bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electroanatomic Remodeling of the Left Atrium in Paroxysmal and Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Patients Without Structural Heart Disease
Authors: TEH ANDREW W. , KISTLER PETER M. , LEE GEOFFREY , MEDI CAROLINE , HECK PATRICK M. , SPENCE STEVEN J. , SPARKS PAUL B. , MORTON JOSEPH B. , KALMAN JONATHAN M.
Published: September 2011

Atrial Remodeling in Atrial Fibrillation. Introduction: The nature of the atrial substrate thought to contribute toward maintaining atrial fibrillation (AF) outside the pulmonary veins remains poorly defined. Therefore, our objective was to determine whether patients with paroxysmal and persistent AF have an abnormal electroanatomic substrate within the left atrium (LA).

Methods and Results:
Thirty‐one patients with AF (17 paroxysmal AF and 14 persistent AF) were compared with 15 age‐matched controls with left‐sided supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). High‐density 3‐dimensional electroanatomic maps were created and the LA was divided into 8 segments for regional analysis. Bipolar voltage, conduction, and effective refractory periods (ERPs) of the posterior LA, left atrial appendage (LAA), and distal coronary sinus (CSd) and percentage complex signals were assessed. In the majority of LA regions, compared with controls, AF patients had: (1) lower mean voltage and a higher percentage low voltage; (2) slower conduction; and (3) more prevalent complex signals. Many of these changes were more marked in the persistent than the paroxysmal AF group.

Conclusions:
Patients with AF have lower regional voltage, increased proportion of low voltage, slowed conduction, and increased proportion of complex signals compared to controls. Many of these changes are more pronounced in persistent AF patients, suggesting there may be a progressive nature to the changes. Differences occurred in the absence of structural heart disease. These substrate abnormalities provide further insight into the progressive nature of atrial remodeling and the mechanisms involved in maintenance of AF. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23 p. 232‐238, March 2012.)
Ablation of Perimitral Flutter Following Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation: Impact on Outcomes from a Randomized Study (PROPOSE)
Authors: BAI RONG , BIASE LUIGI DI , MOHANTY PRASANT , RUSSO ANTONIO DELLO , CASELLA MICHELA , PELARGONIO GEMMA , THEMISTOCLAKIS SAKIS , MOHANTY SANGHAMITRA , ELAYI CLAUDE S. , SANCHEZ JAVIER , BURKHARDT J. DAVID , HORTON RODNEY , GALLINGHOUSE G. JOSEPH , BAILEY SHANE M. , BONSO ALDO , BEHEIRY SALWA , HONGO RICHARD H. , RAVIELE ANTONIO , TONDO CLAUDIO , NATALE ANDREA
Published: September 2011

MVI Block vs Trigger Ablation in PMFL. Introduction: Patients with previous ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) may experience recurrence of perimitral flutter (PMFL). These arrhythmias are usually triggered from sources that may also induce AF. This study aims at determining whether ablation of triggers or completing mitral valve isthmus (MVI) block prevents more arrhythmia recurrences.

Methods and Results: Sixty‐five patients with recurrent PMFL after initial ablation of long standing persistent AF were included in this study. Thirty‐two patients were randomized to MVI ablation only (Group 1) and 33 were randomized to cardioversion and repeat pulmonary vein (PV) isolation plus ablation of non‐PV triggers (Group 2). MVI bidirectional block was achieved in all but 1 patient from Group 1. In Group 2, reconnection of 17 PVs was detected in 14 patients (42%). With isoproterenol challenge, 44 non‐PV trigger sites were identified in 28 patients (85%, 1.57 sites per patient). At 18‐month follow‐up, 27 patients (84%) from Group 1 had recurrent atrial tachyarrhythmias, of whom 15 remained on antiarrhythmic drug (AAD); however, 28 patients from Group 2 (85%, P < 0.0001 vs Group 1) were free from arrhythmia off AAD. The ablation strategy used in Group 2 was associated with a lower risk of recurrence (hazard ratio = 0.10, 95% CI 0.04–0.28, P < 0.001) and an improved arrhythmia‐free survival (log rank P < 0.0001).

Conclusion: In patients presenting with PMFL after ablation for longstanding persistent AF, MVI block had limited impact on arrhythmia recurrence. On the other hand, elimination of all PV and non‐PV triggers achieved higher freedom from atrial arrhythmias at follow‐up. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 137‐144, February 2012)
Differential Structural Remodeling of the Left‐Atrial Posterior Wall in Patients Affected by Mitral Regurgitation with or Without Persistent Atrial Fibrillation: A Morphological and Molecular Study
Authors: CORRADI DOMENICO , CALLEGARI SERGIO , MAESTRI ROBERTA , FERRARA DAVID , MANGIERI DOMENICA , ALINOVI ROSSELLA , MOZZONI PAOLA , PINELLI SILVANA , GOLDONI MATTEO , PRIVITERA YLENIA ADELAIDE , BARTOLI VERONICA , ASTORRI ETTORE , MACCHI EMILIO , VAGLIO AUGUSTO , BENUSSI STEFANO , ALFIERI OTTAVIO
Published: September 2011

Structural Remodeling in Atrial Fibrillation. Introduction: Atrial fibrillation (AF) in mitral regurgitation (MR) is a complex disease where multiple factors may induce left‐atrial structural remodeling (SR). We explored the differential SR of the left‐atrial posterior wall (LAPW) of patients affected by MR with or without persistent AF, and the expression of key proteins involved in its pathogenesis.

Methods and Results: Light microscopy of LAPW samples from 27 patients with MR and persistent AF (group 1), 33 with MR in sinus rhythm (group 2), and 15 autopsy controls (group 3) was used to measure myocyte diameter, percentage of myocytolytic myocytes, interstitial fibrosis, and capillary density; RT‐PCR and Western blotting were used to assess the mRNA and protein levels of SOD‐1, SOD‐2, HO‐1, calpain, MMP‐2, MMP‐9, TIMP‐1, TIMP‐2, and VEGF; immunofluorescence was used to locate these proteins. Myocyte diameter was similar in groups 1 and 2, but larger than controls. Compared to group 2, group 1 had more myocytolytic myocytes (20.8 ± 5.6% vs 14.7 ± 4.5%; P < 0.0001), increased interstitial fibrosis (10.4 ± 5.1% vs 7.5 ± 4.2%; P < 0.05), and decreased capillary density (923 ± 107 No/mm2 vs 1,040 ± 100 No/mm2; P < 0.0001). All of the proteins were more expressed in groups 1 and 2 than in controls. The protein and mRNA levels of SOD‐1, SOD‐2, MMP‐2, and MMP‐9 were higher in group 1 than in group 2.

Conclusions: The LAPW of MR patients with or without AF shows considerable SR. The former has more severe histopathological changes and higher levels of proteins involved in SR, thereby reaching a threshold beyond which the sinus impulse cannot normally activate atrial myocardium. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23 p. 271‐279, March 2012.)
Quantile Regression for Doubly Censored Data
Authors: Ji Shuang , Peng Limin , Cheng Yu , Lai HuiChuan
Published: September 2011

Summary Double censoring often occurs in registry studies when left censoring is present in addition to right censoring. In this work, we propose a new analysis strategy for such doubly censored data by adopting a quantile regression model. We develop computationally simple estimation and inference procedures by appropriately using the embedded martingale structure. Asymptotic properties, including the uniform consistency and weak convergence, are established for the resulting estimators. Moreover, we propose conditional inference to address the special identifiability issues attached to the double censoring setting. We further show that the proposed method can be readily adapted to handle left truncation. Simulation studies demonstrate good finite‐sample performance of the new inferential procedures. The practical utility of our method is illustrated by an analysis of the onset of the most commonly investigated respiratory infection, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, in children with cystic fibrosis through the use of the U.S. Cystic Fibrosis Registry.
Penalized Generalized Estimating Equations for High‐Dimensional Longitudinal Data Analysis
Authors: Wang Lan , Zhou Jianhui , Qu Annie
Published: September 2011

Summary We consider the penalized generalized estimating equations (GEEs) for analyzing longitudinal data with high‐dimensional covariates, which often arise in microarray experiments and large‐scale health studies. Existing high‐dimensional regression procedures often assume independent data and rely on the likelihood function. Construction of a feasible joint likelihood function for high‐dimensional longitudinal data is challenging, particularly for correlated discrete outcome data. The penalized GEE procedure only requires specifying the first two marginal moments and a working correlation structure. We establish the asymptotic theory in a high‐dimensional framework where the number of covariates pn increases as the number of clusters n increases, and pn can reach the same order as n. One important feature of the new procedure is that the consistency of model selection holds even if the working correlation structure is misspecified. We evaluate the performance of the proposed method using Monte Carlo simulations and demonstrate its application using a yeast cell‐cycle gene expression data set.
Logistic Bayesian LASSO for Identifying Association with Rare Haplotypes and Application to Age‐Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Biswas Swati , Lin Shili
Published: September 2011

Summary Rare variants have been heralded as key to uncovering “missing heritability” in complex diseases. These variants can now be genotyped using next‐generation sequencing technologies; nonetheless, rare haplotypes may also result from combination of common single nucleotide polymorphisms available from genome‐wide association studies (GWAS). The National Eye Institute’s data on age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) is such an example. Studies on AMD had identified potential rare variants; however, due to lack of appropriate statistical tools, effects of individual rare haplotypes were never studied. Here we develop a method for identifying association with rare haplotypes for case–control design. A logistic regression based retrospective likelihood is formulated and is regularized using logistic Bayesian LASSO (LBL). In particular, we penalize the regression coefficients using appropriate priors to weed out unassociated haplotypes, making it possible for the rare associated ones to stand out. We applied LBL to the AMD data and identified common and rare haplotypes in the complement factor H gene, gaining insights into rare variants’ contributions to AMD beyond the current literature. This analysis also demonstrates the richness of GWAS data for mapping rare haplotypes—a potential largely unexplored. Additionally, we conducted simulations to investigate the performance of LBL and compare it with Hapassoc. Our results show that LBL is much more powerful in identifying rare associated haplotypes when the false positive rates for both approaches are kept the same.
Redox Balance in the Aging Microcirculation: New Friends, New Foes, and New Clinical Directions
Authors: MULLER‐DELP JUDY M. , GUROVICH ALVARO N. , CHRISTOU DEMETRA D. , LEEUWENBURGH CHRISTIAAN
Published: September 2011

Please cite this paper as: Muller‐Delp, Gurovich, Christou, and Leeuwenburgh (2012). Redox Balance in the Aging Microcirculation: New Friends, New Foes, and New Clinical Directions. Microcirculation 19(1), 19–28.

Cardiovascular aging is associated with a decline in the function of the vascular endothelium. Considerable evidence indicates that age‐induced impairment of endothelium‐dependent vasodilation results from a reduction in the availability of nitric oxide (NO•). NO• can be scavenged by reactive oxygen species (ROS), in particular by superoxide radical (O2•−), and age‐related increases in ROS have been demonstrated to contribute to reduced endothelium‐dependent vasodilation in numerous large artery preparations. In contrast, emerging data suggest that ROS may play a compensatory role in endothelial function of the aging microvasculature. The primary goal of this review is to discuss reports in the literature which indicate that ROS function as important signaling molecules in the aging microvasculature. Emphasis is placed upon discussion of the emerging roles of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and peroxynitrite (ONOO•−) in the aging microcirculation. Overall, existing data in animal models suggest that maintenance in the balance of ROS is critical to successful microvascular aging. The limited work that has been performed to investigate the role of ROS in human microvascular aging is also discussed, and the need for future investigations of ROS signaling in older humans is considered.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Intrinsic Hardness of Layered Nanolaminate Ti3AlC2 and Ti3Al0.8Sn0.2C2 Solid Solution
Authors: Bei G. P. , Gauthier‐Brunet V. , Tromas C. , Dubois S.
Published: September 2011

The HIPing of Ti–Al–1.9TiC and Ti–Al–0.2Sn–1.8TiC reactant mixtures yields Ti3AlC2 and Ti3Al0.8Sn0.2C2 solid solutions, respectively. Rietveld refinement gives a = 3.0786 ± 0.0001 Å and c = 18.589 ± 0.001 Å lattice parameters for Ti3AlC2 and a = 3.0837 ± 0.0001 Å and c = 18.621 ± 0.002 Å for Ti3Al0.8Sn0.2C2. Furthermore, about 2–3 vol% of TixAly intermetallics is detected in Ti3Al0.8Sn0.2C2 solid solution. The intrinsic hardness, measured by nanoindention tests, is 11.4 ± 0.7 GPa for Ti3AlC2 and 10.2 ± 0.6 GPa for Ti3Al0.8Sn0.2C2. Furthermore, hardness values, measured by microindentation tests, are compared with the ones measured by nanoindentation. It is shown that microindentation and nanoindentation performed with large loads lead to underestimated hardness values as several grains are involved in the deformation process. Finally, Young's modulus of Ti3AlC2 and Ti3Al0.8Sn0.2C2 is 260 ± 10 and 250 ± 10 GPa, respectively.
Enhanced Microwave Dielectric Properties of (Zr0.8,Sn0.2)TiO4 Ceramics with the Addition of Its Own Nanoparticles
Authors: Pamu D. , Lakshmi Narayana Rao G. , James Raju K. C.
Published: September 2011

Nanoparticles of (Zr0.8Sn0.2)TiO4 (ZST) ceramics were prepared by ball milling. Different concentrations of (1, 2 and 3 wt%) nanoparticles of size about 60 nm were introduced into the sub micron‐sized (0.8 μm) powder of the ZST ceramics to study the effect of their inclusion on densification, microstructure, and microwave dielectric properties of the ZST ceramics. It is found that the addition of nanoparticles to the ZST ceramics significantly improved the density with reduction in sintering temperature. In the present case, it is believed that the surface energy of fine powders and their defect energy are the driving force for sintering and increase in uniform grain size, which are activated at the sintering temperature. The microwave dielectric properties of ZST ceramics were also heavily influenced by the addition of nanoparticles of ZST. The maximum dielectric constant of 39.2 and Q × fo value of 72 900 were found to be for the samples added with 2 wt% of the nanoparticles and sintered at 1300°C for 3 h. However, it is observed that samples made with nanopowder alone exhibited poor sinterability.
Flash‐Sinterforging of Nanograin Zirconia: Field Assisted Sintering and Superplasticity
Authors: Francis John S.C. , Raj Rishi
Published: September 2011

We report on the influence of a uniaxial applied stress on flash‐sintering and field assisted superplastic behavior of cylindrical powder preforms of 3 mol% tetragonal‐stabilized zirconia. The experiments use the sinterforging method, where, in addition to pressure, a dc electrical field is applied by metal electrodes sandwiched between the push‐rods and the specimen. The axial and radial strains in the experiment provide simultaneous measurement of the time‐dependent densification and shear strains. Large effects of the electric field on sintering and superplasticity are observed. We see flash‐sintering which is characterized by a threshold level of temperature and electric field. With higher applied fields, the sample sinters at a lower furnace temperature. Surprisingly, the applied stress further lowers this critical temperature: a sample, which sinters at 915°C under a stress of 1.5 MPa, densifies at only 850°C when the stress is raised to 12 MPa. This stress induced reduction in sintering temperature maybe related to the additional electrical fields generated within the specimen by the electro‐chemo‐mechanical mechanism described by Pannikkat and Raj [Acta Mater., 47 (1999) 3423]. Remarkably, we also show that the sample deforms in pure shear to 30% strain in just a few seconds at anomalously low temperatures. The specimen temperature was measured with a pyrometer, during the flash sintering, as a check on Joule heating. A reading of 1000°C–1100°C was obtained, up to 200° above the furnace temperature. This temperature is still too low to explain the sintering in just a few seconds. It is suggested that the electric field can nucleate a defect avalanche that enhances diffusion kinetics not by changing the activation energy but by increasing the pre‐exponential factor for the diffusion coefficient, noting that the pre‐exponential factor depends on concentration of defects, and not upon their mobility.
Silicon Carbide Nanopowders: The Parametric Study of Synthesis by Laser Pyrolysis
Authors: Réau Adrien , Guizard Benoît , Canel Jérôme , Galy Jean , Ténégal François
Published: September 2011

Silicon carbide (SiC) nanopowders were synthesized by laser pyrolysis using a pilot scale facility to achieve production rates higher than 1.1 kg/h. For a better control of the process, the synthesis parameters have been systematically studied and their influences were determined. The reactants‘ speed has been studied between 128 and 766 cm/s and the power density between 150 and 2050 W/cm². Furthermore, the influence of the injector shape on the homogeneity of the produced nanopowders has been investigated. The powders were characterized by BET and TEM to determine the particle size distribution and their average diameter. This study allowed us to better understand the influence of these key synthesis parameters and produce large quantities of uniform batches of SiC nanopowders, with an average size adjusted between 18 and 100 nm with narrow size distribution.
Does Weather Actually Affect Tipping? An Empirical Analysis of Time‐Series Data1
Authors: FLYNN SEAN MASAKI , GREENBERG ADAM ERIC
Published: September 2011

Prior literature has found evidence that pleasant weather (namely, sunshine) leads to higher tipping rates, presumably because it improves the moods of either servers or patrons. However, studies examining the relationship between pleasant weather and tipping behavior have involved relatively small samples of participants and daily observations. In addition, only one such study (Cunningham, 1979) used actual weather data to examine this relationship. We address these shortcomings by testing empirically the weather–tipping relationship on 2 years of actual sales data from a busy restaurant. We found no statistically significant relationship between sunshine and tipping. Tipping appears to be better explained as an institutional standard or norm, rather than as a prosocial behavior that can be modulated by weather‐induced changes in mood.
Two Pieces of the Same Puzzle? Script‐Based Car Choice Habits Between the Influence of Socialization and Past Behavior1
Authors: KLÖCKNER CHRISTIAN A. , MATTHIES ELLEN
Published: September 2011

This paper presents 2 online studies that were conducted on students' travel‐mode choice to determine the theoretical status of a script‐based habit construct. Study 1 (N = 3,755) showed that habits mediate the influence of 3 aspects of travel‐mode socialization: (a) frequency of parents' use of public transportation; (b) experiencing acquisition of driver's license as initiation to adulthood; and (c) multi‐mobility of peer group. Study 2 (N = 430) demonstrated in a cross‐lagged panel design that car choice habits are directly influenced only by past behavior and not by personal norms or perceived behavioral control. Taken together, both studies suggest that habits do include socialization influences, but that these influences must be mediated through the intermediate step of past behavior.
Regional differences in surgical intervention following medical termination of pregnancy provided by telemedicine
Authors: GOMPERTS REBECCA , PETOW SABINE A. M. , JELINSKA KINGA , STEEN LOUIS , GEMZELL‐DANIELSSON KRISTINA , KLEIVERDA GUNILLA
Published: September 2011

Objective. Analysis of factors influencing surgical intervention rate after home medical termination of pregnancy (TOP) by women in countries without access to safe services using the telemedical service ‘Women on Web’. Design. Cohort study. Setting. Women with an unwanted pregnancy less than nine weeks pregnant who used the telemedicine service of Women on Web between February 2007 and September 2008 and provided follow‐up information. Sample. Women who used medical TOP with a known follow up. Methods. Information from the online consultation, follow‐up form and emails was used to analyze the outcome of the TOP. Main Outcome Measures. Ongoing pregnancy, reason for surgical intervention, perceived complications and satisfaction. Results. Of the 2 323 women who did the medical TOP and had no ongoing pregnancy, 289 (12.4%) received a surgical intervention. High rates were found in Eastern Europe (14.8%), Latin America (14.4%) and Asia/Oceania (11.0%) and low rates in Western Europe (5.8%), the Middle East (4.7%) and Africa (6.1%; p=0.000). More interventions occurred with longer gestational age (p=0.000). Women without a surgical intervention more frequently reported satisfaction with the treatment (p=0.000). Conclusions. The large regional differences in the rates of reported surgical interventions after medical TOP provided by telemedicine cannot be explained by demographic factors or differences in gestational length. It is likely that these differences reflect different clinical practice and local guidelines on (incomplete) abortion rather than complications that genuinely needed surgical intervention. Surgical interventions significantly influenced womens’ views on the acceptability of the TOP.
Retrospective analysis of survival rates and marginal bone loss on short implants in the mandible
Authors: Draenert Florian G. , Sagheb Keyvan , Baumgardt Katharina , Kämmerer Peer W.
Published: September 2011

Objectives

Short implants have become an interesting alternative to bone augmentation in dental implantology. Design of shorter implants and longer surveillance times are a current research issue. The goal of this study was to show the survival rates of short implants below 9 mm in the partly edentulous mandibular premolar and molar regions with fixed prosthetics. Marginal vertical and 2D bone loss was evaluated additionally. Different implant designs are orientationally evaluated.

Material and Methods

A total of 247 dental implants with fixed prosthetics (crowns and bridges) in the premolar and molar region of the mandible were evaluated; 47 implants were 9 mm or shorter. Patient data were evaluated to acquire implant survival rates, implant diameter, gender and age. Panoramic X‐rays were analysed for marginal bone loss.

Results

Average surveillance time was 1327 days. Cumulative survival rate (CSR) of short implants was 98% (1 implants lost) compared to 94% in the longer implants group without significance. Thirty‐five of the short implants were Astratech© (0 losses) and 12 were Camlog© Screw Line Promote Plus (1 loss). Early vertical and two‐dimensional marginal bone loss was not significantly different in short and regular length implant group with an average of 0.6 mm and 0.7 mm2 in short implants over the observation period.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, we conclude that short implants with a length of 9 mm or less have equal survival rates compared with longer implants over the observation period of 1–3 years.
Relationship between magnitude of immediate loading and peri‐implant osteogenesis in dogs
Authors: Esaki Daisuke , Matsushita Yasuyuki , Ayukawa Yasunori , Sakai Nobuo , Sawae Yoshinori , Koyano Kiyoshi
Published: September 2011

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of the magnitude of immediate loading on peri‐implant bone in an animal model of dental implantation.

Material and methods

Eight weeks after the extraction of maxillary and mandibular premolars, three implants were inserted bilaterally in the mandibles of six Beagle dogs. One implant was unloaded (UL) as a control, and two implants were loaded immediately with 10 N (mild loading: ML) or 50 N (excessive loading: EL) laterally using a cyclic loading device twice a week for 3 weeks. Fluorescent bone markers were injected to examine bone formation around the implants. The animals were sacrificed 3 weeks after implantation. Peri‐implant osteogenesis was assessed by histomorphometric procedures, i.e., measuring bone‐implant contact (BIC) and bone density (BD).

Results

The UL and ML groups had no peri‐implant infection, and newly formed bone was observed over a wide area from the implant neck toward the tip, and in direct contact with the implant surface. In contrast, in the EL group, newly formed bone was rarely observed around the implant neck and there were signs of infection. Both BIC and BD in the ML group were significantly greater than those in the other groups. BIC and BD in the EL group were significantly lower than those in the other groups.

Conclusion

A suitable magnitude of load applied immediately after dental implantation promotes peri‐implant osteogenesis.
Improving teamwork between students from two professional programmes in dental education
Authors: Leisnert L. , Karlsson M. , Franklin I. , Lindh L. , Wretlind K.
Published: September 2011

In Sweden, the National Board of Health and Welfare forecasts a decrease in dentists with 26% and an increase in dental hygienists with 47% until the year of 2023. This, together with changes in both epidemiology, especially of dental caries, and political priorities, calls for an effective and well‐developed cooperation between dentists and dental hygienists in future dentistry. Hence, the aim of this project was to investigate whether highlighting teamwork during the undergraduate studies of dental students and dental hygiene students could improve the students’ holistic view on patients as well as their knowledge of and insight into each other’s future professions. Thirty‐four dental students and 24 dental hygiene students participated in the study. At the beginning of their final year in undergraduate education, a questionnaire testing the level of knowledge of the dental hygienists’ clinical competences was completed by both groups of students. In addition, activities intending to improve teamwork quality included the following: (i) a seminar with a dentist representing the Public Dental Health Services in Sweden, (ii) dental students as supervisors for dental hygiene students, (iii) planning and treatment for shared patients and (iv) students’ presentations of the treatments and their outcomes at a final seminar. The project was ended by the students answering the above‐mentioned questionnaire for the second time, followed by an evaluation of the different activities included in the study. The knowledge of dental hygienists’ competences showed higher scores in almost all questions. Both groups of students considered the following aspects important: seminars with external participants, dental students acting as supervisors and planning and treating shared patients. By initiating and encouraging teamwork between dental students and dental hygiene students, it is possible to increase knowledge on dental hygienists’ competence and also to develop and strengthen a holistic view on patients and dental work, thereby preparing both groups of students for their professional life.
Prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors increase the production of vascular endothelial growth factor by periodontal fibroblasts
Authors: Agis H. , Watzek G. , Gruber R.
Published: September 2011

Agis H, Watzek G, Gruber R. Prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors increase the production of vascular endothelial growth factor by periodontal fibroblasts. J Periodont Res 2012; 47: 165–173. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Background and Objective:  Pharmacological inhibitors of prolyl hydroxylases (PHDs) can induce a proangiogenic response that favors wound healing and bone regeneration. However, the response of periodontal cells to PHD inhibitors is unknown.

Material and Methods:  To determine the effects of PHD inhibitors on periodontal cells, we exposed human fibroblasts from the gingiva and the periodontal ligament to dimethyloxallyl glycine, desferrioxamine, l‐mimosine and CoCl2. Viability, proliferation, and protein synthesis were assessed by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), [3H]thymidine, and [3H]leucine incorporation, respectively. The levels of Ki67, hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α (HIF‐1α), p27, phosphorylated c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) and phosphorylated p38 were determined by immunohistochemistry and western blotting. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mRNA levels were measured by quantitative PCR. Protein levels of VEGF and interleukin (IL)‐6 were evaluated by immunoassays.

Results:  We found that PHD inhibitors, while leaving cell viability unchanged, reduced proliferation and protein synthesis. This was paralleled by decreased Ki67 levels and increased p27 levels, suggesting that PHD inhibitors provoke growth arrest. Independently from this response, PHD inhibitors stabilized HIF‐1α and increased the production of VEGF. This increase of VEGF was observed in the presence of proinflammatory IL‐1 and pharmacological inhibitors of JNK and p38 signaling. Moreover, PHD inhibitors did not modulate expression of IL‐6 and the phosphorylation of JNK and p38.

Conclusion:  These results suggest that PHD inhibitors enhance the production of VEGF in periodontal fibroblasts, even in the presence of proinflammatory IL‐1. The data further suggest that PHD inhibitors do not provoke a significant proinflammatory or anti‐inflammatory response in this in vitro setting.
Satellite cell count, VO2max, and p38 MAPK in inactive to moderately active young men
Authors: Macaluso F. , Brooks N. E. , van de Vyver M. , Van Tubbergh K. , Niesler C. U. , Myburgh K. H.
Published: September 2011

Satellite cells (SCs) are responsible for muscle repair following strenuous exercise or injury. SC responses to intervention have been studied, but most studies do not discuss or take into account the substantial variability in SC number among young individuals. We hypothesized that an active lifestyle reflected in higher VO2max may be associated with greater SC number. As training alters basal p38‐mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) activity, which is associated with SC proliferation, SC count may also correlate with this stress signaling kinase. Muscle biopsies from vastus lateralis of eight male participants were analyzed for fiber type, myogenin, and p38/phospho‐p38 MAPK using SDS‐PAGE and Western blotting. Immunofluorescence was used to detect Pax7+ SCs. Two weeks following the biopsy, subjects underwent an incremental treadmill test to determine VO2max. A strong positive correlation (P = 0.0087) was found between the number of Pax7+ nuclei and VO2max. Pax7+ cell number correlated negatively with phospho‐p38/p38 MAPK (P = 0.0006), but had no correlation with fiber type or myogenin. SC number is proportional to VO2max, and hence it can be postulated that higher levels of physical activity activate SC proliferation but not fusion, underlining the relevance of exercise in stimulating SC pool size even without injury.
The magnitude of intramuscular deoxygenation during exercise is an unreliable measure to diagnose the cause of leg pain
Authors: Zhang Q. , Rennerfelt K. , Styf J.
Published: September 2011

We measured intramuscular oxygenation in the anterior tibial muscle of 176 patients with exercise‐induced leg pain by noninvasive near‐infrared spectroscopy before, during, and after an exercise test that elicited the symptoms. Clinical investigation was performed after each test. Intramuscular pressure was measured in patients with nonconclusive findings. Chronic anterior compartment syndrome (CACS) was diagnosed in 47 patients, and other causes for the leg pain were diagnosed in 129 patients by clinical means. The mean level of oxygenation decreased to 33 ± 19% in patients with CACS and to 34 ± 19% in patients without CACS compared with baseline level (100%) at rest before exercise. The level of oxygenation was below 20% during the exercise test in 12 of 47 (26%) patients with CACS and in 30 of 129 (23%) patients without CACS. The time required for reoxygenation after the cessation of exercise was 61 ± 34 s in patients with CACS and 46 ± 20 s in patients without CACS (P < 0.05). We conclude that the magnitude of intramuscular deoxygenation during exercise is an unreliable measure to diagnose CACS. However, the time for reoxygenation returning to baseline level following an exercise test is a valuable adjunct in diagnosing CACS.
Multimodality Animal Rotation Imaging System (MARS) for In Vivo Detection of Intraperitoneal Tumors
Authors: Pizzonia John , Holmberg Jennie , Orton Sean , Alvero Ayesha , Viteri Oscar , Mclaughlin William , Feke Gil , Mor Gil
Published: September 2011

Citation Pizzonia J, Holmberg J, Orton S, Alvero A, Viteri O, Mclaughlin W, Feke G, Mor G. Multimodality animal rotation imaging system (MARS) for in vivo detection of intraperitoneal tumors. Am J Reprod Immunol 2012; 67: 84–90

Problem  Ovarian cancer stem cells (OCSCs) have been postulated as the potential source of recurrence and chemoresistance. Therefore identification of OvCSC and their complete removal is a pivotal stage for the treatment of ovarian cancer. The objective of the following study was to develop a new in vivo imaging model that allows for the detection and monitoring of OCSCs.

Method of Study  OCSCs were labeled with X‐Sight 761 Nanospheres and injected intra‐peritoneally (i.p.) and sub‐cutaneously (s.c.) to Athymic nude mice. The Carestream In‐Vivo Imaging System FX was used to obtain X‐ray and, concurrently, near‐infrared fluorescence images. Tumor images in the mouse were observed from different angles by automatic rotation of the mouse.

Results  X‐Sight 761 Nanospheres labeled almost 100% of the cells. No difference on growth rate was observed between labeled and unlabeled cells. Tumors were observed and monitoring revealed strong signaling up to 21 days.

Conclusion  We describe the use of near‐infrared nanoparticle probes for in vivo imaging of metastatic ovarian cancer models. Visualization of multiple sites around the animals was enhanced with the use of the Carestream Multimodal Animal Rotation System.
Caesarean section: impact on mother and child
Authors: Boutsikou T , Malamitsi‐Puchner A
Published: September 2011

Maternal/foetal morbidity/mortality consequent to uterine rupture, placenta previa/increta and stillbirth may occur in repeat caesarean section (CS). Elective CS before 39 weeks increases respiratory complications, hypoglycaemia, sepsis and intensive care unit admissions. Different gut colonization in neonates born by CS accounts for increased incidence of food allergy, asthma and possibly type 1 diabetes. Epigenetic changes might be responsible – among others – for childhood malignancies.

Conclusion:  Decision for primary CS should take into consideration possible maternal/neonatal complications.
Anaemia among Egyptian Children between 2000 and 2005: trends and predictors
Authors: Austin Anne M. , Fawzi Wafaie , Hill Allan G.
Published: September 2011

Anaemia remains the most prevalent nutritional disorder among women and children in the Middle East and North Africa region. We examined anaemia trends using data from the Egyptian Demographic and Health Surveys. Between 2000 and 2005, the prevalence of anaemia (defined as haemoglobin concentrations <11 g dL−1) increased from 37.04% to over 52% among Egyptian children between 12 months and 36 months of age. We examined the associations of these changes with food consumption, vitamin A administration, recent illness, immunization status, socio‐demographic factors and a child's anaemic status. Children under the age of 24 months who had recently been sick and those who resided in Upper Egypt were significantly more likely to be anaemic. Despite significant improvements in water and sanitation facilities, maternal education and asset‐based household wealth, there were marked declines in the consumption of nutritive foods and increases in the prevalence of childhood diarrhoea between 2000 and 2005. Placing these analyses in the broader context of Egyptian economic trends suggests that the nutritional basket consumed by Egyptian households between 2000 and 2005 may have shifted towards less nutritive foods with lower costs per calorie, probably in response to economic difficulties and increasing food prices. Shifts in dietary consumption, in conjunction with increases in diarrhoea, are likely contributing to the rapid increase in childhood anaemia in Egypt between 2000 and 2005. National‐level fortification efforts may be one way to combat rising levels of anaemia among Egyptian women and children.
Attitudes to and knowledge about oral health care among nursing home personnel – an area in need of improvement
Authors: Wårdh Inger , Jonsson Margareta , Wikström Maude
Published: September 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00562.x
 
Attitudes to and knowledge about oral health care among nursing home personnel – an area in need of improvement

Background:  In 1999, a dental reform became law in Sweden that regulated both dental care to dependent individuals and training in oral health care for nursing home personnel. Substantial resources have been channelled into these efforts, but the outcome of these efforts has not been evaluated. The aim of this study was to explore attitudes to and knowledge about oral health care among nursing home personnel more than 5 years after the law was adopted, that being 2005.

Methods:  A total of 454 individuals employed at nursing homes answered a questionnaire of 16 multiple‐choice items concerning attitudes to and knowledge about oral health care.

Results:  Eighty‐nine per cent considered oral health care to be an important part of good nursing. The answers indicated problems, however, when it came to its implementation and knowledge, and 35% stated that they had had no formal education in oral health care.

Conclusions:  Despite generally positive oral health care attitudes, it is important that oral health care education is available to and made of interest for all nursing home personnel, especially in light of the increase in number of natural teeth and frequency of crowns and bridges among dependent elderly.
Uniquely evolved plant ion channels
Authors: Uozumi Nobuyuki
Published: September 2011

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Composition and function of cytochrome c biogenesis System II
Authors: Simon Jörg , Hederstedt Lars
Published: September 2011

Organisms employ one of several different enzyme systems to mature cytochromes c. The biosynthetic process involves the periplasmic reduction of cysteine residues in the heme c attachment motif of the apocytochrome, transmembrane transport of heme b and stereospecific covalent heme attachment via thioether bonds. The biogenesis System II (or Ccs system) is employed by β‐, δ‐ and ε‐proteobacteria, Gram‐positive bacteria, Aquificales and cyanobacteria, as well as by algal and plant chloroplasts. System II comprises four (sometimes only three) membrane‐bound proteins: CcsA (or ResC) and CcsB (ResB) are the components of the cytochrome c synthase, whereas CcdA and CcsX (ResA) function in the generation of a reduced heme c attachment motif. Some ε‐proteobacteria contain CcsBA fusion proteins constituting single polypeptide cytochrome c synthases especially amenable for functional studies. This minireview highlights the recent findings on the structure, function and specificity of individual System II components and outlines the future challenges that remain to our understanding of the fascinating post‐translational protein maturation process in more detail.
Effect of Mucosal TRPV1 Inhibition in Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Alenmyr Lisa , Greiff Lennart , Andersson Morgan , Sterner Olov , Zygmunt Peter M. , Högestätt Edward D.
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  Transient receptor potential vanilloid‐1 (TRPV1) has been implicated as a mediator of itch in allergic rhinitis. To address this possibility, we synthesized a TRPV1 blocker (SB‐705498) for nasal administration in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis. The pharmacological activity of SB‐705498 was confirmed on human TRPV1‐expressing HEK293 cells, using fluorometric calcium imaging, and in patients with allergic rhinitis subjected to nasal capsaicin challenges. The effect of SB‐705498 was studied in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis subjected to daily allergen challenges for 7 days, using a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized and cross‐over design. SB‐705498 was delivered by nasal lavage 2 min. before each allergen challenge. Primary end‐point was total nasal symptom score on days 5–7. Nasal peak inspiratory flow (nPIF) and eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) content in nasal lavages were also monitored. Daily topical applications of SB‐705498 at a concentration that inhibited capsaicin‐induced nasal symptoms had no effect on total symptom score, nPIF and ECP levels in allergen‐challenged patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis. The individual symptoms, nasal itch or sneezes, were also not affected. These findings may indicate that TRPV1 is not a key mediator of the symptoms in allergic rhinitis. However, additional studies, using drug formulations with a prolonged duration of action, should be conducted before TRPV1 is ruled out as a drug target in allergic rhinitis.
Non-radial superfluid modes in oscillating neutron stars
Authors: Chugunov A. I. , Gusakov M. E.
Published: September 2011

For the first time, non-radial oscillations of superfluid non-rotating stars are self-consistently studied at finite stellar temperatures. We apply a realistic equation of state and realistic density-dependent model of critical temperature of neutron and proton superfluidity. In particular, we discuss three-layer configurations of a star with no neutron superfluidity at the centre and in the outer region of the core but with a superfluid intermediate region. We show that oscillation spectra contain a set of modes whose frequencies can be very sensitive to temperature variations. Fast temporal evolution of the pulsation spectrum in the course of neutron star cooling is also analysed.
3+1 magnetodynamics
Authors: Komissarov S. S.
Published: September 2011

The magnetodynamics, or force-free degenerate electrodynamics, is recognized as a very useful approximation in studies of magnetospheres of relativistic stars. In this Letter, we discuss various forms of the magnetodynamic equations which can be used to study magnetospheres of black holes. In particular, we focus on the 3+1 equations which allow for curved and dynamic space–time.
Canada's Budget Triumph
Authors: Henderson David R.
Published: September 2011

In the mid‐1990s Canada's federal government, concerned about a debt‐to‐GDP ratio that was approaching 70%, began a decade‐long policy of cutting government spending. It also increased taxes, but by only one dollar for about every six dollars of spending cuts. The Canadian government cut subsidies to individuals, corporations, and provincial governments while tightening eligibility for unemployment insurance. The government also sold off its holdings of various state‐owned enterprises. One major success was its shifting of air traffic control to NAV Canada, a private, non‐profit user cooperative. This step netted the government $1.4 billion at the outset, saved about $200 million a year in subsidies, and resulted in a technological revolution in air traffic control that has put Canada years ahead of the United States.

From 1997 to 2008, Canada's government had an unbroken string of annual budget surpluses; and by 2009, Canada's debt‐to‐GDP ratio had fallen below 30%. Starting in 2000, the government used some of what otherwise would have been surplus to cut taxes on individuals and corporations. The corporate tax rate was cut in stages from 28% in 2000 to 21% by 2004.
The Future of U.S. Infrastructure: Proposals for Progress
Authors: Wahba Sadek
Published: September 2011

America's transportation, energy, and water systems are in desperate need of maintenance, and new development must be encouraged to secure the country's economic future. This article proposes several far‐reaching but concrete and immediate steps to address these challenges:

First, the U.S. must have a clear, comprehensive, long‐term plan for the development and maintenance of the country's infrastructure, one that will raise public awareness and promote new approaches. It should facilitate the development of such a vision at every level of government, with the aim of building consensus and encouraging local solutions.

Next, the public sector should build an internal capability for evaluating projects, a centralized clearinghouse of best practices and educational resources to provide regional and local authorities with the information and expertise they need to enlist private investment in appropriate and productive ways. This is particularly true for Public‐Private Partnerships, which are mistakenly viewed by many as a panacea. Without careful scrutiny of such transactions, many will fail to realize the benefits that well‐designed PPPs are expected to deliver.

Finally, despite best intentions, little progress has been made on the political front in addressing the crisis. A National Infrastructure Commission charged with assessing the country's needs and resources, identifying best practices, and making long‐term recommendations may be the catalyst needed to get past the gridlock, a driving force that can rise above the politics, draw from the best ideas, and provide a long‐term vision and pathway. To be most effective, the Commission should recruit a broad and nonpartisan membership, lever‐age the work of existing organizations, and provide a united front.
Environmental Finance: Innovating to Save the Planet*
Authors: Allen Franklin , Yago Glenn
Published: September 2011

This article demonstrates that it is not only possible, but urgently necessary, to apply principles of finance and economics—efficient use of scarce capital, price transparency, and lowered transaction costs—to environmental issues. From limiting acid rain with the sulfur dioxide‐allowance market to the implementation of the Clean Water Act, market‐based solutions have proven consistently more effective in protecting the environment than government regulation alone. Project financing, public‐private partnerships, and tradable permits have come to supplement or replace conventional command‐and‐control regulation and purely tax‐based instruments. Tradable permit systems have been deployed to phase down use of leaded gasoline, end the use of ozone‐depleting chloro‐fluorocarbons, and even reduce air pollution in the smoggy skies above Los Angeles. And the United Nations Environment Program has launched a Finance Initiative as a formal means of mobilizing the financial sector to take a more active role in protecting the environment. Such an approach can minimize the aggregate costs of achieving environmental targets while providing dynamic incentives for the adoption and diffusion of greener technologies.