bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New information on Hauffiosaurus (Reptilia, Plesiosauria) based on a new species from the Alum Shale Member (Lower Toarcian: Lower Jurassic) of Yorkshire, UK
Authors: BENSON ROGER B. J. , KETCHUM HILARY F. , NOÈ LESLIE F. , GóMEZ‐PéREZ MARCELA
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  An almost complete, three‐dimensionally preserved plesiosaurian from the Hildoceras bifrons Zone of the Alum Shale Member (Whitby Limestone Formation; Lower Toarcian) of Yorkshire, UK, is described in detail. This represents a new species of Hauffiosaurus, H. tomistomimus, distinguished from H. zanoni (Harpoceras serpentinum Zone, Lower Toarcian, Germany) by the proportionally shorter neck and strongly concave preaxial margin of the tibia. It differs from H. longirostris (previously ‘Macroplata’longirostris; Har. serpentinum Zone, Yorkshire) by the absence of prominent midline ridges on the dorsal surface of the premaxillae and ventral surface of the mandibular symphysis, and the absence of midline pterygoid contact ventral to the basioccipital. Several synapomorphies support a monophyletic Hauffiosaurus: broad longitudinal troughs occupy the dorsolateral surface of the maxilla and the posterior half of the lateral surface of the dentary; basicranial fontanelle bounded laterally by posterolaterally elongate projections of an undetermined ossification; and the neural arch contacts the rib facet in all postaxial cervical vertebrae. However, the systematic position of Hauffiosaurus, as a pliosauroid or basal plesiosauroid, remains uncertain. There is little evidence for geographic differentiation of Lower Toarcian plesiosaurian faunas in the United Kingdom and Germany as minor differences between abundant taxa may arise from temporal offset of fossils from these regions, and marked taxonomic differences are confined to rare taxa whose absence in one or other area may be attributable to incomplete sampling. Lack of consensus on the relationships of Lower Jurassic plesiosaurians requires further detailed description of Lower Jurassic taxa.
Assessment of a point‐of‐care cardiac troponin I test to differentiate cardiac from noncardiac causes of respiratory distress in dogs
Authors: Payne Edward E. , Roberts Brian K. , Schroeder Nick , Burk Ronald L. , Schermerhorn Thomas
Published: May 2011

Objectives
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To (1) determine a reference interval for cardiac troponin I (cTnI) using a point‐of‐care device in normal dogs and compare the results with those published by the manufacturer and (2) determine if cTnI differs among dogs with cardiogenic and noncardiogenic respiratory distress.

Design
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Prospective observational study.

Setting
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Emergency and referral veterinary hospital.

Animals
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Twenty‐six clinically normal dogs and 67 dogs in respiratory distress.

Interventions
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All dogs underwent whole blood sampling for cTnI concentrations.

Measurements and Results
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Normal dogs had a median cTnI concentration of 0.03 ng/mL (range 0–0.11 ng/mL). Thirty‐six dogs were diagnosed with noncardiogenic respiratory distress with a median cTnI concentration of 0.14 ng/mL (range 0.01–4.31 ng/mL). Thirty‐one dogs were diagnosed with cardiogenic respiratory distress with a median cTnI concentration of 1.74 ng/mL (range 0.05–17.1 ng/mL).

A significant difference between cTnI concentrations in normal dogs and dogs with noncardiogenic respiratory distress was not detected. Significant differences in cTnI concentrations were found between normals versus cardiogenic and cardiogenic versus noncardiogenic respiratory distress groups. Significant differences in cTnI concentrations were identified in >10 when compared with the <5 and the 5–10 years of age groups. Receiver operating curve analysis identified cTnI concentrations >1.5 ng/mL as the optimal “cut‐off point” having a sensitivity of 78% and specificity of 51.5%. The area under the receiver operating curve was 0.72. Overall test accuracy was 65%.

Conclusions
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cTnI concentrations were significantly increased in dogs with cardiogenic respiratory distress versus dogs with noncardiogenic respiratory distress and normal dogs. A significant difference between normal dogs and dogs with noncardiogenic causes of respiratory distress was detected. Although highly sensitive when cTnI concentrations exceed 1.5 ng/mL, the test has low specificity. Assessment of cTnI by the methodology used cannot be recommended as the sole diagnostic modality for evaluating the cause of respiratory distress in dogs.
Myasthenia gravis in dogs with an emphasis on treatment and critical care management
Authors: Khorzad Roxanna , Whelan Megan , Sisson Allen , Shelton G. D.
Published: May 2011

Objective –To review the human and veterinary literature on the pathophysiology of myasthenia gravis (MG) and describe treatment options for clinical use in people and animals.

Data Sources –Human and veterinary clinical reports, studies and reviews, textbooks, and recent research findings in MG from 1996 present, with a focus on treatment and patient management.

Human Data Synthesis –MG is a well‐described condition in people with new research and treatment options available. Many of the newest therapeutic options available in veterinary medicine for MG are based on current strategies used in people with this condition. Seronegative MG is well described in people and provides insight to clinical cases encountered in veterinary medicine when the index of suspicion is high though serologic tests are negative.

Veterinary Data Synthesis –Previous studies in veterinary medicine focused on the use of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors as the main form of treatment in canine MG. Recent studies, mainly case series and case reports, emphasize the use of immunomodulatory treatments as an alternative for long‐term treatment. However, there are no randomized, controlled studies on treatment with immunomodulatory therapy for MG in dogs available to assess the efficacy of this treatment strategy.

Conclusions –Although early recognition of clinical signs is most important in the outcome of patients with MG, further understanding the pathophysiology of MG may lead to earlier diagnosis and novel treatment strategies. The discovery of additional autoantibodies against striated muscle proteins in dogs, should enhance our understanding of diseases affecting the neuromuscular junction. In addition, clinical data for canine MG could be applied to other autoimmune disorders.
The flavonoid scaffold as a template for the design of modulators of the vascular Cav1.2 channels
Authors: Saponara S , Carosati E , Mugnai P , Sgaragli G , Fusi F
Published: May 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSEPrevious studies have pointed to the plant flavonoids myricetin and quercetin as two structurally related stimulators of vascular Cav1.2 channel current (ICa1.2). Here we have tested the proposition that the flavonoid structure confers the ability to modulate Cav1.2 channels.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHTwenty‐four flavonoids were analysed for their effects on ICa1.2in rat tail artery myocytes, using the whole‐cell patch‐clamp method.

KEY RESULTSMost of the flavonoids stimulated or inhibited ICa1.2in a concentration‐ and voltage‐dependent manner with EC50values ranging between 4.4 µM (kaempferol) and 16.0 µM (myricetin) for the stimulators and IC50values between 13.4 µM (galangin) and 100 µM [(±)‐naringenin] for the inhibitors. Key structural requirements for ICa1.2stimulatory activity were the double bond between C2 and C3 and the hydroxylation pattern on the flavonoid scaffold, the latter also determining the molecular charge, as shown by molecular modelling techniques. Absence of OH groups in the B ring was key in ICa1.2inhibition. The functional interaction between quercetin and either the stimulator myricetin or the antagonists resokaempferol, crysin, genistein, and 5,7,2′‐trihydroxyflavone revealed that quercetin expressed the highest apparent affinity, in the low µM range, for Cav1.2 channels. Neither protein tyrosine kinase nor protein kinase Cα were involved in quercetin‐induced stimulation of ICa1.2.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONSQuercetin‐like plant flavonoids were active on vascular Cav1.2 channels. Thus, the flavonoid scaffold may be a template for the design of novel modulators of vascular smooth muscle Cav1.2 channels, valuable for the treatment of hypertension and stroke.
Combined argatroban and anti‐oxidative agents prevents increased vascular contractility to thrombin and other ligands after subarachnoid haemorrhage
Authors: Kameda Katsuharu , Kikkawa Yuichiro , Hirano Mayumi , Matsuo Satoshi , Sasaki Tomio , Hirano Katsuya
Published: May 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Increased vascular contractility plays a fundamental role in cerebral vasospasm in subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH). We investigated the role of thrombin and its receptor, proteinase‐activated receptor 1 (PAR1), and other G protein‐coupled receptors in the increased contractility, and examined the preventive effects of the thrombin inhibitor, argatroban, and anti‐oxidative agents, vitamin C and tempol.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH A rabbit model of SAH was utilized. Contractile responses of the isolated basilar artery and the level of oxidative stress of brain tissues were evaluated.

KEY RESULTS Contractile responses to thrombin and PAR1‐activating peptide (PAR1‐AP) were enhanced and prolonged after SAH. The thrombin‐induced contraction persisted even after terminating thrombin stimulation. When sequentially stimulated with PAR1‐AP, the second response was maintained in SAH, while it was substantially attenuated in the control. Only a combination of argatroban with vitamin C or tempol prevented both the enhancement and prolongation of the contractile response to PAR1‐AP and restored the reversibility of the thrombin‐induced contraction. The responses to angiotensin II, vasopressin and PGF2α were enhanced and prolonged after SAH to varying degrees, and responded differently to the treatment. The response to vasopressin exhibited a similar phenomenon to that seen with PAR1‐AP. Oxidative stress was increased in SAH, and normalized by the treatment with argatroban, vitamin C or their combination.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Increased vascular reactivity to agonists in SAH was attributable to the enhancement and prolongation of the contractile response. A combination of argatroban and anti‐oxidative agents was required to prevent both the enhancement and prolongation of the contractile response.

LINKED ARTICLE This article is commented on by Hollenberg, pp. 103–105 of this issue. To view this commentary visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2011.01564.x
A Concept Analysis of Suicidal Behavior
Authors: Sun Fan‐Ko
Published: May 2011

ABSTRACT Objective:

Suicidal behavior is a significant global public health problem. Despite this, many health care professionals remain unaware of the distinction among suicidal behavior, self‐mutilation, and deliberate self‐harm. The aim of this study was to conduct a concept analysis of suicidal behavior.

Method:Walker and Avant's 8‐step method of concept analysis was used to examine the concept of suicidal behavior. Sources for analysis were identified using a systematic search of Medline, CINAHL, ProQuest Nursing & Allied Health Source, and the reference lists of related journal articles.

Results:Suicidal behavior was found to be associated with a constellation of external hazards and internal crises, lack of coping mechanisms and social support structures, and degree of suicidal intent, which, in the worst‐case scenario, results in successful suicide. The antecedents of suicidal behavior are vulnerability characteristics that make painful events seem unbearable, and the consequences are death or failed suicide. In cases of failure, the medical consequences may be serious and long lasting.

Conclusions:Defining the concept of suicidal behavior provides a basis for public health nurses to better understand suicidal behavior, thus improving their ability to care for suicidal patients during home visits.
Hyperkinetic seizures in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy: Clinical features and outcome after temporal lobe resection
Authors: Staack Anke M. , Bilic Sofia , Wendling Anne‐Sophie , Scholly Julia , Kraus Uwe , Strobl Karl , Bodin Frédéric , Zentner Josef , Steinhoff Bernhard J.
Published: May 2011

Purpose: Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is usually associated with automatisms. Hyperkinetic seizures are supposed to be unusual. Because we witnessed several patients with TLE and ictal hyperkinetic symptoms, we retrospectively assessed the number, clinical findings, and seizure outcome in such patients who had undergone temporal lobe resection.

Methods: We reviewed medical history, video–electroencephalography (EEG) recording and neuroimaging of adult patients who underwent epilepsy surgery for TLE at the Kork Epilepsy Center over the last 20 years with a minimum postoperative follow‐up of 12 months.

Key Findings: Among 294 patients who were resected exclusively in the temporal region, we identified 17 (6%) who presented with hyperkinetic semiology such as violent vocalization, complex movements of the proximal segments of the limbs, rotation of the trunk, pelvic thrusting, or early tonic or dystonic posturing. Most of the patients had a preceding aura. Ictal EEG activity was located in the corresponding temporal region, usually with a wide distribution over temporal electrodes with fast spread to unilateral frontal electrodes and to the contralateral side. Neuroimaging revealed extended lesions in the temporal lobe involving mesial and neocortical structures. Most of the patients underwent classical anterior temporal lobe resection including amygdalo‐hippocampectomy. Fourteen patients (82%) became completely seizure‐free (Engel class Ia). Histopathology showed mainly focal cortical dysplasia plus hippocampal sclerosis.

Significance: Hyperkinetic seizure semiology may occasionally occur in patients with TLE and is, therefore, no contradiction to the hypothesis of TLE if scalp EEG patterns and neuroimaging findings correspond. The postoperative seizure outcome is favorable in such patients and not different from outcome data in classical TLE.
Language deficits and altered hemispheric lateralization in young people in remission from BECTS
Authors: Monjauze Cécile , Broadbent Hannah , Boyd Stewart G. , Neville Brian G. R. , Baldeweg Torsten
Published: May 2011

Benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (BECTS) is associated with language disturbances during the active phase of the seizure disorder. However, it is not yet known whether these deficits are reversible or have long‐term impact on the development of language skills. We report on a study conducted in 13 patients in remission from BECTS and 13 age‐matched controls, who underwent neuropsychological assessments. We also recorded event‐related potentials (ERPs) during a verb generation task, to determine cortical lateralization of language. The BECTS group showed significant language deficits compared to controls as well as a pattern of atypical ERP lateralization in frontal regions. These findings support the view that BECTS in childhood may lead to enduring effects on brain maturation and language development.
Do U.S. Insurance Firms Offer the “Wrong” Incentives to Their Executives?
Authors: Milidonis Andreas , Stathopoulos Konstantinos
Published: May 2011

Abstract

We examine the relation between executive compensation and market‐implied default risk for listed insurance firms from 1992 to 2007. Shareholders are expected to encourage managerial risk sharing through equity‐based incentive compensation. We find that long‐term incentives and other share‐based plans do not affect the default risk faced by firms. However, the extensive use of stock options leads to higher future default risk for insurance firms. We argue that this is because option‐based incentives induce managerial risk‐taking behavior, which seeks to maximize managerial payoff through equity volatility. This could be detrimental to the interests of shareholders, especially during a financial crisis.
Uses of Public Participation Geographic Information Systems Applications in E‐Government
Authors: Ganapati Sukumar
Published: May 2011

Despite significant growth in public participation GIS (PPGIS) literature since the 1990s, little engagement by e‐government scholars is evident in the extensive scholarly PPGIS debates. To fill this void, recent trends in PPGIS adoption by local governments are analyzed. Three waves of GIS are identified: desktop GIS, web GIS, and the Geospatial Web 2.0 platform. Such technological advancements have progressively eased GIS accessibility from expert users to ordinary citizens, accompanied by considerable growth in adopting PPGIS for traffic and transit, volunteered geographic information, and customer relationship management. However, limited use of PPGIS for higher levels of participation such as decision making is found. Barriers to PPGIS adoption for decision making seem less technological and more institutional.
PBB in American Local Governments: It's More than a Management Tool
Authors: Ho Alfred Tat‐Kei
Published: May 2011

Despite academic findings that performance information seldom is used in appropriations decisions, many professional organizations and governments continue to press for integrating performance information into local public management, planning, and budgeting processes. Is it possible to reconcile such inconsistencies? Looking beyond the executive–legislative relationship and departmental appropriations, the author examines the budget implications of applying performance information at the subdepartmental program level. Case analysis of Indianapolis’s IndyStat initiative underscores that performance measurement application is positively related to intradepartmental program budget changes. Hence, performance‐based budgeting (PBB) can improve local budgeting despite severe political constraints. Still, successful use of PBB requires strong executive leadership, and its effects remain less visible at the departmental level or within the wider political arena of legislative bargaining. The author concludes by recommending some rethinking of the current analytical focus of PBB both in future research as well as recommended practice.
Carotid Stenting in High‐Risk Patients: Early and Late Outcomes
Authors: GRIBAR JOHN J. , JIDDOU MONICA , CHOKSI NISHIT , ABBAS AMR E. , BOWERS TERRY , KAZMIERCZAK CHRIS , TIMMS CHRIS , SAFIAN ROBERT D.
Published: May 2011

Purpose: Some patients with severe carotid stenosis have anatomical or clinical comorbidities that place them at high risk for carotid endarterectomy (CEA). The early and late outcomes after carotid artery stenting (CAS) were evaluated in patients at high risk for CEA.

Methods: Between 2002 and 2009, 186 patients were enrolled in a high‐risk CAS institutional registry. The primary outcome was major adverse cardiac and cerberovascular events (MACCEs) at 30 days, including death, stroke, and myocardial infarction. Secondary outcomes were technical, procedural, and clinical success; nonstroke neurological events; and death and ipsilateral stroke at 5 years.

Results: Twenty‐five patients (13.2%) were symptomatic. Thirty day MACCE occurred in 2.6%, including death in 1 (0.5%), stroke in 3 (1.6%), and myocardial infraction in 1 (0.5%) patient. Strokes were nonfatal in 3 (1.6%), major in 2 (1.1%), and minor in 1 (0.5%) patients. Other neurological events included transient ischemic attack in 9 (4.7%) and retinal artery occlusion in 2 (1.1%) patients. After stroke, 2 patients had complete resolution of neurological deficit within 30 days, and 1 patient had improvement in neurological deficit. By Kaplan–Meier analysis, all‐cause mortality was 47.5% and ipsilateral stroke was 4.5% at 5 years.

Conclusions: In patients who are high risk for CEA, CAS can be performed with low MACCE at 30 days and ipsilateral stroke at 5 years. However, nearly half of these patients die within 5 years from causes unrelated to stroke. (J Interven Cardiol 2011;24:247–253)
Natural Co‐occurrence of Dinophysis acuminata (Dinoflagellata) and Mesodinium rubrum (Ciliophora) in Thin Layers in a Coastal Inlet
Authors: SJÖQVIST CONNY O. , LINDHOLM TORE J.
Published: May 2011

ABSTRACT.  The interdependency of Dinophysis spp., Mesodinium rubrum and Teleaulax spp. has occupied scientists in molecular and ecological domains in recent years. Current knowledge about the predator–prey relationships is based on laboratory investigations. Records on interactions in nature are limited, even though it is known that Dinophysis acuminata and M. rubrum form population maxima in thin layers associated with thermal stratification. We studied the vertical co‐occurrence of these taxa in a stratified coastal inlet in Åland, in the Northern Baltic Sea, SW Finland. Vertical profiles were sampled monthly in the summer of 2008 and observations on diurnal migrational patterns of all species were conducted in September 2008. The population maximum of D. acuminata was almost totally confined to thin layers where the depth maximum of M. rubrum was present. However, this pattern was only observed early in the morning or at noon. The population maxima of M. rubrum and Teleaulax spp. overlapped at noon. Dinophysis acuminata and Teleaulax spp. were restricted to the upper 9 m but M. rubrum was found down to 20 m depth. This study offers circumstantial evidence for the interdependency between the three taxa in nature.
Manufacturing SiC‐Fiber‐Reinforced SiC Matrix Composites by Improved CVI/Slurry Infiltration/Polymer Impregnation and Pyrolysis
Authors: Nannetti Carlo Alberto , Ortona Alberto , de Pinto Dario A. , Riccardi Bruno
Published: May 2011

Two‐ and three‐dimensional SiCr/SiC composites have been prepared starting from Tyranno SA(tm) fiber preforms. Preform densification has been performed by a modified preceramic polymer impregnation and pyrolysis (PIP) process consisting of filling the preform large interbundle voids with SiC powder before the PIP process. This step was accomplished by low‐pressure infiltration of a SiC powder dilute slurry through the preform thickness. Specimens were further processed with polymer impregnation and pyrolysis to determine the effects on structural, thermal, and mechanical properties of the obtained composites. High‐temperature pyrolysis treatment, which promoted polymer derived SiC matrix crystallization, markedly increased thermal diffusivity.
Fourier‐Transform Infrared Spectrometry Measurement of Emissions Concentration from Glass Manufacturing
Authors: Samadhi Tjokorde W. , Jones Linda E. , Kropachev Aleksandr V. , Clare Alexis G.
Published: May 2011

Carbon is commonly added to sulfate‐fined silicate‐glass batches to enhance the fining process. Reactions between carbon and Na2SO4 modify the SOx emissions from Na2SO4 decomposition. Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry is used to analyze the emission of air pollutants from the isothermal decomposition of Na2SO4 + C undertaken using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The FTIR spectrometer is calibrated using standard gas mixtures containing CO, CO2, SO2, NO, and NO2. The collected spectra are quantified using the classical least‐squares (CLS) approximation. The TGA‐FTIR system provides SOx, and COx, concentrations versus time data from the isothermal decomposition of Na2SO4, in the presence of a carbon black. Mass spectrometry (MS) complements FTIR by being able to detect SO(g).
Low‐Temperature Sintering and Piezoelectric Properties of 0.6Pb(Zr0.47Ti0.53)O3·0.4Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3 Ceramics
Authors: Seo Seung‐Beom , Lee Seung‐Ho , Yoon Chang‐Bun , Park Gun‐Tae , Kim Hyoun‐Ee
Published: May 2011

The sintering behavior and piezoelectric properties of the lead zirconate titanate (Pb(ZrTi)O3, PZT)–lead zinc niobate (Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3, PZN) system were investigated. The sintering temperature required for full densification of the PZT‐PZN system was significantly lowered when the proportion of PZN was increased. The density of the specimen composed of 60% PZT and 40% PZN (0.6PZT‐0.4PZN, Pb((Zr0.47Ti0.53)0.6–(Zn1/3Nb2/3)0.4)O3) sintered at 880°C for 4 h was 8.15 g/cm3, which was >97% of the theoretical value. This improved densification behavior was attributed to the combined effects of the high sinterability of PZN and the stability of the PZT pcrovskite structure. The piezoelectric and dielectric properties of the 0.6PZT‐0.4PZN specimen sintered at 880°C were comparable with those of a specimen with the same composition sintered at 1200°C for 2 h. The piezoelectric coefficient (d33) and the electromechanical coupling factor (kp) of the 0.6PZT‐0.4PZN specimen sintered at 880°C were 460 pC/N and 0.6, respectively.
Dielectric Properties of 0.8Pb[(Mg1/3Ta2/3),(B‘1/3B“2/3)]O3–0.2PbTiO3 Ceramics (B'B”= ZnTa, MgNb, and ZnNb)
Authors: Kim Jee‐Su , Suh Dong‐Hwan , Kim Nam‐Kyoung , Kim Hwan
Published: May 2011

Octahedral cations of Mg and Ta in Pb[(Mg1/3Ta2/3)0.8Ti0.2]O3 were replaced independently as well as simultaneously by Zn and Nb, respectively, to investigate the effects of composition modification on phase formation and dielectric properties. When Mg was replaced by Zn, the perovskite formation yields decreased continuously to 0% with the Zn fraction. In contrast, nearly phase‐pure perovskite powders could be prepared when Ta and the Mg‐Ta complex were replaced by Nb and Zn‐Nb, respectively. Dielectric relaxation with diffuse phase transition was observed at most of the compositions. Dielectric maximum temperatures increased steadily with the substituent fractions, whereas variations of the maximum dielectric constant were dependent heavily on the substituent species.
Fracture Toughness Measurement of Chromium Nitride Films on Brass
Authors: Krishnamurthy Saki , Reimanis Ivar E. , Berger John , Drexler Elizabeth
Published: May 2011

Two methods of measuring the fracture toughness of films are critically examined using well‐characterized films of CrN and Cr2N ˜6 μm in thickness bonded to brass. The first method invokes a model developed by Beuth and Klingbeil in which the film fracture stress is related to the fracture energy through an expression that accounts for work hardening of the substrate. The second method is to directly measure the displacement field around the crack tip using electron‐beam molrè and, subsequently, to estimate the crack‐tip stress Intensity factor using full‐field‐displacement equations. The films are prepared by magnetron sputtering on brass substrates heat‐treated at various temperatures, thereby altering the microstructure and, hence, the substrate yield stress. Unexpectedly, the same films deposited on various substrates lead to very different in‐plane compressive residual stresses. The effect on crack‐driving force is discussed, and a comparison between these two methods is made. Both techniques agree reasonably well and reveal that CrN exhibits a higher toughness than Cr2N.
Synthesis and Characterization of Hexapod‐Shaped Tetragonal‐Phase Barium Titanate Single Crystals
Authors: Huang Qing , Gao Lian
Published: May 2011

Hexapod‐shaped tetragonal‐phase BaTiO3 single crystals have been synthesized using a simple hydrothermal method. The effects of alkali concentration, precursors, and temperature on the morphology are discussed.
Annotation of sheep keratin intermediate filament genes and their patterns of expression
Authors: Yu Zhidong , Wildermoth Janet E. , Wallace Olivia A. M. , Gordon Steven W. , Maqbool Nauman J. , Maclean Paul H. , Nixon Allan J. , Pearson Allan J.
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  Keratin IF (KRT) and keratin‐associated protein genes encode the majority of wool and hair proteins. We have identified cDNA sequences representing nine novel sheep KRT genes, increasing the known active genes from eight to 17, a number comparable to that in the human. However, the absence of KRT37 in the type I family and the discovery of type II KRT87 in sheep exemplify species‐specific compositional differences in hair KRT genes. Phylogenetic analysis of hair KRT genes within type I and type II families in the sheep, cattle and human genomes revealed a high degree of consistency in their sequence conservation and grouping. However, there were differences in the fibre compartmentalisation and keratinisation zones for the expression of six ovine KRT genes compared with their human orthologs. Transcripts of three genes (KRT40, KRT82 and KRT84) were only present in the fibre cuticle. KRT32, KRT35 and KRT85 were expressed in both the cuticle and the fibre cortex. The remaining 11 genes (KRT31, KRT33A, KRT33B, KRT34, KRT36, KRT38‐39, KRT81, KRT83 and KRT86‐87) were expressed only in the cortex. Species‐specific differences in the expressed keratin gene sets, their relative expression levels and compartmentalisation are discussed in the context of their underlying roles in wool and hair developmental programmes and the distinctive characteristics of the fibres produced.
Subtle differences in two non‐native congeneric beach grasses significantly affect their colonization, spread, and impact
Authors: Hacker Sally D. , Zarnetske Phoebe , Seabloom Eric , Ruggiero Peter , Mull Jeremy , Gerrity Shawn , Jones Colin
Published: May 2011

Comparisons of congeneric species have provided unique insights into invasion ecology. Most often, non‐native species are compared to native ones to look for traits predicting invasion success. In this study, we examine a different facet of congeneric comparisons in which both species are non‐native. Ecological variability among non‐native congeners might 1) lead to the inhibition or facilitation of either species’ ability to colonize and spread, 2) result in larger cumulative impacts due to synergies between species, and 3) depend on the physical context of the invaded habitat. To explore these possibilities, we studied the distribution and abundance of two non‐native beach grasses: European beach grass Ammophila arenaria and American beach grass Ammophila breviligulata, their interaction with one another, and their biotic and physical impacts on dune ecosystems of the Pacific coast of North America. We found that over a two‐decade period, A. breviligulata has increased its dominance over A. arenaria on dunes where it was originally planted in 1935 and has actively spread to new sites formerly dominated by A. arenaria. Our results also show that dune plant species richness was lower at A. breviligulata sites, although there was an increase in the native beach grass Elymus mollis. More significantly, we found that the two grass species are associated with significantly different foredune shapes that are likely controlled by a combination of variability in sand supply along the coast and subtle differences in the congeners’ morphology and growth form. These differences have significant implications for the coastal protection services of dunes to humans and the conservation of native species. They provide a cautionary tale on the impacts of introducing novel species based purely on analogy with closely related species.
Do pollination syndromes cause modularity and predict interactions in a pollination network in tropical high‐altitude grasslands?
Authors: Danieli‐Silva Aline , de Souza Jana Magaly Tesserolli , Donatti Ana Julia , Campos Ricardo Pamplona , Vicente‐Silva José , Freitas Leandro , Varassin Isabela Galarda
Published: May 2011

The concept of pollination syndromes has been widely questioned, since plant–pollinator interactions have proved to be more generalist than was previously thought. We examined whether the network of a tropical high‐altitude grassland contained groups of plants and pollinators that interact preferentially with each other. A general binary matrix was created. To assess the robustness of myophily, in all analyses we considered: 1) the whole network, 2) the network after the wasps were removed, and 3) the network after the flies were removed. For each network we evaluated whether: 1) the observed interactions were more related to syndromes than expected by chance, compared to an expected matrix; 2) there was a modular structure; 3) the modules found were more related to syndromes than expected by chance, compared to another expected matrix; 4) the syndromes were equally robust. For this analysis, the general matrix was subdivided into smaller matrices that included each pollination syndrome separately. To test the influence of the functional groups of pollinators and the phylogeny of plants, in addition to the general matrix, we also considered the first expected matrix, a quantitative functional group and a plant phylogeny matrix. The pollination syndromes determined the pattern of interactions in the network: 69% of the total interactions resulted from the functional group of pollinators predicted by the plant syndrome. The network showed greater modularity (13 modules) than expected by chance, mostly consisting of the expected functional groups of pollinators and plant syndromes. The modules were associated with pollination syndromes more than was predicted by chance. Most of the variation in interactions was explained by functional groups of pollinators or by plant syndromes. Plant phylogeny did not account for a significant amount of variation in the interactions. Our findings support the concept of pollination syndromes. However, the interactions were not equally predicted by different pollination syndromes, and the accuracy of the prediction was strongest for ornithophily and melittophily.
The RabGAP Proteins Gyp5p and Gyl1p Recruit the BAR Domain Protein Rvs167p for Polarized Exocytosis
Authors: Prigent Magali , Boy‐Marcotte Emmanuelle , Chesneau Laurent , Gibson Kimberley , Dupré‐Crochet Sophie , Tisserand Hélène , Verbavatz Jean‐Marc , Cuif Marie‐Hélène
Published: May 2011

The Rab GTPase‐activating proteins (GAP) Gyp5p and Gyl1p are involved in the control of polarized exocytosis at the small‐bud stage in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Both Gyp5p and Gyl1p interact with the N‐Bin1/Amphiphysin/Rvs167 (BAR) domain protein Rvs167p, but the biological function of this interaction is unclear. We show here that Gyp5p and Gyl1p recruit Rvs167p to the small‐bud tip, where it plays a role in polarized exocytosis. In gyp5Δgyl1Δ cells, Rvs167p is not correctly localized to the small‐bud tip. Both P473L mutation in the SH3 domain of Rvs167p and deletion of the proline‐rich regions of Gyp5p and Gyl1p disrupt the interaction of Rvs167p with Gyp5p and Gyl1p and impair the localization of Rvs167p to the tips of small buds. We provide evidence for the accumulation of secretory vesicles in small buds of rvs167Δ cells and for defective Bgl2p secretion in rvs167Δ cultures enriched in small‐budded cells at 13°C, implicating Rvs167p in polarized exocytosis. Moreover, both the accumulation of secretory vesicles in Rvs167p P473L cells cultured at 13°C and secretion defects in cells producing Gyp5p and Gyl1p without proline‐rich regions strongly suggest that the function of Rvs167p in exocytosis depends on its ability to interact with Gyp5p and Gyl1p.
Salivary nitric oxide levels in inflammatory periodontal disease – A case‐control and interventional study
Authors: Parwani SR , Chitnis PJ , Parwani RN
Published: May 2011

To cite this article:
Int J Dent Hygiene
10, 2012; 67–73  DOI: 10.1111/j.1601‐5037.2011.00508.x  Parwani SR, Chitnis PJ, Parwani RN. Salivary nitric oxide levels in inflammatory periodontal disease – A case‐control and interventional study.

Abstract:  Background:  Biochemical markers of inflammatory periodontal disease present in saliva can partially determine the extent of periodontal disease. Furthermore, collection of salivary constituents is a simple and non‐invasive procedure. Nitric oxide (NO) has been linked to etiopathogenesis of inflammatory periodontal disease and is expressed in saliva. This study was conducted with the objective of estimating salivary NO levels in inflammatory periodontal diseases (gingivitis and periodontitis) and comparing these levels with control subjects. A re‐assessment of these levels was also made after providing appropriate treatment with a view to ascertain its diagnostic and prognostic values.

Methods:  This was a case–control as well as an interventional study including a total of 90 (30 control, 30 gingivitis and 30 periodontitis) subjects. Saliva samples were collected from each subject, and NO levels were assayed by Griess reaction.

Results:  NO levels were increased significantly in gingivitis and periodontitis subjects as compared with controls. There was a statistically significant decrease in the NO levels in each study group after the healing period (corresponding to the reduced clinical signs of inflammation). Our study also correlated probing pocket depths with salivary NO levels in periodontitis group where we found a positive correlation between the two.

Conclusion:  Salivary NO levels can be utilized as a good indicator of the inflammatory status of the periodontium, and evaluating its levels in saliva by Griess reaction on a photoelectric colorimeter is a reliable, accurate and faster method to estimate the level of inflammation in periodontal tissues.
Dental hygienists as adult learners and educators to improve access to care
Authors: Rogo EJ
Published: May 2011

To cite this article:
 
Int J Dent Hygiene
10, 2012; 36–45  DOI: 10.1111/j.1601‐5037.2011.00510.x  Rogo EJ. Dental hygienists as adult learners and educators to improve access to care.

Abstract:  Objective:  The purpose of the qualitative study was to understand dental hygienists as adult learners and educators in their quest to improve access to care. The intent of this article is to share the results from open and focused coding procedures and the participants’ rich stories from which the analysis was constructed.

Methods:  A grounded theory approach to data collection and analysis was used. Data were collected from eight practitioners in three US states who met the inclusion criteria, using semi‐structured interviews. Traditional grounded theory procedures with a constructivist emphasis on lived experiences of the participants and situational analysis were used to analyse the data.

Results:  The process of learning was experienced in three categories: Awareness, Adaptation and Relationships. Awareness was the process of learning participants experienced as developing consciousness of self, status quo, power and injustice of systems. Adaptation was constructed from experiences of specializing and creating to adjust to the new environments and prepare future practitioners. Relationships were developed to feel connected and collaborate to build support and gain respect to improve access to care. Dental hygienists as educators revealed one category: Improvement. Improvement was the process of educating others to enhance awareness, oral health and the dental hygiene profession.

Conclusions:  Dental hygienists were adult learners by using their experiences in the context of their struggle to improve health inequities. A strong educator role was necessary to make improvements in the oral health delivery system.
Biomedical Ti–Mo Alloys with Surface Machined and Modified by Laser Beam: Biomechanical, Histological, and Histometric Analysis in Rabbits
Authors: Oliveira Nilson T.C. , Guastaldi Fernando P.S. , Perrotti Vittoria , Hochuli‐Vieira Eduardo , Guastaldi Antonio C. , Piattelli Adriano , Iezzi Giovanna
Published: May 2011

Purpose: In vivo bone response was assessed by removal torque, hystological and histometrical analysis on a recently developed biomedical Ti‐15Mo alloy, after surface modification by laser beam irradiation, installed in the tibia of rabbits.

Materials and Methods: A total of 32 wide cylindrical Ti‐15Mo dental implants were obtained (10 mm × 3.75 mm). The implants were divided into two groups: 1) control samples (Machined surface – MS) and 2) implants with their surface modified by Laser beam‐irradiation (Test samples – LS). Six implants of each surface were used for removal torque test and 10 of each surface for histological and histometrical analysis. The implants were placed in the tibial metaphyses of rabbits.

Results: Average removal torque was 51.5 Ncm to MS and >90 Ncm to LS. Bone‐to‐implant‐contact percentage was significantly higher for LS implants both in the cortical and marrow regions.

Conclusions: The present study demonstrated that laser treated Ti‐15Mo alloys are promising materials for biomedical application.
The association between renal function and tooth loss in Japanese community‐dwelling postmenopausal women
Authors: Yoshihara Akihiro , Nakamura Kazutoshi , Miyazaki Hideo
Published: May 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00481.x
 
The association between renal function and tooth loss in Japanese community‐dwelling postmenopausal women

Objectives:  This study examined whether low renal function is associated with the number of remaining teeth among community‐dwelling elderly Japanese.

Background data:  Many elderly individuals display both low renal function and tooth loss.

Materials and Methods:  Subjects comprised 405 randomly selected women (55–74 years old). Serum cystatin C level was used to assess renal dysfunction. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between number of remaining teeth and serum cystatin C level, with number of remaining teeth as the dependent variable. Six variables were selected as independent variables in the final model: serum cystatin C; age; mean clinical attachment level; serum cross‐linked N‐telopeptide of type I collagen level; body mass index and smoking habits.

Results:  Multiple linear regression analysis revealed a significant relationship between number of remaining teeth and serum cystatin C level. The beta value for serum cystatin C level for the number of remaining teeth was −0.11 (p = 0.018).

Conclusion:  This study indicates a relationship between serum cystatin C level and number of remaining teeth, suggesting that low renal function could be associated with tooth loss.
A cross‐sectional study of oral health and oral health‐related quality of life among frail elderly persons on admission to a special oral health care programme in Copenhagen City, Denmark
Authors: Christensen Lisa Bøge , Hede Børge , Nielsen Ellen
Published: May 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00486.x
 
A cross‐sectional study of oral health and oral health‐related quality of life among frail elderly persons on admission to a special oral health care programme in Copenhagen City, Denmark

Aim:  To describe the oral health and the oral‐health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) of citizens in Copenhagen City on admission to a specific oral health‐care programme for disabled elderly persons. Further, to analyse how various factors influence the oral health and the OHRQoL among these patients.

Methods:  A cross‐sectional study of 189 persons (average 85 years) consecutively admitted to a special oral health‐care programme. Clinical data and data from interviews comprising social factors, life‐style, dental visit habits, oral hygiene practices and self‐perceived oral health were collected. A modified index on perceived dysfunction, discomfort and disability due to oral disorders was used.

Results:  Sixty‐eight per cent had natural teeth, among those 57% had decayed teeth and two out of three wore dentures. Smoking habits influence the number of teeth present and the OHRQoL (p < 0.05) of the patients. Edentulousness, decayed teeth, and presence of dentures did not seem to cause OHRQoL problems, while higher OHRQoL scores (more problems) were reported by those with 1–9 teeth and tooth mobility.

Conclusion:  OHRQoL of these patients can be increased by removal of loose teeth and provision of dentures to those with very few teeth rather than focus on traditional caries treatment.
Novel association of multiple gastrointestinal anomalies in a single patient: Can Sonic Hedgehog explain it?
Authors: Rathod Kirtikumar J. , Vaze Dhananjay , Narasimhan Kannan L.
Published: May 2011

The occurrence of four gastrointestinal (GIT) anomalies in a single patient is extremely rare. Only one report of four GIT anomalies in a child has been published in the English literature. The current report presents a child with four anomalies and discusses the molecular mechanisms which control the development of the gastrointestinal tract.
D‐strand perturbation and amyloid propensity in beta‐2 microglobulin
Authors: Azinas Stavros , Colombo Matteo , Barbiroli Alberto , Santambrogio Carlo , Giorgetti Sofia , Raimondi Sara , Bonomi Francesco , Grandori Rita , Bellotti Vittorio , Ricagno Stefano , Bolognesi Martino
Published: May 2011

Proteins hosting main β‐sheets adopt specific strategies to avoid intermolecular interactions leading to aggregation and amyloid deposition. Human beta‐2 microglobulin (β2m) displays a typical immunoglobulin fold and is known to be amyloidogenic in vivo. Upon severe kidney deficiency, β2m accumulates in the bloodstream, triggering, over the years, pathological deposition of large amyloid aggregates in joints and bones. A β‐bulge observed on the edge D β‐strand of some β2m crystal structures has been suggested to be crucial in protecting the protein from amyloid aggregation. Conversely, a straight D‐strand, observed in different crystal structures of monomeric β2m, could promote amyloid aggregation. More recently, the different conformations observed for the β2m D‐strand have been interpreted as the result of intrinsic flexibility, rather than being assigned to a functional protective role against aggregation. To shed light on such contrasting picture, the mutation Asp53→Pro was engineered in β2m, aiming to impair the formation of a regular/straight D‐strand. Such a mutant was characterized structurally and biophysically by CD, X‐ray crystallography and MS, in addition to an assessment of its amyloid aggregation trends in vitro. The results reported in the present study highlight the conformational plasticity of the edge D‐strand, and show that even perturbing the D‐strand structure through a Pro residue has only marginal effects on protecting β2m from amyloid aggregation in vitro.

Database
 Atomic coordinates and structure factors have been deposited in the Protein Data Bank under the accession number 3NA4.

Structured digital abstract

 Beta‐2‐microglobulin binds to Beta‐2‐microglobulin by fluorescence technology (View interaction)

 Beta‐2‐microglobulin binds to Beta‐2‐microglobulin by mass spectrometry studies of complexes (View Interaction 1, 2, 3)

 Beta‐2‐microglobulin binds to Beta‐2‐microglobulin by electron microscopy (View interaction)
Protein aggregation and amyloid fibril formation prediction software from primary sequence: towards controlling the formation of bacterial inclusion bodies
Authors: Hamodrakas Stavros J.
Published: May 2011

Proteins might aggregate into ordered or amorphous structures, utilizing relatively short sequence stretches, usually organized in β‐sheet‐like assemblies. Here, we attempt to list all available software, developed during the last decade or so, for the prediction of such aggregation‐prone stretches from protein primary structure, without distinguishing whether these algorithms predict amino acid sequences destined to be involved in ordered fibrillar amyloids or amorphous aggregates. The results of application of four of these programs on 23 proteins related to amyloidoses are compared. Because protein aggregation during protein production in bacterial cell factories has been shown to resemble amyloid formation, the algorithms might become useful tools to improve the solubility of recombinant proteins and for screening therapeutic approaches against amyloidoses under conditions that mimic physiologically relevant environments. One such example is given.