bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying realistic recovery targets and conservation actions for tigers in a human‐dominated landscape using spatially explicit densities of wild prey and their determinants
Authors: Harihar Abishek , Pandav Bivash , MacMillan Douglas C.
Published: January 2014

Aim

Setting realistic population targets and identifying actions for site and landscape‐level recovery plans are critical for achieving the global target of doubling wild tiger numbers by 2022. Here, we estimate the spatially explicit densities of wild ungulate prey across a gradient of disturbances in two disjunct tiger habitat blocks (THBs) covering 5212 km2, to evaluate landscape‐wide conditions for tigers and identify opportunities and specific actions for recovery.

Location

Western Terai Arc Landscape, India.

Methods

Data generated from 96 line transects in 15 systematically selected geographical cells (166.5 km2) were used to estimate spatially explicit densities of six wild ungulate prey species at a fine scale (1 km2). Employing distance‐based density surface models, we derived species‐specific estimates within three major forest land management categories (inviolate protected areas (PA),PAs with settlements and multiple‐use forests). By scaling estimated prey densities using an established relationship, we predicted the carrying capacity for tigers within eachTHB.

Results

Species‐specific responses of the six wild ungulates to natural‐habitat and anthropogenic covariates indicated the need for targeted prey recovery strategies. InviolatePAs supported the highest prey densities compared withPAs with settlements and multiple‐use forests, and specifically benefited the principal tiger prey species (chitalAxis axisand sambarRusa unicolor). The estimated mean prey density of 35.16 (±5.67) individuals per km2can potentially support 82 (62–106) and 299 (225–377) tigers acrossTHBI andTHB II, which currently support 2 (2–7) and 225 (199–256) tigers, respectively. This suggests a potentialc. 68% increase in population size given existing prey abundances. Finally, whileTHBI represents a potential tiger recovery site given adequate prey,PAs where resettlement of pastoralists is underway represent potential prey recovery sites inTHB II.

Main conclusions

This systematic approach of setting realistic population targets and prioritizing spatially explicit recovery strategies should aid in developing effective landscape conservation plans towards achieving global tiger conservation targets.
Lower urinary tract symptoms and urodynamic dysfunction in clinically isolated syndromes suggestive of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Di Filippo M. , Proietti S. , Gaetani L. , Gubbiotti M. , Di Gregorio M. , Eusebi P. , Calabresi P. , Sarchielli P. , Giannantoni A.
Published: January 2014

Background and purpose

Urinary symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) are common and negatively impact on quality of life, representing a considerable psychosocial and economic burden, often requiring care and hospitalization. Although the importance of identifying and adequately treating urinary symptoms in MS is now well recognized, there is no information, to date, about the real prevalence and impact of bladder symptoms in patients with clinically isolated syndromes (CISs) suggestive of MS.

Methods

The aim of the present study was to investigate, in a cohort of patients with a diagnosis of CIS suggestive of MS, the prevalence of urinary tract symptoms, their impact on quality of life measures and their association with functional urodynamic dysfunctions. Patients underwent a complete neurological and urological visit, urodynamic investigation and the MSQoL‐54 questionnaire.

Results

Twenty‐eight consecutive patients presenting with CISs were enrolled in the study; 53.6% of CIS patients reported urinary symptoms, 46.7% reporting irritative symptoms, 33.3% both irritative and obstructive symptoms and 20% obstructive symptoms alone. Urodynamic abnormalities were observed in 57.1% of the CIS patients. In 17.9% of the CIS patients urodynamic dysfunctions were asymptomatic. The presence of urinary symptoms was associated with lower scores on specific quality of life domains, particularly in women with obstructive symptoms.

Conclusions

A high prevalence of urinary symptoms and urodynamic dysfunctions in patients with CISs and an association of urinary symptoms with quality of life measures were found. These results highlight the importance of identifying and optimally treating urinary symptoms also at the very early stages of MS.
Performance selection for Thoroughbreds racing in Hong Kong
Authors: Velie B. D. , Hamilton N. A. , Wade C. M.
Published: January 2014

Reasons for performing study

Different indicators of racing performance are commonly used in the racing industry to assess the genetic superiority of racing Thoroughbreds. However, how well these indicators predict the performance of future progeny or siblings varies depending on the population and circumstances in which the indicators were recorded or achieved.

Objectives

To identify heritable indicators of racing performance for horses racing in Hong Kong.

Study design

Heritability analysis of racing performance traits.

Methods

Performance data on the population of Thoroughbreds racing in Hong Kong between 3 September 2000 and 12 March 2011 (n = 4947) were acquired and used to estimate the heritabilities and probability values of fixed effects and covariates for a range of racing performance traits. Heritabilities for all performance traits were estimated using a single trait animal model. Each model included, as a minimum, the effects of sex, region of origin and trainer.

Results

Heritability estimates for traits relating to finish position ranged from 0.01 to 0.06. Average handicap weight had a heritability of 0.07 ± 0.03. The effects of sex (fixed) and trainer (random) were significant (P<0.05) for all performance traits relating to earnings measures, handicap weights and finish positions. The heritability of win time at 1600 m was 0.52 ± 0.06 and was the only significant estimate of heritability for win time in the current study.

Conclusions

Although significantly affected by multiple environmental factors, certain indicators of Hong Kong racing performance can be reliably used to predict the performance of the individual's progeny or siblings. However, despite Hong Kong's controlled racing environment, these indicators appear to be no more heritable than in other less controlled racing environments.
Binding mode of the activity‐modulating C‐terminal segment of NS2B to NS3 in the dengue virus NS2B–NS3 protease
Authors: de la Cruz Laura , Chen Wan‐Na , Graham Bim , Otting Gottfried
Published: January 2014

The two‐component dengue virus NS2B–NS3 protease (NS2B–NS3pro) is an established drug target but inhibitor design is hampered by uncertainties about its 3D structure in solution. Crystal structures reported very different conformations for the functionally important C‐terminal segment of the NS2B cofactor (NS2Bc), indicating open and closed conformations in the absence and presence of inhibitors, respectively. An earlier NMR study in solution indicated that a closed state is the preferred conformation in the absence of an artificial linker engineered between NS2B and NS3pro. To obtain direct structural information on the fold of unlinked NS2B–NS3pro in solution, we tagged NS3pro with paramagnetic tags and measured pseudocontact shifts by NMR to position NS2Bc relative to NS3pro. NS2Bc was found to bind to NS3pro in the same way as reported in a previously published model and crystal structure of the closed state. The structure is destabilized, however, by high ionic strength and basic pH, showing the importance of electrostatic forces to tie NS2Bc to NS3pro. Narrow NMR signals previously thought to represent the open state are associated with protein degradation. In conclusion, the closed conformation of the NS2B–NS3 protease is the best model for structure‐guided drug design.
Pre‐Service Foreign Language Teachers' Perspectives on Learning With Technology
Authors: Sardegna Veronica G. , Dugartsyrenova Vera A.
Published: January 2014

This study explores pre‐service foreign language teachers' (N = 25) beliefs about the value and usefulness of employing technology‐enhanced activities (discussion forums, blogs, wikis, e‐portfolios, videotape recordings) in a methods course, and their perceptions of how these activities supported their learning. Likert‐scale items from an anonymous questionnaire indicated that participants found those activities beneficial for bridging theory and practice, enhancing critical thinking, and promoting professional growth. A qualitative analysis of participants' reflections revealed that, despite technology‐related challenges and preferences for other coursework activities, participants believed that the technology‐based activities provided increased opportunities for varied and richer interactions, peer feedback, and reflection; helped develop their learner autonomy and sense of belonging to a community of learners; modeled effective technology uses; and fostered a deeper appreciation of technology‐enriched practices.
Migration model of post‐smolt Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) in the Gulf of Maine
Authors: Byron Carrie J. , Pershing Andrew J. , Stockwell Jason D. , Xue Huijie , Kocik John
Published: January 2014

Understanding how oceanographic factors independently and interactively influence fish behavior, physiology, and survival is essential for predicting the impact of climate change on fish. Such predictions are especially challenging for highly migratory species such as salmon that experience a broad range of conditions. We applied a novel modeling approach that combines an individual‐based particle model with a bioenergetics model to evaluate the effects of oceanographic variability on migration of post‐smolt Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). Interannual variability in the surface current velocity and sea surface temperature differentially influenced post‐smolt salmon migration. The magnitude, duration, and direction of the currents relative to a fish's intended swimming direction had the strongest influence on migration. Changes in ocean circulation led to changes in currents at a regional scale that have a similar, relative effect across multiple populations during out‐migration. Results of this study suggest that the Nova Scotia Coastal Current has a strong influence on the migration pathways of migrating salmon through the Gulf of Maine. The influx of cool fresh water from the Arctic, observed in the early 1990s, changed the Nova Scotia Coastal Current and, as suggested by model results, could have dramatically influenced post‐smolt salmon migration success. There was a trade‐off between arriving at the destination quickly but at a small size and not arriving at the destination at all. Fish that took a long time to migrate had more opportunities to feed and encountered warmer summer waters, increasing their overall growth.
Morphology, metabolism and behaviour: responses of three fishes with different lifestyles to acute hypoxia
Authors: Dwyer Georgia K. , Stoffels Rick J. , Pridmore Peter A.
Published: January 2014

Behavioural responses to changing environments affect community composition, so the identification of associations between environmental gradients, behavioural traits and physiological traits makes a significant contribution to the quest for trait‐based rules of community change.

We tested the hypothesis that fish morphology and lifestyle are associated with metabolic rate, hence oxygen demand, and behavioural response to gradual hypoxia [low dissolved oxygen (DO)], using respirometry and behavioural experiments. Three species fell along different points of the fast–slow lifestyle continuum: Melanotaenia fluviatilis, a pelagic fish adapted to endurance swimming, lies at the fast end of the lifestyle continuum, while Mogurnda adspersa, a benthic fish adapted to burst swimming, lies at the other end. The benthopelagic Hypseleotris sp. has an intermediate lifestyle.

Standard and routine metabolic rates varied strongly among the species and were associated with lifestyle according to the inequality M. fluviatilis > Hypseleotris > M. adspersa. As DO declined, aquatic surface respiration behaviour also varied significantly among the species and indicated a sensitivity to hypoxia described by the same inequality. As hypoxia ensued, changes in habitat were also linked to lifestyle, but changes in activity level among species were not neatly correlated with lifestyle.

Overall, our experiments imply that there are significant links between morphology, lifestyle, metabolism and behavioural response to hypoxia in these three species of fish.
African crop yield reductions due to increasingly unbalanced Nitrogen and Phosphorus consumption
Authors: van der Velde Marijn , Folberth Christian , Balkovič Juraj , Ciais Philippe , Fritz Steffen , Janssens Ivan A. , Obersteiner Michael , See Linda , Skalský Rastislav , Xiong Wei , Peñuelas Josep
Published: January 2014

The impact of soil nutrient depletion on crop production has been known for decades, but robust assessments of the impact of increasingly unbalanced nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) application rates on crop production are lacking. Here, we use crop response functions based on 741 FAO maize crop trials and EPIC crop modeling across Africa to examine maize yield deficits resulting from unbalanced N : P applications under low, medium, and high input scenarios, for past (1975), current, and future N : P mass ratios of respectively, 1 : 0.29, 1 : 0.15, and 1 : 0.05. At low N inputs (10 kg ha−1), current yield deficits amount to 10% but will increase up to 27% under the assumed future N : P ratio, while at medium N inputs (50 kg N ha−1), future yield losses could amount to over 40%. The EPIC crop model was then used to simulate maize yields across Africa. The model results showed relative median future yield reductions at low N inputs of 40%, and 50% at medium and high inputs, albeit with large spatial variability. Dominant low‐quality soils such as Ferralsols, which are strongly adsorbing P, and Arenosols with a low nutrient retention capacity, are associated with a strong yield decline, although Arenosols show very variable crop yield losses at low inputs. Optimal N : P ratios, i.e. those where the lowest amount of applied P produces the highest yield (given N input) where calculated with EPIC to be as low as 1 : 0.5. Finally, we estimated the additional P required given current N inputs, and given N inputs that would allow Africa to close yield gaps (ca. 70%). At current N inputs, P consumption would have to increase 2.3‐fold to be optimal, and to increase 11.7‐fold to close yield gaps. The P demand to overcome these yield deficits would provide a significant additional pressure on current global extraction of P resources.
Big eucalypts grow more slowly in a warm climate: evidence of an interaction between tree size and temperature
Authors: Prior Lynda D. , Bowman David M.J.S.
Published: January 2014

Large trees are critical components of forest ecosystems, but are declining in many forests worldwide. We predicted that growth of large trees is more vulnerable than that of small trees to high temperatures, because respiration and tissue maintenance costs increase with temperature more rapidly than does photosynthesis and these costs may be disproportionately greater in large trees. Using 5 00 000 measurements of eucalypt growth across temperate Australia, we found that high temperatures do appear to impose a larger growth penalty on large trees than on small ones. Average stem diameter growth rates at 21 °C compared with 11 °C mean annual temperature were 57% lower for large trees (58 cm stem diameter), but only 29% lower for small trees (18 cm diameter). While our results are consistent with an impaired carbon budget for large trees at warmer sites, we cannot discount causes such as hydraulic stress. We conclude that slower growth rates will impede recovery from extreme events, exacerbating the effects of higher temperatures, increased drought stress and more frequent fire on the tall eucalypt forests of southern Australia.
Intradialytic hypotension: Frequency, sources of variation and correlation with clinical outcome
Authors: Sands Jeffrey J. , Usvyat Len A. , Sullivan Terry , Segal Jonathan H. , Zabetakis Paul , Kotanko Peter , Maddux Franklin W. , Diaz‐Buxo Jose A.
Published: January 2014

Intradialytic hypotension (IH) is a frequent complication of hemodialysis (HD) and is associated with increased patient mortality and cardiovascular events. We studied IH to determine its variability, correlates, and clinical impact in 13 outpatient HD facilities. Blood pressure was captured by machine download. IH was defined as >30 mmHg decrease in systolic blood pressure to <90 mmHg. Risk factors were assessed by logistic regression and hospitalization by Poisson regression. Time to death and first hospitalization were assessed using Kaplan–Meier analysis in patients completing >20 HD treatments. We studied IH in 44,801 treatments (Tx) in 1137 patients. IH was frequent (17.2% of treatments) and highly variable by patient (0–100% Tx) and dialysis facility (11.1–25.8% Tx). 25.1% of patients had no IH (0% Tx) and 16.2% had IH on >35% Tx. Increased IH frequency was associated with age, female gender, diabetes, Hispanic origin, longer end stage renal disease vintage, higher body mass index, higher ultrafiltration volume, the second and third weekly Tx, lower pre‐HD systolic blood pressure, higher difference between prescribed and achieved post‐HD weight, and higher dialysate temperature. Dialysis facility was an independent predictor of IH frequency. Patients with >35% IH treatments had poorer survival (P = 0.036), and more frequent and longer hospitalization (P = 0.04, P = 0.002, respectively) than patients without IH. In conclusion, IH frequency was highly variable, associated with individual facilities, patient and treatment characteristics, and correlated with mortality and hospitalization. Identifying practice patterns associated with IH coupled with routine reporting of IH will facilitate medical management and may result in the prevention of IH, decreased mortality, and decreased hospitalization.
TheBritish Hitman: 1974–2013
Authors: MacIntyre Donal , Wilson David , Yardley Elizabeth , Brolan Liam
Published: January 2014

This exploratory article presents a typology ofBritish ‘hitmen’ as identified within newspaper reports about contract killing. Demographic and criminological data related to these hitmen and their victims are analysed and, on the basis of this analysis, a typology ofBritish hitmen is developed. Our typology suggests thatBritish hitmen are: ‘Novices’; ‘Dilettantes’; ‘Journeymen’; or ‘Masters’. It is hoped that this typology will be of use to law enforcement.
New Learning Foundations for Building Water Knowledge Bridges
Authors: Camkin Jeff , Neto Susana
Published: January 2014

Five regional meetings promoted by UNESCO in 2009 addressed the growing need for transdisciplinary approaches, holistic vision, incorporation of non‐formal knowledge and views, effective participation and bottom‐up action for identification of water problems and solutions. There is, however, a general context of tension and competition between specializations within different disciplines, and without specialization it is difficult to obtain formal and academic recognition. This paper presents insights into new co‐learning methodologies centred in the experience of participants, inspired by and adapting the pedagogic approach developed by Paulo Freire, to the context of water management educational needs. This innovative approach has been applied as part of the Erasmus Mundus Master in Ecohydrology. The courses utilized the network of the UNESCO Hydrology for the Environment, Life and Policy (HELP) Programme to access experts with practical and academic experience. Drawing on their experiences and those of their colleagues, guest presenters and course leaders, the participants reflected on their practical IWRM challenges and reconsidered their options from new perspectives. Participants were encouraged to think “outside the water box” and focus on the role of IWRM in delivering society's broader policy objectives.
Body composition at birth in preterm infants between 30 and 36 weeks gestation
Authors: Ramel S. E. , Gray H. L. , Davern B. A. , Demerath E. W.
Published: January 2014

Background

The American Academy of Pediatrics calls for aggressive management of preterm infants to achieve body composition approximating that of the healthy infant in utero. Air displacement plethysmography (ADP) has been validated for assessment of body composition in preterm infants and could be used to monitor their nutritional status during hospitalization. Comparative datasets on body composition at birth among healthy, live‐born preterm infants are lacking.

Objective

The aim of this study is to provide the first descriptive fat mass (FM) and fat‐free mass (FFM) data from healthy newborn preterm infants at birth as a proxy for healthy in utero body composition.

Methods

Body mass and volume were obtained using ADP within 72 h of birth in 98 singleton, appropriate‐for‐gestational‐age preterm infants. FM and FFM were calculated using the Fomon equation.

Results

Measurement with ADP was feasible and well tolerated by infants as young as 30 weeks gestation and <72 h of age. FFM and FM increased linearly over the gestational age range period at rates of 171 and 46 g week−1, respectively. Mean values obtained by ADP by gestational week were similar to the previously published reference data from chemical analysis on stillbirths.

Conclusions

Body composition assessment using ADP is feasible in newborn preterm infants and provides group estimates similar to that of the reference fetus. In the future, integrating body composition information into the nutritional management of preterm infants may help to identify new strategies to optimize growth and development in this vulnerable population.
Evolution of Strong Red Upconversion Luminescence in Er3+‐Containing Oxy‐Fluoride Glass and Glass‐Ceramics
Authors: Zhang Jihong , Liu Chao , Heo Jong
Published: January 2014

The Er3+ concentration dependencies of upconversion luminescence in oxy‐fluoride glass and glass‐ceramics containing PbF2 nanocrystals were investigated. Strong red emission from the 4F9/2 → 4I15/2 transition was observed with the addition of ~0.8 mol% Er3+ ions, whereas ~10 mol% of Er3+ is required to achieve such emission in several other crystalline hosts. Intensities of red emission further increased with the formation of nanocrystals through heat treatment. The Er3+ ions enriched in glass and segregated preferentially inside the PbF2 nanocrystals that decreased the distance among Er3+ ions and thereby facilitated energy transfer.
Electrophysiology of human cardiac atrial and ventricular telocytes
Authors: Sheng Jingwei , Shim Winston , Lu Jun , Lim Sze Yun , Ong Boon Hean , Lim Tien Siang , Liew Reginald , Chua Yeow Leng , Wong Philip
Published: January 2014

Telocytes (TCs) with exceptionally long cellular processes of telopodes have been described in human epicardium to act as structural supporting cells in the heart. We examined myocardial chamber‐specific TCs identified in atrial and ventricular fibroblast culture using immunocytochemistry and studied their electrophysiological property by whole‐cell patch clamp. Atrial and ventricular TCs with extended telopodes and alternating podoms and podomers that expressed CD34, c‐Kit and PDGFR‐β were identified. These cells expressed large conductance Ca2+‐activated K+ current (BKCa) and inwardly rectifying K+ current (IKir), but not transient outward K+ current (Ito) and ATP‐sensitive potassium current (KATP). The active channels were functionally competent with demonstrated modulatory response to H2S and transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1 whereby H2S significantly inhibited the stimulatory effect of TGF‐β1 on current density of both BKCa and IKir. Furthermore, H2S attenuated TGF‐β1‐stimulated KCa1.1/Kv1.1 (encode BKCa) and Kir2.1 (encode IKir) expression in TCs. Our results show that functionally competent K+ channels are present in human atrial and ventricular TCs and their modulation may have significant implications in myocardial physiopathology.
Subgingival microbiota of Sri Lankan tea labourers naïve to oral hygiene measures
Authors: Zhuang Long‐Fei , Watt Rory M. , Steiner Sarah , Lang‐Hua Bich Hue , Wang Ren , Ramseier Christoph A. , Lang Niklaus P.
Published: January 2014

Aim

To characterize the subgingival microbiota within a cohort of adult males (n = 32) naïve to oral hygiene practices, and to compare the composition of bacterial taxa present in periodontal sites with various probing depths.

Material and Methods

Subgingival plaque samples were collected from single shallow pocket [pocket probing depth (PPD)≤3 mm] and deep pocket (PPD≥6 mm) sites from each subject. A polymerase chain reaction based strategy was used to construct a clone library of 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes for each site. The sequences of ca. 30–60 plasmid clones were determined for each site to identify resident taxa. Microbial composition was compared using a variety of statistical and bioinformatics approaches.

Results

A total of 1887 cloned 16S rRNA gene sequences were analysed, which were assigned to 318 operational taxonomic units (98% identity cut‐off). The subgingival microbiota was dominated by Firmicutes (69.8%), Proteobacteria (16.3%), and Fusobacteria (8.0%). The overall composition of microbial communities in shallow sites was significantly different from those within deep sites (∫‐Libshuff, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

A taxonomically diverse subgingival microbiota was present within this cohort; however, the structures of the microbial communities present in the respective subjects exhibited limited variation. Deep and shallow sites contained notably different microbial compositions, but this was not correlated with the rate of periodontal progression.
A randomized clinical trial comparing guided implant surgery (bone‐ or mucosa‐supported) with mental navigation or the use of a pilot‐drill template
Authors: Vercruyssen Marjolein , Cox Catherine , Coucke Wim , Naert Ignace , Jacobs Reinhilde , Quirynen Marc
Published: January 2014

Aim

To assess the accuracy of guided surgery (mucosa and bone‐supported) compared to mental navigation or the use of a surgical template, in fully edentulous jaws, in a randomized controlled study.

Material and Methods

Fifty‐nine patients (72 jaws), requiring four to six implants (maxilla or mandible), were consecutively recruited and randomly assigned to one of the following treatment groups; guidance via Materialise Universal®/mucosa, Materialise Universal®/bone, Facilitate™/mucosa, Facilitate™/bone, or mental navigation or a pilot‐drill template. The precision was assessed by matching the planning computed tomography (CT) with a post‐operative cone beam CT.

Results

A significant lower mean deviation at the entry point (1.4 mm, range: 0.3–3.7), at the apex (1.6 mm, range: 0.2–3.7) and angular deviation (3.0°, range: 0.2–16°) was observed for the guiding systems when compared to mental navigation (2.7 mm, range: 0.3–8.3; 2.9 mm, range: 0.5–7.4 and 9.9°, range: 1.5–27.8) and to the surgical template group (3.0 mm, range: 0.6–6.6; 3.4 mm, range: 0.3–7.5 and 8.4°, range: 0.6–21.3°). Differences between bone and mucosa support or type of guidance were negligible. Jaw and implant location (posterior–anterior, left–right), however, had a significant influence on the accuracy when guided.

Conclusion

Based on these findings, guided implant placement appears to offer clear accuracy benefits.
Circulating undercarboxylated osteocalcin and gingival crevicular fluid tumour necrosis factor‐α in children
Authors: Kâ Khady , Rousseau Marie‐Claude , Tran Simon D. , Kaartinen Mari T. , Myneni Vamsee D. , Henderson Mélanie , Nicolau Belinda
Published: January 2014

Background

Osteocalcin, a protein secreted by osteoblasts during bone formation, is negatively associated with adult periodontal disease. Little is known about this association in children.

Aim

To examine the extent to which plasma undercarboxylated osteocalcin (ucOC) is associated with gingival crevicular fluid tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (GCF TNF‐α) – a potential marker of gingival inflammation – in children.

Methods

We used data from the Quebec Adipose and Lifestyle InvesTigation in Youth cohort, an ongoing longitudinal study on the natural history of obesity among Caucasian children with a family history of obesity in Quebec, Canada. This cross‐sectional analysis from the baseline visit includes 120 children aged 8–10 years. Plasma ucOC and GCF TNF‐α levels were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Linear regression analyses, adjusting for age, gender, family income, sexual maturity stage, daily physical activity, obesity, and fasting glucose were conducted, with TNF‐α level as the dependent variable.

Results

A 1‐ng/ml increase in ucOC was associated with a 0.96% decrease (95% confidence interval (CI): −1.69, −0.23) in GCF TNF‐α level.

Conclusion

A negative association between a marker of bone formation and a marker of gingival inflammation was observed as early as childhood among Caucasian children with a family history of obesity.
The effect of the thermal diode laser (wavelength 808–980 nm) in non‐surgical periodontal therapy: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Slot Dagmar E. , Jorritsma Kirsten H. , Cobb Charles M. , Van der Weijden Fridus A.
Published: January 2014

Focused question

What is the adjunctive effect of a diode laser (DL) following non‐surgical periodontal debridement (SRP) during the initial phase of periodontal therapy on the clinical parameters of periodontal inflammation.

Material and Methods

The MEDLINE‐PubMed, Cochrane‐Central Register of Controlled Trials and EMBASE databases were searched up to September 2013. Probing pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment loss (CAL) were selected as outcome variables. Also plaque scores (PS), bleeding scores (BS) and the Gingival Index (GI) were considered outcome measures. Data were extracted and a meta‐analysis (MA) was performed where appropriate.

Results

Independent screening of 416 unique papers resulted in nine eligible publications. The MA evaluating PPD, CAL and PS showed no significant effect. The only significance favouring adjunctive use of the DL was observed for the outcome parameters GI and BS.

Conclusion

The collective evidence regarding adjunctive use of the DL with SRP indicates that the combined treatment provides an effect comparable to that of SRP alone. That is for PPD and CAL. The body of evidence considering the adjunctive use of the DL is judged to be “moderate“ for changes in PPD and CAL. With respect to BS, the results showed a small but significant effect favouring the DL, however, the clinical relevance of this difference remains a question. This systematic review questions the adjunctive use of DL with traditional mechanical modalities of periodontal therapy in patients with periodontitis.
Salivary biomarkers of bacterial burden, inflammatory response, and tissue destruction in periodontitis
Authors: Salminen Aino , Gursoy Ulvi K. , Paju Susanna , Hyvärinen Kati , Mäntylä Päivi , Buhlin Kåre , Könönen Eija , Nieminen Markku S. , Sorsa Timo , Sinisalo Juha , Pussinen Pirkko J.
Published: January 2014

Aim

Chronic periodontitis has an episodic and multifactorial character, with fluctuations in bacterial burden, inflammatory response, and tissue destruction. We investigated the association of selected salivary biomarkers with periodontal parameters and validated the use of a novel salivary diagnostic approach, the cumulative risk score (CRS), in detection of periodontitis in subjects with angiographically verified coronary artery disease diagnosis.

Materials and Methods

The concentrations of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐8, interleukin (IL)‐1β, and Porphyromonas gingivalis were analysed from saliva of 493 subjects. The subjects participated in a detailed clinical and radiographic oral examination. The CRS index, combining the three salivary biomarkers, was calculated for each subject.

Results

High salivary concentrations of MMP‐8, IL‐1β, and P. gingivalis were associated with deepened periodontal pockets and alveolar bone loss, and MMP‐8 and IL‐1β with bleeding on probing. The CRS index had a stronger association with moderate to severe periodontitis (OR 6.13; 95% CI 3.11–12.09) than any of the markers alone.

Conclusions

Salivary concentrations of MMP‐8, IL‐1β, and P. gingivalis are associated with various clinical and radiographic measures of periodontitis. The CRS index, combining the three salivary biomarkers, is associated with periodontitis more strongly than any of the markers alone regardless of the coronary artery disease status of the patients.
The interaction between beta‐3 adrenergic receptor polymorphism and obesity to periodontal disease in community‐dwelling elderly Japanese
Authors: Yoshihara Akihiro , Sugita Noriko , Iwasaki Masanori , Miyazaki Hideo , Nakamura Kazutoshi
Published: January 2014

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to elucidate whether the association between beta‐3 adrenergic receptor polymorphism and periodontal disease is modified by body weight.

Material and Methods

We enrolled 332 postmenopausal women and determined their HbA1C levels (%) and beta‐3 adrenergic receptor (rs4994) genotypes. Periodontal parameters including clinical attachment level (CAL) were measured. After selecting subjects for each body mass index (BMI) level, the prevalence rate ratio (PRR) by multiple Poisson regression analysis was calculated to evaluate the relationship between periodontal disease and beta‐3 adrenergic receptor polymorphism. The number of sites with CAL≥6 mm was used as a dependent variable, and beta‐3 adrenergic receptor genotype [categorized as Arg non‐carriers (reference) or Arg carriers], age (y) and HbA1C (%) were adopted as independent variables. We converted the number of probing sites (n) to an offset variable.

Results

The PRR of the beta‐3 adrenergic receptor genotype for the number of sites of CAL≥6 mm showed a positive association in subjects with BMI≥25.0 and increased markedly with BMI. The PRR in subjects with BMI≥30 was 3.10 (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

This study indicates a positive association between periodontal disease and the beta‐3 adrenergic receptor genotype in obese individuals.
The Copper Balance of Cities
Authors: Kral Ulrich , Lin Chih‐Yi , Kellner Katharina , Ma Hwong‐wen , Brunner Paul H.
Published: January 2014

Material management faces a dual challenge: on the one hand satisfying large and increasing demands for goods and on the other hand accommodating wastes and emissions in sinks. Hence, the characterization of material flows and stocks is relevant for both improving resource efficiency and environmental protection. This article focuses on the urban scale, a dimension rarely investigated in past metal flow studies. We compare the copper (Cu) metabolism of two cities in different economic states, namely, Vienna (Europe) and Taipei (Asia). Substance flow analysis is used to calculate urban Cu balances in a comprehensive and transparent form. The main difference between Cu in the two cities appears to be the stock: Vienna seems close to saturation with 180 kilograms per capita (kg/cap) and a growth rate of 2% per year. In contrast, the Taipei stock of 30 kg/cap grows rapidly by 26% per year. Even though most Cu is recycled in both cities, bottom ash from municipal solid waste incineration represents an unused Cu potential accounting for 1% to 5% of annual demand. Nonpoint emissions are predominant; up to 50% of the loadings into the sewer system are from nonpoint sources. The results of this research are instrumental for the design of the Cu metabolism in each city. The outcomes serve as a base for identification and recovery of recyclables as well as for directing nonrecyclables to appropriate sinks, avoiding sensitive environmental pathways. The methodology applied is well suited for city benchmarking if sufficient data are available.
Unintentional Flow of Alloying Elements in Steel during Recycling of End‐of‐Life Vehicles
Authors: Ohno Hajime , Matsubae Kazuyo , Nakajima Kenichi , Nakamura Shinichiro , Nagasaka Tetsuya
Published: January 2014

Alloying elements in steel add a wide range of valuable properties to steel materials that are indispensable for the global economy. However, they are likely to be effectively irretrievably blended into the steel when recycled because of (among other issues) the lack of information about the composition of the scrap. This results in the alloying elements dissipating in slag during steelmaking and/or becoming contaminants in secondary steel. We used the waste input‐output material flow analysis model to quantify the unintentional flows of alloying elements (i.e., chromium, nickel, and molybdenum) that occur in steel materials and that result from mixing during end‐of‐life (EOL) processes. The model can be used to predict in detail the flows of ferrous materials in various phases, including the recycling phase by extending steel, alloying element source, and iron and steel scrap sectors. Application of the model to Japanese data indicates the critical importance of the recycling of EOL vehicles (ELVs) in Japan because passenger cars are the final destination of the largest share of these alloying elements. However, the contents of alloying elements are rarely considered in current ELV recycling. Consequently, the present study demonstrates that considerable amounts of alloying elements, which correspond to 7% to 8% of the annual consumption in electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmaking, are unintentionally introduced into EAFs. This result suggests the importance of quality‐based scrap recycling for efficient management of alloying elements.
Targeted gene mutation of E2F1 evokes age‐dependent synaptic disruption and behavioral deficits
Authors: Ting Jenhao H. , Marks David R. , Schleidt Stephanie S. , Wu Joanna N. , Zyskind Jacob W. , Lindl Kathryn A. , Blendy Julie A. , Pierce R. Christopher , Jordan‐Sciutto Kelly L.
Published: January 2014

Aberrant expression and activation of the cell cycle protein E2F1 in neurons has been implicated in many neurodegenerative diseases. As a transcription factor regulating G1 to S phase progression in proliferative cells, E2F1 is often up‐regulated and activated in models of neuronal death. However, despite its well‐studied functions in neuronal death, little is known regarding the role of E2F1 in the mature brain. In this study, we used a combined approach to study the effect of E2F1 gene disruption on mouse behavior and brain biochemistry. We identified significant age‐dependent olfactory and memory‐related deficits in E2f1 mutant mice. In addition, we found that E2F1 exhibits punctated staining and localizes closely to the synapse. Furthermore, we found a mirroring age‐dependent loss of post‐synaptic protein‐95 in the hippocampus and olfactory bulb as well as a global loss of several other synaptic proteins. Coincidently, E2F1 expression is significantly elevated at the ages, in which behavioral and synaptic perturbations were observed. Finally, we show that deficits in adult neurogenesis persist late in aged E2f1 mutant mice which may partially contribute to the behavior phenotypes. Taken together, our data suggest that the disruption of E2F1 function leads to specific age‐dependent behavioral deficits and synaptic perturbations.

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E2F1 is a transcription factor regulating cell cycle progression and apoptosis. Although E2F1 dysregulation under toxic conditions can lead to neuronal death, little is known about its physiologic activity in the healthy brain. Here, we report significant age‐dependent olfactory and memory deficits in mice with dysfunctional E2F1. Coincident with these behavioral changes, we also found age‐matched synaptic disruption and persisting reduction in adult neurogenesis. Our study demonstrates that E2F1 contributes to physiologic brain structure and function.
Melatonin from Cerebrospinal Fluid but Not from Blood Reaches Sheep Cerebral Tissues Under Physiological Conditions
Authors: Legros C. , Chesneau D. , Boutin J. A. , Barc C. , Malpaux B.
Published: January 2014

The pineal gland secretes melatonin (MLT) that circulates in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). We provide data to support the hypothesis that, in sheep and possibly in humans, only the CSF MLT, and not the blood MLT, can provide most of MLT to the cerebral tissue in high concentrations, particularly in the periventricular area. The MLT content of sheep brain, our chosen animal model, was found in significant concentration gradients oriented from the ventricle (close to the CSF) to the cerebral tissue, with concentrations varying by a factor of 1–125. The highest concentrations were observed close to the ventricle wall, whereas the lowest concentrations were furthest from the ventricles (407.0 ± 71.5 pg/ml compared to 84.7 ± 5.2 pg/ml around the third ventricle). This concentration gradient was measured in brain tissue collected at mid‐day and at the end of the night. Nocturnal concentrations were higher than daytime concentrations, reflecting the diurnal variation in the pineal gland. The concentration gradient was not detected when MLT was delivered to the brain via the bloodstream. The diffusion of MLT to cerebral tissues via CSF was supported by in vivo scintigraphy and autoradiography. 2‐[123I]‐MLT infused into the CSF quickly and efficiently diffused into the brain tissues, whereas [123I]‐iodine (control) was mostly washed away by the CSF flow and [123I]‐bovine serum albumin remained mostly in the CSF. Taken together, these data support a critical role of CSF in providing the brain with MLT.
Altered Cerebellum Development and Dopamine Distribution in a Rat Genetic Model with Congenital Hypothyroidism
Authors: Shimokawa N. , Yousefi B. , Morioka S. , Yamaguchi S. , Ohsawa A. , Hayashi H. , Azuma A. , Mizuno H. , Kasagi M. , Masuda H. , Jingu H. , Furudate S.‐I. , Haijima A. , Takatsuru Y. , Iwasaki T. , Umezu M. , Koibuchi N.
Published: January 2014

Thyroid hormones play crucial roles in the development and functional maintenance of the central nervous system. Despite extensive studies of the neural function of thyroid hormones, little is known about the effects of hypothyroidism on behavioural traits and the mechanisms underlying such effects. In the present study, we report an investigation of congenitally hypothyroid mutantrdwrats, revealing a novel function of thyroid hormones in the central nervous system. Therdwrats were subjected to behavioural analyses such as the rotarod test, open field test and circadian activity measurement. To determine the cause of behavioural disorders, cerebellar morphogenesis was examined by immunohistochemical analysis, and the axonal transport of dopamine in the nigrostriatal pathway was analysed byhigh‐performance liquid chromatographyand western blotting. The effects of thyroxine administration to therdwrats were examined by behavioural analysis. Therdwrats showed severe impairment of motor coordination and balance. This could be explained by the fact that the rats showed severe retardation of cerebellar morphogenesis, which correlates with the small somata and poor dendritic arborisation of Purkinje cells and retarded migration of granule cells particularly during the first two postnatal weeks. Moreover, therdwrats showed hypoactivity, characterised by decreased circadian locomotor activity. After weaning, thyroxine administration improved the dwarfism inrdwrats but had no effect on cerebellar function. In addition, therdwrats showed anxiety and depression intrinsically to novel surroundings. Interestingly, therdwrats showed high levels of dopamine in the substantia nigra and low levels in the striatum, an important centre for the coordination of behaviour. Furthermore, low levels of tubulin in the striatum were detected, indicating the aberrant axonal transport of dopamine in the nigrostriatal pathway as a result of the reduced delivery of microtubules. These findings indicate an important function of thyroid hormones in cerebellar formation and in the regulation of axonal transport of dopamine. Moreover,rdwrats will be useful for studies of brain function and behavioural disorders in congenital hypothyroidism.
Sequential adaptive introgression of the mitochondrial genome inDrosophila yakubaandDrosophila santomea
Authors: Llopart Ana , Herrig Danielle , Brud Evgeny , Stecklein Zachary
Published: January 2014

Interspecific hybridization provides the unique opportunity for species to tap into genetic variation present in a closely related species and potentially take advantage of beneficial alleles. It has become increasingly clear that when hybridization occurs, mitochondrialDNA(mtDNA) often crosses species boundaries, raising the possibility that it could serve as a recurrent target of natural selection and source of species' adaptations. Here we report the sequences of 46 complete mitochondrial genomes ofDrosophila yakubaandDrosophila santomea, two sister species known to produce hybrids in nature (~3%). At least two independent events of mtDNAintrogression are uncovered in this study, including an early invasion of theD. yakubamitochondrial genome that fully replaced theD. santomeamtDNAnative haplotypes and a more recent, ongoing event centred in the hybrid zone. Interestingly, this recent introgression event bears the signature ofDarwinian natural selection, and the selective haplotype can be found at low frequency inAfrica mainland populations ofD. yakuba. We put forward the possibility that, because the effective population size ofD. santomeais smaller than that ofD. yakuba, the faster accumulation of mildly deleterious mutations associated with Muller's ratchet in the former species may have facilitated the replacement of the mutationally loaded mitochondrial genome ofD. santomeaby that ofD. yakuba.
Phylogenomic analyses reveal latitudinal population structure and polymorphisms in heat stress genes in the North Atlantic snail Nucella lapillus
Authors: Chu Nathaniel D. , Kaluziak Stefan T. , Trussell Geoffrey C. , Vollmer Steven V.
Published: January 2014

North Atlantic rocky intertidal species have been shaped by repeated glaciations and strong latitudinal temperature gradients, making them an excellent system to study postglacial phylogeography and thermal tolerance. Population genetics data from northwestern Atlantic species, however, often show patterns inconsistent with the prediction that high dispersal should generate weaker genetic structure among populations. Here, we used next‐generation sequencing restriction‐associated DNA tags (RAD‐seq) and a transcriptome assembled from RNA‐seq data to analyse the genetic structure of northwestern Atlantic populations of the low‐dispersal intertidal snail Nucella lapillus. Although previous studies in this region have detected almost no genetic structure in N. lapillus, our phylogenomic approach identified a well‐supported split between northern and southern clades. By comparing RAD‐seq data and our transcriptome assembly, we identified thousands of fixed single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) between these latitudinal clades that map to protein‐coding genes, including genes associated with heat stress tolerance. These fixed SNPs might represent loci under selection for different thermal regimes in the northwestern Atlantic.