bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human gingival fibroblasts stress response to HEMA: A role for protein kinase C α
Authors: Cataldi Amelia , Zara Susi , Rapino Monica , Patruno Antonia , di Giacomo Viviana
Published: July 2012

2‐Hydroxyethil methacrylate (HEMA), component of dentin‐bonding systems, by diffusing into oral cavity induces a cytotoxic response. HEMA determines reactive oxygen species (ROS) production activating specific signaling pathways, including protein kinases C (PKC). In addition, since a regulation is exerted by various PKCs on nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activation, our aim was to investigate the role of PKCs and the possible interplay with ROS and NO signaling system in human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) response to HEMA. Cultured HGFs were exposed to 3 mM (a subtoxic concentration) HEMA for 0, 24, or 96 h. Each experimental point were processed for flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, western blotting, and “in vitro” NOS specific activity analyses. Three millimolar HEMA reduces HGF proliferation less than 50% and increases apoptosis percentage up to 18%. Both ROS production and PKC α expression and activation are also increased 96 h after HEMA exposure. The increased specific activity of iNOS, inflammatory enzyme, accompanied by Bax high expression in HGF response to 96 h HEMA, document the occurrence of an inflammatory and apoptotic response to such agent. Interestingly, a reduced percentage of apoptotic cells and a reduced ROS production are evidenced in the presence of bisindolylmaleide VIII, a PKC α pharmacologic inhibitor. All in all, these results suggest that PKC α can mediate the inflammatory response disclosed by gingival fibroblasts to HEMA released monomers. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2013.
In vitro drug release studies from organoclay/poly(dimethyl siloxane) nanocomposite matrices
Authors: Vasilakos S. P. , Tarantili P. A.
Published: July 2012

Silicone elastomers are versatile biomaterials and have been used for fabrication of drug release systems, usually incorporating lipophilic drugs. However, attempts have been made to extend the use of these biomaterials to the delivery of hydrophilic drugs. Furthermore, the need to improve mechanical properties of silicones led, among others, to the incorporation of organoclay nanoparticles and, therefore, has introduced some new parameters to be investigated regarding their effect on the release profile. In this work, the delivery of 2‐methyl‐5‐nitroimidazole‐1‐ethanol (metronidazole) from nanocomposites with silicone matrix based on condensation cured elastomers with different molecular weights was investigated in various surrounding liquids. The results showed that incorporation of organic modified montmorillonite (OMMT) generally decreases the drug release rate and restricts the initial burst effect. Interestingly, OMMT concentrations of 2 phr in low MW silicone systems seem to enhance drug release and, independently of interpretation, it might indicate a route for the adjustment of diffusivity through the nanoclay concentration. Maximum drug release rates can rather be achieved with low MW PDMS than with the higher MW elastomers. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
Effects of calcium phosphate endodontic sealers on the behavior of human periodontal ligament fibroblasts and MG63 osteoblast‐like cells
Authors: Shon Won‐Jun , Bae Kwang‐Shik , Baek Seung‐Ho , Kum Kee‐Yeon , Han Ah‐Reum , Lee WooCheol
Published: July 2012

In regard to biological properties of endodontic sealers, there are many characteristics that should be considered. The aim of this study was to examine the biological effects of new calcium phosphate‐based root canal sealers, CAPSEAL I and CAPSEAL II (CPS), on human periodontal fibroblast cells by examining the expression levels of inflammatory mediators and to compare the effects of CPS on the viability and osteogenic potential of human osteoblast MG63 cells compared to those of other commercially available calcium phosphate sealers [Apatite Root Sealer type I (ARS I) and Apatite Root Sealer III (ARS III); Sankin Kogyo, Tokyo, Japan] and a zinc oxide eugenol‐based sealer (Pulp Canal Sealer EWT [PCS EWT]; Kerr, Detroit, MI). The levels of IL‐6 in the new CPS group (CAPSEAL I, II) were higher than those in the control and all experimental groups at all time points after 2 h. TGF‐β1 and FGF‐1 levels decreased at 72 h compared to the levels in the control, in cells treated with every sealers except ARS I. The new CPS sealers showed low cytotoxicity. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction showed that CAPSEAL I, II, and Apatite Root Sealer type III induced expression of early stage markers of differentiation (alkaline phosphatase and osteopontin) at 7 days. Also, new CPS showed higher mineralized nodule formation at 28 days. These results suggest that CAPSEAL I and II facilitate the periapical dentoalveolar and alveolar healing by controlling cellular mediators from PDL cells and osteoblast differentiation of precursor cells. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
Gd‐EOB‐DTPA‐enhanced MR imaging: Prediction of hepatic fibrosis stages using liver contrast enhancement index and liver‐to‐spleen volumetric ratio
Authors: Goshima Satoshi , Kanematsu Masayuki , Watanabe Haruo , Kondo Hiroshi , Kawada Hiroshi , Moriyama Noriyuki , Bae Kyongtae T.
Published: July 2012

Purpose:

To develop and evaluate a quantitative parameter for staging hepatic fibrosis by contrast enhancement signal intensity and morphological measurements from gadoxetic acid (Gd‐EOB‐DTPA)‐enhanced MR imaging.

Materials and Methods:

MR images were obtained in 93 patients; 75 patients had histopathologically proven hepatic fibrosis and 18 patients who had healthy livers were evaluated. The liver‐to‐muscle signal intensity ratio (SIpost = SIliver/SImuscle), contrast enhancement index (CEI = SIpost/SIpre), and liver‐to‐spleen volumetric ratio (VR = Vliver/Vspleen) were evaluated for staging hepatic fibrosis.

Results:

VR was most strongly correlated with fibrosis stage (7.21; r = −0.83; P < 0.001). Sensitivity, specificity, and area under the ROC curve demonstrated by linear regression formula generated by VR and CEI in predicting fibrous scores were 100%, 73%, and 0.91, respectively, for the detection of hepatic fibrosis F1 or greater (≥ F1),100%, 87%, and 0.96 for ≥ F2, 74%, 98%, and 0.93 for ≥ F3 and 91%, 100%, and 0.97 for F4.

Conclusion:

The liver‐to‐spleen volumetric ratio and contrast enhancement index were reliable biomarkers for the staging of hepatic fibrosis on Gd‐EOB‐DTPA‐enhanced MR imaging. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012;36:1148–1153. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rho-kinase–dependent pathway mediates the hepatoprotective effects of sorafenib against ischemia/reperfusion liver injury in rats with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Yang Ying-Ying , Huang Yi-Tsau , Lee Tzung-Yan , Chan Che-Chang , Yeh Yi-Chen , Lee Kuei-Chuan , Lin Han-Chieh
Published: July 2012

During liver transplantation, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) aggravates ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury by activating various kinases and subsequently releasing cytokines and chemokines. Nonetheless, the effect of the multikinase inhibitor sorafenib on IR liver injury in rats with NASH has never been explored. Our study was designed to determine this effect and associated mechanisms in NASH rats. Sorafenib was acutely administered to NASH rats with IR liver injury that were or were not chronically pretreated with the Rho-kinase–specific inhibitor fasudil. Then, the following were evaluated: mean arterial pressure; hepatic blood flow and microcirculatory dysfunction; hepatic inflammation (serum alanine aminotransferase); necrosis; apoptosis; leukocyte infiltration; CD45 staining; caspase levels and DNA fragmentation; various serum and hepatic cytokines; and proteins and genes of the Raf/mitogen-activated protein–extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, and apoptosis pathways. In NASH rats with IR liver injury, hepatic inflammation, necrosis, apoptosis, leukocyte infiltration, and microcirculatory dysfunction were significantly attenuated by the acute administration of sorafenib through the inhibition of the hepatic release of macrophage inflammatory protein 2, keratinocyte chemoattractant, granulocyte-monocyte colony-stimulating factor, and hepatic caspase-3 and caspase-9 as well as DNA fragmentation. Furthermore, there was decreased expression of p-Raf1 (where p indicates the phosphorylated form), p-MEK1/2, p-ERK1/2, p-Rho-kinase, B cell lymphoma 2–associated death promoter, and B cell lymphoma 2–associated X protein at the protein and messenger RNA levels. Notably, the aforementioned beneficial effects of sorafenib were significantly abolished by chronic pretreatment with the Rho-kinase–specific inhibitor fasudil. This study demonstrated that the multikinase inhibitor sorafenib protects NASH rats from IR injury by interfering with the inflammation, necrotic, and apoptotic responses causing leukocyte-dependent hepatic microcirculatory dysfunction. The hepatoprotective effects of sorafenib seem to work through the inhibition of the Rho-kinase–dependent Raf/MEK/ERK pathway, which is up-regulated during IR injury in the livers of NASH rats. Liver Transpl 18:1371–1383, 2012. © 2012 AASLD.
Recipient outcomes of salvage liver transplantation versus primary liver transplantation: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hu Zhenhua , Wang Wei , Li Zhiwei , Ye Sunyi , Zheng Shu-Sen
Published: July 2012

Salvage liver transplantation (SLT), or liver transplantation after liver resection (LR), has been performed after primary LR for many years. However, the true outcomes and risks of SLT versus primary liver transplantation (PLT) remain unclear. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the survival rate of SLT recipients and the incidence of postoperative complications. Among 2799 screened references, 7 eligible studies were identified. The results of the meta-analysis indicated no statistically significant differences in the overall survival rates of SLT and PLT: the pooled relative risk (RR) was 0.99 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.90-1.09, P = 0.87] at 1 year, 0.97 (95% CI = 0.83-1.13, P = 0.68) at 3 years, and 0.96 (95% CI = 0.81-1.13, P = 0.61) at 5 years. As for postoperative complications, there were no statistically significant differences in the incidence of sepsis and biliary complications between SLT and PLT, but there was a significantly higher incidence of bleeding with SLT (RR = 2.84, 95% CI = 1.57-5.13, P = 0.001). In conclusion, the overall survival associated with SLT is similar to that associated with PLT. Because of the limited organ donor pool, SLT might be an acceptable therapy for patients undergoing primary LR for hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver Transpl 18:1316–1323, 2012. © 2012 AASLD.
The application of quantification techniques in proteomics for biomedical research
Authors: Rodríguez‐Suárez Eva , Whetton Anthony D.
Published: July 2012

The systematic analysis of biological processes requires an understanding of the quantitative expression patterns of proteins, their interacting partners and their subcellular localization. This information was formerly difficult to accrue as the relative quantification of proteins relied on antibody‐based methods and other approaches with low throughput. The advent of soft ionization techniques in mass spectrometry plus advances in separation technologies has aligned protein systems biology with messenger RNA, DNA, and microarray technologies to provide data on systems as opposed to singular protein entities. Another aspect of quantitative proteomics that increases its importance for the coming few years is the significant technical developments underway both for high pressure liquid chromatography and mass spectrum devices. Hence, robustness, reproducibility and mass accuracy are still improving with every new generation of instruments. Nonetheless, the methods employed require validation and comparison to design fit for purpose experiments in advanced protein analyses. This review considers the newly developed systematic protein investigation methods and their value from the standpoint that relative or absolute protein quantification is required de rigueur in biomedical research. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 32:1–26, 2013
The increase of pericyte population in human neuromuscular disorders supports their role in muscle regeneration in vivo
Authors: Díaz‐Manera Jordi , Gallardo Eduard , de Luna Noemi , Navas Miquel , Soria Laura , Garibaldi Matteo , Rojas‐García Ricard , Tonlorenzi Rossana , Cossu Giulio , Illa Isabel
Published: July 2012

Pericytes are periendothelial cells that have been involved in many different functions including a possible role as mesodermal stem/progenitor cells. In the present study we demonstrate that alkaline phosphatase (AP) expression is specific for human muscular pericytes and can be used as a marker to identify them in skeletal muscle biopsies. We studied the pericyte population in skeletal muscle biopsies from controls, myopathic and neuropathic patients. We observed a significant increase in the number of pericytes only in myopathies that correlated with the number of NCAM+ fibres, suggesting that an active muscular degenerative/regenerative process is related to an increase in the pericyte population. AP+ pericytes sorted from skeletal muscle samples were able to activate the myogenic programme and fuse with both mononucleate satellite cells and mature multinucleated myotubes in vitro, demonstrating that they could participate in muscle regeneration. In accordance, pericytes expressing the myogenic transcription factor MyoD were found in biopsies of myopathic biopsies. All these data support the hypothesis that, apart from satellite cells, pericytes may play an important role in muscle regeneration in adult human muscles in vivo. Copyright © 2012 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
GEF‐H1 over‐expression in hepatocellular carcinoma promotes cell motility via activation of RhoA signalling
Authors: Cheng Ibis KC , Tsang Bruce CK , Lai Keng Po , Ching Arthur KK , Chan Anthony WH , To Ka‐Fai , Lai Paul BS , Wong Nathalie
Published: July 2012

The interstitial chromosome (chr.) 1q21‐q22 region is frequently amplified in human cancers, where it has been reported to carry prognostic significance for patients. We attempted to delineate chr. 1q21‐q22 for affected gene(s) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by array‐CGH and detected copy number gains of ρ‐guanine nucleotide exchange factor‐H1 (GEF‐H1) as most significant event. Gene expression evaluation in the HCC cohort indicated common up‐regulations of GEF‐H1 in 64% tumours compared to adjacent non‐tumoural liver (64/100; paired t‐test p < 0.0001). Moreover, GEF‐H1 over‐expressions correlated with microvascular invasion and advanced‐stage tumours (p < 0.05). High GEF‐H1 levels also predict shorter disease‐free and overall survival of HCC patients (p < 0.03). Functional knock‐down of GEF‐H1 by RNAi indicated marked reduction in cell invasion through matrigel and an inhibition of cell migration (p < 0.035), but an effect on cell viability was not apparent. More interestingly, a mesenchymal‐epithelial transition (MET) was readily observed in GEF‐H1 knock‐down cells, where a concomitant re‐expression of epithelial markers (E‐cadherin and cytokeratin 18) and cell adhesion proteins (α‐catenin and γ‐catenin) was found but down‐regulation of mesenchymal features (N‐cadherin, vimentin and fibronectin). This phenotype was accompanied by reduced filamentous actin polymerizations and diminution of the stress fibre formation. In addition, reduced active form of GTP‐RhoA, together with its downstream effectors, including cleaved ROCK1 and phosphorylated MLC2, were also detected in GEF‐H1‐depleted cells. Taken together, our findings underscore a potent oncogenic role for GEF‐H1 in promoting the metastatic potentials of HCC, possibly through activation of RhoA signalling and the EMT phenomenon. Copyright © 2012 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role of carboxylic acid functionalized single walled carbon nanotubes in polyamide 6/poly(methyl methacrylate) blend
Authors: Madhukar K. , Sainath A.V. Sesha , Rao B. Sanjeeva , Kumar D. Suresh , Bikshamaiah N. , Srinivas Y. , Babu N. Mohan , Ashok B.
Published: July 2012

The nanocomposite of polyamide 6 (PA6)/poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)/carboxylic acid functionalized single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs‐COOH) was prepared in a weight ratio of 49.5/49.5/1 at 230°C by using melt‐mixing method. The PA6/PMMA blend with weight ratio of 50/50 served as reference. The Fourier transform infrared analysis of nanocomposite shows the occurrence of hydrogen‐bonding interactions among PA6, PMMA, and SWCNTs‐COOH. Thermal studies of nanocomposite exhibited higher thermal stability and increased crystallinity of PA6 in nanocomposite compared to the blend. The X‐ray diffraction curve of nanocomposite indicates that the rich αII phase of PA6 was higher compare to the blend. The scanning electron microscope analysis of nanocomposite confirmed that PMMA exhibited as a uniform dispersion and existed as co‐continuous phase morphology in a continuous phase of PA6 compared to the blend. Furthermore, the obtained results suggest that the incorporation of SWCNTs‐COOH into the PA6/PMMA blend enhances the compatibility as a compatibilizer between the two polymer components. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2013. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Dependence of dielectric, ferroelectric, and piezoelectric properties on crystalline properties of p(VDF‐co‐TrFE) copolymers
Authors: Xia Weimin , Xu Zhuo , Zhang Qiuping , Zhang Zhicheng , Chen Yuanqing
Published: July 2012

Thermal processing at various temperatures has been used to fabricate poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐trifluoroethylene) [P(VDF‐co‐TrFE)] films with varied crystalline properties in an attempt to improve their piezoelectric properties. Although the dielectric constant of the films annealed at higher temperature is smaller than that of cooled and quenched ones, it has been shown that the annealed films possess larger crystallinity and stacked lamellar crystal grain size. The ferroelectric domains deriving from crystal region in all the samples are effectively improved by hot polarization. As a result, the remnant polarizations (Pr) and coercive electric field (Ec) of the corresponding films are improved at a low frequency due to the response of dipoles in crystal phase, and the largest piezoelectric constant in the longitudinal thickness mode (d33=−25 pC/N) is obtained in an annealed copolymer film. The results illustrate improving the crystal structure of P(VDF‐co‐TrFE) is an effective way to realize high electromechanical properties, which provides broadly applied scenery for this kind of copolymer in piezoelectric components. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2012
Adjustment and support needs of glioma patients and their relatives: serial interviews
Authors: Cavers Debbie , Hacking Belinda , Erridge Sara C. , Morris Paul Graham , Kendall Marilyn , Murray Scott A.
Published: July 2012

Objective

To understand factors influencing the process of adjustment to a diagnosis of glioma.

Methods

Twenty‐six patients and 23 relatives took part in 80 in‐depth qualitative interviews conducted at five key stages: before formal diagnosis, at start of treatment, on completion of treatment, 6 months post treatment, and post bereavement.

Results

High levels of distress were reported, particularly preceding and following diagnosis. Many participants described lack of specific information in the early part of their illness and a lack of clarity about what was wrong and what was going to happen next. They often desired more procedural information, as well as information about their condition and treatments available, although there was variation in the timing of when people were ready to hear this. Receiving reassurance and support was essential to patients and their relatives to help them come to terms with their illness. This need was particularly acute during the early phase of the illness when distress and uncertainty were at a peak and lessened over time as people adjusted to their illness.

Conclusions

Offering suitable information about what to expect early and frequently in a supportive way is much appreciated by patients. There is an important balance between ensuring that patients and their families are fully informed and fostering adaptive coping that allows for hope. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interaction between isolated transcriptional activation domains of Sp1 revealed by heteronuclear magnetic resonance
Authors: Hiramatsu Naoko , Hibino Emi , Matsuzaki Katsumi , Kuwahara Jun , Hoshino Masaru
Published: August 2012

The promoter‐specific transcription factor Sp1 is expressed ubiquitously, and plays a primary role in the regulation of the expression of many genes. Domains A and B located in the N‐terminal half of the protein are characterized by glutamine‐rich (Q‐rich) sequences. These Q‐rich domains have been shown to be involved in the interaction between Sp1 and different classes of nuclear proteins, such as TATA‐binding protein associated factors. Furthermore, the self‐association of Sp1 via Q‐rich domains is also important for the regulation of transcriptional activity. It has been considered that an Sp1 molecule bound to a “distal” GC‐box synergistically interacts with another Sp1 molecule at a “proximal” binding site. Although the formation of multimers via Q‐rich domains seems functionally important for Sp1, little is known about the structural and physicochemical nature of the interaction between Q‐rich domains. We analyzed the structural details of isolated glutamine‐rich B (QB) domains of Sp1 by circular dichroism (CD), analytical ultracentrifugation, and heteronuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). We found the isolated QB domains to be disordered under all conditions examined. Nevertheless, a detailed analysis of NMR spectra clearly indicated interaction between the domains. In particular, the C‐terminal half was responsible for the self‐association. Furthermore, analytical ultracentrifugation demonstrated weak but significant interaction between isolated QB domains. The self‐association between QB domains would be responsible, at least in part, for the formation of multimers by full‐length Sp1 molecules that has been proposed to occur during transcriptional activation.
The calculation of vibrational energy levels of polyatomic molecules including anharmonic effect using contact transformation perturbation method
Authors: Dehestani M. , Kalantari Z.
Published: July 2012

Using contact transformation perturbation method based on the Taylor expansion of the potential energy function in terms of dimensionless normal coordinates up to sixth‐order, the vibrational energy levels in terms of force constants are derived. The contact transformation theory has been applied to simplify the calculation of perturbation effects. To calculate the second‐order vibrational energy correction, the third and fourth‐order terms of potential function have been placed in the first‐order perturbation Hamiltonian and the second‐order Hamiltonian contains hexatic ones. We present expressions which give relations between the fourth‐ and sixth‐order terms in dimensionless normal coordinates of the potential and the anharmonicity coefficients. For illustration, a set of vibrational energies levels of SO2, and H2O molecules including anharmonic effects has been calculated. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
UV–Visible properties of oxicams in solution: A TD‐DFT and experimental study
Authors: Franco‐Pérez Marco , Reyes‐García Luis I. , Moya‐Hernández Rosario , Gómez‐Balderas Rodolfo
Published: July 2012

Microspecies involved in prototropic equilibria of isoxicam, piroxicam, meloxicam, tenoxicam, and lornoxicam are characterized by time‐dependent density functional theory (TD‐DFT) and UV‐vis spectrophotometry, their relative Gibbs free energies in solution and Maxwell–Boltzmann populations are theoretically calculated. TD‐DFT calculations of the most intense transition energies for the microspecies involved in equilibria are compared with those obtained in solvents of different dielectric constants (1,4‐dioxane, ethanol, water, and formamide) and at various pH conditions. Our TD‐DFT results allow establishing the predominant oxicam microspecies at the experimental conditions. Geometry optimizations are performed at level of theory PCM‐PBE0/6‐31+G(d, p), and transition energies are computed using the protocol PCM‐PBE0/6‐311++G(d, p). © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The BSCBAS: a Balanced Scorecard‐based appraisal system for improving the performance of software organizations
Authors: Hamouda Alaa El‐deen
Published: July 2012

Performance appraisals are most commonly undertaken to let an employee know how his/her performance compares to the supervisor's expectations and to identify areas that require training or development. Generally, developing an appraisal system that accurately reflects employee performance is a difficult task. In software companies, such a task is more difficult because software engineering is, by its nature, innovative work. To measure software engineers’ performance, the challenge is in having tangible key performance indicators that reflect that performance. In this paper, we present a framework for an appraisal system for software engineers using the Balanced Scorecard methodology. This framework was applied and its influence on the software engineers’ performance and the overall performance of the organization was investigated. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Beetle horns and horned beetles: emerging models in developmental evolution and ecology
Authors: Kijimoto Teiya , Pespeni Melissa , Beckers Oliver , Moczek Armin P.
Published: July 2012

Many important questions in developmental biology increasingly interface with related questions in other biological disciplines such as evolutionary biology and ecology. In this article, we review and summarize recent progress in the development of horned beetles and beetle horns as study systems amenable to the integration of a wide range of approaches, from gene function analysis in the laboratory to population ecological and behavioral studies in the field. Specifically, we focus on three key questions at the current interface of developmental biology, evolutionary biology and ecology: (1) the developmental mechanisms underlying the origin and diversification of novel, complex traits, (2) the relationship between phenotypic diversification and the diversification of genes and transcriptomes, and (3) the role of behavior as a leader or follower in developmental evolution. For each question we discuss how work on horned beetles is contributing to our current understanding of key issues, as well as highlight challenges and opportunities for future studies. WIREs Dev Biol 2013, 2:405–418. doi: 10.1002/wdev.81

For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.
Physiological behavior of quantum dots
Authors: Xu Ligeng , Chen Chunying
Published: July 2012

Quantum dots (QDs) have shown great potentials in biomedical applications like bioimaging, sensors and diagnostics due to various advantages such as their robust fluorescence, remarkable photostability, large absorption cross section, and tunable fluorescence emission. The fate, behavior, metabolism, and toxicities of QDs are the primary aspects to be assessed before their bio‐applications. Numerous studies concerning those aspects have been reported in the past years. However, only several reviews discussed the toxicities of QDs and various contradictory conclusions appear between these studies. In this review, the fate, metabolism, and behaviors of various QDs and crucial parameters that may determine their fate and behavior in vivo are discussed in depth. This review may provide insights for a better understanding of the biological impacts of QDs. We also propose several suggestions for how to develop QDs application in humans in the future. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2012, 4:620–637. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1187

This article is categorized under:

Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology

Toxicology and Regulatory Issues in Nanomedicine > Toxicology of Nanomaterials
Three Nickel(II) and Zinc(II) Complexes with Two Novel Nitronyl Nitroxide Ligands: Syntheses, Crystal Structures, and Luminescent Properties
Authors: Zhang You‐Juan , Wang Jun‐Jie , Chen Jing
Published: July 2012

To explore the coordination abilities of nitronyl nitroxide ligands, two ligands substituted with quinoxaline (L1) and 2‐phenyl‐1, 2, 3‐triazole (L2) and their NiII and ZnII complexes: Ni(L1)(hfac)2 (1), Ni(L2)(hfac)2 (2), and Zn(L2)(hfac)2 (3) (hfac = hexafluoroacetylacetonate), were synthesized and characterized. X‐ray single‐crystal diffraction analysis shows that compound 1 has a mononuclear structure, which is further linked into a three‐dimensional (3D) supramolecular network by C–H···F hydrogen‐bonding, C–H···π, and π···π stacking interactions. Complexes 2 and 3 have similar mononuclear structures, which are further linked into one‐dimensional (1D) supramolecular chains by various intermolecular weak interactions, such as C–H···F hydrogen‐bonding, and π···π stacking interactions. The results indicate that the steric bulk of L1 and L2 and the existence of hexafluoroacetylacetonate (hfac) play important roles in controlling the formation of the final frameworks of complexes 1–3. Moreover, the luminescent properties of the ligands and their complexes were investigated in detail.
Single‐Incision Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Versus Conventional Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Meta‐analysis and Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Sajid Muhammad S. , Ladwa Nikhil , Kalra Lorain , Hutson Kristian K. , Singh Krishna K. , Sayegh Mazin
Published: August 2012

Background

The objective of this study was to analyze systematically the randomized, controlled trials that compared single‐incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) and conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy (CLC).

Methods

The meta‐analysis was conducted according to the Quality of Reporting of Meta‐analysis (QUORUM) standards. The included studies were analyzed systematically using the statistical software package RevMan. The summated outcomes were expressed as the risk ratios (RR) for dichotomous variables and standardized mean differences (SMD) for continuous variables.

Results

Eleven randomized trials encompassing 858 patients were retrieved from the electronic databases. In the random effects model, postoperative pain, postoperative complications, length of hospital stay, cosmesis score, conversion rate, and time to return to normal activities were statistically comparable between the two cholecystectomy techniques. SILC was associated with a longer operating time [SMD 0.71; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.38, 1.05; z = 4.18; p < 0.0001) and an increased requirement for additional port insertion (RR 6.54; 95 % CI 2.19, 19.57; z = 3.36; p < 0008). However, there was significant heterogeneity among the trials.

Conclusions

SILC does not offer any advantage over CLC for treating benign gallbladder disorders. CLC may be used assiduously for this purpose.
Sprengel's shoulder treated by the Woodward procedure: Analysis of factors affecting functional and cosmetic outcome
Authors: Jindal Nipun , Gupta Parmanand
Published: July 2012

Purpose

To report the functional and cosmetic results of cases with Sprengel's shoulder who underwent the Woodward procedure.

Materials and methods

Twelve children were operated at a mean age of 5.58 years and reviewed at an average follow up of 31.83 months.

Results

The mean preoperative Cavendish grade for cosmetic evaluation was 3.17, which decreased to 1.25 postoperatively (statistically significant, p < 0.0005, Wilcoxon signed-rank test). Similarly, the range of abduction at the shoulder increased from a mean of 115.83° preoperatively to 153.33° at final review ( p < 0.0005). Age had a negative correlation with both functional improvement ( r = −0.55, Spearman correlation coefficient) and cosmetic improvement ( r = −0.11), although the latter suggested a very weak association, if any. Cavendish grade improvement and increase in abduction had a strong positive association ( r = 0.713). However, there was no correlation between the increase in abduction and lowering of the scapula achieved ( r = 0.131). The presence of an omovertebral bar did not affect the final functional outcome, nor did the presence of associated congenital anomalies.

Conclusion

The Woodward procedure is a reliable method for obtaining uniformly predictable results in Sprengel's shoulder. The surgery should be performed at a younger age in order to optimise the functional outcome.
Cbl‐b‐dependent degradation of FLIPL is involved in ATO‐induced autophagy in leukemic K562 and gastric cancer cells
Authors: Zhang Guodong , Liu Jing , Zhang Ye , Qu Jinglei , Xu Ling , Zheng Huachuan , Liu Yunpeng , Qu Xiujuan
Published: August 2012

FLIP‐L physically interacts with CBL‐B by anti bait coimmunoprecipitation (View interaction)
Progression of Alzheimer's disease as measured by Clinical Dementia Rating Sum of Boxes scores
Authors: Williams Monique M. , Storandt Martha , Roe Catherine M. , Morris John C.
Published: August 2012

Background

This study examined rates of dementia progression as ascertained by the Clinical Dementia Rating Sum of Boxes (CDR‐SB) for symptomatic Alzheimer's disease (sAD), and assessed participant characteristics as predictors of CDR‐SB progression.

Methods

Participants (n = 792) were enrolled in longitudinal studies at an Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, received a diagnosis of sAD with a global CDR of 0.5 (n = 466) or 1 (n = 326), and had at least one follow‐up assessment. Progression in CDR‐SB over time as a function of baseline global CDR was examined.

Results

A longitudinal increase (P < .0001) in CDR‐SB was observed. The annual rate of change in CDR‐SB scores was 1.43 (standard error [SE] = 0.05) in the CDR 0.5 sample and 1.91 (SE = 0.07) in the CDR 1 sample. For participants followed from the beginning of the CDR stage, time to progression to a higher global CDR was longer for individuals who were CDR 0.5 (3.75 years; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.18–4.33) than those who were CDR 1 at baseline (2.98 years; 95% CI: 2.75–3.22). In the total CDR 0.5 sample, the significant predictors of progression to the next global CDR stage (P < .01) were age at first sAD diagnosis and apolipoprotein E4 genotype.

Conclusions

The study findings are relevant to sAD clinical trial design and accurate, reliable ascertainment of the effect of disease‐modifying treatments.
Pleasure principles: A review of research on hedonic consumption
Authors: Alba Joseph W. , Williams Elanor F.
Published: August 2012

Thirty years ago, Hirschman and Holbrook (1982) advocated greater attention to hedonic consumption and the myriad ways in which consumers seek pleasure and enjoyment. A thorough review finds that the topic has much appeal and that consumer research has made significant progress toward understanding some of its parameters. However, many questions remain unanswered, particularly with regard to understanding the sources of pleasure, the manner in which consumers seek it, and the ways in which consumers might alter their hedonic consumption decisions to maximize pleasure and happiness. We assess three decades of research on hedonic consumption, emphasizing areas of greatest potential for future exploration.
The effect of evolving resource synergy beliefs on the intentions–behavior discrepancy in ethical consumption
Authors: Gupta Reetika , Sen Sankar
Published: August 2012

Consumers are less likely to buy ethical products than their stated intentions in marketplace polls, due at least in part to the distinct temporal frames guiding their poll responses versus actual purchase decisions. We propose that as consumers' beliefs about the synergy between the resources a firm devotes to their ethical and functional attributes evolve, as part of the broader ethical marketing/corporate social responsibility movement, from negative to positive, this discrepancy between intentions and behavior is likely to disappear. Two studies provide support for this basic contention, implicating the importance consumers ascribe to a brand's ethical attribute as the driver of the temporal frame‐ and resource synergy beliefs‐based differences in their preference for that brand.
Consumption of low doses of fat prevents the postprandial rise in chylomicron particle concentration and remnant accumulation in healthy normolipidaemic males
Authors: James Anthony P. , Mamo John C.
Published: August 2012

Chylomicron particles are continually synthesised and secreted from the intestine even in the absence of ingested fat. It is possible that following consumption of low doses of fat the basal level of chylomicron secretion and subsequent metabolism are sufficient to metabolise this fat without an increase in postprandial chylomicron concentrations. To test this hypothesis, healthy male subjects were randomised to receive, on three separate occasions, meals containing a range of doses of fat (average 8·1–19 g) and effects on postprandial lipaemia and chylomicron concentration were determined. Furthermore, to delineate the effect on lipid-rich v. lipid-poor (remnant) forms lipid levels were also determined in a density <1·006 g/ml fraction. Following consumption of the very low dose of fat the postprandial concentration of chylomicrons was unaltered, whereas following the medium dose postprandial chylomicron concentrations were significantly increased. Interestingly, this increase was only detected in the lipid-rich chylomicron fraction, with postprandial levels of chylomicron remnants remaining unchanged. In conclusion, it appears that consumption of what would be considered low to medium doses of fat are not associated with transient postprandial increases in chylomicron remnants in healthy male subjects.
STATISTICAL CAUSALITY AND STABLE SUBSPACES OF
Authors: PETROVIĆ LJILJANA , VALJAREVIĆ DRAGANA
Published: August 2012

In this paper we consider the statistical concept of causality in continuous time between filtered probability spaces, based on Granger’s definitions of causality. Then we consider some stable subspaces of$H^p$which contain right continuous modifications of martingales$P(A \mid {\mathcal {G}}_t)$. We give necessary and sufficient conditions, in terms of statistical causality, for these spaces to coincide with$H^p$. These results can be applied to extremal measures and regular weak solutions of stochastic differential equations.
Casein glycomacropeptide in the diet may reduceEscherichia coliattachment to the intestinal mucosa and increase the intestinal lactobacilli of early weaned piglets after an enterotoxigenicE. coliK88 challenge
Authors: Gustavo Hermes Rafael , Molist Francesc , Francisco Pérez José , de Segura Arantza Gómez , Ywazaki Mauro , Davin Roger , Nofrarías Miquel , Korhonen Timo K. , Virkola Ritva , Martín-Orúe Susana María
Published: August 2012

Casein glycomacropeptide (CGMP), a glycoprotein originating during cheese manufacture, has shown promising effects by promoting the growth of some beneficial bacteriain vitro, although its activity has not been well explored. The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of CGMP against enterotoxigenicEscherichia coli(ETEC) K88in vitro(Trial 1) andin vivo(Trial 2). In Trial 1, increasing concentrations of CGMP (0, 0·5, 1·5 or 2·5 mg/ml) were tested regarding its ability to block the attachment of ETEC K88 to ileal mucosa tissues obtained from piglets. Increasing the concentration of CGMP resulted in a gradual decrease in ETEC K88 attachment to the epithelial surface. In Trial 2, seventy-two piglets were distributed in a 2 × 2 factorial combination including or omitting CGMP in the diet (control dietv.CGMP) and challenged or not with ETEC K88 (yesv.no). Inclusion of CGMP increased crude protein, ammonia and isoacid concentrations in colon digesta. CGMP also increased lactobacilli numbers in ileum and colon digesta, and reduced enterobacteria counts in mucosa scrapings and the percentage of villi withE. coliadherence measured by fluorescencein situhybridisation. The inclusion of CGMP in the diets of challenged animals also prevented the increase of enterobacteria in ileal digesta. We can conclude that CGMP may improve gut health by diminishing the adhesion of ETEC K88 to the intestinal mucosa, by increasing the lactobacilli population in the intestine and by reducing the overgrowth of enterobacteria in the digestive tract of piglets after an ETEC K88 challenge.
Identifying environmental drivers of insect phenology across space and time:Culicoidesin Scotland as a case study
Authors: Searle K.R. , Blackwell A. , Falconer D. , Sullivan M. , Butler A. , Purse B.V.
Published: July 2012

Interpreting spatial patterns in the abundance of species over time is a fundamental cornerstone of ecological research. For many species, this type of analysis is hampered by datasets that contain a large proportion of zeros, and data that are overdispersed and spatially autocorrelated. This is particularly true for insects, for which abundance data can fluctuate from zero to many thousands in the space of weeks. Increasingly, an understanding of the ways in which environmental variation drives spatial and temporal patterns in the distribution, abundance and phenology of insects is required for management of pests and vector-borne diseases. In this study, we combine the use of smoothing techniques and generalised linear mixed models to relate environmental drivers to key phenological patterns of two species of biting midges,Culicoides pulicarisandC. impunctatus, of whichC. pulicarishas been implicated in transmission of bluetongue in Europe. In so doing, we demonstrate analytical tools for linking the phenology of species with key environmental drivers, despite using a relatively small dataset containing overdispersed and zero-inflated data. We demonstrate the importance of landcover and climatic variables in determining the seasonal abundance of these two vector species, and highlight the need for more empirical data on the effects of temperature and precipitation on the life history traits of palearcticCulicoidesspp. in Europe.
Utility of a psychological framework for carnivore conservation
Authors: Carter Neil H. , Riley Shawn J. , Liu Jianguo
Published: July 2012

Conserving threatened carnivore species increasingly depends on the capacity of local people to cohabit with those species. To examine such capacity we developed a novel psychological framework for conservation in regions of the world where there are human–carnivore conflicts, and used the Endangered tiger Panthera tigris to explore the utility of this framework. Specifically, we tested three hypotheses in Chitwan National Park, Nepal, where increasing human–tiger conflicts potentially jeopardize long-term coexistence. We administered a survey to 499 individuals living < 2 km from the Park and in nearby multiple-use forest, to record preferred future tiger population size and factors that may influence preferences, including past interactions with tigers (e.g. livestock predation) and beliefs and perceptions about tigers. Over 17% of respondents reported that a tiger had attacked their livestock or threatened them directly. Results from a structural equation model indicated that respondents who preferred fewer tigers in the future were less likely to associate tigers with beneficial attributes, more likely to associate tigers with undesirable attributes, and more likely to believe that government officials poorly manage tiger-related risks and that people are vulnerable to risks from tigers. Our framework can help address current and future conservation challenges because it (1) integrates an expansive and generalized set of psychological concepts, (2) enables the identification of conservation interventions that foster coexistence between people and carnivores, and (3) is suitable for broad application.
Two-year course of cognitive function and instrumental activities of daily living in older adults with bipolar disorder: evidence for neuroprogression?
Authors: Gildengers A. G. , Chisholm D. , Butters M. A. , Anderson S. J. , Begley A. , Holm M. , Rogers J. C. , Reynolds C. F. , Mulsant B. H.
Published: July 2012

Background

While bipolar disorder (BD) is a leading cause of disability, and an important contributor to disability in BD is cognitive impairment, there is little systematic research on the longitudinal course of cognitive function and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) in late-life. In this report, we characterize the 2-year course of cognitive function and IADLs in older adults with BD.

Method

We recruited non-demented individuals 50 years and older with BD I or BD II (n = 47) from out-patient clinics or treatment studies at the University of Pittsburgh. Comparator subjects (‘controls’) were 22 individuals of comparable age and education with no psychiatric or neurologic history, but similar levels of cardiovascular disease. We assessed cognitive function and IADLs at baseline, 1- and 2-year time-points. The neuropsychological evaluation comprised 21 well-established and validated tests assessing multiple cognitive domains. We assessed IADLs using a criterion-referenced, performance-based instrument. We employed repeated-measures mixed-effects linear models to examine trajectory of cognitive function. We employed non-parametric tests for analysis of IADLs.

Results

The BD group displayed worse cognitive function in all domains and worse IADL performance than the comparator group at baseline and over follow-up. Global cognitive function and IADLs were correlated at all time-points. The BD group did not exhibit accelerated cognitive decline over 2 years.

Conclusions

Over 2 years, cognitive impairment and associated functional disability of older adults with BD appear to be due to long-standing neuroprogressive processes compounded by normal cognitive aging rather than accelerated cognitive loss in old age.
Australian-Chinese families caring for elderly relatives
Authors: BRYANT LIA , LIM SUZANE
Published: July 2012

Caring for elderly relatives has predominately been explored from the standpoint of the needs and experiences of the hegemonic culture in multicultural countries like Australia, Canada and the United States of America. Australia, in particular, has paid scant attention to cultural and linguistically diverse groups in relation to caring for the aged. In this paper we focus on Chinese-Australian families caring for elderly relatives. We explore the traditional value of filial piety which is said to underpin social norms and beliefs about caring for aged parents in Chinese cultures. Specifically we draw on four in-depth interviews with Chinese-Australian care-givers of elderly relatives to identify meanings of filial piety and practices of filial piety. Findings indicate that while filial piety is still an important value in caring for the aged, meanings about how to practise filial piety are changing and vary across families.
Reflecting onWomen on the Line: Continuities and Change in Women's Work
Authors: Glucksmann Miriam
Published: July 2012

Historically there has been a variety of ways for academics to engage with working people or to combine activism with scholarship.Women on the Linerepresents a historically specific form of engagement that was open to western feminists at the height of second wave feminism in the 1970s.
Fast electron beam with manageable spotsize from laser interaction with the tailored cone-nanolayer target
Authors: Wang Huan , Cao Lihua , Zhao Zongqing , Yu M.Y. , Gu Yuqiu , He X.T.
Published: August 2012

An advanced cone-nanolayer target with nanolayers on both inside and outside of the hollow-cone tip is proposed. Two-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations show that laser interaction with such cone-nanolayer targets can efficiently produce fast electron beams with manageable spotsize, and the beams can propagate for a relatively long distance in the vacuum beyond the cone tip.