bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autologous adipose stem cells and polylactide discs in the replacement of the rabbit temporomandibular joint disc
Authors: Ahtiainen Katja , Mauno Jari , Ellä Ville , Hagström Jaana , Lindqvist Christian , Miettinen Susanna , Ylikomi Timo , Kellomäki Minna , Seppänen Riitta
Published: May 2013

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc lacks functional replacement after discectomy. We investigated tissue-engineered bilayer polylactide (PLA) discs and autologous adipose stem cells (ASCs) as a potential replacement for the TMJ disc. These ASC discs were pre-cultured either in control or in differentiation medium, including transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 for one week. Prior to implantation, expression of fibrocartilaginous genes was measured by qRT-PCR. The control and differentiated ASC discs were implanted, respectively, in the right and left TMJs of rabbits for six (
n
= 5) and 12 months (
n
= 5). Thereafter, the excised TMJ areas were examined with cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and histology. No signs of infection, inflammation or foreign body reactions were detected at histology, whereas chronic arthrosis and considerable condylar hypertrophy were observed in all operated joints at CBCT. The left condyle treated with the differentiated ASC discs appeared consistently smoother and more sclerotic than the right condyle. The ASC disc replacement resulted in dislocation and morphological changes in the rabbit TMJ. The ASC discs pre-treated with TGF-β1 enhanced the condylar integrity. While adverse tissue reactions were not shown, the authors suggest that with improved attachment and design, the PLA disc and biomaterial itself would hold potential for TMJ disc replacement.
Genomic mutation rates that neutralize adaptive evolution and natural selection
Authors: Gerrish Philip J. , Colato Alexandre , Sniegowski Paul D.
Published: May 2013

When mutation rates are low, natural selection remains effective, and increasing the mutation rate can give rise to an increase in adaptation rate. When mutation rates are high to begin with, however, increasing the mutation rate may have a detrimental effect because of the overwhelming presence of deleterious mutations. Indeed, if mutation rates are high enough: (i) adaptive evolution may be neutralized, resulting in a zero (or negative) adaptation rate despite the continued availability of adaptive and/or compensatory mutations, or (ii) natural selection may be neutralized, because the fitness of lineages bearing adaptive and/or compensatory mutations—whether established or newly arising—is eroded by excessive mutation, causing such lineages to decline in frequency. We apply these two criteria to a standard model of asexual adaptive evolution and derive mathematical expressions—some new, some old in new guise—delineating the mutation rates under which either adaptive evolution or natural selection is neutralized. The expressions are simple and require noa prioriknowledge of organism- and/or environment-specific parameters. Our discussion connects these results to each other and to previous theory, showing convergence or equivalence of the different results in most cases.
Joseph Lister: his contributions to early experimental physiology
Authors: Howard Edward R.
Published: May 2013

Joseph Lister (1827–1912) acquired a lifelong interest in histology and experimental physiology while a student at University College London between 1848 and 1852. His first two publications in 1853 were histological studies of the contractile tissue of the iris and the skin. Studies of inflammation in 1855 progressed to experiments on the nervous control of arteries, using techniques of peripheral nerve division, spinal cord section and needle stimulation of the brain. This interest in nervous mechanisms led to innovative experiments on gut motility and the autonomic nervous system, from which he inferred that sympathetic nerve control was mediated via intrinsic neuronal plexuses in the gut wall, a mode of action confirmed 100 years later, in 1964–65. It is not generally known that Lister was elected FRS for this early experimental work and that his early commitment to experimental science and microscopy was the background to his later work on the development of surgical antisepsis.
Lister's relationship with patients: ‘A successful case’
Authors: Carpenter Mary Wilson
Published: May 2013

An important aspect of Joseph Lister's work that has received relatively little attention is his relationship with patients. However, a manuscript written by one of his patients, Margaret Mathewson's ‘A Sketch of Eight Months a patient, in the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, A.D. 1877’, provides detail about the surgeon as seen ‘from below’—that is, by a charity patient. Although excerpts from Mathewson's ‘Sketch’ have previously been published, an earlier version of the ‘Sketch’ has only recently been identified as such. That earlier version represents Lister not only as actively concerned with patient education, but also as strongly supportive of patients' rights, encouraging ward patients to report maltreatment at the hands of the staff.
Living on the edge: how philopatry maintains adaptive potential
Authors: Stiebens Victor A. , Merino Sonia E. , Roder Christian , Chain Frédéric J. J. , Lee Patricia L. M. , Eizaguirre Christophe
Published: May 2013

Without genetic variation, species cannot cope with changing environments, and evolution does not proceed. In endangered species, adaptive potential may be eroded by decreased population sizes and processes that further reduce gene flow such as philopatry and local adaptations. Here, we focused on the philopatric and endangered loggerhead sea turtle (
Caretta caretta
) nesting in Cape Verde as a model system to investigate the link between adaptive potential and philopatry. We produced a dataset of three complementary genomic regions to investigate female philopatric behaviour (mitochondrial DNA), male-mediated gene flow (microsatellites) and adaptive potential (major histocompatibility complex, MHC). Results revealed genetically distinct nesting colonies, indicating remarkably small-scale philopatric behaviour of females. Furthermore, these colonies also harboured local pools of MHC alleles, especially at the margins of the population's distribution, which are therefore important reserves of additional diversity for the population. Meanwhile, directional male-mediated gene flow from the margins of distribution sustains the adaptive potential for the entire rookery. We therefore present the first evidence for a positive association between philopatry and locally adapted genomic regions. Contrary to expectation, we propose that philopatry conserves a high adaptive potential at the margins of a distribution, while asymmetric gene flow maintains genetic connectivity with the rest of the population.
Cell-type, allelic, and genetic signatures in the human pancreatic beta cell transcriptome
Authors: Nica Alexandra C. , Ongen Halit , Irminger Jean-Claude , Bosco Domenico , Berney Thierry , Antonarakis Stylianos E. , Halban Philippe A. , Dermitzakis Emmanouil T.
Published: May 2013

Elucidating the pathophysiology and molecular attributes of common disorders as well as developing targeted and effective treatments hinges on the study of the relevant cell type and tissues. Pancreatic beta cells within the islets of Langerhans are centrally involved in the pathogenesis of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Describing the differentiated state of the human beta cell has been hampered so far by technical (low resolution microarrays) and biological limitations (whole islet preparations rather than isolated beta cells). We circumvent these by deep RNA sequencing of purified beta cells from 11 individuals, presenting here the first characterization of the human beta cell transcriptome. We perform the first comparison of gene expression profiles between beta cells, whole islets, and beta cell depleted islet preparations, revealing thus beta-cell–specific expression and splicing signatures. Further, we demonstrate that genes with consistent increased expression in beta cells have neuronal-like properties, a signal previously hypothesized. Finally, we find evidence for extensive allelic imbalance in expression and uncover genetic regulatory variants (eQTLs) active in beta cells. This first molecular blueprint of the human beta cell offers biological insight into its differentiated function, including expression of key genes associated with both major types of diabetes.
Knowledge management practices in a public sector organisation: the role of leaders' cognitive styles
Authors: Jain Ajay K. , Jeppe Jeppesen Hans
Published: May 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of the cognitive styles of leaders on knowledge management practices in a public sector organisation in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were gathered from 210 middle and senior managers who were employed in different projects across the country. Self‐reported questionnaires were administered to collect the data on the cognitive styles of leaders and knowledge management practices.

Findings

The results of exploratory factor analysis showed three significant factors of cognitive styles – i.e. radical, innovative‐collaborator, and adaptor. The knowledge management questionnaire had five dimensions – i.e. KM process, KM leadership, KM culture, KM technology, and KM measurement. The results of regression analysis showed a negative impact of the radical and innovative‐collaborator styles, while the adaptor style had a positive impact on knowledge management practices.

Research limitations/implications

This study was conducted in a large thermal power generation organisation in India. Hence, its generalisability is limited to other similar contexts. Public sector work norms and organisational size may influence the interpretation of the results.

Practical implications

The results show the relevance of the adaptor style of thinking in promoting knowledge management practices, which is consistent with the prevailing public sector work norms in India, which do not support any radical changes in their ways of working and solving problems.

Originality/value

This is an empirical study about the relationship between cognitive styles of leaders and knowledge management practices in the Indian work context, and no such study exists in the literature.
Role of knowledge infrastructure capabilities in knowledge management
Authors: Pandey Satyendra C. , Dutta Andrew
Published: May 2013

Purpose

In a progressively more knowledge‐dependent economy, businesses need to learn to harness the knowledge that resides within their organizations. However, organizations often find it challenging to manage this most important asset that people possess. Researchers have asserted that it is mostly organizational factors that pose a challenge to the management of knowledge. The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of knowledge infrastructure capability in knowledge management (KM) practices within an organization.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs a single case study strategy to explore the objective. A medium‐sized, global Indian IT solutions company, headquartered in Bengaluru, India (MindTree Ltd) was chosen, as this company is admired globally for its KM initiatives and also featured in the Globally Most Admired Knowledge Enterprises (MAKE) list in 2010. Research methods included in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews with key informants, as well as non‐obtrusive participant observation.

Findings

The study's findings show the relevance of knowledge infrastructure capability in KM excellence. The case highlights the role of a knowledge‐sharing culture throughout management systems and routines. The findings also suggest that organizational structure plays a facilitating and steering role in developing the culture of knowledge.

Research limitations/implications

The issues identified are explored in a single case‐study setting. Future research could look at the relevance of the findings to other similar settings and in multi‐site settings, to bring about a wider theoretical generalization.

Practical implications

This study will help managers to understand the role of knowledge infrastructure capabilities in KM success and will help them to devise further studies to realize the full potential of KM initiatives.

Originality/value

This paper adds empirical insight from the Indian ITES industry on existing literature concerning KM.
Herbivory prevents positive responses of lowland plants to warmer and more fertile conditions at high altitudes
Authors: Kaarlejärvi Elina , Eskelinen Anu , Olofsson Johan
Published: May 2013

Warm‐adapted low elevation plants are expected to exhibit considerable range shifts to higher altitudes and latitudes as a result of climate warming and increased nutrient loads. However, empirical studies show that the magnitude and direction of plant responses are highly species‐ and site‐specific, suggesting that several additional drivers interact with warmer climate.

We experimentally tested the interactive effects of climate warming, mammalian herbivory and soil fertility on low elevation plants. Seedlings of three warm‐adapted lowland forbs (Epilobium angustifolium, Silene dioica and Solidago virgaurea) were transplanted to an open tundra site with native mountain tundra vegetation, and the effects of full factorial combinations of herbivore exclosures, warming and fertilization on transplant survival, growth and flowering were studied for two growing seasons. We also investigated the response of native vegetation biomass to the same treatments and compared it with the responses of transplanted lowland forbs.

Effects of both warming and fertilization on the transplanted lowland forbs strongly hinged on herbivore exclusion, resulting in 2–13‐fold increase in biomass in warmed and fertilized plots without herbivores compared with warmed and fertilized plots with herbivores present, the magnitude depending on the species. While warm‐adapted transplants benefited from warming, the native tundra plant community biomass did not respond to warming treatment.

Our results show that grazing limits the growth of transplants under warmer and more productive conditions, indicating that the expansion of lowland plant species to higher altitudes with warming may be hampered by mammalian herbivory. Furthermore, our results also suggest that migration of warm‐adapted species into lightly grazed high‐altitude tundra ecosystems might transform these communities to be more responsive to warmer climate and nutrient loads. Studies that do not consider species' upward shifts from lower altitudes might thus have underestimated vegetation responses to global warming, as well as the potential of herbivory to influence these responses.
Possible role of weaver ants, Oecophylla smaragdina, in shaping plant–pollinator interactions in South‐East Asia
Authors: Rodríguez‐Gironés Miguel A. , Gonzálvez Francisco G. , Llandres Ana L. , Corlett Richard T. , Santamaría Luis
Published: May 2013

Although theoretical models suggest that ambush predators could have a wide range of ecological and evolutionary effects on plant–pollinator interactions, these models require predators that are both abundant and mobile. Crab spiders, the main model system for studying the effects of ambush predators on plant–pollinator interactions, are neither of these.

The weaver ant Oecophylla smaragdina is a keystone predator in South‐East Asian forests. It uses the flowers of a wide range of native and introduced species as hunting platforms for incoming pollinators. Weaver ants affect the behaviour of flower visitors and the reproductive success of their host plants.

Due to their ubiquity and mobility, O. smaragdina ants satisfy the assumptions of the theoretical models. They have the potential to affect the structure of pollination networks.

Synthesis. Oecophylla smaragdina in South‐East Asia, and possibly other predatory ant species in African and American tropical forests, may play a key role in shaping the ecological and evolutionary trajectories of plant–pollinator interactions.
Elevated vascular γ‐butyrobetaine levels attenuate the development of high glucose‐induced endothelial dysfunction
Authors: Vilskersts Reinis , Zharkova‐Malkova Olga , Mezhapuke Rudolfs , Grinberga Solveiga , Cirule Helena , Dambrova Maija
Published: May 2013

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of vascular tissue levels of l‐carnitine and its precursor, γ‐butyrobetaine (GBB), on the development of endothelial dysfunction induced by 5 μmol/L lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), 10 mmol/L triglycerides (TG) or a high glucose concentration (44 mmol/L).

Changes in vascular tissue levels of l‐carnitine and GBB were induced by administration of l‐carnitine (100 mg/kg), mildronate (100 mg/kg; an inhibitor of l‐carnitine synthesis) or their combination to male Wistar rats for 2 weeks.

Treatment with l‐carnitine elevated vascular tissue levels of l‐carnitine, whereas administration of mildronate reduced l‐carnitine levels and increased GBB levels. Experimental animals that received the combination of both drugs showed elevated tissue levels of GBB.

The results from organ bath experiments demonstrated that increased GBB levels with preserved l‐carnitine content in vascular tissues attenuated the development of endothelial dysfunction induced by high glucose. However, changes in vascular tissue l‐carnitine and GBB levels had no impact on endothelial dysfunction induced by TG or LPC.

The results demonstrate that increased levels of GBB with preserved l‐carnitine content in vascular tissue attenuate the development of endothelial dysfunction induced by high glucose concentrations.
Geographic distribution and origin of the chloroplast T/C‐type in Quercus mongolica var. crispula in northeastern Japan
Authors: Liu Huan‐Zhen , Harada Ko
Published: May 2013

In order to investigate the historical expansion of common oaks (Quercus sect. Prinus) in the northeastern part of Japan, the relation between the chloroplast haplotypes (I and II) in Quercus mongolica var. crispula and the chloroplast types (T‐ and C‐type) were examined. Complete linkage between haplotype II and chloroplast C‐type was found. The chloroplasts examined in the oak species collected from Sakhalin and Primorski Krai, Russia, and Harbin, China were all T‐type. This suggests that the T to C mutation had occurred in haplotype II in Japan. Neither of haplotype I nor haplotype II was found outside Japan, suggesting both occurred in Japan independently from an ancestral haplotype VI. Haplotype I, which has been known only in Mount Hayachine within Honshu, is distributed southward to the Kanto district, where refugia might have occurred during glaciations.
Identification of Indian Crocodile Species Through DNA Barcodes
Authors: Meganathan P. R. , Dubey Bhawna , Jogayya Kothakota Naga , Haque Ikramul
Published: May 2013

The biodiversity of India includes three crocodile species, Crocodylus palustris, Crocodylus porosus, and Gavialis gangeticus, whose status is threatened due to bushmeat crisis and illegal hunting. The crocodilian conservation management requires novel techniques to help forensic analysts to reveal species identity. DNA barcoding is a species identification technique, where a partial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene is used as a marker for species identification. Herein, the DNA barcoding technique is evaluated for three Indian crocodiles by analyzing an approximately 750‐bp barcode region. The alignment result shows interspecific variations between sequences for discrimination of the three Indian crocodiles leading to species identification. The phylogenetic analyses also substantiate the established crocodilian relationships, which add further advantage to use this DNA barcoding approach for Indian crocodiles. This study provides preliminary evidences for the use of DNA barcoding technique in the identification of Indian crocodile species.
Sexual Dimorphism in Ulna: An Osteometric Study from India
Authors: Srivastava Rashmi , Saini Vineeta , Rai Rajesh Kumar , Pandey Shashikant , Singh Tei Bahadur , Tripathi Sunil Kumar , Pandey Abhay Kumar
Published: May 2013

Determination of sex constitutes the most important element during the identification process of human skeletal remains. Several sex‐specific features of human skeleton have been exploited for sex determination with varying reliability. This study aims to obtain sexual dimorphic standards for ulnae of the north Indian population. Eight measurements were obtained on a sample of 106 ulnae (males‐80, females‐26) in the age range of 25–65 years. The sexual dimorphism index and demarking points were calculated for all the variables. The data were then subjected to stepwise and direct discriminant function analysis. The best discriminator of sex was the maximum length (84.9%) followed by radial notch width (84%). In stepwise analysis, these two variables were selected and provided an accuracy of 88.7% (M‐87.5%, F‐92.3%). The proximal end provided a classification rate of 81.1% (M‐80%, F‐84.6%) with selection of the notch length and olecranon width.
Structuration of precarious employment in economically constrained firms: the case of Dutch agriculture
Authors: Kroon Brigitte , Paauwe Jaap
Published: May 2013

Precarious employment practices such as short‐term contracts, low pay and lack of voice have undesired outcomes for workers, because these impede employees in their ethical rights to freedom, well‐being and equality. Still, precarious employment practice is common in sectors with restrained economic conditions, such as Dutch agriculture. However, in every restrained industry, examples of more socially responsible employment management are reported. The question why some firms develop more socially responsible employment systems when economic conditions predict the use of low cost, precarious employment systems is central in this article. Structuration theory provides a lens to understand how employers position their employment practice in the wider (institutionalised) social context. Insight in the reproduction circuits that link employers' actions with their social context (product, market, institutions and policies, demographics) can reveal where, at a sector level, change to avoid unethical employment practice could start.
Microbial production of lactate‐containing polyesters
Authors: Yang Jung Eun , Choi So Young , Shin Jae Ho , Park Si Jae , Lee Sang Yup
Published: May 2013

Due to our increasing concerns on environmental problems and limited fossil resources, biobased production of chemicals and materials through biorefinery has been attracting much attention. Optimization of the metabolic performance of microorganisms, the key biocatalysts for the efficient production of the desired target bioproducts, has been achieved by metabolic engineering. Metabolic engineering allowed more efficient production of polyhydroxyalkanoates, a family of microbial polyesters. More recently, non‐natural polyesters containing lactate as a monomer have also been produced by one‐step fermentation of engineered bacteria. Systems metabolic engineering integrating traditional metabolic engineering with systems biology, synthetic biology, protein/enzyme engineering through directed evolution and structural design, and evolutionary engineering, enabled microorganisms to efficiently produce natural and non‐natural products. Here, we review the strategies for the metabolic engineering of microorganisms for the in vivo biosynthesis of lactate‐containing polyesters and for the optimization of whole cell metabolism to efficiently produce lactate‐containing polyesters. Also, major problems to be solved to further enhance the production of lactate‐containing polyesters are discussed.
The effect of a new calcium‐based agent, Pro‐Argin, on the microhardness of bleached enamel surface
Authors: Yesilyurt C , Sezer U , Ayar MK , Alp CK , Tasdemir T
Published: May 2013

Background

This study investigated the effects of Pro‐Argin application on the microhardness of bleached enamel and compared them with those of acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) and casein phosphopeptide‐amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP‐ACP) applications.

Methods

Forty blocks (4 × 4 × 4 mm) were prepared from the facial surfaces of 10 sound bovine incisors. The enamel surfaces were bleached with 35% hydrogen peroxide three times at 5‐day intervals. The specimens were divided into five treatment regimen groups (n = 8 each): Group 1, bleaching/no surface treatment (control); Group 2, bleaching/Pro‐Argin toothpaste treatment; Group 3, bleaching/Pro‐Argin treatment; Group 4, bleaching/APF treatment; and Group 5, bleaching/CPP‐ACP treatment. During bleaching treatments, specimens were stored in artificial saliva. Vickers microhardness measurements were performed at baseline and after treatment in all groups. Statistical analyses were performed using the paired t‐test, one‐way analysis of variance, and post hoc least significant difference tests.

Results

After bleaching, hardness values of enamel surfaces increased significantly in the treatment groups versus the control group (p < 0.05). However, no significant difference was found among treatment groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Through bleaching treatment, Pro‐Argin application may have a positive effect on enamel surface hardness, equivalent to that of CPP‐ACP or APF.
Effects of leached components from silorane and methacrylate‐based dental composites on the male mice reproductive system
Authors: Tabatabaei MH , roudsari H Sadeghipour , Bassir SH , saeed T Akbari , Hasani H
Published: May 2013

Background

This study aimed to investigate the potential toxic effects of leached components from either a methacrylate‐based composite (Filtek Z250) or a silorane‐based composite (Filtek P90) on the male mice reproductive system.

Methods

Sixty adult Syrian male mice were divided into six groups. In test groups, leached components from composite specimens in artificial saliva or 75% aqueous ethanol solution were administered intragastrically daily for 28 days. The mice were then euthanized and the following reproductive parameters recorded: body weight changes; weight of paired testes; testis volume; Gonadosomatic Index (GSI); sperm motility; sperm viability; daily sperm production and epididymal sperm count.

Results

There were no significant differences in body weight changes, weight of paired testes, GSI, testis volume, epididymal sperm count, and daily sperm production between groups. Sperm motility and sperm viability were significantly lower in all the test groups in comparison to the control groups. In addition, they were significantly lower in the test groups in which composite samples were immersed in aqueous ethanol solution.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, the present data indicate that leached components from dental composites could affect sperm quality and therefore could potentially cause adverse effects on the male mice reproductive system.
Effect of high‐fructose corn syrup on the acidogenicity, adherence and biofilm formation of Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Ma R , Sun M , Wang S , Kang Q , Huang L , Li T , Xia W‐W
Published: May 2013

Background

Although high‐fructose corn syrup (HFCS) as a kind of sugar has been widely used in manufactured foods recently, there is little information available regarding its cariogenicity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cariogenic potential of HFCS.

Methods

Streptococcus mutans UA159 was inoculated into HFCS media and cultivated. The pH of each culture was measured to assess acidogenicity. Spectrophotometric turbidity was measured to determine the percentage of adherence. Confocal laser scanning microscopy and SYTO‐9 staining were employed to observe biofilm formation. Sucrose media was used as a positive control.

Results

The ΔpH in HFCS media was significantly larger than that in sucrose media and the pH in HFCS media decreased faster (p < 0.05). The percentage of adherence of S. mutans in HFCS media was significantly lower than that in sucrose media (p < 0.05). The biofilm formed in sucrose media was significantly thicker than that in HFCS media (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that the cariogenicity of S. mutans in the presence of HFCS may differ compared to its cariogenicity in the presence of sucrose. Further in vivo studies need to be undertaken to resolve this uncertainty.
Neuro‐oncology practices in Australia: A Cooperative Group for Neuro‐Oncology patterns of care study
Authors: Chen James Y , Hovey Elizabeth , Rosenthal Mark , Livingstone Ann , Simes John
Published: May 2013

Aims

To provide data on the patterns of care in neuro‐oncology practices at Australian cancer centres over the previous 12‐month period.

Methods

A 5‐page questionnaire was sent to Cooperative Trials Group for Neuro‐Oncology members at 28 Australia cancer centres. The questions included access to neuro‐oncology services; treatment protocols and patterns of supportive care.

Results

Provision of neuro‐oncology services was consistent in metropolitan cancer centres. Treatment protocols are virtually identical for patients with an initial diagnosis of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), with the main variation being for older or less fit patients. Most patients (70%) received chemotherapy at recurrence, most commonly modified schedule temozolomide, with half of the cancer centers offering bevacizumab. For anaplastic astrocytoma (AA), most clinicians offer radiotherapy alone but 30% would use radiotherapy with concurrent and adjuvant temozolomide. Half of clinicians continued to use prophylactic anticonvulsants; 25% do not prescribe prophylactic antibiotics during chemoradiotherapy and half would continue anti‐coagulation therapy indefinitely for thromboembolism.

Conclusion

This is the first Australia‐wide patterns of study of care in the management of gliomas. There is general consensus on the use of radiotherapy with concurrent and adjuvant temozolomide and the use of chemotherapy for recurrent GBM. The choice of chemotherapy at recurrence is not standard and the provision of bevacizumab is inconsistent. This survey highlights variation in the treatment of the elderly GBM and patients with AA as well as in areas of supportive care, in particular, the ongoing use of prophylactic anticonvulsants despite guidelines.
Single Oral Flecainide Dose to Unmask Type 1 Brugada Syndrome Electrocardiographic Pattern
Authors: Dubner Sergio , Azocar Damián , Gallino Sebastián , Cerantonio Alfonso Rafael , Muryan Sergio , Medrano Juan , Bruno Carlos
Published: May 2013

Background

Brugada syndrome (BrS) includes a group of patients with a typical pattern of ST segment elevation in right precordial leads who are at risk for sudden cardiac death. The electrocardiogram pattern may be intermittent and unmasked by sodium channel blockers. The main objective of this study is to describe a serie of consecutive patients in whom oral administration of flecainide was used to unmask BrS type I electrocardiographic pattern.

Methods

We prospectively studied 14 symptomatic (palpitations/syncope) patients referred to our laboratory presenting a suggestive but not diagnostic Brugada ECG or family history of sudden death. Single oral dose of flecainide 400 mg was administered. Resting 12‐lead ECG with upper and standard right precordial leads were performed after flecainide administration at 15, 30, 60 and 90 min and hourly until ECG became normal.

Results

Median age was 37.5 years (range = 22–50). None of them had structural heart disease. In 7 patients (50%) the typical coved‐type ECG pattern of BrS was unmasked. PR interval, QRS duration and QTc median difference after‐before test was 20 msec (min–max = −17–+57), 21 ms (min–max = 0 to +59) and 20 ms (min–max = −11–+77), respectively. There were no episodes of AV block, atrial or ventricular tachyarrhythmia.

Conclusions

In our experience we found that oral administration of flecainide in a single dose of 400 mg is useful to unmask type 1 Brugada electrocardiographic pattern.
The association between tricuspid regurgitation velocity and 5‐year survival in a North West London population of patients with sickle cell disease in the United Kingdom
Authors: Zimbarra Cabrita Inês , Mohammed Abubakar , Layton Mark , Ghorashian Sara , Gilmore Annette , Cho Gavin , Howard Jo , Anie Kofi A. , Desforges Lynda , Bassett Paul , Grapsa Julia , Howard Luke , Mahalingam Gaia , Dawson David , Pinto Fausto J. , Nihoyannopoulos Petros , Davies Sally C. , Gibbs J. Simon R.
Published: May 2013

Raised tricuspid regurgitant velocity (TRV) occurs in approximately 30% of adults with sickle cell disease (SCD), and has been shown to be an independent risk factor for death. TRV was assessed in 164 SCD patients who were subsequently followed up for survival. Raised pulmonary pressures were defined as a TRV jet ≥2·5 m/s on echocardiography. Elevated TRV was present in 29·1% of patients and it was associated with increased age and left atrial diameter. There were 15 deaths (9·1%) over a median of 68·1 months follow up; seven patients had increased TRV, and eight patients had a TRV<2·5 m/s. Higher TRV values were associated with a greater than 4‐fold increased risk of death (Hazard Ratio: 4·48, 99% confidence interval 1·01‐19·8), although we found a lower overall mortality rate than has been reported in previous studies. TRV was not an independent risk factor for death. We have confirmed the association between raised TRV and mortality in a UK SCD population whose disease severity appears to be less than that reported in previous studies. Further prospective studies are needed to more clearly characterize which patient factors modify survival in SCD patients with raised TRV.
Regulation of connexin‐ and pannexin‐based channels by post‐translational modifications
Authors: D'hondt Catheleyne , Iyyathurai Jegan , Vinken Mathieu , Rogiers Vera , Leybaert Luc , Himpens Bernard , Bultynck Geert
Published: May 2013

Connexin (Cx) and pannexin (Panx) proteins form large conductance channels, which function as regulators of communication between neighbouring cells via gap junctions and/or hemichannels. Intercellular communication is essential to coordinate cellular responses in tissues and organs, thereby fulfilling an essential role in the spreading of signalling, survival and death processes. The functional properties of gap junctions and hemichannels are modulated by different physiological and pathophysiological stimuli. At the molecular level, Cxs and Panxs function as multi‐protein channel complexes, regulating their channel localisation and activity. In addition to this, gap junctional channels and hemichannels are modulated by different post‐translational modifications (PTMs), including phosphorylation, glycosylation, proteolysis, N‐acetylation, S‐nitrosylation, ubiquitination, lipidation, hydroxylation, methylation and deamidation. These PTMs influence almost all aspects of communicating junctional channels in normal cell biology and pathophysiology. In this review, we will provide a systematic overview of PTMs of communicating junction proteins and discuss their effects on Cx and Panx‐channel activity and localisation.
Plant odour plumes as mediators of plant–insect interactions
Authors: Beyaert Ivo , Hilker Monika
Published: May 2013

Insect olfactory orientation along odour plumes has been studied intensively with respect to pheromonal communication, whereas little knowledge is available on how plant odour plumes (POPs) affect olfactory searching by an insect for its host plants. The primary objective of this review is to examine the role of POPs in the attraction of insects. First, we consider parameters of an odour source and the environment which determine the size, shape and structure of an odour plume, and we apply that knowledge to POPs. Second, we compare characteristics of insect pheromonal plumes and POPs. We propose a ‘POP concept’ for the olfactory orientation of insects to plants. We suggest that: (i) an insect recognises a POP by means of plant volatile components that are encountered in concentrations higher than a threshold detection limit and that occur in a qualitative and quantitative blend indicating a resource; (ii) perception of the fine structure of a POP enables an insect to distinguish a POP from an unspecific odorous background and other interfering plumes; and (iii) an insect can follow several POPs to their sources, and may leave the track of one POP and switch to another one if this conveys a signal with higher reliability or indicates a more suitable resource. The POP concept proposed here may be a useful tool for research in olfactory‐mediated plant–insect interactions.
Fractionated radiation‐induced nitric oxide promotes expansion of glioma stem‐like cells
Authors: Kim Rae‐Kwon , Suh Yongjoon , Cui Yan‐Hong , Hwang Eunji , Lim Eun‐Jung , Yoo Ki‐Chun , Lee Ga‐Haeng , Yi Joo‐Mi , Kang Seok‐Gu , Lee Su‐Jae
Published: May 2013

Glioblastoma remains an incurable brain disease due to the prevalence of its recurrence. Considerable evidence suggests that glioma stem‐like cells are responsible for glioma relapse after treatment, which commonly involves ionizing radiation. Here, we found that fractionated ionizing radiation (2 Gy/day for 3 days) induced glioma stem‐like cell expansion and resistance to anticancer treatment such as cisplatin (50 μM) or taxol (500 nM), or by ionizing radiation (10 Gy) in both glioma cell lines (U87, U373) and patient‐derived glioma cells. Of note, concomitant increase of nitric oxide production occurred with the radiation‐induced increase of the glioma stem‐like cell population through upregulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). In line with this observation, downregulation of iNOS effectively reduced the glioma stem‐like cell population and decreased resistance to anticancer treatment. Collectively, our results suggest that targeting iNOS in combination with ionizing radiation might increase the efficacy of radiotherapy for glioma treatment.
The Development of Rehearsal in Verbal Short‐Term Memory
Authors: Jarrold Christopher , Hall Debbora
Published: May 2013

Verbal short‐term memory, as indexed by immediate serial recall tasks (in which participants must recall several stimuli in order, immediately after presentation), develops considerably across middle childhood. One explanation for this age‐related change is that children's ability to rehearse verbal material increases during this period, and one particularly influential version of this account is that only older children engage in any form of rehearsal. In this article, we critique evidence that is used to support the claim of age‐related change in rehearsal and also critique the argument that children do not rehearse when engaged in immediate serial recall. This is not to say that rehearsal does not develop with age or that it is not required in any task, but to suggest that it plays little role in the development of verbal short‐term memory performance as traditionally measured.
Diffuse dermal angiomatosis associated with calciphylaxis in a patient with end‐stage renal disease
Authors: Steele Katherine T. , Sullivan Brendan J. , Wanat Karolyn A. , Rosenbach Misha , Elenitsas Rosalie
Published: May 2013

Diffuse dermal angiomatosis (DDA) represents a benign, acquired, reactive proliferation of vessels. DDA is clinically characterized by painful livedoid plaques with central ulceration, and the histopathologic hallmark is diffuse endothelial cell hyperplasia in the dermis. DDA has been rarely reported in association with calciphylaxis, a condition characterized by calcification of arterial walls with accompanying thrombosis and cutaneous necrosis. We present a case of a 72‐year‐old man with end‐stage renal disease on peritoneal dialysis who presented with painful lesions on his legs, and was found to have DDA in the setting of calciphylaxis. The possible pathogenesis linking DDA and calciphylaxis is discussed.
Drug supply for children with psoriasis in Germany
Authors: Augustin Matthias , Reich Kristian , Glaeske Gerd , Kämpfe Susann , Radtke Marc Alexander , Gerdau‐Heitmann Cornelia , Schicktanz Christel , Schäfer Ines
Published: May 2013

Background

In Germany there is a lack of robust nationwide data on psoriasis therapy in children.

Patients and methods

Secondary data from the statutory health insurance Gmnder Ersatzkasse (GEK) of the year 2009 were analyzed. Continuously insured children with psoriasis vulgaris were identified by ICD‐10 codes (L 40. X). Their treatment was determined on the basis of prescriptions according to ATC code.

Results

1,313 of 293,181 children and adolescents had psoriasis (0.45%). Of these, n = 651 (49.6%) received at least one medication during the observation period. Topical and systemic corticosteroids were most frequently prescribed (70.8% and 4.0% respectively). The relative frequency of prescription of systemic corticosteroids was higher in children treated by pediatricians and family physicians (by a factor of 3 and 5, respectively) than in those treated by dermatologists. Vitamin D analogs were the second most frequently prescribed drugs, used far more often by dermatologists (14.7%) than by general practitioners (1.7%) and pediatricians (0.9%).

Conclusions

Drug supply for children with psoriasis in Germany appears to be inadequate. The consensus guidelines are not sufficiently considered and the use of systemic corticosteroids is still too high, even after adjustment for steroid‐dependent indications. The data underline the necessity of guideline‐oriented therapy and implementation of current therapeutic evidence in juvenile psoriasis.
Caspase‐7 participates in differentiation of cells forming dental hard tissues
Authors: Matalova Eva , Lesot Herve , Svandova Eva , Vanden Berghe Tom , Sharpe Paul T. , Healy Christopher , Vandenabeele Peter , Tucker Abigail S.
Published: May 2013

Apoptosis during tooth development appears dependent on the apoptotic executioner caspase‐3, but not caspase‐7. Instead, activated caspase‐7 has been found in differentiated odontoblasts and ameloblasts, where it does not correlate with apoptosis. To further investigate these findings, the mouse incisor was used as a model. Analysis of caspase‐7‐deficient mice revealed a significant thinner layer of hard tissue in the adult incisor. Micro computed tomography scan confirmed this decrease in mineralized tissues. These data strongly suggest that caspase‐7 might be directly involved in functional cell differentiation and regulation of the mineralization of dental matrices.
Ventilatory function in children with severe motor disorders
Authors: Lagerkvist Anna‐Lena
Published: May 2013

This commentary is on the original article by Dawson et al. on pages
751–757 of this issue.
Assessing short and long‐term educational impact of visits to hospice via a combination of qualitative methods
Authors: Goh E. C. L. , Hsu C. ‐Y. S.
Published: May 2013

While qualitative methods have gained considerable recognition in medical education research, employing multiple qualitative data sources in assessing long‐term educational impact is rare. Utilising in‐depth data analysis method to six cross‐sectional cohorts (2004–2009) of students’ reflection papers (n = 213), this article demonstrates how students experienced subtle but important shifts in their attitudes (including personal, professional and spiritual domains) after making field visits to a hospice centre as part of the Special Needs Dentistry module. For retrospective assessment of learning retention, a pilot focus group was conducted with three junior faculty members who participated in the field visits to a hospice during their own undergraduate training. A subsequent focus group was conducted with graduates of the 2008 (n = 8) cohort using a refined discussion guide arising from the analysis of pilot group results. Graduates were unanimous in stating that the visits had sown ‘seeds’ in their minds and hearts, seeds which started to grow after they completed dental school and began to practice. This is demonstrative of the long‐term positive educational impact of the pedagogical design that entailed a special site visit coupled with post‐visit debrief and written reflection.
The Biological Activity of H. Pylori SlyD in Vitro
Authors: Dan Kang , Yuehua Gong , yanmei Zhu , aodi Li , nannan Dong , ying Piao , Yuan Yuan
Published: May 2013

Aim

To investigate the biological activity of the H. pylori SlyD in vitro.

Methods

Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori) slyD prokaryotic expression vector was carried out in Escherichia coli (E.coli), and recombination SlyD (rSlyD) was purified by immobilized metal affinity chromatography. The proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, transformation effects of rSlyD on AGS cells was detected by CCK‐8, cell cycle, caspase‐3 activity, matrigel invasion assay, and double‐deck soft agar colony forming efficiency. In addition, the expressions of PCNA, KI‐67, caspase‐3, and MMP‐9 were detected by western blot and immunofluorescence assay, respectively.

Results

The CCK‐8 assay revealed that cell proliferation was increased in a time and dose‐dependent manner in AGS + rSlyD group compared with that of AGS or AGS + PBS group (p < .05). There are significant difference of PCNA and KI67 expressions among AGS, AGS + PBS, AGS + rSlyD groups (p < .05). Soft agar colony formation assay revealed the colony number (foci>100 μm) in AGS + rSlyD group was 26.3 ± 7.09, whereas 5.6 ± 1.15 in AGS and 5.0 ± 1.0 in AGS + PBS groups, respectively (p < .01). Colorimetric enzyme assay revealed the activity of caspase‐3 was decreased to 31.45 ± 0.49 after treatment with rSlyD, whereas 55.5 ± 0.43 in AGS and 55.1 ± 0.25 in AGS + PBS group, respectively (p < .001). Similar caspase‐3 expression also was confirmed by Western blot. The number of invasive cells in transwell chambers assay is 196.66 ± 40.41 in AGS + rSlyD group higher than 85 ± 22.9 in AGS or 81.66 ± 15.27 in AGS + PBS group, respectively (p < .001). The MMP‐9 expression in AGS + rSlyD group was also higher than that of AGS or AGS + PBS group.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the HpSlyD may play an important role in disturbing cell proliferation, apoptosis, and enhancing cell transformation and invasion in the AGS cell line. HpSlyD might contribute to gastric pathogenicity in H.pylori‐associated diseases.
Immunohistochemical analysis of mismatch proteins in carcinogenesis of the lower lip
Authors: Sarmento Dmitry José de Santana , de Almeida Wagner Leite , Miguel Márcia Cristina da Costa , Queiroz Lélia Maria Guedes , Godoy Gustavo Pina , da Cruz Maria Carmen Fontoura Nogueira , da Silveira Éricka Janine Dantas
Published: May 2013

Aim

This study investigated the immunohistochemical expression of hMLH1 and hMSH2 proteins in lower lip squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and actinic cheilitis (AC), to contribute to the understanding of the development of lower lip cancer.

Methods and results

Forty cases of lower lip AC and SCC were studied. Quantitative immunohistochemical analysis was undertaken by counting 1000 cells (positive and negative) in each lesion. Statistical evaluation included Student's t‐test and one‐way anova. For SCC and AC, the mean number of hMLH1‐ and hMSH2‐positive cells decreased with advanced stage of the lesion. The largest mean number of immunostained cells was observed in AC cases without dysplasia or with mild dysplasia (hMLH1: 721.23 ± 88.116; hMHS2: 781.50 ± 156.93). Intermediate values were obtained for AC with moderate or severe dysplasia (hMLH1: 532.86 ± 197.72; hMHS2: 611.14 ± 172.48). Lower lip SSCs presented the smallest number of positive cells (hMLH1: 255.03 ± 199.47; hMHS2: 518.38 ± 265.68). A statistically significant difference was observed between groups (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The results support the hypothesis that changes in the immunoexpression of these mismatch proteins are related to the process of carcinogenesis of the lower lip.