bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Exposure Time on the Surface Microhardness of Three Dual-Cured Dental Resin Cements
Authors: Aguiar Tatiana C. , Saad José R. C. , Pinto Shelon C. S. , Calixto Luiz R. , Lima Darlon M. , Silva Marcos A. S. , Bandéca Matheus C.
Published: June 2011

This study evaluated the exposure time of light-curing of the polymers used for cementation on microhardness test in different storage times. The polymers (specifically called resin cements) were RelyX ARC, RelyX U100, and SET. Five specimens of each group were prepared and photo-polymerized with exposure times of 20 s and 180 s, using a LED polymerization unit with wavelength of 440 ~ 480 nm and light output was consistently 1,500 mW/cm2. The Vickers hardness test was performed in a MMT-3 Microhardness Tester. Data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). The values of RelyX ARC showed statistically significant difference to groups with light exposure when considering only chemical cure (p < 0.05). The groups with light exposure (20 s and 180 s) showed no significant difference between them (p > 0.05). The RelyX U100 cured only chemically showed statistically significant difference between 48 h and 7 days (p < 0.05). The SET resin cement showed no significant difference to groups without light exposure for all storage times (p > 0.05). The values of hardening of the dual-cured resin cements improved after setting by light and chemical activation demonstrating the importance of light curing.
Towards Detecting Swath Events in TerraSAR-X Time Series to Establish NATURA 2000 Grassland Habitat Swath Management as Monitoring Parameter
Authors: Schuster Christian , Ali Iftikhar , Lohmann Peter , Frick Annett , Förster Michael , Kleinschmit Birgit
Published: June 2011

Spatial monitoring tools are necessary to respond to the threat of global biodiversity loss. At the European scale, remote sensing tools for NATURA 2000 habitat monitoring have been requested by the European Commission to fulfill the obligations of the EU Habitats Directive. This paper introduces a method by which swath events in semi-natural grasslands can be detected from multi-temporal TerraSAR-X data. The investigated study sites represent rare and endangered habitats (NATURA 2000 codes 6410, 6510), located in the Döberitzer Heide nature conservation area west of Berlin. We analyzed a time series of 11 stripmap images (HH-polarization) covering the vegetation period affected by swath (June to September 2010) at a constant 11-day acquisition rate. A swath detection rule was established to extract the swath events for the NATURA 2000 habitats as well as for six contrasting pasture sites not affected by swath. All swath events observed in the field were correctly allocated. The results indicate the potential to allocate semi-natural grassland swath events to 11-day-periods using TerraSAR-X time series. Since the conservation of semi-natural grassland habitats requires compliance with specific swath management rules, the detection of swath events may thus provide new parameters for the monitoring of NATURA 2000 grassland habitats.
Data Fusion Algorithms for Multiple Inertial Measurement Units
Authors: Bancroft Jared B. , Lachapelle Gérard
Published: June 2011

A single low cost inertial measurement unit (IMU) is often used in conjunction with GPS to increase the accuracy and improve the availability of the navigation solution for a pedestrian navigation system. This paper develops several fusion algorithms for using multiple IMUs to enhance performance. In particular, this research seeks to understand the benefits and detriments of each fusion method in the context of pedestrian navigation. Three fusion methods are proposed. First, all raw IMU measurements are mapped onto a common frame (i.e., a virtual frame) and processed in a typical combined GPS-IMU Kalman filter. Second, a large stacked filter is constructed of several IMUs. This filter construction allows for relative information between the IMUs to be used as updates. Third, a federated filter is used to process each IMU as a local filter. The output of each local filter is shared with a master filter, which in turn, shares information back with the local filters. The construction of each filter is discussed and improvements are made to the virtual IMU (VIMU) architecture, which is the most commonly used architecture in the literature. Since accuracy and availability are the most important characteristics of a pedestrian navigation system, the analysis of each filter’s performance focuses on these two parameters. Data was collected in two environments, one where GPS signals are moderately attenuated and another where signals are severely attenuated. Accuracy is shown as a function of architecture and the number of IMUs used.
La non-violence et la guerre au Kosovo
Authors: Dufour Pierre
Published: June 2011

Cet article présente les principaux éléments de la résistance non- violente des Albanais du Kosovo face à l'apartheid pratiqué par le pouvoir de Belgrade. Il tente de montrer pourquoi, ni eux ni les Occidentaux, n'ont réussi à éviter la guerre.
Un regard chrétien sur le marxisme
Authors: Vollot Philippe
Published: June 2011

L'auteur n'ambitionne pas de traiter dans cet article des rapports tumultueux entre le christianisme et le marxisme, mais plus simplement, à partir de son itinéraire personnel, de rechercher les racines de l'échec des courants marxistes, de relever les idées de Karl Marx qui lui semblent encore d'actualité, et de dégager quelques pistes pour refonder une gauche de transformation sociale.
Démarche spirituelle et engagement social
Authors: Charles Bernard
Published: June 2011

Du militantisme communiste au ministère pastoral, Bernard Charles retrace la trajectoire politique d'une vie, entre 1925 et l'an 2000. Une esquisse de mémoire en quête de l'articulation entre démarche spirituelle et engagement social.
Le différentiel de revenus joue-t-il un rôle déterminant dans la migration rurale-urbaine ? Application au cas du Cameroun
Authors: Meka’a Cosmas Bernard
Published: June 2011

Résumé Cet article examine les déterminants de la décision de migration des ménages des zones rurales vers les zones urbaines au Cameroun, en insistant particulièrement sur le rôle du différentiel de gains. L’étude utilise les données micro-économiques de l’ECAM II pour deux années consécutives. Le ménage migrant étant celui qui est installé dans une localité autre que celle dans laquelle il résidait un an auparavant. Étant donné que les migrants ne sont pas définis de manière aléatoire dans la population considérée, la question d’auto-sélection est aussi prise en compte pour l’estimation des gains issus de la migration. Le biais de sélection est alors corrigé à l’aide de l’équation de migration en utilisant la procédure de Heckman (1979). L’estimation du modèle probit confirme le caractère multidimensionnel du phénomène migratoire. Le différentiel de gains influence la décision de migration, ce qui est conforme avec les prédictions du modèle de Todaro, mais n’est pas le facteur dominant. Des facteurs tels que l’accès au crédit, la disponibilité des terres et d’une habitation, l’exercice des activités non agricoles ont un pouvoir explicatif plus élevé. Certains chefs de ménage peuvent par conséquent effectuer une migration, même si leurs gains potentiels sont faibles. En outre, l’impact positif de l’éducation sur les gains est plus évident pour les travailleurs migrants. Ce qui justifie pourquoi les chefs de ménage plus éduqués ont une propension plus élevée à migrer. Classification JEL : E24, J21, J24, J31, O15, R23.
Bifidobacterium breve – HT-29 cell line interaction: modulation of TNF-α induced gene expression
Authors: Boesten R. , Schuren F. , Willemsen L. , Vriesema A. , Knol J. , De Vos W.
Published: June 2011

To provide insight in the molecular basis for intestinal host-microbe interactions, we determined the genome-wide
transcriptional response of human intestinal epithelial cells following exposure to cells of Bifidobacterium breve. To
select an appropriate test system reflecting inflammatory conditions, the responsiveness to TNF-α was compared in
T84, Caco-2 and HT-29 cells. The highest TNF-α response was observed in HT-29 cells and this cell line was selected
for exposure to the B. breve strains M-16V, NR246 and UCC2003. After one hour of bacterial pre-incubation followed
by two hours of additional TNF-α stimulation, B. breve M-16V (86%), but to a much lesser extent strains NR246 (50%)
or UCC2003 (32%), showed a strain-specific reduction of the HT-29 transcriptional response to the inflammatory
treatment. The most important functional groups of genes that were transcriptionally suppressed by the presence
of B. breve M-16V, were found to be involved in immune regulation and apoptotic processes. About 54% of the
TNF-α induced genes were solely suppressed by the presence of B. breve M-16V. These included apoptosis-related
cysteine protease caspase 7 (CASP7), interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3), amyloid beta (A4) precursor proteinbinding
family A member 1 (APBA1), NADPH oxidase (NOX5), and leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR).
The extracellular IL-8 concentration was determined by an immunological assay but did not change significantly,
indicating that B. breve M-16V only partially modulates the TNF-α pathway. In conclusion, this study shows that
B. breve strains modulate gene expression in HT-29 cells under inflammatory conditions in a strain-specific way.
Aging-in-Place: Exploring the Transactional Relationship between Habits and Participation in a Community Context
Authors: Vrkljan Brenda H. , Leuty Valerie , Law Mary
Published: June 2011

This study used a phenomenological approach to explore the relationship between habitual occupations and environmental features that can support aging-in-place with 10 community-dwelling older adults. In their respective interviews, participants were asked to consider community supports and other adaptations they used to maintain participation in response to changes as they grew older or encountered health difficulties. From the transcribed data, themes were identified using an open coding process and verified by an external peer auditor. Results underscore the inextricable link between older individuals, their environment, and maintaining participation in habits of meaning. Findings are discussed using a transactional model of occupation, namely dynamical systems theory. By using habits as the central focus, this study provides a unique opportunity to examine how key supports at a community level, including design of the physical environment and other policies, can promote continued participation in older adulthood.
Human Epidermal Langerhans Cells Replenish Skin Xenografts and Are Depleted by Alloreactive T Cells In Vivo
Authors: Hemmerling Julia , Wegner-Kops Joanna , von Stebut Esther , Wolff Diana , Wagner Eva M. , Hartwig Udo F. , André Maya C. , Theobald Matthias , Schopf Rudolf E. , Herr Wolfgang , Meyer Ralf G.
Published: June 2011

Epidermal Langerhans cells (LC) are potent APCs surveying the skin. They are crucial regulators of T cell activation in the context of inflammatory skin disease and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). In contrast to other dendritic cell subtypes, murine LC are able to reconstitute after local depletion without the need of peripheral blood-derived precursors. In this study, we introduce an experimental model of human skin grafted to NOD-SCID IL2Rγnull mice. In this model, we demonstrate that xenografting leads to the transient loss of LC from the human skin grafts. Despite the lack of a human hematopoietic system, human LC repopulated the xenografts 6 to 9 wk after transplantation. By staining of LC with the proliferation marker Ki67, we show that one third of the replenishing LC exhibit proliferative activity in vivo. We further used the skin xenograft as an in vivo model for human GVHD. HLA-disparate third-party T cells stimulated with skin donor-derived dendritic cells were injected intravenously into NOD-SCID IL2Rγnull mice that had been transplanted with human skin. The application of alloreactive T cells led to erythema and was associated with histological signs of GVHD limited to the transplanted human skin. The inflammation also led to the depletion of LC from the epidermis. In summary, we provide evidence that human LC are able to repopulate the skin independent of blood-derived precursor cells and that this at least partly relates to their proliferative capacity. Our data also propose xeno-transplantation of human skin as a model system for studying the role of skin dendritic cells in the efferent arm of GVHD.
Comparing the Kinetics of NK Cells, CD4, and CD8 T Cells in Murine Cytomegalovirus Infection
Authors: Schlub Timothy E. , Sun Joseph C. , Walton Senta M. , Robbins Scott H. , Pinto Amelia K. , Munks Michael W. , Hill Ann B. , Brossay Laurent , Oxenius Annette , Davenport Miles P.
Published: June 2011

NK cells recognize virus-infected cells with germline-encoded activating and inhibitory receptors that do not undergo genetic recombination or mutation. Accordingly, NK cells are often considered part of the innate immune response. The innate response comprises rapid early defenders that do not form immune memory. However, there is increasing evidence that experienced NK cells provide increased protection to secondary infection, a hallmark of the adaptive response. In this study, we compare the dynamics of the innate and adaptive immune responses by examining the kinetic profiles of the NK and T cell response to murine CMV infection. We find that, unexpectedly, the kinetics of NK cell proliferation is neither earlier nor faster than the CD4 or CD8 T cell response. Furthermore, early NK cell contraction after the peak of the response is slower than that of T cells. Finally, unlike T cells, experienced NK cells do not experience biphasic decay after the response peak, a trait associated with memory formation. Rather, NK cell contraction is continuous, constant, and returns to below endogenous preinfection levels. This indicates that the reason why Ag-experienced NK cells remain detectable for a prolonged period after adoptive transfer and infection is in part due to the high precursor frequency, slow decay rate, and low background levels of Ly49H+ NK cells in recipient DAP12-deficient mice. Thus, the quantitative contribution of Ag-experienced NK cells in an endogenous secondary response, with higher background levels of Ly49H+ NK cells, may be not be as robust as the secondary response observed in T cells.
Relasiebegrippe in die lig van die vraag of Einstein in die eerste plek ‘n ‘relatiwiteitsteorie’ ontwikkel het
Authors: Strauss Danie F.M.
Published: June 2011

In the German literature the history of ‘ideas’ is often mentioned. Its aim is to account for the historical background of the choice and use of certain terms. In this instance such an ‘idea-historical’ approach is connected to the truly intrinsic scientific status and intention of the well-known theory of Einstein (from the years 1905 and 1916). The emphasis within the natural sciences switched since the early modern era from thing-concepts to relation-concepts, whilst the forthcoming developments eventually revealed the influence of the historicistic spiritual climate of the 19th and the early 20th century. It was also investigated in which way Einstein‘s theory of relativity explored the positive element in the shift from thing-concepts to relation-concepts even though the generally known designation of his theory (consciously or subconsciously) reflected something of the historicistic Zeitgeist [spirit of the time] at beginning of the 20th century. Nonetheless it would turn out that he was not convinced of the intrinsic antinomic nature of historicism, precisely because he realised that constancy underlies change and for that reason it cannot be emphasised at the cost of constancy. At the same time the special and general parts of his theory embody an insight into the distinct nature of the kinematic and physical aspects of reality and of the foundational role of the kinematic in respect of the physical aspect. Both these aspects underly the relation-concepts employed by Einstein, particularly as they are embodied in his emphasis on energy-constancy, where the term energy reflects the unique meaning of the physical aspect and constancy that of the kinematic aspect. The argumentation of the entire article is focused on the insight that constancy forms the basis of dynamics and change and that Einstein consequently did not develop a theory of relativity, but rather a theory of constancy. It follows that his theory at once demonstrates that the historicistic Zeitgeist of his time is intrinsically antinomic in its emphasis on change at the cost of constancy. This, moreover, is true in spite of the fact that the spirit of his time probably played a role in the designation of his theory, namely as a theory of relativity.
Trans-arterial chemoembolization (TACE) in patients with unresectable Hepatocellular carcinoma: Experience from a tertiary care centre in India
Authors: Paul Shashi Bala , Gamanagatti Shivanand , Sreenivas Vishnubhatla , Chandrashekhara Sheragaru Hanumanthappa , Mukund Amar , Gulati Manpreet Singh , Gupta Arun Kumar , Acharya Subrat Kumar
Published: June 2011

Aims: To evaluate the outcome following transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and to identify the predictors of survival in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Material and Methods: HCC patients reporting to our hospital (2001-2007) were subjected to clinical, biochemical, and radiological examination. TACE was performed in those who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Follow-up assessment was done with multiphase CT scan of the liver at 1, 3, and 6 months. Tumor response and survival rate were estimated. Univariate and multivariate analyses were done for determinants of survival. Results: A total of 73 patients (69 males, 4 females; mean age 49±13.4 years) were subjected to 123 sessions of TACE. The Child′s classification was: A - 56 patients and B - 17 patients. Barcelona Clinic staging was: A - 20 patients, B - 38 patients, and C - 15 patients. Tumor size was ≤5cm in 28 (38%) patients, >5-10 cm in 28 (38%) patients, and >10 cm in 17 (23%) patients. Median follow-up was for 12 months (range: 1-77 months). No significant postprocedure complications were encountered. Overall survival rate was 66%, 47%, and 36.4% at 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively. Tumor size emerged as an important predictor of survival. Conclusion: TACE offers a reasonable palliative therapy for HCC. Initial tumor size is an independent predictor of survival.
Multiplicity Free Jacquet Modules
Authors: Aizenbud Avraham , Gourevitch Dmitry
Published: June 2011

Let F be a non-Archimedean local field or a finite field. Let n be a natural number and k be 1 or 2. Consider G := GLn+k(F) and let M := GLn(F) × GLk(F) < G be a maximal Levi subgroup. Let U < G be the corresponding unipotent subgroup and let P = MU be the corresponding parabolic subgroup. Let be the Jacquet functor, i.e., the functor of coinvariants with respect toU. In this paper we prove that J is a multiplicity free functor, i.e., dim HomM(J(π), ρ) ≤ 1, for any irreducible representations π of G and ρ of M. We adapt the classical method of Gelfand and Kazhdan, which proves the “multiplicity free” property of certain representations to prove the “multiplicity free” property of certain functors. At the end we discuss whether other Jacquet functors are multiplicity free.
Central Extensions of Loop Groups and Obstruction to Pre-Quantization
Authors: Krepski Derek
Published: June 2011

An explicit construction of a pre-quantumline bundle for themoduli space of flat G-bundles over a Riemann surface is given, where G is any non-simply connected compact simple Lie group. This work helps to explain a curious coincidence previously observed between Toledano Laredo's work classifying central extensions of loop groups LG and the author's previous work on the obstruction to pre-quantization of the moduli space of flat G-bundles.
The Role of Nonverbal and Verbal Communication in a Multimedia Informed Consent Process
Authors: Pieczkiewicz David , Mahnke Andrea , McCarty Catherine , Starren Justin , Westra Bonnie , Plasek Joseph
Published: June 2011

Objective: Nonverbal and verbal communication elements enhance and reinforce the consent form in the informed consent process and need to be transferred appropriately to multimedia formats using interaction design when re-designing the process.

Methods: Observational, question asking behavior, and content analyses were used to analyze nonverbal and verbal elements of an informed consent process.

Results: A variety of gestures, interruptions, and communication styles were observed. Conclusion: In converting a verbal conversation about a textual document to multimedia formats, all aspects of the original process including verbal and nonverbal variation should be one part of an interaction community-centered design approach.
SEM-EDX Analysis for Surface Aberrations of Neonate's Teeth Influenced by the use of Lithium in Pregnancy
Authors: Nazir Shakila , Naqvi Naeem H , Masood A , Naema N
Published: June 2011

Objective of the study

Developmental defects of enamel may lead to esthetic tribulations. Malformed dental enamel is usually susceptible to caries and sensitivity of teeth. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the distribution of developmental defects affecting the enamel surfaces in the teeth of newborn babies of the mothers, caused by the use of lithium for a long time during pregnancy.

Study design/methods

The female rabbits were kept on this drug during pregnancy and their offsprings were used for the study. They were sacrificed to obtain their jaws. Teeth were extracted for assessment of the congenital defects developed during intrauterine life. Surface structure was studied by scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis (SEM-EDX).

Results

The results showed that the drug had caused erosions of the incisors and the molars, as compared to the premolars.

Conclusion

According to the results, incisors and the molars appeared esthetically and functionally compromised teeth. The drug should, therefore, be used by doctor's prescription only, especially during pregnancy, avoiding the teratogenic effect on the dentition of the newborns.
Rabbits as Animal Models in Contemporary Implant Biomaterial Research
Authors: Arora Himanshu , Nafria Anil , Kanase Anup
Published: June 2011

Development of an optimal interface between bone and orthopedic or dental implants has taken place for many years. In order to determine whether a newly developed implant material conforms to the requirements of biocompatibility, mechanical stability and safety, it must undergo rigorous testing both in vitro and in vivo. Results from in vitro studies can be difficult to extrapolate to the in vivo situation. For this reason the use of animal models is often an essential step in the testing of orthopedic and dental implants prior to clinical use in humans. This review discusses the reasons, the importance, and the research carried out in rabbits in our quest to develop a dental implant ideally suited for human bone.
Darier's Disease: A Clinical Rarity
Authors: Rao Roopa S , Mysorekar Vijaya V , Sumathy TK
Published: June 2011

Darier's disease (DD) is a rare autosomal dominant genodermatosis clinically manifested by greasy hyperkeratotic papules primarily affecting seborrheic areas with less frequent involvement of the oral mucosa. Oral manifestations, if present, are usually asymptomatic, and are discovered in routine dental examination. Acantholysis and dyskeratosis represented by corps ronds and corps grains are the typical histological findings.

We report a case with clinical signs of DD in the palatal mucosa and skin. Skin biopsy and analysis of clinical history helped to diagnose DD. We report this case because of its clinical rarity as the prevalence of the disease has been estimated at 1/50,000-1,00,000. This could be a case of sporadic mutation as there was no family history. This case emphasizes the importance of oral examination among dermatologists, clinicians and pathologists to clinch the diagnosis of DD as it has a wide range of clinical presentations, therefore going undiagnosed for many years.
Impact of lightning-NO on Eastern United States photochemistry during the summer of 2006 as determined using the CMAQ model
Authors: Allen D. J. , Pickering K. E. , Pinder R. W. , Henderson B. H. , Appel K. W. , Prados A.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. A lightning-nitrogen oxide (NO) algorithm is developed for the regional Community Multiscale Air Quality Model (CMAQ) and used to evaluate the impact of lightning-NO emissions (LNOx) on tropospheric photochemistry over the Eastern United States during the summer of 2006. The scheme assumes flash rates are proportional to the model convective precipitation rate but then adjusts the flash rates locally to match monthly average observations. Over the Eastern United States, LNOx is responsible for 20–25 % of the tropospheric nitrogen dioxide (NO2) column. This additional NO2 reduces the low-bias of simulated NO2 columns with respect to satellite-retrieved Dutch Ozone Monitoring Instrument NO2 (DOMINO) columns from 41 to 14 %. It also adds 10–20 ppbv to upper tropospheric ozone and 1.5–4.5 ppbv to 8-h maximum surface layer ozone, although, on average, the contribution of LNOx to surface ozone is 1–2 ppbv less on poor air quality days. Biases between modeled and satellite-retrieved tropospheric NO2 columns vary greatly between urban and rural locations. In general, CMAQ overestimates columns at urban locations and underestimates columns at rural locations. These biases are consistent with in situ measurements that also indicate that CMAQ has too much NO2 in urban regions and not enough in rural regions. However, closer analysis suggests that most of the differences between modeled and satellite-retrieved urban to rural ratios are likely a consequence of the horizontal and vertical smoothing inherent in columns retrieved by the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI). Within CMAQ, LNOx increases wet deposition of nitrate by 50 % and total deposition of nitrogen by 11 %. This additional deposition reduces the magnitude of the CMAQ low-bias in nitrate wet deposition with respect to National Atmospheric Deposition monitors to near zero. In order to obtain an upper bound on the contribution of uncertainties in chemistry to upper tropospheric NOx low biases, sensitivity calculations with updated chemistry were run for the time period of the Intercontinental Chemical Transport Experiment (INTEX-A) field campaign (summer 2004). After adjusting for possible interferences in NO2 measurements and averaging over the entire campaign, these updates reduced 7–9 km biases from 32 to 17 % and 9–12 km biases from 57 to 46 %. While these changes lead to better agreement, a considerable NO2 low-bias remains in the uppermost troposphere.
The role of catchment classification in rainfall-runoff modeling
Authors: He Y. , Bárdossy A. , Zehe E.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. A sound catchment classification scheme is a fundamental step towards improved catchment hydrology science and prediction in ungauged basins. Two categories of catchment classification methods are presented in the paper. The first one is based directly on physiographic properties and climatic conditions over a catchment and regarded as a Linnaean type or natural classification scheme. The second one is based on numerical clustering and regionalization methods and considered as a statistical or arbitrary classification scheme. This paper reviews each category including what has been done since recognition of the intrinsic value of catchment classification, what is being done in the current research, as well as what is to be done in the future.
Clinical Assessment of Nifedipine-Induced Gingival Overgrowth in a Group of Brazilian Patients
Authors: Sousa Cliciane Portela , Navarro Claudia Maria , Sposto Maria Regina
Published: June 2011

Although it has been established that nifedipine is associated with gingival overgrowth (GO), there is little information on the prevalence and severity of this condition in the Brazilian population. The aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of nifedipine-induced GO in Brazilian patients and the risk factors associated using a Clinical Index for Drug Induced Gingival Overgrowth (Clinical Index DIGO). The study was carried out on 35 patients under treatment with nifedipine (test group) and 35 patients without treatment (control group). Variables such as demographic (age, gender), pharmacological (dose, time of use), periodontal (plaque index, gingival index, probing depth, clinical insertion level, and bleeding on probing), and GO were assessed. Statistical analysis showed no association between GO and demographic or pharmacological variables. However, there was an association between GO and periodontal variables, except for plaque index. According to our study, the Clinical Index DIGO can be used as a parameter to evaluate GO. Therefore, we conclude that the presence of gingival inflammation was the main risk factor for the occurrence of nifedipine-induced GO.
Role of vitamin K-dependent proteins in the arterial vessel wall
Authors: Chatrou M. L. L. , Reutelingsperger C. P. , Schurgers L. J.
Published: June 2011

Vitamin K was discovered early last century at the same time as the vitamin K-antagonists. For many years the role of vitamin K was solely ascribed to coagulation and coagulation was thought to be involved only at the venous blood side. This view has dramatically changed with the discovery of vitamin K-dependent proteins outside the coagulation cascade and the role of coagulation factors at the arterial side. Vitamin K-dependent proteins are involved in the regulation of vascular smooth muscle cell migration, apoptosis, and calcification. Vascular calcification has become an important independent predictor of cardiovascular disease. Vitamin K-antagonists induce inactivity of inhibitors of vascular calcification, leading to accelerated calcification. The involvement of vitamin K-dependent proteins such as MGP in vascular calcification make that calcification is amendable for intervention with high intake of vitamin K. This review focuses on the effect of vitamin K-dependent proteins in vascular disease.
Impact of obesity on functioning among women with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Katz Patricia , Yazdany Jinoos , Julian Laura , Trupin Laura , Margaretten Mary , Yelin Edward , Criswell Lindsey A.
Published: June 2011

Objective

Obesity is associated with high rates of disability in the general population. The nature of the relationship between obesity and disability in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a condition with a high background rate of disability, is unknown.

Methods

Data were from 2 interviews, 4 years apart, of a longitudinal cohort of individuals with SLE (n = 716 women). Body mass index (BMI) was calculated from self‐reported height and weight; obesity was classified by usual (BMI ≥30) and revised (BMI ≥26.8) definitions. Three measures of functioning were examined: the Short Form 36 (SF‐36) Health Survey physical function (PF) subscale, Valued Life Activities (VLA) Disability Questionnaire, and employment. Multivariate analyses controlled for demographics, SLE duration and disease activity, glucocorticoid use, depression, and comorbidities. Prospective analyses also controlled for baseline function.

Results

At a BMI of ≥30, 27.8% of the subjects were obese; at a BMI of ≥26.8, 40.6% of the subjects were obese. Regardless of obesity definition, obese women exhibited poorer baseline function, with decrements ranging from 20–33% depending on the functional measure and obesity definition. With a BMI of ≥26.8, the adjusted SF‐36 PF scores were 4.3 points lower for obese women (P < 0.0001), VLA difficulty was 0.09 higher (P = 0.01), and odds of employment were 80% of nonobese women (odds ratio 0.8, 95% confidence interval 0.5–1.1). At the 4‐year followup, women who were obese at baseline had poorer function and experienced greater functional declines.

Conclusion

Obesity was associated with clinically significant negative effects on function, both concurrently and prospectively. This negative impact occurred at a lower BMI than is often considered problematic clinically. Because of the high rate of SLE‐related disability, addressing preventable risk factors such as obesity may improve long‐term SLE outcomes.
Quadriceps weakness, patella alta, and structural features of patellofemoral osteoarthritis
Authors: Stefanik Joshua J. , Guermazi Ali , Zhu Yanyan , Zumwalt Ann C. , Gross K. Douglas , Clancy Margaret , Lynch John A. , Segal Neil A. , Lewis Cora E. , Roemer Frank W. , Powers Christopher M. , Felson David T.
Published: June 2011

Objective

To determine the relationship between quadriceps weakness and cartilage damage and bone marrow lesions (BMLs) in the patellofemoral joint (PFJ) and if this relationship is modified by patella alta.

Methods

The Multicenter Osteoarthritis Study is a cohort study of persons ages 50–79 years with or at risk of knee osteoarthritis. Concentric knee extensor strength was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer. Patella alta was measured using the Insall‐Salvati ratio (ISR) on the lateral radiograph, and cartilage damage and BMLs were graded on magnetic resonance imaging in the PFJ. We determined the association between quadriceps weakness with cartilage damage and BMLs in the PFJ among knees with (ISR ≥1.2) and without (ISR <1.2) patella alta using multiple binomial regression.

Results

A total of 807 knees were studied (mean age 62 years, body mass index 30 kg/m2, ISR 1.10) and 64% were from women. Compared with the knees in the highest strength tertile, those in the lowest had 10.2% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 3, 18), 9.1% (95% CI 2, 16), and 7.1% (95% CI 1, 13) higher prevalence of lateral PFJ cartilage damage, medial PFJ cartilage damage, and lateral PFJ BMLs, respectively. The association between quadriceps weakness with cartilage damage and BMLs was not different between knees with and without patella alta in the lateral PFJ.

Conclusion

Quadriceps weakness was associated with PFJ cartilage damage and BMLs. While both patella alta and quadriceps weakness were associated with PFJ damage, the combination of the two was not associated with more damage than either of these factors alone.
Terpolymers from lactide and bisphenol a derivatives: Scale‐up, properties, and blends
Authors: Singh Akhilesh , Naskar Amit K. , Barden Joel , Drews Michael J. , Smith Dennis W.
Published: June 2011

Terpolymerization of L‐lactide (LA) and bisphenol A derivatives was performed on few hundred gram scale, and the resultant terpolymer (TP) was characterized by gel permeation chromatography, infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and thermogravimetric analysis. Moderate molecular weight (Mn ∼ 12 kg/mol) TP was achieved with glass transition temperatures about 100°C (DSC and DMA). The TP exhibited improved thermal stability compared with polylactide (PLA), with a thermal degradation temperature of about 80°C higher than PLA. Although the TP exhibited distinctly different surface morphology compared with that of PLA, both showed similar contact angle and surface energy (ca. 40 mN/m) properties. Blends of PLA and TP showed enhanced glass transition (∼ 5°C change in Tg) temperatures compared with PLA homopolymer. This is due to the compatibility of PLA and TP. Thus, TP could be used as an additive for PLA‐based blends to enhance compatibility with phenolic‐based resins. TP electrospun fiber morphology is also reported. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Performance of melamine modified urea–formaldehyde microcapsules in a dental host material
Authors: Then Sonja , Neon Gan Seng , Abu Kasim Noor Hayaty
Published: June 2011

Urea–formaldehyde (UF) microcapsules filled with dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) show potential for making self‐healing dental restorative materials. To enhance the physical properties of the capsules, the urea was partially replaced with 0–5% melamine. The microcapsules were analyzed by different microscopic techniques. DSC was used to examine the capsule shell, and the core content was confirmed by 1H NMR spectroscopy. Capsules in the range of 50–300 μm were then embedded in a dental composite matrix consisting of bisphenol‐A‐glycidyl dimethacrylate (Bis‐GMA) and triethylene‐glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA). Flexural strength, microhardness, and nanoindentation hardness measurements were performed on the light‐cured specimens. Optical microscopy (OM) examination showed a random distribution of the microspheres throughout the host material. The incorporation of small amounts of the microcapsules did not affect the performance of the matrix material. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed excellent bonding of the microcapsules to the host material which is a characteristic of utter importance for maintaining the very good mechanical properties of a dental composite with self‐healing ability. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011.
High incidence of NLRP3 somatic mosaicism in patients with chronic infantile neurologic, cutaneous, articular syndrome: Results of an international multicenter collaborative study
Authors: Tanaka Naoko , Izawa Kazushi , Saito Megumu K. , Sakuma Mio , Oshima Koichi , Ohara Osamu , Nishikomori Ryuta , Morimoto Takeshi , Kambe Naotomo , Goldbach‐Mansky Raphaela , Aksentijevich Ivona , de Saint Basile Geneviève , Neven Bénédicte , van Gijn Mariëlle , Frenkel Joost , Aróstegui Juan I. , Yagüe Jordi , Merino Rosa , Ibañez Mercedes , Pontillo Alessandra , Takada Hidetoshi , Imagawa Tomoyuki , Kawai Tomoki , Yasumi Takahiro , Nakahata Tatsutoshi , Heike Toshio
Published: June 2011

Objective

Chronic infantile neurologic, cutaneous, articular (CINCA) syndrome, also known as neonatal‐onset multisystem inflammatory disease (NOMID), is a dominantly inherited systemic autoinflammatory disease. Although heterozygous germline gain‐of‐function NLRP3 mutations are a known cause of this disease, conventional genetic analyses fail to detect disease‐causing mutations in ∼40% of patients. Since somatic NLRP3 mosaicism has been detected in several mutation‐negative NOMID/CINCA syndrome patients, we undertook this study to determine the precise contribution of somatic NLRP3 mosaicism to the etiology of NOMID/CINCA syndrome.

Methods

An international case–control study was performed to detect somatic NLRP3 mosaicism in NOMID/CINCA syndrome patients who had shown no mutation during conventional sequencing. Subcloning and sequencing of NLRP3 was performed in these mutation‐negative NOMID/CINCA syndrome patients and their healthy relatives. Clinical features were analyzed to identify potential genotype–phenotype associations.

Results

Somatic NLRP3 mosaicism was identified in 18 of the 26 patients (69.2%). Estimates of the level of mosaicism ranged from 4.2% to 35.8% (mean ± SD 12.1 ± 7.9%). Mosaicism was not detected in any of the 19 healthy relatives (18 of 26 patients versus 0 of 19 relatives; P < 0.0001). In vitro functional assays indicated that the detected somatic NLRP3 mutations had disease‐causing functional effects. No differences in NLRP3 mosaicism were detected between different cell lineages. Among nondescript clinical features, a lower incidence of mental retardation was noted in patients with somatic mosaicism. Genotype‐matched comparison confirmed that patients with somatic NLRP3 mosaicism presented with milder neurologic symptoms.

Conclusion

Somatic NLRP3 mutations were identified in 69.2% of patients with mutation‐negative NOMID/CINCA syndrome. This indicates that somatic NLRP3 mosaicism is a major cause of NOMID/CINCA syndrome.
Post‐epidemic eosinophilia–myalgia syndrome associated with L‐tryptophan
Authors: Allen Jeffrey A. , Peterson Alicia , Sufit Robert , Hinchcliff Monique E. , Mahoney J. Matthew , Wood Tammara A. , Miller Frederick W. , Whitfield Michael L. , Varga John
Published: June 2011

Eosinophilia–myalgia syndrome (EMS) is characterized by subacute onset of myalgias and peripheral eosinophilia, followed by chronic neuropathy and skin induration. An epidemic of EMS in 1989 was linked to consumption of L‐tryptophan that had originated from a single source. Following the ban by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on the sale of L‐tryptophan, the incidence of EMS declined rapidly. Moreover, no new cases have been described since the FDA ban was lifted in 2005. We report the clinical, histopathologic, and immunogenetic features of a new case of L‐tryptophan–associated EMS, along with evidence of activated transforming growth factor β and interleukin‐4 signaling in the lesional skin.
Effects of gadolinium chelate on the evolution of the nanoscale structure in peptide hydrogels
Authors: Taraban Marc B. , Weerasekare Mahika , Trewhella Jill , Shi Xianfeng , Jeong Eun‐Kee , Yu Yihua Bruce
Published: June 2011

Small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) was used to monitor peptide hydrogelation with and without the MRI contrast agent gadolinium chelate (Gd(III)‐chelate). The gelators are a pair of decapeptides that are self‐repulsive but mutually attractive. Gd(III)‐chelate was either free or covalently bound to one of the decapeptides. Free and conjugated Gd(III)‐chelate have the opposite effects on peptide gelation: free Gd(III)‐chelate slows down gelation while having little effect on the cross‐sectional area of peptide fibers; covalently conjugated Gd(III)‐chelate speeds up gelation and results in peptide fibers with significantly greater cross‐sectional area. After 24 h of gelation, the cross‐sectional areas of hydrogels with no Gd(III)‐chelate, with free Gd(III)‐chelate and with conjugated Gd(III) chelate are 3700, 3800, and 6300 Å2, respectively. Free Gd(III)‐chelate is not incorporated into peptide fibers and remains in solution with little effect on MRI intensity upon gelation. In contrast, covalently conjugated Gd(III)‐chelate is not only incorporated into peptide fibers, but further aggregates toward the center of the peptide fibers. In conclusion, to visualize hydrogelation using 1H MRI, it is necessary to conjugate Gd(III)‐chelate to the material covalently and use T2‐weighted imaging. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 98: 50–58, 2012.
Effect of sulfur oxyanions on lignocellulose‐derived fermentation inhibitors
Authors: Cavka Adnan , Alriksson Björn , Ahnlund Maria , Jönsson Leif J.
Published: June 2011

Recent results show that treatments with reducing agents, including the sulfur oxyanions dithionite and hydrogen sulfite, efficiently improve the fermentability of inhibitory lignocellulose hydrolysates, and that the treatments are effective when the reducing agents are added in situ into the fermentation vessel at low temperature. In the present investigation, dithionite was added to medium with model inhibitors (coniferyl aldehyde, furfural, 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural, or acetic acid) and the effects on the fermentability with yeast were studied. Addition of 10 mM dithionite to medium containing 2.5 mM coniferyl aldehyde resulted in a nine‐fold increase in the glucose consumption rate and a three‐fold increase in the ethanol yield. To investigate the mechanism behind the positive effects of adding sulfur oxyanions, mixtures containing 2.5 mM of a model inhibitor (an aromatic compound, a furan aldehyde, or an aliphatic acid) and 15 mM dithionite or hydrogen sulfite were analyzed using mass spectrometry (MS). The results of the analyses, which were performed by using UHPLC‐ESI‐TOF‐MS and UHPLC‐LTQ/Orbitrap‐MS/MS, indicate that the positive effects of sulfur oxyanions are primarily due to their capability to react with and sulfonate inhibitory aromatic compounds and furan aldehydes at low temperature and slightly acidic pH (such as 25°C and pH 5.5). Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011;108: 2592–2599. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluation of nanoparticle‐immobilized cellulase for improved ethanol yield in simultaneous saccharification and fermentation reactions
Authors: Lupoi Jason S. , Smith Emily A.
Published: June 2011

Ethanol yields were 2.1 (P = 0.06) to 2.3 (P = 0.01) times higher in simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) reactions of microcrystalline cellulose when cellulase was physisorbed on silica nanoparticles compared to enzyme in solution. In SSF reactions, cellulose is hydrolyzed to glucose by cellulase while yeast simultaneously ferments glucose to ethanol. The 35°C temperature and the presence of ethanol in SSF reactions are not optimal conditions for cellulase. Immobilization onto solid supports can stabilize the enzyme and promote activity at non‐optimum reaction conditions. Mock SSF reactions that did not contain yeast were used to measure saccharification products and identify the mechanism for the improved ethanol yield using immobilized cellulase. Cellulase adsorbed to 40 nm silica nanoparticles produced 1.6 times (P = 0.01) more glucose than cellulase in solution in 96 h at pH 4.8 and 35°C. There was no significant accumulation (<250 µg) of soluble cellooligomers in either the solution or immobilized enzyme reactions. This suggests that the mechanism for the immobilized enzyme's improved glucose yield compared to solution enzyme is the increased conversion of insoluble cellulose hydrolysis products to soluble cellooligomers at 35°C and in the presence of ethanol. The results show that silica‐immobilized cellulase can be used to produce increased ethanol yields in the conversion of lignocellulosic materials by SSF. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011;108: 2835–2843. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
One‐step production of unacetylated sophorolipids by an acetyltransferase negative Candida bombicola
Authors: Saerens Karen M.J. , Saey Lien , Soetaert Wim
Published: June 2011

Sophorolipids from the non‐pathogenic yeast Candida bombicola are applied commercially as biodegradable, eco‐friendly surface active agents. These sophorolipids are produced by cultivation in presence of a hydrophobic carbon source and are always constituted of a mixture of structurally related molecules. For some applications however, certain structural variants perform better than others. Acetylation of the sophorolipid molecule is such a parameter that gains interest because of its influence on water solubility, foaming properties, and biological activity. Fully unacetylated sophorolipids therefore are interesting metabolites but cannot be produced in a pure way by conventional cultivation. Here we report the identification of the acetyltransferase gene AT, responsible for acetylation of de novo synthesized sophorolipids in Candida bombicola. By the creation of a Δat deletion mutant, we could create a yeast strain producing purely unacetylated sophorolipids with a yield of 5 ± 0.7 g/L using rapeseed oil as hydrophobic carbon source. In contrast to the chemical production of unacetylated sophorolipids used nowadays, the microbial production leads to mainly lactonic sophorolipids, in addition to minor amounts of acidic sophorolipids. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011;108: 2923–2931. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.