting are discussed.
Professionalizing Midwifery: Exploring Medically Imagined Labor Rooms in Rural Rajasthan
Authors: Price Sara
Published: July 2014

In India, globalized flows of biomedical discourse like evidence‐based delivery practices (EBDs) and new technologies are reshaping the field of reproductive health care. As iterations of evidence‐based medicine shift, non‐governmental organizations (NGOs) increasingly act as distributive agents for biomedical projects that equate modernized health care spaces and provider‐care techniques with a marked improvement in the safety of birth outcomes. In this article, I examine how particular local iterations of EBDs are distributed to skilled birth attendants (SBAs) who have become sites for globalized projects aimed at reshaping their professional designation. I draw on data collected through in‐depth ethnographic interviews with SBAs practicing in health centers around southern Rajasthan to explore the dynamics and tensions surrounding the professionalization of midwives and the increasing promotion of EBDs in institutional labor rooms.
Anesthetic management of patients with Joubert syndrome: a retrospective analysis of a single‐institutional case series
Authors: Sriganesh Kamath , Vinay Byrappa , Jena Sritam , Sudhir Venkataramaiah , Saini Jitender , Umamaheswara Rao Ganne S.
Published: July 2014

Objective

To analyze the anesthetic techniques used for sedation during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study of patients with Joubert syndrome (JS) and assess the safety and efficacy of these anesthetic regimens in these children.

Background

Joubert syndrome is a rare neurological disorder with significant anesthetic implications. This study describes the anesthetic management of children with JS undergoing MRI study with different anesthetic agents and implications of various anesthetic techniques in these patients.

Materials and methods

The records of ten patients with JS undergoing MRI study with different anesthetic techniques were retrospectively reviewed over the last 5 years.

Results

The patients were aged between 6 months and 21 years. The most commonly used sedation technique involved use of alpha‐2 agonists, and this technique had least complications such as apnea and patient movement during imaging. None of the patients had postanesthetic respiratory problems, although one patient receiving propofol had apnea and desaturation on induction requiring airway intervention.

Conclusion

Alpha‐2 agonist based anesthetic technique appears to be most suitable for sedation during MRI study in patients with JS with respect to adverse events and outcome.
The use of bi‐planar tissue expanders to augment abdominal domain in a pediatric intestinal transplant recipient
Authors: Weiner Joshua , Wu June , Martinez Mercedes , Lobritto Steven , Ovchinsky Nadia , Rohde Christine , Griesemer Adam , Kato Tomoaki
Published: July 2014

Intestinal transplantation is a well‐accepted treatment for SBS. However, patients with SBS often have decreased abdominal capacity, which makes size‐matching of donor organs more difficult, thus decreasing organ availability. Reported approaches for addressing this problem include surgically reducing the graft size, leaving an open abdomen for a prolonged period, and cotransplanting rectus fascia as a non‐vascularized allograft. Each approach has significant disadvantages. There has been one previous report of tissue expanders used intra‐abdominally and two reports of subcutaneous use to increase intra‐abdominal capacity prior to transplantation. We report the first use of bi‐planar expander placement for this purpose. In our case, a two‐yr‐old male child with SBS due to malrotation was treated with tissue expanders 10 months prior to intestinal transplantation, thus allowing transplantation of a larger graft with the ability to close the abdomen safely. There were no complications, and the patient is now doing well and tolerating diet off PN. The use of tissue expanders prior to intestinal transplantation is a promising approach for such patients and avoids the morbidity associated with other approaches. This approach requires a multidisciplinary effort by gastroenterology, transplant surgery, and plastic surgery teams.
Waiting for transplant: Physical, psychosocial, and nutritional status considerations for pediatric candidates and implications for care
Authors: Anthony Samantha J. , Annunziato Rachel A. , Fairey Elise , Kelly Vicky L. , So Stephanie , Wray Jo
Published: July 2014

The waiting period for an organ transplant has been described as a time of tremendous uncertainty and vulnerability, posing unique challenges and stressors for pediatric transplant candidates and their families. It has been identified as the most stressful stage of the transplant journey, yet little attention has been given to the physical, psychological, or social impact of the waiting period in the literature. In this review, we discuss the physical, nutritional, and psychosocial implications of the waiting period for child and adolescent transplant candidates and the impact on their parents and siblings. We identify areas for future research and provide recommendations for clinical practice to support children, adolescents, and families during the waiting period.
Upregulation of α‐enolase in acute rejection of cardiac transplant in rat model: Implications for the secretion of interleukin‐17
Authors: Shi Jiahai , Li Yangcheng , Yang Xuechao , Yang Dunpeng , Zhang Yinghui , Liu Yonghua
Published: July 2014

Acute allograft rejection remains a major problem in solid organ transplantation. The enzyme α‐enolase has been shown to induce an immune response in cardiac transplantation. In this study, we investigated the role of α‐enolase in acute allograft rejection in a rat model of heart transplantation. Hearts from either (WF: RT1u) or (Lew: RT11) rats were transplanted into (Lew: RT11) rats. No rejection occurred in the isograft group, for which the median survival time was >168 days, whereas the median survival time of the allograft group was significantly less at 10 ± 2.1 days (n = 8 per group, p < 0.001). Increased inflammation was observed in allografts, including increased α‐enolase expression and increased numbers of infiltrating CD4+ T cells (p < 0.05). By immunohistochemical staining, we confirmed that α‐enolase was expressed not only in myocardial cells but also in the infiltrating lymphocytes. However, on the fifth day after transplantation, α‐enolase expression was no longer observed in the lymphocytes (n = 3, p < 0.001). In contrast, no lymphocytes were found in isografts after transplantation (n = 3, p < 0.001). α‐enolase expression was increased in lymphocytes, which are implicated in the acute rejection of cardiac transplants. Intragraft α‐enolase inhibition may be useful as an adjuvant therapy to systemic immunosuppression in heart transplantation.
Cellular Changes Associated with the Acclimation of the Intertidal Sea AnemoneActinia tenebrosato Ultraviolet Radiation
Authors: Cubillos Victor M. , Lamare Miles D. , Peake Barrie M. , Burritt David J.
Published: July 2014

To assess the relative importance of long‐ and short‐term cellular defense mechanisms in seasonallyUV‐R‐acclimatedActinia tenebrosa(Anthozoa,Actiniidae), individuals were exposed to summer doses ofPAR,UV‐A,UV‐Band enhancedUV‐B(20%) for a period of 4 days. Mycosporine‐like amino acids (MAAs) and cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer (CPD) concentrations were quantified, while oxidative damage to lipids and proteins, and the activities or levels of the antioxidant enzymesSOD,CAT,GR,GPOXand total glutathione were determined. Our results show that summerUV‐R‐acclimated individuals had a higherUV‐Rtolerance, with no significant increases inCPDs levels, than winter‐acclimated sea anemones possibly due to higherMAAconcentrations. Summer‐acclimated individuals showed increased lipid and protein oxidation andGPOXactivity only when they were exposed toUV‐Bat 20% above ambientUV‐Rlevels. In contrast, winter‐acclimated sea anemones showed elevated levels of oxidative damage,GPOXandSODactivities after exposure toUV‐AorUV‐Bat ambient and elevated levels. Thus, this study indicates that long‐termUV‐Racclimation mechanisms such as the accumulation ofMAAs could be more important than short‐term increases in antioxidant defenses with respect to reducing indirectUV‐Rdamage in intertidal sea anemones.
Occupational Allergy to Flowers: Immunoblot Analysis of Allergens in Freesia, Gerbera and Chrysanthemum Pollen
Authors: van Toorenenbergen A. W.
Published: July 2014

High exposure to pollen from ornamental flowers can induce an IgE‐mediated occupational allergy in florists and horticulture workers. We investigated IgE‐binding antigens in chrysanthemum, freesia and gerbera pollen by immunoblot analysis and analysed the cross‐reactivity of these pollen with birch, grass and mugwort pollen. In immunoblots with chrysanthemum pollen, major IgE‐binding structures were seen with a molecular weight (MW) of approximately 25, 45 and 65 kD. In the immunoblots with freesia pollen, IgE from freesia pollen was directed against two proteins with an MW of approximately 15 kD. Most sera showed IgE binding to an approximately 15 kD band in gerbera pollen; with some sera additional bands were seen in the range of 30–50 kD. IgE binding to chrysanthemum pollen was inhibited by mugwort pollen only, whereas IgE binding to freesia pollen was suppressed by birch, grass and mugwort pollen. The inhibitory activity of birch and grass pollen extract on IgE binding to gerbera pollen extract was serum dependent and ranged from no inhibition to complete inhibition. Occupational exposure to many different flowers induced IgE against all three types of pollen. Exposure in greenhouses to gerbera flowers elicited mainly IgE against gerbera pollen. Mugwort pollen extract inhibited IgE binding to pollen from all three flowers.
Temperature profiles of different cooling methods in porcine pancreas procurement
Authors: Weegman Bradley P. , Suszynski Thomas M. , Scott William E. , Ferrer Fábrega Joana , Avgoustiniatos Efstathios S. , Anazawa Takayuki , O'Brien Timothy D. , Rizzari Michael D. , Karatzas Theodore , Jie Tun , Sutherland David E. R. , Hering Bernhard J. , Papas Klearchos K.
Published: July 2014

Porcine islet xenotransplantation is a promising alternative to human islet allotransplantation. Porcine pancreas cooling needs to be optimized to reduce the warm ischemia time (WIT) following donation after cardiac death, which is associated with poorer islet isolation outcomes. This study examines the effect of four different cooling Methods on core porcine pancreas temperature (n = 24) and histopathology (n = 16). All Methods involved surface cooling with crushed ice and chilled irrigation. Method A, which is the standard for porcine pancreas procurement, used only surface cooling. Method B involved an intravascular flush with cold solution through the pancreas arterial system. Method C involved an intraductal infusion with cold solution through the major pancreatic duct, and Method D combined all three cooling Methods. Surface cooling alone (Method A) gradually decreased core pancreas temperature to <10 °C after 30 min. Using an intravascular flush (Method B) improved cooling during the entire duration of procurement, but incorporating an intraductal infusion (Method C) rapidly reduced core temperature 15–20 °C within the first 2 min of cooling. Combining all methods (Method D) was the most effective at rapidly reducing temperature and providing sustained cooling throughout the duration of procurement, although the recorded WIT was not different between Methods (P = 0.36). Histological scores were different between the cooling Methods (P = 0.02) and the worst with Method A. There were differences in histological scores between Methods A and C (P = 0.02) and Methods A and D (P = 0.02), but not between Methods C and D (P = 0.95), which may highlight the importance of early cooling using an intraductal infusion. In conclusion, surface cooling alone cannot rapidly cool large (porcine or human) pancreata. Additional cooling with an intravascular flush and intraductal infusion results in improved core porcine pancreas temperature profiles during procurement and histopathology scores. These data may also have implications on human pancreas procurement as use of an intraductal infusion is not common practice.
Lung xenotransplantation: recent progress and current status
Authors: Harris Donald G. , Quinn Kevin J. , Dahi Siamak , Burdorf Lars , Azimzadeh Agnes M. , Pierson Richard N.
Published: July 2014

Xenotransplantation has undergone important progress in controlling initial hyperacute rejection in many preclinical models, with some cell, tissue, and organ xenografts advancing toward clinical trials. However, acute injury, driven primarily by innate immune and inflammatory responses, continues to limit results in lung xenograft models. The purpose of this article is to review the current status of lung xenotransplantation—including the seemingly unique challenges posed by this organ—and summarize proven and emerging means of overcoming acute lung xenograft injury.
The increase in body weight induced by lack of methyl CpG binding protein‐2 is associated with altered leptin signalling in the hypothalamus
Authors: Torres‐Andrade Rodrigo , Moldenhauer Rodrigo , Gutierrez‐Bertín Noemí , Soto‐Covasich Jessica , Mancilla‐Medina Cristian , Ehrenfeld Carolina , Kerr Bredford
Published: July 2014

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Previous evidence shows that some patients and mouse models carrying mutations in the methyl CpG binding protein‐2 (MECP2) gene are overweight. However, the underlying mechanism associated with this phenotype has not been fully elucidated.

What is the main finding and its importance?

Using Mecp2‐null mice, we found that the absence of methyl CpG binding protein‐2 produces a deregulation in leptin signalling and alters the expression of key genes involved in body weight control. These results allow us to gain insight into the cellular mechanisms associated with leptin resistance and obesity.

Methyl CpG binding protein‐2 (MECP2) is a chromatin‐remodelling factor with a dual role in gene expression. Evidence from patients carrying MECP2 mutations and from transgenic mouse models demonstrates that this protein is involved in the control of body weight. However, the mechanism for this has not been fully elucidated. To address this, we used a previously characterized Mecp2‐null mouse model and found that the increase in body weight is associated with an increased amount of adipose tissue and high leptin levels. Appropriate body weight control requires the proper expression of pro‐opiomelanocortin (Pomc) and agouti‐related peptide (Agrp), two neuropeptides essential for satiety and appetite signals, respectively. Our results show that in the absence of Mecp2, Pomc and Agrp mRNA expression are altered, and the mice are leptin resistant. To determine the mechanism underlying the defective leptin sensing, we evaluated the expression of genes and the post‐translational modifications associated with leptin signalling, which are fundamental to Pomc and Agrp transcriptional control and proper leptin response. We found a decrease in the phosphorylation level of Akt and its target protein Foxo1, which indicate an alteration in leptin‐induced signal transduction. Our results demonstrate that the absence of Mecp2 disrupted body weight balance by altering post‐translational modifications in leptin‐signalling components that regulate Pomc and Agrp expression.