bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surveillance for threatened and invasive species when uncertainty is severe
Authors: Thompson Colin J. , Cannon Rob M. , Burgman Mark A.
Published: February 2012

Aim  This study develops methods for efficient surveillance and monitoring systems to address a wide range of problems in biosecurity, ecology and conservation biology. It focuses especially on surveillance systems relevant for management that aims to reduce trade in threatened species and curb the spread of potential pests and diseases.

Location  Melbourne, Australia.

Methods  This paper develops different approaches to make decisions about the allocation of resources that aim to avoid unacceptable outcomes. The analysis solves for the optimal allocation of surveillance effort in each of two facilities as a function of the arrival rates of invasive species in two facilities (that is, when the arrival rates are known). However, when arrival rates are unknown, it is not possible to solve for this optimum. The analysis also provides a satisficing approach for situations in which arrival rates are unknown, in which a degree of tolerance for deviating from the optimal solution is specified.

Results  The study provides simple analytical solutions to these two problems, analogous to results developed earlier in operations research. The analysis is illustrated with an example of the inspection of quarantine facilities for pests and diseases associated with trade.

Main conclusions  The best surveillance strategy depends on the choice of an objective function and the attitude of the decision‐maker to the robustness of the decision. The example application could be adapted to many other environmental surveillance scenarios.
Traits related to species persistence and dispersal explain changes in plant communities subjected to habitat loss
Authors: Marini Lorenzo , Bruun Hans Henrik , Heikkinen Risto K. , Helm Aveliina , Honnay Olivier , Krauss Jochen , Kühn Ingolf , Lindborg Regina , Pärtel Meelis , Bommarco Riccardo
Published: February 2012

Aim  Habitat fragmentation is a major driver of biodiversity loss but it is insufficiently known how much its effects vary among species with different life‐history traits; especially in plant communities, the understanding of the role of traits related to species persistence and dispersal in determining dynamics of species communities in fragmented landscapes is still limited. The primary aim of this study was to test how plant traits related to persistence and dispersal and their interactions modify plant species vulnerability to decreasing habitat area and increasing isolation.

Location  Five regions distributed over four countries in Central and Northern Europe.

Methods  Our dataset was composed of primary data from studies on the distribution of plant communities in 300 grassland fragments in five regions. The regional datasets were consolidated by standardizing nomenclature and species life‐history traits and by recalculating standardized landscape measures from the original geographical data. We assessed the responses of plant species richness to habitat area, connectivity, plant life‐history traits and their interactions using linear mixed models.

Results  We found that the negative effect of habitat loss on plant species richness was pervasive across different regions, whereas the effect of habitat isolation on species richness was not evident. This area effect was, however, not equal for all the species, and life‐history traits related to both species persistence and dispersal modified plant sensitivity to habitat loss, indicating that both landscape and local processes determined large‐scale dynamics of plant communities. High competitive ability for light, annual life cycle and animal dispersal emerged as traits enabling species to cope with habitat loss.

Main conclusions  In highly fragmented rural landscapes in NW Europe, mitigating the spatial isolation of remaining grasslands should be accompanied by restoration measures aimed at improving habitat quality for low competitors, abiotically dispersed and perennial, clonal species.
Scale‐dependent post‐establishment spread and genetic diversity in an invading mollusc in South America
Authors: Zhan Aibin , Perepelizin Pablo V. , Ghabooli Sara , Paolucci Esteban , Sylvester Francisco , Sardiña Paula , Cristescu Melania E. , MacIsaac Hugh J.
Published: February 2012

Aims  Our study aimed to characterize the dispersal dynamics and population genetic structure of the introduced golden mussel Limnoperna fortunei throughout its invaded range in South America and to determine how different dispersal methods, that is, human‐mediated dispersal and downstream natural dispersal, contribute to genetic variation among populations.

Location  Paraná–Uruguay–Río de la Plata watershed in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay.

Methods  We performed genetic analyses based on a comprehensive sampling strategy encompassing 22 populations (N = 712) throughout the invaded range in South America, using the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene and eight polymorphic nuclear microsatellites. We employed both population genetics and phylogenetic analyses to clarify the dispersal dynamics and population genetic structure.

Results  We detected relatively high genetic differentiation between populations (FST = −0.041 to 0.111 for COI, −0.060 to 0.108 for microsatellites) at both fine and large geographical scales. Bayesian clustering and three‐dimensional factorial correspondence analyses consistently revealed two genetically distinct clusters, highlighting genetic discontinuities in the invaded range. Results of all genetic analyses suggest ship‐mediated ‘jump’ dispersal as the dominant mode of spread of golden mussels in South America, while downstream natural dispersal has had limited effects on contemporary genetic patterns.

Main conclusions  Our study provides new evidence that post‐establishment dispersal dynamics and genetic patterns vary across geographical scales. While ship‐mediated ‘jump’ dispersal dominates post‐establishment spread of golden mussels in South America, once colonies become established in upstream locations, larvae produced may be advected downstream to infill patchy distributions. Moreover, genetic structuring at fine geographical scales, especially within the same drainages, suggests a further detailed understanding of dynamics of larval dispersal and settlement in different water systems. Knowledge of the mechanisms by which post‐establishment spread occurs can, in some cases, be used to limit dispersal of golden mussels and other introduced species.
Pyrvinium, a potent small molecule Wnt inhibitor, increases engraftment and inhibits lineage commitment of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)
Authors: Saraswati Sarika , Deskins Desirae L. , Holt Ginger E. , Young Pampee P.
Published: February 2012

We and others have found that Wnt signaling inhibition is important in mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) self‐renewal. Pyrvinium was identified as a potent Wnt inhibitor in a chemical screen for small molecules. In the present study, we hypothesized that pyrvinium will enhance MSC self‐renewal to improve the clinical efficacy of MSC therapy. Pyrvinium increased MSC proliferation in vitro while inhibiting their osteogenic and chondrogenic lineage commitment by reducing cytoplasmic β‐catenin. Although MSCs are a promising target for cell therapy, strategies to enhance their survival and maintain their stemness in the wounded area are essential. Using an in vivo model of granulation tissue formation, we demonstrated that pyrvinium enhanced long‐term MSC engraftment. Pyrvinium‐treated MSC‐generated granulation tissue also demonstrated less ectopic differentiation into bone or cartilage. This study highlights the potential of using a therapeutic Wnt inhibitor to enhance MSC‐driven regenerative therapy.
Chronic Pain and Depression in the Quality of Life of Women With Migraine – A Controlled Study
Authors: Stuginski‐Barbosa Juliana , Dach Fabíola , Bigal Marcelo , Speciali José G.
Published: February 2012

Background.— Migraine is comorbid to depression and widespread chronic pain (WCP), but the influence of these conditions on the health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) of individuals with episodic (EM) and chronic migraine (CM) is poorly understood.

Objective.— To assess the prevalence of depressive symptoms and WCP in individuals with EM and CM, as well as to estimate the joint impact of these conditions on the HRQoL of these individuals.

Methods.— All women aged 18 to 65 years with a first diagnosis of EM or CM from September of 2006 to September of 2008 seen in an outpatient headache service were invited to participate. They were asked to attend a separate appointment in the service, and to bring another woman of similar age that also agreed to participate. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory. Questions about WCP followed the protocol of the American College of Rheumatology. HRQoL was assessed using the Short‐Form 36 (SF‐36). Multivariate analysis modeled HRQoL as a function of headache status, depressive symptoms, and pain, using quantile regression.

Results.— Sample consisted of 179 women, 53 in the EM group, 37 in the CM group and 89 in control group. Groups did not differ by demographics. Mean scores of SF‐36 were 53.6 (standard deviation [SD] = 23.5) for EM, 44.2 (SD = 18.5) for CM and 61.8 (SD = 21.5) for controls. In multivariate analysis, SF‐36 scores were predicted by a CM status (P = .02; −10.05 [95% CI −18.52; −1.58]) and by a Beck Depression Inventory score (P < .01; −1.27 [95% CI −1.55; −0.99]). The influence of WCP in the SF‐36 scores approached significance (P = .08; −0.78 [95% CI −1.64; 0.88]). Age did not contribute to the model.

Conclusion.— Women with migraine are at an increased chance of WCP, and the chance increases as a function of headache frequency. Both depressive symptoms and CM independently predict HRQoL status.

(Headache 2012;52:400‐408)
A Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Trial Assessing the Efficacy of Levetiracetam Extended‐Release in Very Heavy Drinking Alcohol‐Dependent Patients
Authors: Fertig Joanne B. , Ryan Megan L. , Falk Daniel E. , Litten Raye Z. , Mattson Margaret E. , Ransom Janet , Rickman William J. , Scott Charles , Ciraulo Domenic , Green Alan I. , Tiouririne Nassima A. , Johnson Bankole , Pettinati Helen , Strain Eric C. , Devine Eric , Brunette Mary F. , Kampman Kyle , A. Tompkins David , Stout Robert ,   the NCIG 002 Study Group
Published: February 2012

Background

Despite advances in the development of medications to treat alcohol dependence, few medications have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The use of certain anticonvulsant medications has demonstrated potential efficacy in treating alcohol dependence. Previous research suggests that the anticonvulsant levetiracetam may be beneficial in an alcohol‐dependent population of very heavy drinkers.

Methods

In this double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled clinical trial, 130 alcohol‐dependent patients who reported very heavy drinking were recruited across 5 clinical sites. Patients received either levetiracetam extended‐release (XR) or placebo and a Brief Behavioral Compliance Enhancement Treatment intervention. Levetiracetam XR was titrated during the first 4 weeks to 2,000 mg/d. This target dose was maintained during weeks 5 through 14 and was tapered during weeks 15 and 16.

Results

No significant differences were detected between the levetiracetam XR and placebo groups in either the primary outcomes (percent heavy drinking days and percent subjects with no heavy drinking days) or in other secondary drinking outcomes. Treatment groups did not differ on a number of nondrinking outcomes, including depression, anxiety, mood, and quality of life. The only difference observed was in alcohol‐related consequences. The levetiracetam XR treatment group showed significantly fewer consequences than did the placebo group during the maintenance period (p = 0.02). Levetiracetam XR was well tolerated, with fatigue being the only significantly elevated adverse event, compared with placebo (53% vs. 24%, respectively; p = 0.001).

Conclusions

This multisite clinical trial showed no efficacy for levetiracetam XR compared with placebo in reducing alcohol consumption in heavy drinking alcohol‐dependent patients.
Does Session Attendance by a Supportive Significant Other Predict Outcomes in Individual Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorders?
Authors: Hunter‐Reel Dorian , Witkiewitz Katie , Zweben Allen
Published: February 2012

Background:

A significant amount of research has supported the efficacy of couple versus individual treatment for alcohol use disorders, yet little is known about whether involving a significant other during the course of individual treatment can improve outcomes. Likewise, several barriers to couple treatment exist and a more flexible approach to significant other involvement may be warranted.

Methods:

This study constituted secondary analyses of the COMBINE data, a randomized clinical trial that combined pharmacotherapy and behavioral intervention for alcohol dependence. Data were drawn from the 16‐week individual combined behavioral intervention (CBI), which had 776 participants, 31% of which were female, and 23% were non‐white. The current study examined whether attendance by a supportive significant other (SSO) during CBI sessions would predict better outcomes. It was further hypothesized that active SSO involvement, defined by attendance during drink refusal or communication skills training sessions, would predict better outcomes.

Results:

SSOs attended at least 1 session for 26.9% of clients. Clients with SSOs who attended at least 1 session had significantly fewer drinking days and fewer drinking‐related problems at the end of treatment. The presence of an SSO during a drink refusal training session predicted significantly better outcomes, as compared to SSO attendance at other sessions and drink refusal training without an SSO present. SSO attendance at a communication training session did not predict better outcomes.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that specific types of active involvement may be important for SSO‐involved treatment to have greater efficacy than individual treatment.
Housing in Environmental Complexity Following Wheel Running Augments Survival of Newly Generated Hippocampal Neurons in a Rat Model of Binge Alcohol Exposure During the Third Trimester Equivalent
Authors: Hamilton Gillian F. , Boschen Karen E. , Goodlett Charles R. , Greenough William T. , Klintsova Anna Y.
Published: February 2012

Background

Binge‐like alcohol exposure in neonatal rats during the brain growth spurt causes deficits in adult neurogenesis in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG). Previous data from our laboratory demonstrated that 12 days of voluntary wheel running (WR) beginning on postnatal day (PD) 30 significantly increased the number of newly generated cells evident in the DG on PD42 in both alcohol‐exposed (AE) and control rats, but 30 days later a sustained beneficial effect of WR was evident only in control rats. This study tested the hypothesis that housing rats in environmental complexity (EC) following WR would promote the survival of the newly generated cells stimulated by WR, particularly in AE rats.

Methods

On PD4 to 9, pups were intubated with alcohol in a binge‐like manner (5.25 g/kg/d), sham‐intubated (SI), or reared normally. In Experiment 1, animals were either assigned to WR during PD30 to 42 or socially housed (SH). On PD42, animals were injected with bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU; 200 mg/kg) and perfused 2 hours later to confirm the WR‐induced stimulation of proliferation. In Experiment 2, all animals received WR on PD30 to 42 and were injected with BrdU on the last full day of WR. On PD42, animals were randomly assigned either to EC (WR/EC) or to SH (WR/SH) for 30 days and subsequently perfused and brains were processed for immunohistochemical staining to identify BrdU+‐, Ki67+‐, and BrdU+/NeuN+‐labeled cells in DG.

Results

In Experiment 1, WR exposure significantly increased the number of proliferating cells in all 3 postnatal conditions. In Experiment 2, the AE rats given WR/SH had significantly fewer BrdU+ cells compared with control rats given WR/SH. However, WR/EC experience significantly increased the number of surviving BrdU+ cells in both the AE and SI groups compared with WR/SH rats of the same neonatal treatment. Approximately 80% of the surviving BrdU+ cells in the DG across the conditions were colabeled with NeuN.

Conclusions

WR followed by EC could provide a behavioral model for developing interventions in humans to ameliorate hippocampal‐dependent impairments associated with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
Metabolic Biomarkers of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure in Human Embryonic Stem Cell–Derived Neural Lineages
Authors: Palmer Jessica A. , Poenitzsch Ashley M. , Smith Susan M. , Conard Kevin R. , West Paul R. , Cezar Gabriela G.
Published: February 2012

Background

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are a leading cause of neurodevelopmental disability. The mechanisms underlying FASD are incompletely understood, and biomarkers to identify those at risk are lacking. Here, we perform metabolomic analysis of embryoid bodies and neural lineages derived from human embryonic stem (hES) cells to identify the neural secretome produced in response to ethanol (EtOH) exposure.

Methods

WA01 and WA09 hES cells were differentiated into embryoid bodies, neural progenitors, or neurons. Cells along this progression were cultured for 4 days with 0, 0.1, or 0.3% EtOH. Supernatants were subjected to C18 chromatography followed by ESI‐QTOF‐MS. Features were annotated using public databases, and the identities of 4 putative biomarkers were confirmed with purified standards and comparative MS/MS.

Results

EtOH treatment induced statistically significant changes to metabolite abundance in human embryoid bodies (180 features), neural progenitors (76 features), and neurons (42 features). There were no shared significant features between different cell types. Fifteen features showed a dose–response to EtOH. Four chemical identities were confirmed: l‐thyroxine, 5′‐methylthioadenosine, and the tryptophan metabolites, l‐kynurenine and indoleacetaldehyde. One feature with a putative annotation of succinyladenosine was significantly increased in both EtOH treatments. Additional features were selective to EtOH treatment but were not annotated in public databases.

Conclusions

EtOH exposure induces statistically significant changes to the metabolome profile of human embryoid bodies, neural progenitors, and neurons. Several of these metabolites are normally present in human serum, suggesting their usefulness as potential serum FASD biomarkers. These findings suggest the biochemical pathways that are affected by EtOH in the developing nervous system and delineate mechanisms of alcohol injury during human development.
Long‐Term Effects of Three Multicomponent Exercise Interventions on Physical Performance and Fall‐Related Psychological Outcomes in Community‐Dwelling Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Freiberger Ellen , Häberle Lothar , Spirduso Waneen W. , Rixt Zijlstra G. A.
Published: February 2012

Objectives

To determine the long‐term effects of three strength and balance exercise interventions on physical performance, fall‐related psychological outcomes, and falls in older people.

Design

A single‐blinded, four‐group, randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Community, Germany.

Participants

Community‐dwelling adults aged 70 to 90 who had fallen in the past 6 months or reported fear of falling.

Intervention

After baseline assessment, 280 participants were randomly assigned to the control group (CG; no intervention; n = 80) or one of three strength and balance exercise interventions (the strength and balance group (SBG; strength and balance only; n = 63), the fitness group (FG; strength and balance plus endurance training; n = 64), or the multifaceted group (MG; strength and balance plus fall risk education; n = 73). The interventions consisted of 32 one‐hour group sessions in 16 weeks.

Measurements

Data on physical performance, fall‐related psychological outcomes, and falls were collected for 24 months.

Results

Mixed‐effects regression analyses showed improved short‐ and long‐term (12 and 24 months, respectively) physical performance for the SBG and FG, particularly regarding mobility, balance, and walking speed (P < .05). The improvements in physical performance outcomes were most prominent in the FG. Fall‐related psychological outcomes, number of falls, and injurious falls were not significantly different from in the control group.

Conclusion

Training focusing on strength, balance, and endurance can enhance physical performance for up to 24 months in community‐dwelling older adults. These findings did not translate to improved fall‐related psychological outcomes or reduced incidence of falls. This demonstrates the need for a different approach (e.g., regarding intervention dose and components) to gain intervention benefits in the multiple domains that contribute to independence and well‐being in older adults.
Integrating a Top‐Down and a Bottom‐Up Approach: Formal and Informal Risk‐Handling Strategies in a Utility Company
Authors: Mascini Peter , Bacharias Yannis
Published: February 2012

In this study, we bring together a top‐down and a bottom‐up approach of risk handling. We do so by conceptualizing and qualitatively and quantitatively measuring formal and informal risk‐handling strategies in a Dutch utility company. We conceive of formal risk handling as regulating, training, and educating safety and enforcing rule compliance, while we distinguish three different informal risk‐handling strategies: discretionary specialization, tacit knowledge, and taking personal responsibility. We show that the formal risk‐handling strategy and the three informal risk‐handling strategies can be measured separately. Hence, we have validated the measurement of all four strategies derived from two different risk‐handling approaches. Moreover, we have demonstrated that the perceived use of the four strategies has different effects on unsafe behavior: formal risk handling and tacit knowledge decrease it, discretion increases it, and taking personal responsibility has no effect on unsafe behavior.
Clinical and Electrophysiologic Characteristics of Antidromic Tachycardia in Children with Wolff‐Parkinson‐White Syndrome
Authors: CERESNAK SCOTT R. , TANEL RONN E. , PASS ROBERT H. , LIBERMAN LEONARDO , COLLINS KATHRYN K. , VAN HARE GEORGE F. , GATES GREGORY J. , DUBIN ANNE M.
Published: February 2012

Background:

Antidromic reciprocating tachycardia (ART) is a rare form of wide complex tachycardia in children with Wolff‐Parkinson‐White syndrome (WPW). The incidence and electrophysiologic characteristics of ART in children with WPW have not been well described.

Methods:

A multicenter retrospective analysis of all patients with WPW undergoing electrophysiology (EP) study from 1990 to 2009 was performed. Patients with clinical or inducible ART were included.

Results:

A total of 1,147 patients with WPW underwent EP study and 30 patients had ART (2.6%) and were the subject of this analysis. The mean age was 16 ± 3 years, weight was 65 ± 16 kg, and tachycardia cycle length was 305 ± 55 ms. There were two patients (7%) with congenital heart disease (both with Ebstein's anomaly). Four patients (13%) had more than one accessory pathway (AP). The location of the AP was left sided in 53% of patients and right sided in 47%, with septal location and left lateral pathways most commonly involved. AP conduction was found to be high risk in 17 patients (57%). Ablation was not attempted in two patients (7%) due to proximity to the HIS and risk of heart block. Ablation was acutely successful in 93% of the patients in whom it was attempted.

Conclusions:

ART is a rare finding in children undergoing EP study. Over half of the patients with ART were found to be high risk and multiple AP were uncommon. Unlike the adult population, ART occurred commonly with septal APs. PACE 2012; 35:480–488)
Postinfarction Ventricular Septal Defect: The Role of Three‐Dimensional Echocardiography
Authors: Scandura Salvatore , Ussia Gian Paolo , Caggegi Anna , Cammalleri Valeria , Millan Giovanni , Tamburino Corrado
Published: February 2012

Postinfarction ventricular septal defect (PIVSD) is challenging in both diagnosis and management. Especially in case of percutaneous treatment, a comprehensive echocardiographic assessment is needed. Bidimensional echocardiography enables localization and quantifi cation of intracardiac shunting aiding occluder devices proper choosing and positioning. Nevertheless real time three‐dimensional (3D) echocardiography usage presents additional benefi ts, defi ning in details the site of rupture and the surrounding cardiac structures. By 3D transesophageal guidance, delivery maneuvers are optimized and inappropriate expansion or position of the implanted device can be accurately assessed. In conclusion, real time 3D echocardiography emerges as a valid and advanced tool in diagnosis and management of PIVSD.
A Clinical Audit of the Number of Vaginal Examinations in Labor: A NOVEL Idea
Authors: Borders Noelle , Lawton Robyn , Martin Shannon R.
Published: February 2012

Introduction: Clinical practice audits present an opportunity for providers to examine and reflect on their practice. Vaginal examinations are an integral part of intrapartum care but can be uncomfortable for women and can increase the risk of chorioamnionitis. Thus, vaginal examinations should be performed thoughtfully and for necessary reasons.

Methods: A busy midwifery service at a large academic center underwent an audit of the number of vaginal examinations performed in labor for 205 women admitted in spontaneous labor or with spontaneous rupture of membranes. The retrospective chart audit was performed by research midwives who queried 2 electronic medical record databases, 1 for provider progress notes and 1 for nursing notes.

Results: On average, a woman underwent 4 vaginal examinations during labor, a rate greater than the World Health Organization recommendation of 1 examination every 4 hours during the first stage. The rate of presumed chorioamnionitis in this group of healthy, low‐risk women was 6%, and women with this diagnosis averaged 7 vaginal examinations.

Discussion: After presentation and discussion of the audit findings, the midwives expressed appreciation for the opportunity to explore such a fundamental element of clinical practice and a heightened awareness of the importance of performing and documenting vaginal examinations. Audits of a similar nature in other midwifery practices are needed, as are studies exploring rates and possible modifiable causes of chorioamnionitis in low‐risk women.
Uterine Activity During the Third Stage of Labor
Authors: Schorn Mavis N.
Published: February 2012

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of intrauterine pressure catheters (IUPCs) to measure uterine activity during the third stage of labor.

Methods: The study was conducted in a tertiary‐care center. All births were attended by certified nurse‐midwives. Low‐risk pregnant women at term gestation had intrauterine monitoring attempted during the third stage of labor. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and analysis of variance.

Results: Of the 36 women in the study, 19 had clear contractions recorded, 4 had unclear contractions, and 13 had flat tracings. The IUPC was useful for measuring uterine activity in a small number of women during the third stage of labor. When measured, uterine contractions were variable in strength and frequency.

Discussion: Intrauterine pressure catheters can be used as a measurement of uterine activity during the third stage of labor and should be considered for future research about third‐stage physiology. Further work is needed to determine the best procedure for placement, and IUPC use before expulsion of the placenta will not be useful in all women. Effective measurement of uterine activity may guide future research on interventions to reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.
A Facile Starch‐Assisted Sol–Gel Method to Synthesize K‐Doped Li2ZrO3 Sorbents with Excellent CO2 Capture Properties
Authors: Xiao Qiang , Tang Xiaodan , Zhong Yijun , Zhu Weidong
Published: February 2012

A facile starch‐assisted sol–gel method combined with freeze‐drying technique has been developed to synthesize K‐doped Li2ZrO3 sorbents. SEM, TEM, and XRD techniques have been applied to characterize the morphology and structure of the synthesized K‐doped Li2ZrO3 samples. The CO2 capture‐regeneration properties of the prepared K‐doped Li2ZrO3 sample were investigated using thermogravimetric analysis at different CO2 partial pressures. The K‐doped Li2ZrO3 synthesized using the starch‐assisted sol–gel method combined with the freeze‐drying technique shows excellent CO2 capture properties. At 823 K and a CO2 partial pressure of 0.25 bar, the uptake of CO2 reaches 22 wt% within 20 min, which is approximately 87% of the stoichiometric sorption capacity (25.3 wt%) of CO2 in the K‐doped Li2ZrO3 with a K:Li:Zr composition of 0.2:1.6:1 in molar ratio. Furthermore, the sorbent shows a good stability, confirmed using capture‐regeneration cycles.
Soy Milks as a Dairy Milk Substitute in Prepared Food Products: Effects on Quality and Acceptability
Authors: Swanson Ruthann B. , McKemie Rebecca J. , Sabrin Michael D. , Milly Paul J.
Published: February 2012

Two plain soy milks (full‐fat and light) replaced 100% of the whole dairy (cow) milk in control formulas for muffins, popovers, and frozen custard‐based ice milk dessert. Milks incorporated differed in total solids, pH, viscosity, particle size distribution, and color when assessed instrumentally. Quality of the prepared food products was evaluated with objective techniques, and consumer sensory panelists assessed appearance, flavor, texture, and overall acceptability. No effect of soy milk fat content on product quality or acceptability was found. Soy milk substitution impacted food product color (L*,a*, orb*). In custard‐based ice milk dessert, overrun % did not differ with milk source; however, sensory results revealed both soy milks were unacceptable substitutes. In popovers, neither volume nor acceptability differed with soy milk substitution. For muffins, flavor, texture, and overall acceptability did not differ, and appearance of the soy milk products was preferred; instrumental textural differences were not found. Either soy milk can successfully be substituted for dairy milk in muffins and popovers; nutritionally, use of light soy milk is recommended.
Acquisition of human alveolar bone‐derived stromal cells using minimally irrigated implant osteotomy: in vitro and in vivo evaluations
Authors: Park Jung‐Chul , Kim Jane C. , Kim Yong‐Tae , Choi Seong‐Ho , Cho Kyoo‐Sung , Im Gun‐Il , Kim Byung‐Soo , Kim Chang‐Sung
Published: February 2012

Objectives

Implant osteotomy yields a substantial amount of bone in the form of bone chips entrapped within drill flutes, and can provide a promising cell source for tissue engineering. The aims of this study were to isolate human alveolar bone‐derived stromal cells (hABCs) obtained during implant osteotomy, and to evaluate osteogenic differentiation capacity of hABCs.

Material and methods

Bone chips were obtained by minimally irrigated implant drilling technique from 10 human donors. Isolated cells were studied with respect to their colony‐forming efficiency, surface marker expression by immunofluorescence staining, fluorescence‐activated cell sorting analysis and self‐renewal potency. To verify the differentiation activity, in vitro osteogenic and adipogenic gene expressions were evaluated by reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction, and in vitro formation of mineralized nodule and adipocytes was also evaluated. In vivo bone‐forming activity was assessed by ectopic transplantation in immunocompromised mice (n = 5).

Results

Human alveolar bone‐derived stromal cells population with characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells was present in the isolated cells. Upon hABC transplantation, significant ectopic bone formation was induced with the characteristics of fully matured bone tissue.

Conclusion

The data support the feasibility of using hABCs as a source of stem cells for dentoalveolar bone tissue reconstruction. The cell source has an advantage that the hABCs can be easily acquired during implant surgery.
A novel α0‐thalassemia deletion in a Greek patient with HbH disease and β‐thalassemia trait
Authors: Phylipsen Marion , Traeger‐Synodinos Jan , van der Kraan Martijn , van Delft Peter , Bakker Greet , Geerts Mariska , Kanavakis Emmanuel , Stamoulakatou Alexandra , Karagiorga Markissia , Giordano Piero C. , Harteveld Cornelis L.
Published: February 2012

Objectives:  To determine the molecular basis in a Greek child suspected of having HbH disease and β‐thalassemia trait.

Methods:  Standard hematology, Hb electrophoresis, and HPLC. Multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA), direct sequencing, and breakpoint characterization by NimbleGen fine‐tiling array analysis.

Results:  The index patient showed a moderate microcytic hypochromic anemia with normal ZPP and elevated HbA2, indicative for β‐thalassemia trait. However, the moderate microcytic hypochromic anemia along with the observation of HbH inclusions in occasional red blood cells suggested a coexisting α‐thalassemia. Molecular analysis indicated that the propositus inherited the β+‐thalassemia mutation IVS2‐745 (c>g) and a novel α0‐thalassemia deletion from the mother, and the common non‐deletion α‐thalassemia allele α2(−5nt)α from the father. The α0‐thalassemia deletion, named ‐ ‐BGS, is approximately 131.6 kb in length. It removes the major regulatory elements along with the functional α‐globin genes but leaves the theta‐gene intact.

Conclusions:  The compound interaction of a β‐thalassemia defect along with a single functional α‐globin gene is quite rare. Although patients with HbH/β‐thal and simple HbH disease have comparable levels of Hb, the absence of free β‐globin chains and thus detectable non‐functional HbH means that in HbH/β‐thal, the levels of functional Hb are higher, resulting in a better compensated functional anemia. Rare large deletions as the one described here remain undetected by gap‐PCR in routine molecular screening. The introduction of MLPA as a diagnostic screening tool may improve laboratory diagnostics for these defects. The use of NimbleGen fine‐tiling arrays may give additional information about the precise location of breakpoints.
Influence of air‐abrasion executed with polyacrylic acid‐Bioglass 45S5 on the bonding performance of a resin‐modified glass ionomer cement
Authors: Sauro Salvatore , Watson Timothy F. , Thompson Ian , Toledano Manuel , Nucci Cesare , Banerjee Avijit
Published: February 2012

Sauro S, Watson TF, Thompson I, Toledano M, Nucci C, Banerjee A. Influence of air‐abrasion executed with polyacrylic acid‐Bioglass 45S5 on the bonding performance of a resin‐modified glass ionomer cement.
 
Eur J Oral Sci 2012; 120: 168–177. © 2012 Eur J Oral Sci

The aim of this study was to test the microtensile bond strength (μTBS), after 6 months of storage in PBS, of a resin‐modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) bonded to dentine pretreated with Bioglass 45S5 (BAG) using various etching and air‐abrasion techniques. The RMGIC (GC Fuji II LC) was applied onto differently treated dentine surfaces followed by light curing for 30s. The specimens were cut into matchsticks with cross‐sectional areas of 0.9 mm2. The μTBS of the specimens was measured after 24 h or 6 months of storage in PBS and the results were statistically analysed using two‐way anova and the Student–Newman–Keuls test (α = 0.05). Further RMCGIC‐bonded dentine specimens were used for interfacial characterization, micropermeability, and nanoleakage analyses by confocal microscopy. The RMGIC–dentine interface layer showed no water absorption after 6 months of storage in PBS except for the interdiffusion layer of the silicon carbide (SiC)‐abraded/polyacrylic acid (PAA)‐etched bonded dentine. The RMGIC applied onto dentine air‐abraded with BAG/H2O only or with BAG/PAA‐fluid followed by etching procedures (10% PAA gel) showed no statistically significant reduction in μTBS after 6 months of storage in PBS. The abrasion procedures performed using BAG in combination with PAA might be a suitable strategy to enhance the bonding durability and the healing ability of RMGIC bonded to dentine.
Biophysical characterization of synthetic amelogenin C‐terminal peptides
Authors: Khan Feroz , Li Wu , Habelitz Stefan
Published: February 2012

Khan F, Li W, Habelitz S. Biophysical characterization of synthetic amelogenin C‐terminal peptides.
 
Eur J Oral Sci 2012; 120: 113–122. © 2012 Eur J Oral Sci

Amelogenin plays a key role in the formation of the highly mineralized structure of tooth enamel. During the secretory stage, amelogenin is cleaved gradually by a protease, matrix metalloproteinase‐20 (MMP‐20), releasing hydrophilic C‐terminal peptides. In this study, the biophysical properties of synthetic C‐terminal peptides (of 28, 17, and 11 residues), mimicking native peptides, were explored in vitro. A sudden decrease was observed in the zeta (ζ)‐potential upon the addition of calcium or phosphates, which was also accompanied by an increased aggregation propensity of the peptides. Under most of the experimental conditions, the particle size increased at a pH 2–3 units higher than the isoelectric point (pI) of the peptides, while the peptides existed as smaller particles (<2 nm) near their pI values and in the acidic range. They showed poor affinity for calcium and phosphates, comparable to full‐length amelogenin and variants. The secondary structure determination showed that the 11‐amino‐acid peptide contained defined secondary structure comprising beta‐sheets and turns. Atomic force microscopy analysis revealed the presence of thin, disk‐like nanostructures of 54.4 nm diameter for the 28‐amino‐acid peptide and 54.9 nm diameter for the 11‐amino acid peptide, whereas no definite structures were observed for the 17‐amino‐acid peptide. It is concluded that the amelogenin C‐terminal peptides are capable of interacting with calcium and phosphate ions, of self‐assembly into nanostructures, and may have some secondary structure, and hence may have some role in enamel synthesis.
Developing an interdisciplinary consultation service for vulvar disorders
Authors: Anemüller Waltraud , Recke Andreas , Altgassen Christopher , Kelling Katharina
Published: February 2012

Background: Diseases of the vulva often cause severe impairment and long‐term problems for the affected women. Adequate treatment requires expert knowledge on the part of treating dermatologists and gynecologists. This was the reason for the initiation of an interdisciplinary consultation service for vulvar diseases at the University Hospital of Lübeck.

Patients and methods: Over a period of 2½ years, 208 patients were seen in the new consultation service. Cases were classified as inflammatory diseases, neoplastic diseases, infectious diseases, vulvodynia, or genodermatoses. The effectiveness of treatment was documented by photography, biopsy and – whenever applicable – a quality of life assessment using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI).

Results: Inflammatory dermatoses were diagnosed in 133 patients and neoplas‐tic diseases in 32 patients. Infection was diagnosed in 25 patients, vulvodynia in 8, genodermatoses in 3 and other diseases in 7. The DLQI was assessed in 140 patients. Of these, 55 patients had a DLQI > 10 (0–30), indicating severe or extreme impairment of quality of life. A follow‐up DLQI was collected in 81 patients, showing a significant improvement.

Conclusions: The patients and both hospital facilities benefitted from the interdisciplinary consultation service. The initial high costs in terms of medical staff and time was compensated by the development of diagnostic and treatment algorithms. Overall, the concept received positive feedback from patients and medical staff members.
MicroRNA‐182 targets cAMP‐responsive element‐binding protein 1 and suppresses cell growth in human gastric adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kong Wei‐Qing , Bai Ru , Liu Tao , Cai Chun‐Li , Liu Min , Li Xin , Tang Hua
Published: February 2012

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) constitute a class of noncoding RNAs that post‐transcriptionally regulate gene expression. Recent evidence indicates that many miRNAs function as oncogenes or tumor suppressors by negatively regulating their target genes. In our previous study, using miRNA microarray analysis, we found that miRNA‐182 (miR‐182) was significantly downregulated in human gastric adenocarcinoma tissue samples. Here, we confirmed the downregulation of miR‐182 in a larger sample of gastric tissue samples. Overexpression of miR‐182 suppressed the proliferation and colony formation of gastric cancer cells. An oncogene, encoding cAMP‐responsive element binding protein 1 (CREB1), serves as a direct target gene of miR‐182. A fluorescent reporter assay confirmed that miR‐182 binds specifically to the predicted site of the CREB1 mRNA 3′‐UTR. When miR‐182 was overexpressed in gastric cancer cell lines, both the mRNA and protein levels of CREB1 were depressed. Furthermore, CREB1 was present at a high level in human gastric adenocarcinoma tissues, and this was inversely correlated with miR‐182 expression. Ectopic expression of CREB1 overcame the suppressive phenotypes of gastric cancer cells caused by miR‐182. These results indicate that miR‐182 targets the CREB1 gene and suppresses gastric adenocarcinoma cell growth, suggesting that miR‐182 shows tumor‐suppressive activity in human gastric cancer.
Identification of NME5 as a contributor to innate resistance to gemcitabine in pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Li Fu , Hu Gang , Jiang Zhenzhou , Guo Jingjing , Wang Ke , Ouyang Kedong , Wen Danyi , Zhu Minghua , Liang Jiaxin , Qin Xiaoran , Zhang Luyong
Published: February 2012

The limited therapeutic effect of gemcitabine on pancreatic cancer is largely attributed to pre‐existing or acquired resistance of the tumor cells. This study was aimed at screening for candidate resistance‐related gene(s) and elucidating the underlying mechanisms. NME5 was found to be highly expressed in an innate gemcitabine‐resistant human pancreatic cancer sample and the cell line PAXC002 derived from the sample. Downregulation of NME5 significantly reversed gemcitabine resistance in PAXC002 cells, whereas NME5 overexpression induced gemcitabine resistance in the pancreatic cancer cell line BxPC‐3. NME5 attenuated the induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest induced by gemcitabine, probably accounting for the blunted sensitivity to gemcitabine. Furthermore, NME5 was demonstrated to play its role in a nuclear factor kappaB (NF‐κB)‐dependent manner. NME5 was capable of directly binding NF‐κB, and possibly regulated its expression level in PAXC002 cells. Our results also suggest that NF‐κB is a key executor of NME5 in regulating apoptosis and cell cycle. All of these data suggest that NME5 is a promising target for relieving innate gemcitabine resistance in pancreatic cancer cells.

Structured digital abstract

 NME5 physically interacts with NF‐kappa‐B p65 by anti bait coimmunoprecipitation (View interaction)
Modulation of in vitro activity of zymogenic and mature recombinant human β‐secretase by dietary plants
Authors: Sheean Paul , Rout Manoj K. , Head Richard J. , Bennett Louise E.
Published: February 2012

The in vitro activity of human recombinant β‐secretase (BACE1) was studied using a fluorogenic substrate based on the cleavage site for the enzyme in the Swedish mutation of amyloid precursor protein. The enzyme was inhibited by a control peptide inhibitor with good repeatability. The enzyme preparation comprised a mixture of pro‐enzyme or zymogen and mature enzyme whereby the pro‐enzyme sequence forms a ‘flap’ that can obstruct the binding site. ‘Open flap’ forms of the zymogen and mature enzyme are active, but the ‘closed flap’ form of the zymogen is inactive. This mixture of enzyme populations permitted apparent stimulation of enzyme activity under particular conditions, presumably due to facilitating flap‐opening of the zymogen. As reported for heparin, enzyme activation was stimulated in the presence of low concentrations of Tween 20 and dimethylsulfoxide before becoming inhibited at higher concentrations. Dietary plant extracts either consistently inhibited (e.g. clove, tea, cinammon) or consistently stimulated (e.g. mushroom, parsley, asparagus) BACE1. Common structural features identified by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that BACE1 activity could be explained by differential interactions of either small molecule or polymeric species with mature versus zymogen forms of the enzyme, respectively. Further, enzyme activity could be reversed by mixtures of high and low mass species. These results may have implications for the regulation of β‐secretase activity in vivo by either endogenous or possibly dietary factors and for a potential role of BACE1 in stimulation of the production of amyloid beta peptide in sporadic Alzheimer’s disease.
Silver nanoparticles induce apoptotic cell death in Candida albicans through the increase of hydroxyl radicals
Authors: Hwang In‐sok , Lee Juneyoung , Hwang Ji Hong , Kim Keuk‐Jun , Lee Dong Gun
Published: February 2012

Silver nanoparticles have been shown to be detrimental to fungal cells although the mechanism(s) of action have not been clearly established. In this study, we used Candida albicans cells to show that silver nanoparticles exert their antifungal effect through apoptosis. Many studies have shown that the accumulation of reactive oxygen species induces and regulates the induction of apoptosis. Furthermore, hydroxyl radicals are considered an important component of cell death. Therefore, we assumed that hydroxyl radicals were related to apoptosis and the effect of thiourea as a hydroxyl radical scavenger was investigated. We measured the production of reactive oxygen species and investigated whether silver nanoparticles induced the accumulation of hydroxyl radicals. A reduction in the mitochondrial membrane potential shown by flow cytometry analysis and the release of cytochrome c from mitochondria were also verified. In addition, the apoptotic effects of silver nanoparticles were detected by fluorescence microscopy using other confirmed diagnostic markers of yeast apoptosis including phosphatidylserine externalization, DNA and nuclear fragmentation, and the activation of metacaspases. Cells exposed to silver nanoparticles showed increased reactive oxygen species and hydroxyl radical production. All other phenomena of mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptotic features also appeared. The results indicate that silver nanoparticles possess antifungal effects with apoptotic features and we suggest that the hydroxyl radicals generated by silver nanoparticles have a significant role in mitochondrial dysfunctional apoptosis.