bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structures and phase transitions in a new ferroelectric – pyridinium chlorochromate – studied by X-ray diffraction, DSC and dielectric methods
Authors: Małuszyńska Hanna , Czarnecki Piotr , Czarnecka Anna , Pająk Zdzisław
Published: March 2012

Pyridinium chlorochromate, [C5H5NH]+[ClCrO3]− (hereafter referred to as PyClCrO3), was studied by X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and dielectric methods. Studies reveal three reversible phase transitions at 346, 316 and 170 K with the following phase sequence: R\bar 3m (I) → R3m (II) → Cm (III) → Cc (IV), c′ = 2c. PyClCrO3 is the first pyridinium salt in which all four phases have been successfully characterized by a single-crystal X-ray diffraction method. Structural results together with dielectric and calorimetric studies allow the classification of the two intermediate phases (II) and (III) as ferroelectric with the Curie point at 346 K, and the lowest phase (IV) as most probably ferroelectric. The ferroelectric hysteresis loop was observed only in phase (III). The high ionic conductivity hindered its observation in phase (II).
Site occupancy and lattice parameters in sigma-phase Co–Cr alloys
Authors: Cieslak Jakub , Dubiel Stanislaw M. , Reissner Michael
Published: March 2012

Neutron powder diffraction was used to study the distribution of Co and Cr atoms over different lattice sites as well as the lattice parameters of sigma-phase compounds Co100 − x
Cr
x
with x = 57.0, 62.7 and 65.8. From the diffractograms recorded in the temperature range of 4.2–300 K it was found for the five crystallographically independent sites that A (2a) and D (8i) are predominantly occupied by Co atoms, while sites B (4f), C (8i) and E (8j) mainly accommodate Cr atoms. The lattice parameters a and c exhibit linear temperature dependencies, with different expansion coefficients in the temperature ranges of 4.2–100 and 100–300 K.
Structural systematics and conformational analyses of a 3 × 3 isomer grid of fluoro-N-(pyridyl)benzamides: physicochemical correlations, polymorphism and isomorphous relationships
Authors: Mocilac Pavle , Donnelly Katie , Gallagher John F.
Published: March 2012

An isomer grid of nine fluoro-N-(pyridyl)benzamides (Fxx) (x = para-/meta-/ortho-) has been examined to correlate structural relationships between the experimental crystal structure and ab initio calculations, based on the effect of fluorine (Fx) and pyridine N-atom (x) substitution patterns on molecular conformation. Eight isomers form N—H...N hydrogen bonds, and only one (Fom) aggregates via intermolecular N—H...O=C interactions exclusively. The Fpm and Fom isomers both crystallize as two polymorphs with Fpm_O (N—H...O=C chains, P-syn
) and Fpm_N (N—H...N chains, P-anti
) both in P21/n (Z′ = 1) differing by their meta-N atom locations (P-syn
, P-anti
; Npyridine referenced to N—H), whereas the disordered Fom_O is mostly P-syn
(Z′ = 6) compared with Fom_F (P-anti
) (Z′ = 1). In the Fxo triad twisted dimers form cyclic R
2
2(8) rings via N—H...N interactions. Computational modelling and conformational preferences of the isomer grid demonstrate that the solid-state conformations generally conform with the most stable calculated conformations except for the Fxm triad, while calculations of the Fox triad predict the intramolecular N—H...F interaction established by spectroscopic and crystallographic data. Comparisons of Fxx with related isomer grids reveal a high degree of similarity in solid-state aggregation and physicochemical properties, while correlation of the melting point behaviour indicates the significance of the substituent position on melting point behaviour rather than the nature of the substituent.
The relationship of major depressive disorder and gender to changes in smoking for current and former smokers: longitudinal evaluation in the US population
Authors: Weinberger Andrea H. , Pilver Corey E. , Desai Rani A. , Mazure Carolyn M. , McKee Sherry A.
Published: March 2012

Aims  Although depression and smoking are correlated highly, the relationship of major depressive disorder (MDD) to smoking cessation and relapse remains unclear. This study compared changes in smoking for current and former smokers with and without current and life‐time MDD over a 3‐year period.

Design  Analysis of two waves of longitudinal data from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism's National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (wave 1, 2001–02; wave 2, 2004–05).

Setting  Data were collected through face‐to‐face interviews from non‐institutionalized United States civilians, aged 18 years and older, in 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Participants  A total of 11 973 adults (54% male) classified as current or former daily smokers at wave 1 and completed wave 2.

Measurements  Classification as current or former smokers at wave 1 and wave 2.

Findings  Smoking status remained stable for most participants. Wave 1 current daily smokers with current MDD [odds ratio (OR) = 1.38, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.03, 1.85] and life‐time MDD (OR = 1.52, 95% CI: 1.15, 2.01) were more likely than those without the respective diagnosis to report continued smoking at wave 2. Wave 1 former daily smokers with current MDD (OR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.26, 0.76) were less likely to report continued abstinence at wave 2. None of the gender × MDD diagnosis interactions were significant. Patterns of results remained similar when analyses were limited to smokers with nicotine dependence.

Conclusions  Current and life‐time major depressive disorders are associated with a lower likelihood of quitting smoking and current major depressive disorder is associated with greater likelihood of smoking relapse.
Carbohydrate but not fat is associated with elevated aminotransferases
Authors: Kwon O. W. , Jun D. W. , Lee S. M. , Lee K. N. , Lee H. L. , Lee O. Y. , Yoon B. C. , Choi H. S.
Published: March 2012

Background

Recently, many studies reported that high carbohydrate and simple sugar intake increase a risk of obesity and metabolic syndrome significantly.

Aim

To investigate the effect of carbohydrate on aminotransferase levels in Korea, where the proportion of carbohydrate in meals is extremely high but fat is low.

Methods

We used the data of Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (KNHANES). A total of 19 749 people were included. Amounts and types of consumed foods were examined by the 24 h recall method.

Results

Mean carbohydrate and fat proportions in total energy intake were 67.7% and 17.4%, respectively. Aminotransferase activity increased according to the rise of the proportion of carbohydrate in the energy intake. A high carbohydrate intake (>70% of energy) was associated with abnormal aminotransferase activity and metabolic syndrome. After adjusting for covariates, such as age, energy intake and body mass index, abnormal aminotransferase activity was significantly associated with carbohydrate proportion. There was a negative correlation between fat proportion in the total energy intake and aminotransferase activity (P < 0.01). The relation between aminotransferase activity and carbohydrate composition showed a J‐shaped curve. The lowest point (the J point) was located at 50–60% carbohydrate.

Conclusions

The proportion of carbohydrate in energy intake but not fat is positively correlated with abnormal aminotransferase activity in Koreans. This finding may be useful in planning a strategy of nutrition education for NAFLD in countries where the proportion of carbohydrate in most meals is extremely high.
The impact of ulcerative colitis on the long‐term outcome of patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis
Authors: Navaneethan U. , Venkatesh P. G. K. , Lashner B. A. , Shen B. , Kiran R. P.
Published: March 2012

Background

The impact of ulcerative colitis (UC) on the outcome of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) outcome remains unclear.

Aim

To investigate whether the presence of UC is associated with a worse clinical of associated PSC.

Methods

A total of 222 patients with PSC (167 with UC and 55 without UC) seen and followed at a single centre from 1985 to 2011 were included. Clinical and demographic variables were obtained and patients were followed until the date of their last clinic visit.

Results

The median age at presentation of PSC with associated UC was 38 vs. 47 years without UC (P < 0.001). At presentation, median serum bilirubin (2.1 vs. 4.5, P < 0.001) and the Mayo PSC Risk Score (0.95 vs. 1.69, P < 0.001) were lower in those with UC vs. those without UC. A total of 55 of 167 (32.9%) patients with PSC‐UC developed colon neoplasia in contrast to 1 of the 55 (1.8%) patients with PSC. (P < 0.001) On proportional hazards analysis, UC (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.90 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.60–1.34, P = 0.60] was not associated with death or orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT), when adjusting for gender, Mayo risk score and year of PSC diagnosis; whereas the revised Mayo risk score [HR = 5.08, 95% CI: (2.62–9.86), P < 0.001] was associated with a greater risk of OLT or death.

Conclusions

Primary sclerosing cholangitis often is recognised at an early stage in patients with concurrent ulcerative colitis; ulcerative colitis has no impact on long‐term prognosis in terms of liver‐related outcomes when adjusted for the severity of liver disease.
The effects of liver transplantation on the clinical course of colitis in ulcerative colitis patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis
Authors: Navaneethan U. , Choudhary M. , Venkatesh P. G. K. , Lashner B. A. , Remzi F. H. , Shen B. , Kiran R. P.
Published: March 2012

Background

The course of ulcerative colitis (UC) following orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) for primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is unclear.

Aim

To investigate the clinical course of UC, before and after OLT for PSC.

Methods

From a historical cohort of 86 patients with PSC‐UC who underwent OLT, 77 patients who were followed up at our institution both before and after OLT from 1985 to 2011 were included.

Results

Ulcerative colitis was diagnosed in 77 (97.5%) patients before OLT. Nineteen of 77 (24.7%) patients underwent colectomy before OLT. In the other 58 patients, the course of UC after OLT when compared to the last 5 years before OLT was quiescent in 48 patients (82.8%) while 9/58 (15.5%) of patients underwent colectomy post‐OLT. There was a total of 97 colitis flares over a total of 621 years of follow‐up from PSC/UC diagnosis to OLT (0.156 flares per patient year) whereas post‐OLT, there were 31 flares over a total of 511 years of post‐OLT follow‐up (0.061 flares per patient year) (P < 0.001). On univariable analysis, the number of UC flares [Odds ratio (OR) 1.52; 95% Confidence interval (1.02–2.27), P = 0.04] and dysplasia [OR 47.00; 95% CI (6.48–340.66), P < 0.001] increased the risk of colectomy following OLT; the use of corticosteroids [OR 0.07; 95% CI (0.01–0.63), P = 0.008] and 5‐aminosalicylate [OR 0.18; 95% CI (0.04–0.83), P = 0.04] was protective.

Conclusions

Ulcerative colitis in the presence of primary sclerosing cholangitis remains quiescent, and may improve in most patients after orthotopic liver transplantation.
Evaluation of tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) as a forage for sheep in the temperate high‐rainfall zone of south‐eastern Australia
Authors: Raeside M. C. , Friend M. A. , Behrendt R. , Lawson A. R. , Clark S. G.
Published: March 2012

Tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) is currently seldom used in the high‐rainfall (>600 mm) zone of south‐eastern Australia. To determine its potential to improve forage availability during the summer‐autumn feed‐deficit period, a field plot‐scale experiment with sheep evaluated a Continental cultivar of tall fescue (cv. Quantum) at Hamilton, Victoria, between September 2006 and January 2009. Four grazing treatments represented set stocking or rotational grazing at the two‐, three‐ or four‐leaf stage, in a completely randomized design with three replications. Grazing treatment effects on tall fescue tiller population dynamics, forage accumulation rates and consumption, sward nutritive value and botanical composition were measured. Results showed tall fescue can persist and support year‐round grazing by sheep, subject to water availability for summer growth from summer rain or on moisture retentive heavy soils. During the summer‐autumn (December–April) vegetative phase, grazing at the three‐leaf stage optimized forage consumption, with no difference in feed value or botanical composition between the grazing treatments during these months. During the reproductive phase (September–November), feed value was highest under set stocking and declined with the production of each successive leaf. Grazing at the three‐ or four‐leaf stage prevented winter weed invasion, but winter forage consumption was low in these treatments. Set stocking or grazing at the two‐leaf stage improved winter forage consumption rates, but these swards were invaded by winter growing weeds.
Interactions between immune system and mesenchymal stem cells in dental pulp and periapical tissues
Authors: Leprince J. G. , Zeitlin B. D. , Tolar M. , Peters O. A.
Published: March 2012

Leprince JG, Zeitlin BD, Tolar M, Peters OA. Interactions between immune system and mesenchymal stem cells in dental pulp and periapical tissues. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 689–701, 2012.

The recent isolation and characterization of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in dental tissues constitutes a major step forward in the development of new treatment strategies. MSCs are essential for dental pulp repair and the success of regenerative endodontic procedures. It is important to understand that immune cells and cytokines can affect stem cell function, which can impact their healing potential. On the other hand, stem cells are immunoprivileged and have the ability to modulate immune and inflammatory responses, which can be utilized to improve treatments outcome. This review addresses both aspects of this interaction and suggests that any change on both sides can tip the balance in favour of either persistence of inflammation or healing. Finally, the therapeutic relevance of the interaction between MSCs and immune system relative to current treatments is discussed, and future research and treatment perspectives are suggested.
Assessment of daily exposure of endodontic personnel to extremely low frequency magnetic fields
Authors: Kim D. W. , Choi J. L. , Kwon M. K. , Nam T. J. , Lee S. J.
Published: March 2012

Kim DW, Choi JL, Kwon MK, Nam TJ, Lee SJ. Assessment of daily exposure of endodontic personnel to extremely low frequency magnetic fields. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 744–748, 2012.

Aim  To measure daily exposure levels to extremely low frequency magnetic fields (ELF MFs) in endodontic clinics.

Methodology  In total, 10 subjects (five endodontic trainees, five hygienists) participated. Each volunteer wore a 60‐Hz MF measurement device on the left upper arm during working hours. Measurements were taken continuously throughout the working day except at lunch time. Separate measurements were taken for specific items of equipment at several distances.

Results  The average MF exposure for the 10 personnel was 0.03 ± 0.04 micro‐Tesla (μT) (range, 0.01–6.4 μT). The average MF exposure of endodontic personnel was lower than that of other hospital personnel according to the literature. Furthermore, all monitored exposure levels were well below the maximum acute exposure level, 500 μT, recommended by the International Committee on Non‐ionizing Radiation Protection for the protection of workers against ELF MFs. However, relatively high levels of exposure occurred in an operating room and X‐ray room, presumably as a result of the use of surgical equipment such as microscopes and monitors, various motors and power cables of X‐ray machines with large current flows.

Conclusions  The total average MF exposure level of 0.03 μT was lower than the typical background level at home. Although high levels of exposure were measured in an operating room and X‐ray room, the MF exposure level to dental personnel was minimal during routine endodontic clinical work.
Radiological diagnosis of periapical bone tissue lesions in endodontics: a systematic review
Authors: Petersson A. , Axelsson S. , Davidson T. , Frisk F. , Hakeberg M. , Kvist T. , Norlund A. , Mejàre I. , Portenier I. , Sandberg H. , Tranæus S. , Bergenholtz G.
Published: March 2012

Petersson A, Axelsson S, Davidson T, Frisk F, Hakeberg M, Kvist T, Norlund A, Mejàre I, Portenier I, Sandberg H, Tranæus S, Bergenholtz G. Radiological diagnosis of periapical bone tissue lesions in endodontics: a systematic review. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 783–801, 2012.

This systematic review evaluates the diagnostic accuracy of radiographic methods employed to indicate presence/absence and changes over time of periapical bone lesions. Also investigated were the leads radiographic images may give about the nature of the process and the condition of the pulp in nonendodontically treated teeth. Electronic literature search included the databases PubMed, Embase and CENTRAL from January 1950 to June 2011. All languages were accepted provided there was an abstract in English. The MeSH terms were ‘Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT)’, ‘Radiography, panoramic’, ‘Periapical diseases’, ‘Dental pulp diseases’, ‘Sensitivity and specificity’, ‘receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve’, ‘Cadaver’, ‘Endodontics’ and ‘Radiography dental’. Two reviewers independently assessed abstracts and full text articles. An article was read in full text if at least one of the two reviewers considered an abstract to be potentially relevant. Altogether, 181 articles were read in full text. The GRADE approach was used to assess the quality of evidence of each radiographic method based on studies of high or moderate quality. Twenty‐six studies fulfilled criteria set for inclusion. None was of high quality; 11 were of moderate quality. There is insufficient evidence that the digital intraoral radiographic technique is diagnostically as accurate as the conventional film technique. The same applies to CBCT. No conclusions can be drawn regarding the accuracy of radiological examination in identifying various forms of periapical bone tissue changes or about the pulpal condition.
Detection of Porphyromonas endodontalis, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia in primary endodontic infections in a Chinese population
Authors: Cao H. , Qi Z. , Jiang H. , Zhao J. , Liu Z. , Tang Z.
Published: March 2012

Cao H, Qi Z, Jiang H, Zhao J, Liu Z, Tang Z. Detection of Porphyromonas endodontalis, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia in primary endodontic infections in a Chinese population. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 773–781, 2012.

Aim  To assess the prevalence of three black‐pigmented bacterial species (Porphyromonas endodontalis, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia) using microarray technology in root canals of teeth associated with primary endodontic infections in a Chinese population.

Methodology  Microbial samples were taken from root canals of 80 teeth with pulp necrosis and primary endodontic infections in a Chinese population. DNA extracted from the samples was amplified by PCR with universal bacterial primers based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, and the products hybridized with the microarrays in which the specific oligonucleotide probes were added. The results of hybridization were screened by a confocal laser scanner. Pearson chi‐square test and the two‐sided Fisher exact test were used to analyse whether a significant association existed between the species and symptoms as well as in co‐existence of two target organisms by a statistical software package (SAS 8.02).

Results  The 16S rRNA gene microarray detected at least one of the three test species in 76% of the study teeth. P. endodontalis, P. gingivalis and P. intermedia were found in 50%, 33% and 45%, respectively. A significant association was found in the presence of the pair P. endodontalis / P. gingivalis (P < 0.005). Both P. endodontalis (P <0.05) and P. gingivalis (P <0.005) had a statistically significant association with the presence of a sinus tract. The simultaneous presence of P. endodontalis and P. gingivalis was also associated with the presence of a sinus tract (P < 0.005) and abscess formation (P < 0.05).

Conclusions  The three black‐pigmented bacteria were prevalent in teeth with pulp necrosis and primary endodontic infections in a Chinese population. P. gingivalis and P. endodontalis were associated with the presence of sinus tract and abscess formation.
Comparison of the anaesthetic efficacy of and heart rate changes after periodontal ligament or intraosseous X‐Tip injection in mandibular molars: a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Zarei M. , Ghoddusi J. , Sharifi E. , Forghani M. , Afkhami F. , Marouzi Parviz
Published: March 2012

Zarei M, Ghoddusi J, Sharifi E, Forghani M, Afkhami F, Marouzi P. Comparison of the anaesthetic efficacy of and heart rate changes after periodontal ligament or intraosseous X‐Tip injection in mandibular molars: a randomized controlled clinical trial. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 921–926, 2012.

Aim  To compare the efficacy of supplemental anaesthesia using periodontal ligament injections (PDL) and intraosseous injections with the X‐Tip system in terms of the measured heart rate and patient reported pain level.

Methodology  In this single‐blind randomized clinical trial, 40 patients (22 women, 18 men) with irreversible pulpitis who had experienced unsuccessful pain management by inferior alveolar nerve block with 2% lidocaine and 1 : 100 000 epinephrine were selected. Patients were divided equally and randomly into two groups. Supplementary anaesthesia was provided through intraosseous injection with the X‐Tip system (X‐Tip group) or by PDL injection (PDL group). After each step of injection, pain severity was assessed using a visual analogue scale. Patient heart rate was recorded with a pulse oximeter. Data were coded and analysed using Mann–Whitney U‐test with SPSS (version 16) software.

Results  Anaesthetic success was obtained in 100% of X‐Tip and 70% of PDL group patients after the first supplemental injection. Compared with the first PDL injection, the first intraosseous injection resulted in a significant increase in heart rate (P = 0.001); however, this increase was short‐lived (mean increase: 9–10 beats per min). No significant difference in heart rate or anaesthesia success was observed between men and women.

Conclusion  Intraosseous injection using the X‐Tip system was more effective than PDL injection as a supplementary anaesthetic for pulpectomy in mandibular molars or second premolars. However, the former resulted in a transient increase in heart rate.
Tooth discoloration induced by endodontic materials: a laboratory study
Authors: Lenherr P. , Allgayer N. , Weiger R. , Filippi A. , Attin T. , Krastl G.
Published: March 2012

Lenherr P, Allgayer N, Weiger R, Filippi A, Attin T, Krastl G. Tooth discoloration induced by endodontic materials: a laboratory study. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 942–949, 2012.

Aim  To investigate the discoloration potential of endodontic materials using a bovine tooth model.

Methodology  Two hundred and 10 dentine‐enamel cuboid blocks (10 × 10 × 3.5 mm) were prepared out of the middle thirds of bovine tooth crowns. Standardized cavities were prepared in the walls of the pulp chamber leaving 2 mm of enamel and dentine on the labial wall of the crown. The specimens were randomly assigned to 14 groups (n = 15). Endodontic materials were placed into the cavities as follows: group A: empty, group B: blood, group C: calcium hydroxide, group D: ApexCal, group E: Ultracal XS, group F: Ledermix, group G: triple antibiotic paste (3Mix), group H: grey MTA(GMTA), group I: GMTA + blood, group J: white MTA (WMTA), group K: WMTA + blood, group L: Portland cement (PC), group M: PC + blood and group N: AH Plus. The cavities were sealed with composite and stored in water. Standardized colour measurement (VITA Easyshade compact) was performed at the following intervals: prior to (T0) and after placement of the filling (T1), 1 week (T2), 1 month (T3), 3 months (T4), 6 months (T5) and after 1 year (T6). Colour change (ΔE) values were calculated. A two‐way analysis of variance was used to assess significant differences between the endodontic materials. The mean values of all groups were compared using the Tukey multiple comparison test (α = 0.05).

Results  Significant differences were detected amongst the experimental groups after 12 months (P < 0.0001). The lowest colour change values were observed in the groups N (AH Plus, 3.2 ± 1.5), A (empty, 3.8 ± 1.4), L (PC, 4.1 ± 1.7), C (calcium hydroxide, 4.7 ± 1.5), E (Ultracal XS, 5.1 ± 1.9) and J (WMTA, 7.9 ± 6.7). The most discoloration was measured in groups G (3Mix, 66.2 ± 9.9) and F (Ledermix, 46.2 ± 11.6). PC showed the best colour stability amongst the Portland cement‐based materials; however, when contaminated with blood (group M), a significantly higher ΔE value (13.6 ± 4.2) was detected (P = 0.032).

Conclusion  Materials used in endodontics may stain teeth. Therefore, the choice of material should not rely solely on biological and functional criteria, but also take aesthetic considerations into account.
Detection of endocrine disruptors – from simple assays to whole genome scanning
Authors: Sung E. , Turan N. , Ho P. W.‐L. , Ho S.‐L. , Jarratt P. D. B. , Waring R. H. , Ramsden D. B.
Published: March 2012

Endocrine disruptors frequently bear little structural relationship to the hormone whose actions they disrupt. Consequently, the threat of an uninvestigated chemical cannot easily be assessed. Here three different approaches to assessment are discussed. The first presumes an endocrine‐disrupting property, following which a cell model capable of responding to such a hormone is used. Although simple and cheap, it provides limited data. A second approach involves multiple assays to detect multiple hormones. Increasing the amount of data increased the difficulty in assessing the significance of results. To meet this problem, cluster analysis based on a simple mathematical matrix was adopted. The matrix was used to determine (i) a limited number of assays to identify a maximum number of endocrine disruptors and (ii) the chemicals with the most wide‐ranging effects. A third approach was a whole genome expression analysis based on expression of mRNAs in human TE671 medulloblastoma cells. Expression of individual mRNAs was assessed using the Affymetrix GeneChip® Human Genome U133 Plus 2.0 chip. The significance of differential expressed genes was assessed based on gene ontology and pathways analyses using DAVID and GenMaPP programs. The results illustrated the very wide‐ranging effects of these chemicals across the genome.
High urinary phthalate concentration associated with delayed pubarche in girls
Authors: Frederiksen H. , Sørensen K. , Mouritsen A. , Aksglaede L. , Hagen C. P. , Petersen J. H. , Skakkebaek N. E. , Andersson A.‐M. , Juul A.
Published: March 2012

Phthalates are a group of chemicals present in numerous consumer products. They have anti‐androgenic properties in experimental studies and are suspected to be involved in human male reproductive health problems. A few studies have shown associations between phthalate exposure and changes in pubertal timing among girls, although controversies exist. We determined the concentration of 12 phthalate metabolites in first morning urine samples from 725 healthy Danish girls (aged 5.6–19.1 years) in relation to age, pubertal development (breast and pubic hair stage) and reproductive hormone levels (luteinizing hormone, oestradiol and testosterone). Furthermore, urinary phthalates were determined in 25 girls with precocious puberty (PP). In general, the youngest girls with less advanced pubertal development had the highest first morning urinary concentration of the monobutyl phthalate isoforms (∑MBP(i+n)), monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP), metabolites of di‐(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (∑DEHPm) and of di‐iso‐nonyl phthalate (∑DINPm). After stratification of the urinary phthalate excretion into quartiles, we found that the age at pubarche was increasing with increasing phthalate metabolite quartiles (except for MEP). This trend was statistically significant when all phthalate metabolites (except MEP) were summarized and expressed as quartiles. No association between phthalates and breast development was observed. In addition, there were no differences in urinary phthalate metabolite levels between girls with PP and controls. We demonstrated that delayed pubarche, but not thelarche, was associated with high phthalate excretion in urine samples from 725 healthy school girls, which may suggest anti‐androgenic actions of phthalates in our study group of girls.
Nurses’ use of situation awareness in decision‐making: an integrative review
Authors: Stubbings Liz , Chaboyer Wendy , McMurray Anne
Published: March 2012

stubbings l., chaboyer w. & mcmurray a. (2012) Nurses’ use of situation awareness in decision‐making: an integrative review. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(7), 1443–1453.

Aim.  To critically review the literature related to situation awareness and clinical decision‐making by nurses.

Background.  International recognition that situation awareness positively contributes to clinical decision‐making has led to a growing body of healthcare literature. To date, research has predominately focused on anaesthetists and surgeons using measurement frameworks from the aviation industry. The evidence focussing directly on situation awareness in decision‐making by nurses remains limited.

Data sources.  Databases: PROQUEST, Web of Science, CINAHL, and PUBMED.

Review methods.  An integrative review was undertaken following an extensive literature search with the date range January 1965 – March 2011. English language literature reviews, primary qualitative, quantitative and mixed method studies describing situation awareness in decision‐making by or including nurses were included.

Results.  Five empirical studies of nurses’ situation awareness were reviewed. Of these, three included decision‐making and situation awareness by nurses in inter‐professional teams; two related solely to situation awareness and decision‐making by nurses. Findings from the five studies could be grouped under three themes: individual factors influencing situation awareness, interpersonal behaviours influencing situation awareness and situation awareness improving working relationships and patient care.

Conclusion.  Further investigation is needed to identify the situation awareness skills that are vital to decision‐making by nurses. Elucidating essential skills sets associated with situation awareness may inform the development of education and training to enhance clinical decision‐making by nurses.
Phylogeography of the medically important mosquito Aedes (Ochlerotatus) vigilax (Diptera: Culicidae) in Australasia
Authors: Puslednik L. , Russell R. C. , Ballard J. W. O.
Published: March 2012

Aim  Within Australia the Carpentaria Barrier has been identified as an important biogeographical barrier. Here we test this long‐standing hypothesis using a medically important mosquito, Aedes (Ochlerotatus) vigilax.

Location  We obtained samples of Ae. vigilax from throughout its Australian distribution and from New Caledonia.

Methods  We constructed a distributional database from 602,417 specimens and obtained sequence data from 66 female specimens from 16 localities. The distributional database of Ae. vigilax comprised historical data from 13 organizations and was used to develop our molecular sampling strategy. Genetic structure within Ae. vigilax was examined via haplotype networks, FST values, analysis of molecular variance and neutrality test statistics based on one mitochondrial (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, COI) and two nuclear (alpha amalyse and zinc finger) loci. The historical demography of Ae. vigilax was investigated using extended Bayesian skyline plot (EBSP) methods, with past migration rates estimated using migrate.

Results  We identified three distinct lineages within Ae. vigilax; however, two of the three lineages show a large distributional overlap across the Carpentaria Barrier. The mitochondrial locus suggested a pattern of significant genetic differentiation, with high FST values, significant genetic differentiation within the COI locus, and significantly more variation between the lineages than within. A higher number of migrants per generation were estimated for the overlapping lineages and both the neutrality test statistics and EBSP suggested the occurrence of post‐population expansion in these lineages.

Main conclusions  Significant deviation from genetic neutrality, in combination with estimates of migration and the demographic history of Ae. vigilax lineages, suggests that the incongruence of the Ae. vigilax phylogeny with the hypothesized Carpentaria Barrier could be attributed to the separation of eastern and western populations of Ae. vigilax around 770 ka and subsequent secondary contact within the last 100 kyr. Sea‐level and precipitation fluctuations within the Carpentaria area during the late Quaternary could have facilitated the current biogeographical patterns of Ae. vigilax. Mosquitoes represent one of the most medically important insect groups; however, understanding the factors that influence past and present distributions of mosquitoes is critical in the face of a range of emerging arboviruses.
Artificial selection on flowering time: influence on reproductive phenology across natural light environments
Authors: Galloway Laura F. , Burgess Kevin S.
Published: March 2012

1. Flowering time is frequently under selection due to a combination of abiotic, biotic and intrinsic factors. Evolution in response to this selection is likely to have broad effects, altering not only flowering time but reproductive phenology and, potentially, traits throughout the life cycle. We know little about the broader phenotypic changes associated with evolutionary shifts in flowering time, and the extent to which expression of these changes depends on local environmental conditions.

2. After three generations of selection for early‐ and late‐flowering, we grew plants of the herbCampanulastrum americanumin contrasting light environments (light gap and understorey) in its home population.

3. Response to selection on flowering time and correlated responses in reproductive phenology were expressed across light environments with the reproduction of early‐flowering lines being over 2 weeks ahead of late‐flowering lines. Plants in the understorey delayed initiation of flowering but accelerated flower deployment, fruit maturation and the end of reproduction, resulting in a condensed reproductive period.

4. Timing of seed dispersal influences whether offspring grow as annuals or biennials inC. americanum. Because evolution of flowering time shifted reproductive phenology, it is likely to alter life history frequency. In contrast, understorey habitats both delayed flowering and accelerated reproductive phenology, yielding no expected life history change.

5. Synthesis. Evolution of flowering time altered the phenology of all subsequent reproductive traits and is also likely to affect offspring traits. This ripple effect of changes in flowering time indicates that it is essential to recognize genetic and functional linkages among traits to understand potential life cycle consequences of selection on a single character.
Adaptation with gene flow across the landscape in a dune sunflower
Authors: ANDREW ROSE L. , OSTEVIK KATHERINE L. , EBERT DANIEL P. , RIESEBERG LOREN H.
Published: March 2012

Isolation by adaptation increases divergence at neutral loci when natural selection against immigrants reduces the rate of gene flow between different habitats. This can occur early in the process of adaptive divergence and is a key feature of ecological speciation. Despite the ability of isolation by distance (IBD) and other forms of landscape resistance to produce similar patterns of neutral divergence within species, few studies have used landscape genetics to control for these other forces. We have studied the divergence of Helianthus petiolaris ecotypes living in active sand dunes and adjacent non‐dune habitat, using landscape genetics approaches, such as circuit theory and multiple regression of distance matrices, in addition to coalescent modelling. Divergence between habitats was significant, but not strong, and was shaped by IBD. We expected that increased resistance owing to patchy and unfavourable habitat in the dunes would contribute to divergence. Instead, we found that landscape resistance models with lower resistance in the dunes performed well as predictors of genetic distances among subpopulations. Nevertheless, habitat class remained a strong predictor of genetic distance when controlling for isolation by resistance and IBD. We also measured environmental variables at each site and confirmed that specific variables, especially soil nitrogen and vegetation cover, explained a greater proportion of variance in genetic distance than did landscape or the habitat classification alone. Asymmetry in effective population sizes and numbers of migrants per generation was detected using coalescent modelling with Bayesian inference, which is consistent with incipient ecological speciation being driven by the dune habitat.
Temperature treatments during larval development reveal extensive heritable and plastic variation in gene expression and life history traits
Authors: KVIST JOUNI , WHEAT CHRISTOPHER W. , KALLIONIEMI EVELIINA , SAASTAMOINEN MARJO , HANSKI ILKKA , FRILANDER MIKKO J.
Published: March 2012

Little is known about variation in gene expression that affects life history traits in wild populations of outcrossing species. Here, we analyse heritability of larval development traits and associated variation in gene expression in the Glanville fritillary butterfly (Melitaea cinxia) across three ecologically relevant temperatures. We studied the development of final‐instar larvae, which is greatly affected by temperature, and during which stage larvae build up most of the resources for adult life. Larval development time and weight gain varied significantly among families sampled from hundreds of local populations, indicating substantial heritable variation segregating in the large metapopulation. Global gene expression analysis using common garden‐reared F2 families revealed that 42% of the >8000 genes surveyed exhibited significant variation among families, 39% of the genes showed significant variation between the temperature treatments, and 18% showed a significant genotype‐by‐environment interaction. Genes with large family and temperature effects included larval serum protein and cuticle‐binding protein genes, and the expression of these genes was closely correlated with the rate of larval development. Significant expression variation in these same categories of genes has previously been reported among adult butterflies originating from newly established versus old local populations, supporting the notion of a life history syndrome put forward based on ecological studies and involving larval development and adult dispersal capacity. These findings suggest that metapopulation dynamics in heterogeneous environments maintain heritable gene expression variation that affects the regulation of life history traits.
Acotiamide, a new orally active acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, stimulates gastrointestinal motor activity in conscious dogs
Authors: Nagahama K. , Matsunaga Y. , Kawachi M. , Ito K. , Tanaka T. , Hori Y. , Oka H. , Takei M.
Published: March 2012

Background  Acotiamide hydrochloride (acotiamide), a novel selective acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor, has proven significantly effective in treating functional dyspepsia (FD) in clinical trials, particularly in alleviating meal‐related symptoms. In the present study, we examined the gastrointestinal prokinetic effects of acotiamide administered orally or intraduodenally in conscious dogs and investigated in vivo and ex vivo anti‐AChE activity of acotiamide to clarify its mechanism of prokinetic action.

Methods  Gastrointestinal motility was measured in conscious dogs with chronically implanted force transducers.

Key Results  Oral administration of acotiamide stimulated postprandial gastroduodenal and colonic motor activities. Measurement of gastrointestinal motility showed that acotiamide, like itopride and mosapride, enhanced gastric antral motility. Further, acotiamide markedly improved clonidine (an α2‐adrenoceptor agonist)‐induced hypomotility in a dog model of gastric motor dysfunction. The postprandial gastric antral motility enhanced by acotiamide was completely abolished on treatment with the muscarinic receptor antagonist atropine. Results of an in vivo experiment on anti‐AChE activity showed clearly increased acetylcholine‐induced gastric motility on intraduodenal administration of acotiamide, just as observed with the AChE inhibitor neostigmine. Further, in ex vivo experiment, intraduodenal administration of acotiamide significantly inhibited AChE activity in canine gastric antrum.

Conclusions & Inferences  Our findings revealed that acotiamide administered through the alimentary tract exerts gastroprokinetic action via cholinergic pathways by inhibiting AChE activity. These results may also confirm the mechanism of action in clinical efficacy of acotiamide on FD.
Heat shock‐induced biphasic Ca2+ signature and OsCaM1‐1 nuclear localization mediate downstream signalling in acquisition of thermotolerance in rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: WU HUI‐CHEN , LUO DAN‐LI , VIGNOLS FLORENCE , JINN TSUNG‐LUO
Published: March 2012

We investigated heat shock (HS)‐triggered Ca2+ signalling transduced by a Ca2+ sensor, calmodulin (CaM), linked to early transcriptome changes of HS‐responsive genes in rice. We observed a biphasic [Ca2+]cyt signature in root cells that was distinct from that in epicotyl and leaf cells, which showed a monophasic response after HS. Treatment with Ca2+ and A23187 generated an intense and sustained increase in [Ca2+]cyt in response to HS. Conversely, treatment with Ca2+ chelator, L‐type Ca2+ channel blocker and CaM antagonist, but not intracellular Ca2+ release inhibitor, strongly inhibited the increased [Ca2+]cyt. HS combined with Ca2+ and A23187 accelerated the expression of OsCaM1‐1 and sHSPC/N genes, which suggests that the HS‐induced apoplastic Ca2+ influx is responsible for the [Ca2+]cyt response and downstream HS signalling. In addition, the biphasic response of OsCaM1‐1 in the nucleus followed the Ca2+ signature, which may provide the information necessary to direct HS‐related gene expression. Overexpression of OsCaM1‐1 induced the expression of Ca2+/HS‐related AtCBK3, AtPP7, AtHSF and AtHSP at a non‐inducing temperature and enhanced intrinsic thermotolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis. Therefore, HS‐triggered rapid increases in [Ca2+]cyt, together with OsCaM1‐1 expression and its nuclear localization, are important in mediating downstream HS‐related gene expression for the acquisition of thermotolerance in rice.
Coseismic and postseismic crustal deformations of the Korean Peninsula caused by the 2011 Mw 9.0 Tohoku earthquake, Japan, from global positioning system data
Authors: Baek Jeongho , Shin Young‐Hong , Na Sung‐Ho , Shestakov Nikolay V. , Park Pil‐Ho , Cho Sungki
Published: March 2012

Terra Nova, 24, 295–300, 2012

We present the first analysis on the crustal deformation in the Korean peninsula by the 2011 Tohoku earthquake. The great Mw 9.0 earthquake extended the Korean peninsula along E–W direction even though it is at a distance longer than one thousand kilometres from the epicentre. The coseismic surface displacements from 1.0 cm (in the southwestern part) to 5.4 cm (in the eastern part) were detected by continuous GPS observation. The estimated coseismic strains from the displacements correspond to approximately 6–28 years of accumulated strains in the Korean peninsula. The postseismic displacements during 162 days after the earthquake showed 43–48% of the coseismic displacements. The results imply that the contractional strains of the Korean peninsula have been accumulated by the locked subduction zone off, and a part of accumulated strains has been released by the mainshock and the afterslip of the 2011 Tohoku earthquake.
Morphea‐like lesion following topical endectocide application in a cat
Authors: Seixas Gustavo , Taboada Priscyla
Published: March 2012

Background –  Scleroderma is a rare chronic disease of connective tissues that may affect the skin in humans. Although still unclear, its aetiology may be related to drug reactions. To date, scleroderma has been reported in only a few dogs and one cat.

Case report –  Localized (morphea‐like) scleroderma was diagnosed in a 3‐year‐old intact male Persian cat that developed a nonpruritic, well‐demarcated alopecic plaque a few days after topical application of a ‘spot‐on’ solution containing praziquantel and emodepside. The lesion occurred at the site of application at the dorsal cervical region, and was characterized histologically by fibrosing dermatitis. There was no response to systemic treatment with pentoxifylline. Following topical therapy with minoxidil 5% for 30 days, hair regrowth occurred, and the lesion had completely disappeared after 60 days.

Conclusions and clinical importance –  The relationship between the alopecic plaque and the topical application of the spot‐on solution cannot be proved; however, according to the Naranjo scale, which estimates the probability of adverse drug reactions, this case could be classified as a ‘possible’ reaction to one of the components of the product. Sclerodermoid reactions have not been described as a cutaneous drug eruption in veterinary medicine, so this case may possibly represent the first such idiosyncratic reaction to one of the applied substances. Furthermore, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the second report of a morphea‐like lesion in a cat.
The impact of perioperative transfusion of blood products on survival after pediatric liver transplantation
Authors: Nacoti M. , Cazzaniga S. , Lorusso F. , Naldi L. , Brambillasca P. , Benigni A. , Corno V. , Colledan M. , Bonanomi E. , Vedovati S. , Buoro S. , Falanga A. , Lussana F. , Barbui T. , Sonzogni V.
Published: March 2012

Nacoti M, Cazzaniga S, Lorusso F, Naldi L, Brambillasca P, Benigni A, Corno V, Colledan M, Bonanomi E, Vedovati S, Buoro S, Falanga A, Lussana F, Barbui T, Sonzogni V. The impact of perioperative transfusion of blood products on survival after pediatric liver transplantation.

Abstract:  Intraoperative transfusion of red blood cells (RBC) is associated with adverse outcome after LT in adult patients. This relationship in pediatric patients has not been studied in depth, and its analysis is the scope of this study. Forty‐one variables associated with outcome, including blood product transfusions, were studied in a cohort of 243 pediatric patients undergoing a cadaveric LT between 2002 and 2009 at the General Hospital of Bergamo. Multivariate stepwise Cox proportional hazards models were adopted with adjustment by propensity scores to minimize factors associated with the use of blood products. Median age at transplant was 1.37 yr. In uni‐ and multivariate analyses, perioperative transfusion of FFP and RBC was an independent risk factor for predicting one‐yr patient and graft survival. The effect on one‐yr survival was dose‐related with a hazard ratio of 3.15 for three or more units of RBC (p = 0.033) and 3.35 for three or more units of FFP (p = 0.021) when compared with 1 or no units transfused. The negative impact of RBC and FFP transfusion was confirmed by propensity score–adjusted analysis. These findings may have important implications for transfusion practice in the LT pediatric recipients.