bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of pyrimidine synthesis reverses viral virulence factor-mediated block of mRNA nuclear export
Authors: Zhang Liang , Das Priyabrata , Schmolke Mirco , Manicassamy Balaji , Wang Yaming , Deng Xiaoyi , Cai Ling , Tu Benjamin P. , Forst Christian V. , Roth Michael G. , Levy David E. , García-Sastre Adolfo , de Brabander Jef , Phillips Margaret A. , Fontoura Beatriz M.A.
Published: February 2012

The NS1 protein of influenza virus is a major virulence factor essential for virus replication, as it redirects the host cell to promote viral protein expression. NS1 inhibits cellular messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) processing and export, down-regulating host gene expression and enhancing viral gene expression. We report in this paper the identification of a nontoxic quinoline carboxylic acid that reverts the inhibition of mRNA nuclear export by NS1, in the absence or presence of the virus. This quinoline carboxylic acid directly inhibited dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH), a host enzyme required for de novo pyrimidine biosynthesis, and partially reduced pyrimidine levels. This effect induced NXF1 expression, which promoted mRNA nuclear export in the presence of NS1. The release of NS1-mediated mRNA export block by DHODH inhibition also occurred in the presence of vesicular stomatitis virus M (matrix) protein, another viral inhibitor of mRNA export. This reversal of mRNA export block allowed expression of antiviral factors. Thus, pyrimidines play a necessary role in the inhibition of mRNA nuclear export by virulence factors.
Human population structure and the adaptive response to pathogen-induced selection pressures
Authors: Novembre John , Han Eunjung
Published: February 2012

The past few years of research in human evolutionary genetics have provided novel insights and questions regarding how human adaptations to recent selective pressures have taken place. Here, we review the advances most relevant to understanding human evolution in response to pathogen-induced selective pressures. Key insights come from theoretical models of adaptive evolution, particularly those that consider spatially structured populations, and from empirical population genomic studies of adaptive evolution in humans. We also review theCCR5-Δ32 HIV resistance allele as a case study of pathogen resistance in humans. Taken together, the results make clear that the human response to pathogen-induced selection pressures depends on a complex interplay between the age of the pathogen, the genetic basis of potential resistance phenotypes, and how population structure impacts the adaptive process in humans.
Host–pathogen coevolution in human tuberculosis
Authors: Gagneux Sebastien
Published: February 2012

Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease of antiquity. Yet TB today still causes more adult deaths than any other single infectious disease. Recent studies show that contrary to the common view postulating an animal origin for TB,Mycobacterium tuberculosiscomplex (MTBC), the causative agent of TB, emerged as a human pathogen in Africa and colonized the world accompanying the Out-of-Africa migrations of modern humans. More recently, evolutionarily ‘modern’ lineages of MTBC expanded as a consequence of the global human population increase, and spread throughout the world following waves of exploration, trade and conquest. While epidemiological data suggest that the different phylogenetic lineages of MTBC might have adapted to different human populations, overall, the phylogenetically ‘modern’ MTBC lineages are more successful in terms of their geographical spread compared with the ‘ancient’ lineages. Interestingly, the global success of ‘modern’ MTBC correlates with a hypo-inflammatory phenotype in macrophages, possibly reflecting higher virulence, and a shorter latency in humans. Finally, various human genetic variants have been associated with different MTBC lineages, suggesting an interaction between human genetic diversity and MTBC variation. In summary, the biology and the epidemiology of human TB have been shaped by the long-standing association between MTBC and its human host.
Quantification and Classification of Corn and Sunflower Oils as Adulterants in Olive Oil Using Chemometrics and FTIR Spectra
Authors: Rohman Abdul , Che Man Y. B.
Published: February 2012

Commercially, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is subjected to be adulterated with low-price oils having similar color to EVOO. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy combined with chemometrics has been successfully used for classification and quantification of corn (CO) and sunflower oils (SFOs) in EVOO sets. The combined frequency regions of 3027–3000, 1076–860, and 790–698 cm-1were used for classification and quantification of CO in EVOO; meanwhile, SFO was analyzed using frequency regions of 3025–3000 and 1400–985 cm-1. Discriminant analysis can make classification of pure EVOO and EVOO adulterated with CO and SFO with no misclassification reported. The presence of CO in EVOO was determined with the aid of partial least square calibration using FTIR normal spectra. The calibration and validation errors obtained in CO's quantification are 0.404 and 1.13%, respectively. Meanwhile, the first derivative FTIR spectra and PLS calibration model were preferred for quantification of SFO in EVOO with high coefficient of determination (R2) and low errors, either in calibration or in validation sample sets.
Basic fibroblast growth factor modulates cell cycle of human umbilical cord‐derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Ramasamy R. , Tong C. K. , Yip W. K. , Vellasamy S. , Tan B. C. , Seow H. F.
Published: February 2012

Background

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have great potential in regenerative medicine, immunotherapy and gene therapy due to their unique properties of self‐renewal, high plasticity, immune modulation and ease for genetic modification. However, production of MSC at sufficient clinical scale remains an issue as in vitro generation of MSC inadequately fulfils the demand with respect to patients.

Objectives

This study has aimed to establish optimum conditions to generate and characterize MSC from human umbilical cord (UC‐MSC).

Materials and methods

To optimize MSC population growth, basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) was utilized in culture media. Effects of bFGF on expansion kinetics, cell cycle, survival of UC‐MSC, cytokine secretion, expression of early stem‐cell markers and immunomodulation were investigated.

Results

bFGF supplementation profoundly enhanced UC‐MSC proliferation by reducing population doubling time without altering immunophenotype and immunomodulatory function of UC‐MSC. However, cell cycle studies revealed that bFGF drove the cells into the cell cycle, as a higher proportion of cells resided in S phase and progressed into M phase. Consistent with this, bFGF was shown to promote expression of cyclin D proteins and their relevant kinases to drive UC‐MSC to transverse cell cycle check points, thus, committing the cells to DNA synthesis. Furthermore, supplementation with bFGF changed the cytokine profiles of the cells and reduced their apoptotic level.

Conclusion

Our study showed that bFGF supplementation of UC‐MSC culture enhanced the cells’ growth kinetics without compromising their nature.
Sexual Behaviour and Neuronal Activation in the Vomeronasal Pathway and Hypothalamus of Food‐Deprived Male Rats
Authors: Caquineau C. , Leng G. , Douglas A. J.
Published: February 2012

As feeding and mating are mutually‐exclusive goal‐orientated behaviours, we investigated whether brief food deprivation would impair the display of sexual behaviour of male rats. Analysis of performance in a sexual incentive motivation test revealed that, similar to fed males, food‐deprived males preferred spending time in the vicinity of receptive females rather than nonreceptive females. Despite this, food‐deprived males were more likely to be slow to mate than normally‐fed males, and a low dose of the satiety peptide α‐melanocyte‐stimulating‐hormone attenuated the effect of hunger. Using Fos immunocytochemistry, we compared neuronal activity in the vomeronasal projection pathway in response to oestrous cues from receptive females between food‐deprived and fed males. As in fed males, more Fos expression was seen in the rostral part of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis and in the medial preoptic area in food‐deprived males, confirming that food‐deprived males can recognise and respond to female oestrous cues. However, although there was also an increase in Fos expression in the bed nucleus of the accessory tract and in the posteromedial amygdala in fed males, no increases were seen in these areas in food‐deprived rats. We also found selective attenuation in the activation of lateral posterior paraventricular nucleus (lpPVN) oxytocin neurones in food‐deprived males. Taken together, the data show that, although food‐deprived males can still become sexually motivated, copulation is delayed, and this is accompanied by variations in neuronal activity in the vomeronasal projection pathway. We propose that, in hungry rats, the lpPVN oxytocin neurones (which project to the spinal cord and are involved in maintaining penile erection) facilitate the transition from motivation to intromission, and their lack of activation impairs intromission, and thus delays mating.
Dendritic calcium mechanisms and long‐term potentiation in cortical inhibitory interneurons
Authors: Topolnik Lisa
Published: February 2012

Calcium (Ca2+) is a major second messenger in the regulation of different forms of synaptic and intrinsic plasticity. Tightly organized in space and time, postsynaptic Ca2+ transients trigger the activation of many distinct Ca2+ signaling cascades, providing a means for a highly specific signal transduction and plasticity induction. High‐resolution two‐photon microscopy combined with highly sensitive synthetic Ca2+ indicators in brain slices allowed for the quantification and analysis of postsynaptic Ca2+ dynamics in great detail. Much of our current knowledge about postsynaptic Ca2+ mechanisms is derived from studying Ca2+ transients in the dendrites and spines of pyramidal neurons. However, postsynaptic Ca2+ dynamics differ considerably among different cell types. In particular, distinct rules of postsynaptic Ca2+ signaling and, accordingly, of Ca2+‐dependent plasticity operate in GABAergic interneurons. Here, I review recent progress in understanding the complex organization of postsynaptic Ca2+ signaling and its relevance to several forms of long‐term potentiation at excitatory synapses in cortical GABAergic interneurons.
Smartphone applications for pediatric anesthesia
Authors: Bhansali Rahul , Armstrong James
Published: February 2012

We present a review of smartphone applications (apps) available for pediatric anesthesia.
Identifying effective behavioural models and behaviour change strategies underpinning preschool‐ and school‐based obesity prevention interventions aimed at 4–6‐year‐olds: a systematic review
Authors: Nixon C. A. , Moore H. J. , Douthwaite W. , Gibson E. L. , Vogele C. , Kreichauf S. , Wildgruber A. , Manios Y. , Summerbell C. D. ,   ToyBox‐study group
Published: February 2012

The aim of this comprehensive systematic review was to identify the most effective behavioural models and behaviour change strategies, underpinning preschool‐ and school‐based interventions aimed at preventing obesity in 4–6‐year‐olds. Searching was conducted from April 1995 to April 2010 using MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and The Cochrane Library. Epidemiological studies relevant to the research question with controlled assignment of participants were included in the review, if they had follow‐up periods of 6 months or longer. Outcomes included markers of weight gain; markers of body composition; physical activity behaviour changes and dietary behaviour changes. Twelve studies were included in the review. The most commonly used model was social cognitive theory (SCT)/social learning theory (SLT) either as a single model or in combination with other behavioural models. Studies that used SCT/SLT in the development of the intervention had significant favourable changes in one, or more, outcome measures. In addition, interventions that (i) combined high levels of parental involvement and interactive school‐based learning; (ii) targeted physical activity and dietary change; and (iii) included long‐term follow‐up, appeared most effective. It is suggested that interventions should also be focused on developing children's (and parents') perceived competence at making dietary and physical changes.
Profoundly Un‐Conservative? David Cameron and the UK Bill of Rights Debate
Authors: MUNCE PETER
Published: February 2012

This article considers David Cameron's proposal to repeal the Human Rights Act (HRA) and replace it with a British Bill of Rights. Cameron's proposal has been heavily criticised by a range of political, academic and non‐state actors and was described by a current senior Coalition Cabinet member as ‘xenophobic’ and ‘legal nonsense’. This article takes a slightly different direction to those lines of attack and critique that have been developed of the Conservative's proposals. The central proposition of the article is that Cameron's proposal is profoundly un‐Conservative at two levels. Firstly, at the level of Conservative approaches to constitutional reform and secondly, at the level of Conservative political philosophy.
Parental depressive symptoms and children’s sleep: the role of family conflict
Authors: El‐Sheikh Mona , Kelly Ryan J. , Bagley Erika J. , Wetter Emily K.
Published: February 2012

Background:  We used a multi‐method and multi‐informant design to identify developmental pathways through which parental depressive symptoms contribute to children’s sleep problems. Environmental factors including adult inter‐partner conflict and parent–child conflict were considered as process variables of this relation.

Methods:  An ethnically and socioeconomically diverse sample of children (n = 268) participated (M age = 9.44 years, SD = 8.61 months). Children wore actigraphs for 7 consecutive nights and also reported on their sleep problems.

Results:  Higher levels of maternal depressive symptoms were associated with children’s sleep/wake problems. Higher levels of paternal depressive symptoms were associated with shorter time in bed and fewer sleep minutes. Inter‐partner conflict and parent–child conflict were mechanisms of effects in the associations between maternal depressive symptoms and children’s actigraphy‐based and self‐reported sleep problems.

Conclusions:  Findings build on this scant literature and highlight the importance of identifying pathways of risk and familial and environmental influences on children’s sleep problems.
Reputation Leaders, Quality Laggards: Incentive Structure in Markets with Both Private and Collective Reputations
Authors: Costanigro Marco , Bond Craig A. , McCluskey Jill J.
Published: February 2012

A theoretical model is developed to illustrate the economic incentives to invest in quality in markets with a dual reputation structure: private (firm reputation) and collective (regional reputation). Numerical dynamic programming techniques are then used to simulate firms’ strategic behaviour, and competitive outcomes are compared to the optimal investment of a regional planner. Market and product characteristics inducing asymmetric and/or sub‐optimal investment strategies, potentially destabilising for the region, are investigated.
Rescue Therapy for Acute Migraine, Part 2: Neuroleptics, Antihistamines, and Others
Authors: Kelley Nancy E. , Tepper Deborah E.
Published: February 2012

Objectives.— This second portion of a 3‐part series examines the relative effectiveness of headache treatment with neuroleptics, antihistamines, serotonin antagonists, valproate, and other drugs (octreotide, lidocaine, nitrous oxide, propofol, and bupivacaine) in the setting of an emergency department, urgent care center, or headache clinic.

Methods.— MEDLINE was searched using the terms “migraine” AND “emergency” AND “therapy” OR “treatment.” Reports were from emergency department and urgent care settings and involved all routes of medication delivery. Reports from headache clinics were only included if medications were delivered by a parenteral route.

Results.— Prochlorperazine, promethazine, and metoclopramide, when used alone, were superior to placebo. Droperidol and prochlorperazine were superior or equal in efficacy to all other treatments, although they also have more side effects (especially akathisia). Metoclopramide was equivalent to prochlorperazine and, when combined with diphenhydramine, was superior in efficacy to triptans and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs. Meperidine was inferior to chlorpromazine and equivalent to the other neuroleptics. The overall percentage of patients with pain relief after taking droperidol and prochlorperazine was equivalent to sumatriptan.

Conclusions.— Prochlorperazine and metoclopramide are the most frequently studied of the anti‐migraine medications in the emergent setting, and the effectiveness of each is superior to placebo. Prochlorperazine is superior or equivalent to all other classes of medications in producing migraine pain relief. Dopamine antagonists, in general, appear to be equivalent for migraine pain relief to the migraine‐“specific” medications sumatriptan and dihydroergotamine, although there are fewer studies involving the last two. Lack of comparisons to placebo and the frequent use of combination medications in treatment arms complicate the comparison of single agents to one other.
Epilepsy in Tanzanian children: Association with perinatal events and other risk factors
Authors: Burton Kathryn J. , Rogathe Jane , Whittaker Roger , Mankad Kshitij , Hunter Ewan , Burton Matthew J. , Todd Jim , Neville Brian G. R. , Walker Richard , Newton Charles R. J. C.
Published: February 2012

Purpose:  To define the prevalence and risk factors for epilepsy in children in a rural district of Tanzania by conducting a community‐based case–control study.

Methods:  Children aged 6–14 years with active epilepsy (at least two unprovoked seizures in the last 5 years) were identified in a cross‐sectional survey in Tanzania. Cases were compared with age‐matched controls.

Key Findings:  Overall 112 children with epilepsy (CWE) were identified; the unadjusted prevalence of epilepsy was 2.91 per 1,000 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 2.4–3.5). The main seizure types were focal motor with secondary generalization in 73 (65.2%) of 112 and generalized convulsive seizures in 19 (16.9%) of 112. Adverse perinatal events were present in 16 (14%) of 112 cases but in no controls. In multivariate analysis, epilepsy was associated with number of parents who were resident at home (odds ratio [OR] 6.2 for none vs. both resident, 95% CI 1.5–25.5), history of adverse perinatal events (OR 14.9, 95% CI 1.4–151.3), family history of afebrile seizures (OR 5.7, 95% CI 1.0–27.5), and poor scholastic attainment (OR 8.6, 95% CI 4.0–18.4). Electroencephalography (EEG) and computed tomography (CT) scans were abnormal in 44 (44%) of 101 and 26 (29%) of 90 cases, respectively. Overall, 98 (88%) of 112 cases had focal features on assessment.

Significance:  In this study from sub‐Saharan Africa, CWE predominantly had focal features that support the suggestion that most epilepsy in this region has a symptomatic etiology. Adverse perinatal events were strongly associated with epilepsy. Genetic and social factors may also be important. Epilepsy may be preventable in a significant proportion of children with better antenatal and perinatal care.
A Randomized, Double‐Blind Comparison Shows the Addition of Oxygenated Glycerol Triesters to Topical Mentholated Cream for the Treatment of Acute Musculoskeletal Pain Demonstrates Incremental Benefit Over Time
Authors: Taylor Robert , Gan Tong J. , Raffa Robert B. , Gharibo Chris , Pappagallo Marco , Sinclair Nicholas R. , Fleischer Charles , Tabor Aaron
Published: February 2012

Background:  Topical analgesics are important products in the armamentarium for pain relief.

Methods and Findings:  This study compared a topical analgesic product containing menthol to the same product with the addition of oxygenated glycerol triesters (OGTs) (also called essential oxygen oil) in 66 healthy adult subjects with acute musculoskeletal pain. Patients were randomized in a single‐center, double‐blind study to receive mentholated cream (MC) only or MC containing OGTs. Patients self‐reported their pain intensity, lifestyle limitations, and evaluation of the mobility of the painful joint or muscle at baseline and three times daily over a seven‐day course on a 100‐mm visual analog scale (VAS). Patients in both groups experienced statistically significant pain relief on Day 8 over baseline, with the MC plus OGT‐treated group reporting statistically significantly greater pain relief than the MC group (P = 0.016). In addition, patients treated with the combination product experienced an incremental decrease in pain during each of the 7 days of treatment in addition, and they had lower VAS scores and greater lifestyle and mobility improvements than the MC group. Both products were well tolerated with no serious adverse events reported and no signs of significant skin reactions in either group.

Conclusion:  Based on this study, a MC containing OGTs is safe, effective, and provided significantly better pain relief than MC alone. The combination of oxygenated glycerol trimesters and MC provided significant pain relief and offered continued improvement in pain relief over time.
Healthcare Costs Associated with Osteoarthritis in US Patients
Authors: Le T. Kim , Montejano Leslie B. , Cao Zhun , Zhao Yang , Ang Dennis
Published: February 2012

Background:  Osteoarthritis is a chronic debilitating condition affecting many adults in the United States. This study was to compare pharmacologic treatments and costs for newly diagnosed and existing osteoarthritis patients to assess unmet medication treatment needs and economic burden.

Methods:  This retrospective analysis of de‐identified medical and pharmacy insurance claims from the MarketScan® databases identified adult patients with an osteoarthritis claim in 2007. The date of the first osteoarthritis claim in 2007 served as the index. Patients were stratified into newly diagnosed and existing cohorts, based on the presence of osteoarthritis claim(s) over the 12‐month pre‐index period. Utilization of pain‐related medications and healthcare costs was assessed in the 12‐month postindex period. Multivariate analysis was conducted to adjust costs controlling for cross‐cohort differences.

Results:  Newly diagnosed osteoarthritis patients (n = 134,584) were younger (66.0 vs. 68.0, P < 0.001), had a higher proportion of men (37.4% vs. 33.9%, P < 0.001) but lower rates of comorbidities than existing patients (n = 123,653). Significantly higher proportions of newly diagnosed patients had an inpatient admission and outpatient office visit. Higher proportions of existing patients utilized a majority of the medication classes examined. Total adjusted osteoarthritis‐related costs for newly diagnosed patients were $6,811 annually (95% confidence interval [CI] $6,743 to $6,887), compared to $6,407 (95% CI $6,327 to $6,477) for existing patients. Costs of pain‐related prescription drugs associated with osteoarthritis were $965 (95% CI $955 to $975) among new patients, less than the $1,117 (95% CI $1,107 to $1,129) among existing patients.

Conclusion:  Newly diagnosed osteoarthritis patients incurred higher annual costs, but lower pain‐related prescription drug costs in the year following diagnosis than patients with existing osteoarthritis.
Hypervolemic infusion of Lumbricus terrestris erythrocruorin purified by tangential‐flow filtration
Authors: Elmer Jacob , Zorc Katie , Rameez Shahid , Zhou Yipin , Cabrales Pedro , Palmer Andre F.
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND: The hemoglobin of the earthworm Lumbricus terrestris (also known as erythrocruorin, or LtEc) is a naturally occurring high‐molecular‐weight protein assembly (3.6 MDa) that is extremely stable, resistant to oxidation, and transports oxygen similarly to human whole blood. Therefore, LtEc may serve as an alternative to donated human red blood cells. However, a suitable purification process must be developed to produce highly pure LtEc on a large scale that can be evaluated in an animal model to determine the safety and efficacy of LtEc.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: We used tangential‐flow filtration (TFF), an easily scalable and affordable technique, to produce highly pure LtEc from earthworms. The purity, yield, methemoglobin level, viscosity, colloid osmotic pressure, O2 binding equilibria, and ligand‐binding kinetics of the purified LtEc were measured in vitro. The purified LtEc product was then evaluated in hamsters using a hypervolemic infusion model to establish its basic biocompatibility and detect any changes in microcirculatory and systemic variables.

RESULTS: TFF was able to produce LtEc with high purity and yield (5‐10 g/1000 worms). The purified LtEc product did not elicit hypertension or vasoconstriction when infused into hamsters.

CONCLUSION: LtEc may be easily purified and safely transfused into hamsters in small amounts (0.5‐1.5 g/dL final concentration in blood) without any noticeable side effects. Therefore, LtEc may serve as a very promising oxygen carrier for use in transfusion medicine.
Negotiating the Lines of Contention: Counterframing and Boundary Work in the School of the Americas Debate1
Authors: Gallo‐Cruz Selina
Published: February 2012

Counterframing scholars typically identify counterframes that interpretively distinguish arguments among opponents. This approach assumes that counterframing strategy centers on directly countering the claims of protesters. In my in‐depth examination of the ongoing debate between protesters and officials of the former School of the Americas, I identify a form of counterframing that agrees with and embraces the moral alternatives implicit in accusers’ claims. I bring boundary construction theory into conversation with counterframing analysis to expand understanding of how framing and counterframing strategies revolve around the competition for common, moral resources. I explain that in the movement to close the School of the Americas, protesters’ claims have served as moral boundaries against which the targeted institution has redefined its objectives and programs. I introduce the concept of “boundary negotiation” to argue that counterframing strategy and success lie in the negotiation of moral boundaries called into question by social movements. I outline defensive and offensive modes of boundary negotiation and identify boundary negotiation as a mechanism driving the link between counterframing and demobilization.
Institutional Pressures and Organizational Capacity: The Case of Outcome Measurement1
Authors: Barman Emily , MacIndoe Heather
Published: February 2012

A central claim of new institutional theory is that organizations in a field come to exhibit shared characteristics over time. Recent literature emphasizes variation across field members, but has yet to concur on why differences occur. This study tests institutional explanations for the uneven implementation of one organizational practice—outcome measurement, an evaluative technique used to assess the impact of an organization’s programs. We analyze data from a new survey investigating the practices of nonprofit organizations (N = 379) and argue for the inclusion of the concept of organizational capacity to account for the uneven implementation of outcome measurement. As predicted by new institutional theory, organizations are more likely to adopt outcome measurement if key actors promulgate its use. However, the implementation of outcome measurement is best explained by the addition of the concept of organizational capacity alongside variables drawn from new institutionalism. Nonprofits with adequate organizational capacity, operationalized—following Weber’s concept of bureaucracy—as the presence of written rules and members with specialized knowledge, are better able to respond to isomorphic pressures to implement a new organizational practice. Our findings expand scholarship that examines the intersection of institutional dynamics and organizational traits in accounting for patterns of implementation of practices across an organizational field.
Signs of the presence of Th17 cells in chronic periodontal disease
Authors: Adibrad M. , Deyhimi P. , Ganjalikhani Hakemi M. , Behfarnia P. , Shahabuei M. , Rafiee L.
Published: February 2012

Adibrad M, Deyhimi P, Ganjalikhani Hakemi M, Behfarnia P, Shahabuei M, Rafiee L. Signs of the presence of Th17 cells in chronic periodontal disease. J Periodont Res 2012; 47: 525–531. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Background and Objective:  The aim of this study was to identify the specific markers of T helper 17 (Th17) cells and their variations in people suffering from chronic periodontal disease in comparison with normal control subjects.

Material and Methods:  In 30 patients with periodontitis and 30 normal control subjects, the mRNA expressions of interleukin (IL)‐17A and retinoic orphan receptor C2 (RORC2) were measured by quantitative RT‐PCR. The protein levels of IL‐17A and RORC2 were also evaluated by immunohistochemistry. The levels of these markers were compared between healthy and diseased periodontal tissues by the Mann–Whitney U‐test.

Results:  In periodontal lesions, IL‐17A and RORC2 were significantly overexpressed compared with normal tissues. According to our immunohistochemical analysis, the number of IL‐17A‐positive cells and RORC2‐positive cells was significantly greater in periodontal lesions compared with control sites. Moreover, there was a positive correlation between the presence of IL‐17A and RORC2 transcript and protein content levels in the gingiva of diseased patients.

Conclusion:  The results demonstrated a significant increase in the number of some specific markers of Th17 cells in patients suffering from periodontal disease in comparison with normal control subjects.
Effects of Cyclodextrins on the Flavor of Goat Milk and Its Yogurt
Authors: Young O.A. , Gupta R.B. , Sadooghy‐Saraby S.
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  Goat milk fat includes several branched chain fatty acids (BCFAs), like 4‐methyloctanoic acid, which when free, are responsible for goaty flavor. This flavor limits the market opportunities for goat milk. Prior research showed that cyclodextrins (CDs) can reduce goaty flavor, presumably by binding free fatty acids. This research extends that observation. In odor ranking trials in citrate buffer at pH 4.8, β‐CD concentrations between 0% and 0.35% were increasingly effective in reducing odor intensity due to 4‐methyloctanoic acid, but only when present in high molar excess. α‐CD was also effective, but γ‐CD was not. In lipase‐treated goat milk only β‐CD was effective but at much lower molar excess, a difference potentially explained by several factors. One was that BCFAs bind to CDs in marked preference to their straight chain isomers. Displacement experiments with phenolphthalein disproved that hypothesis. The ability of β‐CD to reduce goaty flavor intensity extended to yogurt. An analytical panel showed that flavor of goat yogurt was reduced by addition of β‐CD, but only if added before heating and fermentation. A hedonic trial showed that consumers preferred unsweetened and sweet/vanilla‐flavored goat yogurt more when β‐CD was included, P= 0.004 and 0.016, respectively. Males liked all yogurts more than females (P < 0.01), but there was a treatment × gender interaction (P= 0.016) for sweet/vanilla yogurt: sweet/vanilla masked the goaty flavor for males but not females. This results parallels previously demonstrated gender effects for sheepmeat flavor caused by BCFAs.

Practical Application:  β‐Cyclodextrin masks goaty flavor in yogurt, and with its GRAS status means it could be used in commercial goat yogurts and similar products so the real or perceived nutritional advantages of goat milk are not lost to goaty flavor.
Characterization of Edible Coatings Consisting of Pea Starch, Whey Protein Isolate, and Carnauba Wax and their Effects on Oil Rancidity and Sensory Properties of Walnuts and Pine Nuts
Authors: Mehyar Ghadeer F. , Al‐Ismail Khalid , Han Jung H. , Chee Grace W.
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  Edible coatings made of whey protein isolate (WPI), pea starch (PS), and their combinations with carnauba wax (CW) were prepared and characterized. WPI combined with CW formed stable emulsion while PS with CW formed unstable emulsion and both formulations produced non‐homogeneous films. Addition of PS to WPI: CW combination at the ratio of 1: 1: 1, respectively, resulted in stable emulsion and homogenous films. The emulsion PS: WPI: CW (1: 1: 2) was stable and formed a continuous film but had less homogenous droplets size distribution when compared to 1: 1: 1 film. Combined films had a reduced tensile strength and elongation compared to single component films. WPI : CW (1: 1) films had higher elastic modulus than the WPI films, but the modulus reduced by the addition of PS. All the coating formulations were effective in preventing oxidative and hydrolytic rancidity of walnuts and pine nuts stored at 25 °C throughout the storage (12 d) but were less effective at 50 °C. Increasing the concentration of CW from 1: 1: 1 to 1: 1: 2 in PS: WPI: CW formulation did not contribute in further prevention of oil rancidity at 25 °C. Using of PS: WPI: CW (1: 1: 1) coating on both nuts significantly (P < 0.05) improved their smoothness and taste but the PS: WPI: CW (1: 1: 2) coatings imparted unacceptable yellowish color on walnuts.

Practical Application:  Edible coating of walnuts and pine nuts by whey protein isolate, pea starch, and carnauba wax reduced the oxidative and hydrolytic rancidity of the nuts and improved sensory characteristics.
Fish Oil Fortification of Soft Goat Cheese
Authors: Hughes Brianna H. , Brian Perkins L. , Calder Beth L. , Skonberg Denise I.
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  Soft goat cheese was fortified with four levels of purified fish oil (0, 60, 80, and 100 g fish oil per 3600 g goat milk) prior to curd formation to deliver high levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) per serving. The cheese was evaluated for proximate composition, EPA+DHA content, oxidative stability, color, pH, and consumer acceptability. The cheese was partially vacuum packed and stored at 2 °C for four weeks. The fat content was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the fortified treatments compared to the control, but was not significantly different among fortified treatments. Likewise, EPA+DHA contents were not significantly different among fortified samples, averaging 127 mg EPA+DHA per 28 g serving. No significant lipid oxidation was detected by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) or hexanal and propanal headspace analyses over the four week refrigerated shelf‐life study for any treatments. The fortified cheeses were all liked ‘moderately’ by consumers (n = 105) for overall acceptability, although the 60 g fortification level did rate significantly higher. The control cheese and the 60 g fortification level had no significant differences in consumer purchase intent. These results demonstrate that fortification levels of up to 127 mg EPA+DHA per serving may be added to soft cheese without negatively affecting shelf‐life or consumer purchase intent.

Practical Application:  Omega‐3 fatty acids have been shown to have strong associations with health and well‐being, and fish oil is a rich source of these fatty acids. In this study, goat cheese was successfully fortified to deliver 127 mg omega‐3 fatty acids per 28 g serving without affecting shelf life or consumer purchase intent.
Thermal Oxidation Studies on Reduced Folate, L‐5‐Methyltetrahydrofolic Acid (L‐5‐MTHF) and Strategies for Stabilization Using Food Matrices
Authors: Liu Yazheng , Tomiuk Stephen , Rozoy Elodie , Simard Stephan , Bazinet Laurent , Green Timothy , Kitts David D.
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  The thermal stability of L‐5‐methyltetrafolic acid (L‐5‐MTHF) was investigated in model/buffer systems and food systems. L‐5‐MTHF degradation followed first‐order reaction kinetics with relatively greater (P < 0.01) stability at pH 4 compared to pH 6.8 in the buffer systems. This was confirmed using cyclic voltammetry. The stability (for example, k‐values) of L‐5‐MTHF in an oxygen controlled environment improved (P < 0.001) proportionally when in the presence of increasing molar ratios of sodium ascorbate (NaAsc). The addition of NaAsc to L‐5‐MTHF after heat treatment was also effective at returning thermally oxidized L‐5‐MTHF back to its original form. A scheme was developed to explain the degradation and regeneration of L‐5‐MTHF. The importance of antioxidant protection of L‐5‐MTHF from thermal oxidation was extended using 2 distinct food systems; namely skim milk and soy milk, both with known antioxidant capacities. We conclude that the antioxidant activity of food components can enhance the stability of L‐5‐MTHF.
Anxiety and depression in various functional gastrointestinal disorders: Do differences exist?
Authors: HARTONO Juanda Leo , MAHADEVA Sanjiv , GOH Khean‐Lee
Published: February 2012

OBJECTIVE:  To examine the differences in the prevalence and severity of anxiety and depression in patients with functional dyspepsia (FD), nonerosive reflux disease (NERD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and healthy controls.

METHODS:  Consecutive patients undergoing an index endoscopic examination for various symptoms were interviewed. All the three functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) were diagnosed according to the Rome III criteria. Anxiety and depression were diagnosed using a locally validated version of the hospital anxiety and depression scale.

RESULTS:  A total of 248 patients were recruited (62 in FD, NERD, IBS and control groups each) with no differences in the basic characteristics. There was a higher prevalence of anxiety and depression in FD, NERD and IBS groups than that in the control group (43.5%, 45.2% and 67.7% vs 14.5%, P < 0.001; and 22.6%, 33.9% and 38.7% vs 6.5%, P < 0.0001). Using the cut‐off score (> 8) for anxiety or depression, IBS patients had a higher rate of anxiety than FD (P = 0.01) and NERD (P = 0.02), while no significant differences in depression rates were observed among all three groups.

CONLUSION:  Anxiety is more common in patients with IBS than in those with FD and NERD, indicating a possible causal link in the former.
Growth characteristics of two bloom‐forming synurophytes (Mallomonas elongata and Synura petersenii) at different nitrate and phosphate concentrations
Authors: Lee Kyung Lak , Kim Jin Hee , Yoon Ho‐Sung , Kim Han Soon
Published: February 2012

Two dominant planktonic bloom‐forming algal species in a small shallow eutrophic pond were identified as Mallomonas elongata and Synura petersenii by electron microscopy. Their growth requirements were investigated as uni‐algal cultures in a laboratory study. The maximum population growth and maximum growth rate of M. elongata occurred at concentrations of 24 μM nitrate (NO3) and 5 μM phosphate (PO4) at a temperature of 15°C and a pH of 6. Synura petersenii grew maximally and exhibited the highest growth rate at a NO3 concentration of 24 μM and a PO4 concentration of 2 μM. Mallomonas elongata and S. petersenii had similar nutrient requirements for optimum growth, suggesting that the biomass of these two species can be controlled by nutrient gradients.
Celastrus obovatifolius sp. nov. (Celastraceae) from China
Authors: Mu Xian‐Yun , Xia Xiao‐Fei , Zhao Liang‐Cheng , Zhang Zhi‐Xiang
Published: February 2012

A new bittersweet species, Celastrus obovatifolius X. Y. Mu & Z. X. Zhang (Celastraceae) is described from China. It is morphologically most similar to C. orbiculatus Thunb., but differs in having lamellate pith, obovate leaves, flower stalk with an articulation in its upper half, and terminal and axillary inflorescences. This is the first study using scanning electron microscope (SEM) to study the seed micromorphology of Celastrus L., which can provide valuable characters for species identification in the genus.
Calathea dorothyae sp. nov. (Marantaceae) from the sandy coastal plains of southeastern Brazil
Authors: Braga João Marcelo Alvarenga , Kennedy Helen
Published: February 2012

Calathea dorothyae J. M. A. Braga & H. Kenn. sp. nov. from the sandy coastal plains of southeastern Brazil is described and illustrated. It is apparently endemic to the ‘Cabo Frio Center of Plant Diversity’, and it is considered ‘Critically Endangered’ (CR). The new species is somewhat similar to C. reginae J. M. A. Braga and C. sphaerocephala K. Schum. with which it is compared.
Inhibition of trichocyst exocytosis and calcium influx in Paramecium by amiloride and divalent cations
Authors: Kerbœuf Daniel , Cohen Jean
Published: February 2012

Summary— Regulated exocytosis of defensive secretory organelles, the trichocysts, as well as a transient Ca2+‐influx can be induced in Paramecium by aminoethyldextran (Kerbœuf and Cohen, J Cell Biol (1990) 111, 2527). Knoll et al (Febs Lett (1992) 304, 265) reported that veratridine was also a secretagogue for Paramecium. Here we show that, like aminoethyldextran, veratridine induces a transient Ca2+‐influx. Both aminoethyldextran‐and veratridine‐induced exocytosis and associated Ca2+‐influx were: i) blocked in the nd12 thermosensitive mutant at the non‐permissive temperature; and ii) inhibited by amiloride and four divalent cations, Ba2+, Mg2+, Sr2+ and Co2+. This suggests that, although of different chemical nature, aminoethyldextran and veratridine act through the same physiological pathway. In addition, the inhibitory doses are comparable to the ones found to inhibit a hyperpolarization‐sensitive Ca2+‐current described in Paramecium (Preston et al (1992) J Gen Physiol 100, 233). The possibility that the activation of this Ca2+‐current by the secretagogue represents an early step in the regulation of trichocyst exocytosis is discussed.
Xenopus cyclin D2: Cloning and expression in oocytes and during early development
Authors: Taïeb Frédéric , Jessus Catherine
Published: February 2012

Summary— We have isolated and characterized a cDNA which contains the entire coding sequence of Xenopus laevis cyclin D2 protein. Cyclin D2 mRNA is identified as a member of the class of maternal RNAs. It is rare and stable during embryonic development at least until tadepole. In addition, a second cDNA coding for a truneated version of cyclin D2 was also isolated. Mieroinjection of cyclin D2 into oocytes undergoing meiotic maturation and parthenogenetic activation reveals that the protein is stable for several hours, independently of the ubiquitin‐mediated degradation of cyclin B2 that takes place periodically during this process. Microinjected cyclin D2 localizes both in the cytoplasm and in the nucleus of oocyte. In somatic cells, it is well established that cyclin D2 is almost exclusively nuclear and very labile. The unusual behaviour of cyclin D2 upon injection into oocytes may provide indications about a possible role for this protein during meiosis and early development.
Perception: A Concept Analysis
Authors: McDonald Susan M.
Published: February 2012

PURPOSE:  Concept analysis methodology by Walker and Avant (2005) was used to define, describe, and delimit the concept of perception.

DATA SOURCE:  Nursing literature in the Medline database was searched for definitions of “perception.”

DATA SYNTHESIS:  Definitions, uses, and defining attributes of perception were identified; model and contrary cases were developed; and antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents were determined.

CONCLUSIONS:  An operational definition for the concept was developed.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE:  Nurses need to be cognizant of how perceptual differences impact the delivery of nursing care. In research, a mixed methodology approach may yield a richer description of the phenomenon and provide useful information for clinical practice.
ON RESTRICTING SUBSETS OF BASES IN RELATIVELY FREE GROUPS
Authors: SABALKA LUCAS , SAVCHUK DMYTRO
Published: February 2012

Let G be a finitely generated free, free abelian of arbitrary exponent, free nilpotent, or free solvable group, or a free group in the variety AmAn, and let A = {a1,…, ar} be a basis for G. We prove that, in most cases, if S is a subset of a basis for G which may be expressed as a word in A without using elements from {al+1,…, ar} for some l < r, then S is a subset of a basis for the relatively free group on {a1,…, al}.
ANALYSIS OF CERTAIN L-FUZZY RELATIONAL EQUATIONS AND THE STUDY OF ITS SOLUTIONS BY MEANS OF THE L-FUZZY CONCEPT THEORY
Authors: ALCALDE CRISTINA , BURUSCO ANA , FUENTES-GONZÁLEZ RAMÓN
Published: February 2012

Given a Brouwerian complete lattice (L,≤) and two referential sets K and E, and using a fuzzy relation R ∈ LE×E which is reflexive and symmetric, certain fuzzy relations [Formula: see text] are characterized as solutions of X ⊲ R = X, proving that they play the role of the blocks in the context of crisp tolerance relations. Moreover, it is verified that these new fuzzy blocks [Formula: see text] can be determinated by means of the L-fuzzy concepts associated with the K -labeled L-fuzzy context (L,K,E,E,R).
STUDY ON FATIGUE BEHAVIOR OF STRENGTHENED NON-LOAD-CARRYING CRUCIFORM WELDED JOINTS USING CARBON FIBER SHEETS
Authors: CHEN TAO , YU QIAN-QIAN , GU XIANG-LIN , ZHAO XIAO-LING
Published: February 2012

This paper reports an experimental study on the use of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets to strengthen non-load-carrying cruciform welded joints subjected to fatigue loading. Failure modes and corresponding fatigue lives were recorded during tests. Scatter of test results was observed. Thereafter, a series of numerical analyses were performed to study the effects of weld toe radius, the number of CFRP layers and Young's modulus of reinforced materials on local stress concentration at a weld toe. It was found that fatigue life of such welded connections can be enhanced because of the reduction of stress concentration caused by CFRP strengthening. Parametric study indicates that the weld toe radius and the amount of CFRP are the key parameters influencing the stress concentration factors and stress ranges of the joint. Enhancement of modulus for adhesive and CFRP sheets can also be beneficial to the fatigue performance to some extent.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON BUCKLING RESISTANCE TECHNIQUE OF STEEL MEMBERS STRENGTHENED USING FRP
Authors: FENG PENG , BEKEY SAWULET , ZHANG YAN-HUA , YE LIE-PING , BAI YU
Published: February 2012

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) strengthening technique to improve buckling resistance of steel members is presented in concept and experimental demonstration. The conceptual design of this method is introduced through the preliminary experiments on three specimens. Then, another 14 specimens are tested under axially compressive loading, by which the compressive behavior and the strengthening effects are investigated considering different design parameters and configuration, including the slenderness ratio, the confinement detail, the filled materials and the end connection. The strengthening effects are analyzed by the comparison of both theoretical and test results, which show that the overall buckling failure of steel members can be prevented by FRP strengthening and the ultimate loading capacity and deformation capacity of steel members are enhanced considerably. The maximum load-bearing capacity of strengthened members is 2.86 times of the nonstrengthened ones, and the failure maintains a ductile behavior. In addition, the load-bearing capacity of the members strengthened in this way is compared with the Euler loads of the original steel member and the composite member.