bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relative Values of Man, Mouse, and Domestic Fowl as Experimental Hosts for the Bed‐Bug, Cimex lectularius L.
Authors: Johnson C. G.
Published: September 2010

Summary

All immature stages and adults of both sexes of Cimex lectularius L. will feed on man, mouse, and domestic fowl. The insect can be bred to the adult stage on any of these hosts, and such adults will mate and produce fertile eggs.

The speed of development from egg to adult is slightly greater on mouse than on man or fowl under the conditions of the experiments. Given equal opportunity for feeding once in every instar, a greater proportion of bugs reach maturity on mouse than on man, the lowest proportion with any of the three hosts occurring on fowl.

Facts are brought forward to show that the shorter period for development on mouse is correlated with a relatively heavy blood‐meal. Also, adults bred on mouse are heavier than those bred on fowl or on man. Although bugs fed on fowl develop more quickly than on man, they do not always take heavier meals.

Bugs bred on mouse produce more eggs at the first feed than bugs bred on man or fowl. This increased egg‐production is associated with the greater body‐weight of mouse‐bred bugs: but there appears to be also another factor which makes mouse a better host for the production of bed‐bug eggs.

Mated adults and 2nd‐instar nymphs, when starved on a single blood‐meal, live longer on man than on either mouse or fowl. This is not obvious on the unmated adults until the variation in length of life associated with weight of meal is eliminated: then it is seen that unmated bugs, too, live longest when fed on mouse.

The blood of man, when dried, contains a greater proportion of dry material than the blood of either mouse or fowl, This may account for the longer life of bugs starved on human blood.

The differences in the life of bed‐bugs bred on the fowl and on man are small. Those fed on man, however, appear to be slightly better fitted for survival on one meal from the host under the conditions of the experiments than bugs fed on fowl.

The aerences in the life of bed‐bugs living on different hosts—man, mouse, and fowl—in nature are more likely to be due, primarily, to differences in the behaviour of the insects in the presence of those hosts rather than to thephysical effects of the meals taken from them. It is thought that the slitly different results with insects fed on the two human hosts may be due rather to differences in feeding behaviour of the insect than to the effects of the two bloods.
Experiences and attitudes of nurse specialists in primary care regarding their role in care for patients with urinary incontinence
Authors: Albers‐Heitner (Pytha) C. P. , Lagro‐Janssen (Toine) A. L. M. , Venema (Pieter) P. L. , Berghmans (Bary) L. C. M. , Winkens (Ron) R. A. G. , de Jonge (Ank) A. , Joore (Manuela) M. A.
Published: August 2010

Scand J Caring Sci; 2011; 25; 303–310
 
Experiences and attitudes of nurse specialists in primary care regarding their role in care for patients with urinary incontinence

Aim:  To explore experiences and attitudes of nurse specialists in primary care regarding their role in care for patients with urinary incontinence (UI), thereby identifying facilitators and barriers for wider implementation.

Background:  Currently, primary care for patients with UI lacks sufficient adherence to existing guidelines on UI and is far from optimal. Studies in various countries show that involving nurse specialists may offer a solution to the inadequate care for UI. As qualitative studies on experiences of nurses with this type of intervention are lacking, we performed this study with a qualitative approach and data collection method within the course of a randomized controlled trial (RCT).

Method:  A focus group study was conducted in 2007 with six nurse specialists who were trained in caring for patients with UI in our pragmatic RCT. The focus group interview was audio‐taped and transcribed verbatim. The data were analysed using qualitative content analysis to identify themes. To understand obstacles and incentives for change, we relied on an existing ‘implementation model’.

Findings:  Nurse specialists feel competent to provide advice and information, to offer possible solutions and to give attention and guidance to the process of care of people with UI. They feel appreciated by patients and feel they offer an added value to the usual care of general practitioners (GPs). Nurses sometimes notice that GPs lack interest in UI. Personal contact with the GPs, availability of enough time, adequate equipment and financial resources are important preconditions for effective nurse specialist care. Nurse specialists value continuous education and feedback in daily care for patients with UI.

Conclusion:  Trained nurse specialists appeared to feel competent and satisfied to support GPs in care for patients with UI. They feel highly appreciated by both patients and GPs.
Experimental Study on the Effect of Strain Cycles on Mechanical Properties of AISI 1022 Steel
Authors: Hamdoon M. , Das S. , Zamani N. , Grenier D.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  The effect of cyclic loading on various mechanical properties of AISI 1022 steel was investigated in this study using laboratory‐based experimental method. Groups of specimens were tested in push‐pull strain‐controlled cyclic loading. Some of these specimens were tested to failure in pure fatigue tests. For the remaining specimens, cyclic loading tests were terminated at a specific number of cycles and these specimens were then tested to failure in quasi‐static tension. It was found that the strength increased, while the ductility and toughness decreased because of applications of strain cycles. As reduction in ductility weakens plastic strain resistance, and drop in toughness reduces resistance to fracture of this steel, the quasi‐static mechanical behaviour is expected to change as a consequence of application a certain number of strain cycles. This study therefore suggests that these changes in mechanical properties have to be contemplated in the associated design processes.
A multi‐scale and multi‐disciplinary approach to monitor landscape dynamics: a case study in the Catalan pre‐Pyrenees (Spain)
Authors: COHEN M , VARGA D , VILA J , BARRASSAUD E
Published: August 2010

A multi‐scale and multi‐disciplinary method was tested in the Catalan pre‐Pyrenees in order to understand the relationship between landscape change, landscape processes, and ecological and social characteristics of landscapes. The three scales, and their corresponding methods, help us understand the processes of landscape change: on a general scale, a standardisation due to forest spread; on a detailed scale, a fragmentation of non‐forest habitats; and on a local scale, the regeneration and scattering of woody species. Major landscape alterations have been observed through remotely sensed data. Closed forest area grew 140% at the expense of non‐forest habitats such as pastures (–75%) and cultivated lands (–95%) during the past 50 years. Ecological metrics show a landscape standardisation (SHDI divided by 3) and a fragmentation of farmed landscapes. These changes, following a spatial pattern based on topography, explain the dynamic of the woody species in residual pastures, despite the persistence of cattle grazing as observed during field surveys. Yet, the forest, which constitutes the matrix of landscape, is not stable because of competition between species. The landscape change is related to the decline of the population (divided by 4.5 during the past 50 years) and the agricultural activities (number of farms divided by 2 or 3 during the past 20 years), and the favourable mild climate. The sustainable development of this territory should make the objectives of conservation, biodiversity and landscape protection and the preservation of their Mediterranean features compatible, and support agricultural activities that will contribute to this biological diversity and cultural identity.
Shikonin inhibits maturation of bone marrow‐derived dendritic cells and suppresses allergic airway inflammation in a murine model of asthma
Authors: Lee Chen‐Chen , Wang Chien‐Neng , Lai Yu‐Ting , Kang Jaw‐Jou , Liao Jiunn‐Wang , Chiang Bor‐Luen , Chen Hui‐Chen , Cheng Yu‐Wen
Published: September 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Shikonin exhibits a wide range of anti‐inflammatory actions. Here, we assessed its effects on maturation of murine bone marrow‐derived dendritic cells (BM‐DCs) and on allergic reactions in a murine model of asthma.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Cultured murine BM‐DCs were used to investigate the effects of shikonin on expression of cell surface markers and their stimulation of T‐cell proliferation and cytokine production. The therapeutic potential of shikonin was evaluated in a model of allergic airway disease.

KEY RESULTS Shikonin dose‐dependently inhibited expression of major histocompatibility complex class II, CD80, CD86, CCR7 and OX40L on BM‐DCs, induced by a mixture of ovalbumin (OVA; 100 µg·mL−1) and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP; 20 ng·mL−1). Shikonin‐treated BM‐DCs were poor stimulators of CD4+ T lymphocyte and induced lower levels of interleukin (IL)‐4, IL‐5, IL‐13 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α release by responding T‐cells. After intratracheal instillation of shikonin in OVA‐immunized mice, OVA challenge induced lower IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐13, TNF‐α and eotaxin release in bronchial alveolar lavage fluid, lower IL‐4 and IL‐5 production in lung cells and mediastinal lymph node cells and attenuated OVA‐induced lung eosinophilia and airway hyperresponsiveness.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Shikonin effectively suppressed OVA + TSLP‐induced BM‐DC maturation in vitro and inhibited allergic inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness in a murine model of asthma, showing good potential as a treatment for allergic asthma. Also, our model provides a novel platform for screening drugs for allergic diseases.
TRP channels in neurogastroenterology: opportunities for therapeutic intervention
Authors: Boesmans Werend , Owsianik Grzegorz , Tack Jan , Voets Thomas , Vanden Berghe Pieter
Published: August 2010

The members of the superfamily of transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channels are involved in a plethora of cellular functions. During the last decade, a vast amount of evidence is accumulating that attributes an important role to these cation channels in different regulatory aspects of the alimentary tract. In this review we discuss the expression patterns and roles of TRP channels in the regulation of gastrointestinal motility, enteric nervous system signalling and visceral sensation, and provide our perspectives on pharmacological targeting of TRPs as a strategy to treat various gastrointestinal disorders. We found that the current knowledge about the role of some members of the TRP superfamily in neurogastroenterology is rather limited, whereas the function of other TRP channels, especially of those implicated in smooth muscle cell contractility (TRPC4, TRPC6), visceral sensitivity and hypersensitivity (TRPV1, TRPV4, TRPA1), tends to be well established. Compared with expression data, mechanistic information about TRP channels in intestinal pacemaking (TRPC4, TRPC6, TRPM7), enteric nervous system signalling (TRPCs) and enteroendocrine cells (TRPM5) is lacking. It is clear that several different TRP channels play important roles in the cellular apparatus that controls gastrointestinal function. They are involved in the regulation of gastrointestinal motility and absorption, visceral sensation and visceral hypersensitivity. TRP channels can be considered as interesting targets to tackle digestive diseases, motility disorders and visceral pain. At present, TRPV1 antagonists are under development for the treatment of heartburn and visceral hypersensitivity, but interference with other TRP channels is also tempting. However, their role in gastrointestinal pathophysiology first needs to be further elucidated.
Expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and Ki67 in feline oral squamous cell carcinomas (FOSCC)
Authors: Bergkvist G. T. , Argyle D. J. , Morrison L. , MacIntyre N. , Hayes A. , Yool D. A.
Published: September 2010

The aims of this study were to establish expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and Ki67 in 67 archived biopsy samples of feline oral squamous cell carcinomas (FOSCCs) and to establish if the expression of either markers was predictive of survival. Samples were immunohistochemically labelled for the two proteins and scored. Statistical analyses of data, including Kaplan–Meier survival curves, were performed. All samples expressed both markers although levels differed between samples. Median overall survival was 46 days and 1‐year survival was 5%. There was no correlation between Ki67 and EGFR scores (Pearson's correlation coefficient,P= 0.861). Low cellular proliferation (low Ki67 score) was positively correlated with an overall longer survival (Log Rank,P= 0.02) and a trend towards better survival for the high EGFR group was observed (Log Rank,P= 0.076). Ki67 and EGFR immunostaining in FOSCC may be of value as biochemical markers for screening of biopsies from cases of FOSCC.
Validation and refinement of an Australian customised birthweight model using routinely collected data
Authors: GIBBONS Kristen , CHANG Allan , FLENADY Vicki , MAHOMED Kassam , GARDENER Glenn , GRAY Peter H.
Published: September 2010

Background:  Published customised birthweight models designed to account for individual constitutional variation have not been validated in an independent population to verify the results.

Aims:  To validate our previously reported customised birthweight model with additional data from the same hospital and to revise this model using a larger, more refined dataset.

Methods:  With the accumulation of further data, a set of coefficients was derived based on the 12‐year dataset. Using shrinkage statistics, records between July 2005 and December 2008 were used to validate the model. Stepwise multiple regression using a more refined dataset of births between January 1997 and December 2008 was used to derive updated coefficients. Performance of the model was assessed using individualised birthweight ratios and the absolute difference between customised and actual birthweight.

Results:  Previous coefficients were validated, with shrinkage of less than 1%, indicating that the model is stable over time. An updated set of coefficients based on a dataset of 61 630 births, including refined ethnicity categories and the addition of a smoking term, is presented, which resulted in improved model statistics (primarily an improved multiple correlation coefficient of 0.51).

Conclusion:  The customised birthweight model appears to be stable over time in the same hospital. Initial comparisons to literature indicate that models from different geographic locations may lead to similar coefficients; but, there remains a need to formally assess this aspect of birthweight models. The updated coefficients differ slightly from those previously published and are considered superior because of refinement in the dataset.
Ecoimmunity: immune tolerance by symmetric co‐evolution
Authors: Nevo Uri , Hauben Ehud
Published: September 2010

SUMMARYIt is widely accepted that immune tolerance toward “self” is established by central and peripheral adaptations of the immune system. Mechanisms that have been demonstrated to play a role in the induction and maintenance of tolerance include thymic deletion of self‐reactive T cells, peripheral T cell anergy and apoptosis, as well as thymic and peripheral induction of regulatory T cells. However, a large body of experimental findings cannot be rationalized solely based on adaptations of the immune system to its environment. Here we propose a new model termed Ecoimmunity, where the immune system and the tissue are viewed as two sides of a continuously active and co‐evolving predator–prey system. Ecoimmunity views self‐tolerance, not as an equilibrium in which autoimmunity is chronically suppressed, but as a symmetrical balanced conflict between the ability of immune cells to destroy tissue cells by numerous mechanisms, and the capacity of adapted tissue cells to avoid predation. This balance evolves during ontogeny, in parallel to immune adaptations, embryonic tissue cells adapt their phenotype to the corresponding immune activity by developing the ability to escape or modulate damaging local immune responses. This phenotypic plasticity of tissue cells is directed by epigenetic selection of gene expression pattern and cellular phenotype amidst an ongoing immune pressure. Thus, whereas some immune cells prey predominantly on pathogens and infected cells, self‐reactive cells continuously prey on incompetent tissue cells that fail to express the adapted phenotype and resist predation. This model uses ecological generalization to reconcile current contradictory observations as well as classical enigmas related to both autoimmunity and to tolerance toward foreign tissues. Finally, it provides empirical predictions and alternative strategies toward clinical challenges.
Systemic Contact Dermatitis in Children: How an Avoidance Diet Can Make a Difference
Authors: Matiz Catalina , Jacob Sharon E.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Systemic contact dermatitis is an under‐recognized skin reaction that occurs secondary to systemic (oral, intravenous, intramuscular, inhaled, or subcutaneous) exposure to a hapten in a previously sensitized individual. Medicaments are the most common cause of SCD in the adult population, but other chemicals like nickel, cobalt, balsam of Peru, and formaldehyde have been implicated as well. Few reports in children exist to date. Dietary restriction has shown to be of some benefit in managing some adult patients. We present a case series of 8 pediatric patients diagnosed with SCD from the contact dermatology clinic, who showed marked improvement of their dermatitis after adequate dietary avoidance. We review common presentations of chemicals causing SCD in children and potential dietary modifications.
Exploration of Anger Constructs in Acute and Chronic Pain Patients vs. Community Patients
Authors: Fishbain David A. , Lewis John E. , Bruns Daniel , Disorbio John Mark , Gao Jinrun , Meyer Laura J.
Published: August 2010

Objectives:  (1) Determine and compare prevalence of forms of anger (FOA; anger, hostility, aggression, anger‐in, anger‐out, chronic anger) in community nonpatients (n = 478), community patients (n = 158), acute pain patients (APPs; n = 326), chronic pain patients (CPPs; n = 341); and (2) develop FOA predictor models in APPs and CPPs.

Design:  A large set of items containing the FOA items was administered to the above groups, who were compared statistically for FOA endorsement. APPs and CPPs affirming the anger and chronic anger items were compared with those not affirming on all available variables including the Battery for Health Improvement (BHI‐2) with significant variables (P ≤ 0.001) utilized in predictor models for anger and chronic anger in APPs and CPPs. Setting community plus rehabilitation facilities.

Results:  FOA affirmation ranged from 8.28% for chronic anger in nonpatients to 37.54% for anger in CPPs. Only CPPs were more likely to affirm anger (P ≤ 0.04) and chronic anger (P ≤ 0.01) at a significantly higher rate than community patients. In both APPs and CPPs, all FOA items except anger management‐in were significantly correlated with other FOA items. For anger and chronic anger for CPPs and APPs, hostility was the strongest predictor. All models predicted anger and chronic anger significantly better than the base rate prediction.

Conclusion:  According to the results of this study anger and chronic anger are more frequently found in CPPs vs. community patients supporting the clinical perception that many CPPs are angry. As such,clinicians should actively screen CPPs for the presence of anger in order to engage these CPPs in anger management treatment.
Technical and Imaging Report: Fluoroscopic Guidance for Diagnosis and Treatment of Lumbar Synovial Cyst
Authors: Rauchwerger Jacob J. , Candido Kenneth D. , Zoarski Gregg H.
Published: August 2010

Lumbar synovial cysts can be a source of low back pain with or without radiculopathy depending upon the size and location of the mass. Options for treatment range from analgesics to surgery, depending upon the degree of nerve root or spinal cord impingement. Attempts at minimally invasive treatment such as computed tomography‐assisted aspiration and cyst rupture are documented in the radiology literature with varying degrees of reported success. This case report is the first to document the fluoroscopically‐guided management of a lumbar synovial cyst in the pain medicine literature and highlights the knowledge and technical skills required when treating such cases.
Comparison of Medication Adherence and Healthcare Costs between Duloxetine and Pregabalin Initiators among Patients with Fibromyalgia
Authors: Zhao Yang , Sun Peter , Watson Peter , Mitchell Beth , Swindle Ralph
Published: August 2010

Objective:  To examine and compare medication adherence and direct healthcare costs between duloxetine and pregabalin initiators among patients with fibromyalgia.

Methods:  A retrospective analysis of commercially insured fibromyalgia patients aged 18 to 64 was conducted among those who initiated duloxetine or pregabalin between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2006. The first initiation date was defined as the index date. All patients included had continuous enrollment in the 12‐month pre‐ and post‐index periods. Each individual was classified in the duloxetine or pregabalin cohort based on the initiating agent. The pregabalin cohort was constructed via propensity scoring controlling for differences in demographics, pre‐index clinical and economic characteristics, and pre‐index treatment patterns. Medication adherence (ie, medication possession ratio [MPR] and proportion of patients with MPR ≥ 80%) and healthcare costs over the 12 months post‐index period were examined between cohorts.

Results:  The study cohorts included 3,711 duloxetine and 4,111 pregabalin patients with the mean age of 51 years. The common comorbidities included neuropathic pain other than diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain, low back pain, cardiovascular disease, headache, and osteoarthritis. Over 80% of the duloxetine or pregabalin initiators used opioids. Controlling for demographics, pre‐index clinical and economic characteristics, and prior medication history, duloxetine patients had significantly higher MPR (0.7 vs. 0.5, P < 0.05), higher proportion of patients with MPR ≥ 80% (46.5% vs. 26.4%, P < 0.05), but significantly lower total healthcare costs ($19,378 vs. $27,045, P < 0.05) over the 12 months post‐index period than pregabalin patients.

Conclusion:  Fibromyalgia patients on duloxetine had significantly higher medication adherence, but significantly lower direct healthcare costs than those on pregabalin.
Fentanyl Buccal Tablet for Breakthrough Cancer Pain: Why Titrate?
Authors: Kleeberg Ulrich R. , Filbet Marilène , Zeppetella Giovambattista
Published: August 2010

Breakthrough cancer pain is a significant problem for many patients with cancer because of the fast onset and often unpredictable nature of the pain episodes. The rapid onset opioids therefore have a central role to play in the management of breakthrough cancer pain. The rapid onset opioid fentanyl buccal tablet provides a fast analgesic effect and is easy to administer. However, titration of the medication is essential in order to optimize the management of pain. This is because individual patient characteristics, comorbidities, and other treatments may influence the absorption, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of drugs. It is therefore important to individualize treatment by determining the effective dose for each patient, which is the dose that provides adequate analgesia and minimizes undesirable adverse effects. Data from clinical studies of fentanyl buccal tablet show that patients' effective doses ranged from 100 to 800 µg per episode, highlighting the need for the titration process. Following successful dose titration, treatment with fentanyl buccal tablet can achieve significant pain relief as early as 10 minutes after administration, resulting in a high level of patient satisfaction.
Active cooling of whole blood to room temperature improves blood component quality
Authors: van der Meer Pieter F. , de Korte Dirk
Published: August 2010

BACKGROUND: Many countries use cooling plates to actively cool collected whole blood (WB) to room temperature. Until now, no paired comparison had been performed, and it was our aim to compare the effect of active versus no active cooling on the in vitro quality of WB and subsequently prepared blood components.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Two units of WB were pooled and divided shortly after donation. One unit was placed under a butane‐1,4‐diol plate to obtain active cooling; the other was placed in an insulated box with other warm units to mimic worst‐case holding conditions. WB was held overnight and processed into a white blood cell (WBC)‐reduced red blood cells (RBCs), buffy coat (BC), and plasma. The BCs were further processed into platelet (PLT) concentrates. RBCs were stored for 42 days, and PLT concentrates for 8 days (n = 12 paired experiments).

RESULTS: After overnight storage, ATP content of the RBCs was 4.9 ± 0.3 µmol/g Hb for actively cooled WB versus 4.5 ± 0.4 µmol/g Hb for not actively cooled WB (p < 0.001). On Day 42 of storage, RBCs prepared from this WB contained 3.1 ± 0.3 µmol ATP/g Hb with active cooling versus 2.6 ± 0.3 µmol/g Hb without (p < 0.001). Hemolysis on Day 42 was 0.35 ± 0.08% with active cooling and 0.67 ± 0.21% without (p < 0.001). No effect was observed on the in vitro quality of plasma, BC, or PLT concentrates.

CONCLUSIONS: Active cooling of WB results in improved ATP levels and less hemolysis in WBC‐reduced RBCs, although the clinical implications are unclear. It has no effect on the in vitro quality of plasma or PLT concentrates.
Comparison of Risks and Clinical Predictors of Contrast‐Induced Nephropathy in Patients Undergoing Emergency versus Nonemergency Percutaneous Coronary Interventions
Authors: CHONG ERIC , POH KIAN K. , LIANG SHEN , SOON CHAO Y. , TAN HUAY‐CHEEM
Published: August 2010

Background:
 Contrast nephropathy (CIN) increases adverse clinical outcomes. We examine risks and clinical predictors of CIN in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and effectiveness of prophylactic therapy.

Methods:
 A cohort of 8,798 patients who underwent PCI from May 2000 to April 2008 was enrolled. We divided patients into 3 groups. A: STEMI patient undergoing primary PCI; B: UA/NSTEMI patients undergoing early PCI; C: Patients without MI undergoing elective PCI. Pre‐PCI saline hydration was given to group B and C if baseline glomerular filtration rate (GFR) <60 ml/min/1.73 m2.

Results:
 Mean age was 57.4 years; 35.9% was diabetics. Incidence of CIN were 12.0%, 9.2%, and 4.5%, in group A, B and C (P = <0.0005). CIN correlated with higher mortality (15.5% vs. 1.3%, P < 0.0005) at 1 month. The important predictors of CIN were age >70, female gender, anemia, low systolic BP < 100 mmHg, high creatinine kinase level, abnormal LVEF, baseline renal impairment, MI and insulin dependent diabetes. Incidence of CIN in patients with GFR >60 were 8.2%, 9.2%, and 4.3% in group A, B, and C respectively (p < 0.0005). Incidence of CIN in patients with GFR = 30–60 were 19.1%, 4.5%, and 2.4% (p < 0.0005) and in patients with GFR < 30 were 34.4%, 40.0%, and 25.9% (p = 0.510).

Conclusions:
 Pre‐hydration prophylaxis was effective in preventing CIN in mild renal impaired patients (GFR 30–60) but are less so in more severely renal impaired patients (GFR < 30). STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI regardless of baseline GFR were at high risk. Accelerated prophylactic regime can be considered in this cohort. (J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:451–459)
Oral Hydration and Alkalinization is Noninferior to Intravenous Therapy for Prevention of Contrast‐Induced Nephropathy in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: CHO ROY , JAVED NOSHEEN , TRAUB DARREN , KODALI SOBHAN , ATEM FOLEFAC , SRINIVASAN VENKATRAMAN
Published: August 2010

(J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:460–466)
Transcranial Doppler Quantification of Residual Shunt after Percutaneous Patent Foramen Ovale Closure. Comparison of Two Devices
Authors: SORENSEN SHERMAN G. , AGUILAR HEATHER , MCKNIGHT WES K. , THOMAS HEIDI , MUHLESTEIN JOSEPH B.
Published: August 2010

Background:
 Recurrent paradoxical embolism after catheter‐based closure of right‐to‐left shunt (RLS) can be related to residual RLS. To improve closure success, we need a better understanding of the anatomic and device‐related factors associated with closure efficacy.

Methods:
 Patients with cryptogenic neurologic events and severe RLS (Valsalva Spencer transcranial Doppler [TCD] grade 5/5+) who underwent patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure by either central pin (Amplatzer® PFO [A‐PFO]) or central occluding (Amplatzer® SO [A‐SO]) devices were evaluated for residual shunt by quantitative TCD evaluation at 3 months. The findings were correlated with atrial septal aneurysm (ASA), device type, and device size.

Results:
 We closed 628 consecutive patients with either the A‐PFO (n = 327) or A‐SO (n = 301) device. The frequency of large defects, small defects, and ASA was 12%, 88%, and 44% of cases, respectively. Severe residual shunt was detected in 13% of A‐PFO and 7% of A‐SO recipients (P = 0.005). This difference was attributable to a much higher frequency of severe residual shunt among patients with large defects closed with the A‐PFO compared to the A‐SO device (12 out of 29 [41%] vs. 3 out of 42 [7%], respectively; P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in device failure frequency for small defects. The presence of ASA increased the frequency of severe residual shunt compared to those without this feature (36 out of 275 [13%] vs. 28 out of 353 [8%], respectively; P = 0.046) but did not influence device‐related differences.

Conclusions:
 (1) Both noncentering and central occluding closure devices effectively reduce RLS after PFO closure. (2) Large PFO defects with or without ASA have lower residual shunt grades at 3 months when closed by central occluding devices. (J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:575–580)
Description of Paratetrahymena parawassi n. sp. using Morphological and Molecular Evidence and a Phylogenetic Analysis of Paratetrahymena and Other Taxonomically Ambiguous Genera in the Order Loxocephalida (Ciliophora, Oligohymenophorea)
Authors: ZHANG QIANQIAN , FAN XINPENG , CLAMP JOHN C. , AL‐RASHEID KHALED A. S. , SONG WEIBO
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT. The marine scuticociliate Paratetrahymena parawassi n. sp. is described on the basis of morphology, especially infraciliature, and the sequence of its small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene to become the second known member of its genus. Paratetrahymena and other ciliates in the order Loxocephalida possess a mixture of morphological and morphogenetic features characteristic of the subclasses Hymenostomatia and Scuticociliatia. Accordingly, we used SSU rRNA sequences to analyze the phylogeny of Paratetrahymena and three other loxocephalid genera. Paratetrahymena and Cardiostomatella vermiformis formed a moderately well‐supported clade that diverged at a deep level from all other scuticociliates, supporting separation of loxocephalids from other scuticociliates as a suprafamilial taxon. Sathrophilus holtae was a sister taxon to Paratetrahymena and Cardiostomatella in a poorly supported, unresolved relationship; nevertheless, association of all three genera into a single clade was supported by an approximately unbiased (AU) test. Any association of these genera singly or as a group with the Hymenostomatia was rejected decisively by AU tests and by a complete absence in the loxocephalids of the unique nucleotide identities that distinguish hymenostomes. Therefore, the morphological and morphogenetic similarities of loxocephalids to hymenostomes may be plesiomorphies, and the conflicting mix of scuticociliate and hymenostome characteristics seen in loxocephalids may result from differing rates of character evolution. Dexiotrichides pangi and Urocentrum, which is currently classified as a peniculid, formed a small clade that associated with hymenostomes and peritrichs. Monophyly of the Loxocephalida with Dexiotrichides and/or Urocentrum included was not rejected by AU; however, inclusion of Urocentrum in the Peniculia was rejected by AU tests. A hypothesis is offered to explain the lack of resolution of loxocephalid ciliates and Urocentrum in phylogenetic trees, namely that their phylogenetic positions are influenced by a combination of heterogeneous data and long‐branch attraction caused by poor representation of taxa in analyses. The well‐known genus Cyclidium, a member of the order Pleuronematida, was revealed to be polyphyletic as a byproduct of our analyses of loxocephalids. In particular, Cyclidium porcatum appears to fall outside the clade containing typical members of the subclass Scuticociliatia and thus invites investigation as a possible member of the order Loxocephalida.
Marked Amplification and Diversification of Products of ras Genes from Rat Brain, Rab GTPases, in the Ciliates Tetrahymena thermophila and Paramecium tetraurelia
Authors: SAITO‐NAKANO YUMIKO , NAKAHARA TOHRU , NAKANO KENTARO , NOZAKI TOMOYOSHI , NUMATA OSAMU
Published: September 2010

ABSTRACT. Small GTPase Rab (products of ras genes from rat brain) is a widely conserved molecular switch among eukaryotes and regulates membrane trafficking pathways. It is generally considered that the number of Rab encoded in the genome correlates with multicellularity; however, we found that unicellular ciliates Tetrahymena thermophila (Tt) and Paramecium tetraurelia (Pt) possess many more Rab genes in their genome than the 64 HsRab genes in the human genome. We succeeded in isolating 86 cDNA clones of 88 TtRab genes in the Tetrahymena genome. By comparing the amino acid sequence of Rab in humans and the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, 42 TtRab belonged to subfamilies functionally characterized and designated as conventional Rab, while the remaining 44 TtRab were considered to be species‐specific. To examine the diversity of Rab in ciliates, we searched for Rab genes in the genome database of P. tetraurelia. Overall, 229 PtRab genes were found and categorized as 157 conventional and 72 species‐specific PtRab, respectively. Among them, nine PtRab genes showed high homology to seven TtRab, suggesting the conservation of ciliate‐specific Rab. These data suggested that the range of Rab is markedly amplified and diversified in ciliates, which may support the elaborate cellular structures and vigorous phagocytosis of those organisms.
Application of Homogeneously Precipitated Nanosized Fe‐Doped Alumina Powders to Carbon Nanotube Growth
Authors: Çelik Yasemin , Suvacι Ender , Flahaut Emmanuel , Weibel Alicia , Peigney Alain
Published: August 2010

Homogeneous precipitation of hydroxides was investigated as an alternative method to synthesize Fe‐doped aluminum oxide (α‐Al2−2xFe2xO3) particles over which carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were grown via a catalytic chemical vapor deposition (CCVD) method. Performance of the homogeneously precipitated particles for CNT growth was quantitatively compared with that of the combustion‐synthesized particles. The main advantage of the homogeneous precipitation of hydroxides and subsequent calcination process against to the combustion synthesis and other commonly practiced chemical routes is the ability to tailor the Fe‐doped Al2O3 precursor powder characteristics such as size and specific surface area (SSA) without requiring any milling step and also to control the phase composition of the oxide powder with high Fe content, and subsequently the quality and quantity of CNTs during CCVD process. The particle size of the precipitated and calcined α‐Al2−2xFe2xO3 powders varies between ∼50 and 400 nm for 5–10 cat.% Fe‐containing systems. The monodispersed particle size distribution and optimum phase composition of the homogeneously precipitated powders, particularly for a 10 cat.% Fe content in the starting oxide, and their much higher SSA than similar materials prepared by other chemical routes lead to production of high amounts of good quality CNTs.
A Solvothermal Approach for the Preparation of Nanostructured Carbide and Boride Ultra‐High‐Temperature Ceramics
Authors: Kelly James P. , Kanakala Raghunath , Graeve Olivia A.
Published: August 2010

The use of a solvothermal process for the synthesis of tantalum carbide (TaC) and lanthanum hexaboride (LaB6) powders in fused‐quartz test tubes is reported in order to demonstrate the synthesis of these powders using thermal and chemical ignition techniques and to prove that the process is of a self‐propagating high‐temperature synthesis type, obviating the need for an autoclave. X‐ray powder diffraction showed phase pure powders with crystallite sizes of 25 and ∼80 nm, while dynamic light scattering showed average particle sizes of 97 and ∼130 nm, for TaC and LaB6, respectively. The data demonstrates that the powders have a very low level of agglomeration. Scanning electron microscopy shows that the TaC powders have a spherical morphology, while the LaB6 powders have a mixture of cubic and spherical morphologies.
Effects of Interactions Among BaTiO3, PVA, and B2O3 on the Rheology of Aqueous BaTiO3 Suspensions
Authors: Li Chia‐Chen , Lee Yi‐Chen , Cheng Yi‐Mu
Published: August 2010

The effect of hydroxylation of barium titanate (BaTiO3) on the rheological behaviors of the corresponding aqueous suspensions in the presence of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and boron oxide (B2O3) was investigated. Without using hydroxylated BaTiO3, the gelation between PVA and B2O3 caused the aqueous BaTiO3 suspension to form a three‐dimensional gel‐like structure, resulting in a poorly dispersed and dilatant suspension. Interestingly, using hydroxylated BaTiO3 significantly improved the rheology of aqueous suspensions. The reason for the improved rheological behaviors is that the hydroxylated BaTiO3 specifically interacts with the PVA and B2O3, and thus the PVA has a diminished opportunity to gel with the B2O3.
Processing of Silicon Oxycarbide Foams by Steam Chest Molding and Pyrolysis
Authors: Kim Young‐Wook , Eom Jung‐Hye , Park Chul B. , Zhai Wentao , Guo Yanting , Balasubramanian Maridass
Published: August 2010

This paper reports a new processing strategy for manufacturing ceramic foams based on a steam chest molding and pyrolysis process. Silicon oxycarbide (SiOC) foams were fabricated from a polysiloxane‐hollow microsphere blend using the newly developed process. During steam chest molding, the polysiloxane softened and the hollow microspheres expanded, resulting in a three‐dimensional shape. During heat treatment, the microspheres decomposed and the polysiloxane transformed to an amorphous SiOC, resulting in SiOC foams with a porosity of 62%–81%.
Functional diversity of stem and progenitor cells with B‐lymphopoietic potential
Authors: Ichii Michiko , Shimazu Tomoyuki , Welner Robert S. , Garrett Karla P. , Zhang Qingzhao , Esplin Brandt L. , Kincade Paul W.
Published: September 2010

Summary:  Technical advances have made it possible to separate hematopoietic tissues such as the bone marrow into ever smaller populations, complicating our understanding of immune system replenishment. Patterns of surface marker expression and transcription profiles as well as results obtained with reporter mice suggest that lymphopoietic cells are not closely synchronized, and there is considerable cell to cell variation. Loss of differentiation options is gradual, and ultimate fate can be established at different stages of lineage progression. For example, individual hematopoietic stem cells can be biased such that some are very poor sources of lymphocytes as contrasted to ones with balanced outputs. Still other hematopoietic stem cells are effective at generating B and T cells but are defective with respect to expansion and difficult to distinguish from early lymphoid progenitors. That diversity carries forward to later events, and similar appearing cells in the immune system can arise from alternate differentiation pathways. In fact, new categories of lymphoid progenitors are still being discovered. Heterogeneity provides adaptability as hematopoiesis can be dramatically altered during infections, influencing numbers and types of cells that are produced.
Role of PI3K in the generation and survival of B cells
Authors: Werner Markus , Hobeika Elias , Jumaa Hassan
Published: September 2010

Summary:  Engagement of the B‐cell antigen receptor (BCR) or its precursor, the pre‐BCR, induces a cascade of biochemical reactions that regulate the differentiation, selection, survival, and activation of B cells. This cascade is initiated by receptor‐associated tyrosine kinases that activate multiple downstream signaling pathways. Since it is required for metabolism, cell growth, development, and survival, the activation of phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)‐dependent pathways represents a crucial event of BCR/pre‐BCR signaling. The phosphorylated substrates of the PI3K promote specific recruitment of selected signaling proteins to the plasma membrane, where important signaling complexes are formed to mediate the above‐mentioned biological processes. Here, we review the principles of PI3K signaling and highlight the role of an important PI3K‐driven module in VDJ recombination of immunoglobulin (Ig) genes during early B‐cell development as compared with class switch recombination of Ig genes in mature B cells after activation by specific antigens. Furthermore, we discuss the role of PI3K in the survival of mature B cells, which is strictly dependent on BCR expression and basal BCR signaling.
Memory B and memory plasma cells
Authors: Yoshida Taketoshi , Mei Henrik , Dörner Thomas , Hiepe Falk , Radbruch Andreas , Fillatreau Simon , Hoyer Bimba F.
Published: September 2010

Summary:  Vaccination provides a powerful means to control infections. It exploits and exemplifies the ability of the immune system to preserve the information that a specific pathogen has been encountered in the past. The cells and molecular mechanisms of immunological memory are still being discussed controversially. Here, we review the current concepts of memory B cells, the signals involved in their maintenance, and their role in enhanced secondary reactions. Memory plasma cells, secreting protective antibodies over lifetime, have been recognized only recently. Their characterization as cells resting in terms of proliferation and migration, and surviving in dedicated stromal niches, in the absence of antigen, has generated new concepts of how memory cells in general are organized by stroma cells, the ‘resting memory’. In autoimmunity and chronic inflammation, memory B cells and memory plasma cells can be essential players, and they require special attention, as they do not respond to most conventional therapies. Their selective targeting will depend on a molecular understanding of their lifestyle.
Plasma cell development and survival
Authors: Oracki Sarah A. , Walker Jennifer A. , Hibbs Margaret L. , Corcoran Lynn M. , Tarlinton David M.
Published: September 2010

Summary:  Plasma cells have long been recognized as the basis of humoral immunity, yet we are only now beginning to appreciate the complexities of plasma cell development and the fact that not all plasma cells are created equal. In vivo, plasma cells can arise from two developmental routes: one occurring outside the follicle and another within the germinal center. A B cell’s decision to follow one of these pathways is in part determined by the phenotypic subset to which it belongs and is also influenced by the nature of the antigen eliciting the response and the affinity of the B‐cell receptor for that antigen. Once a plasma cell has chosen one of these pathways, the outcome of differentiation is relatively hard‐wired. However, the phenotype of the plasma cells arising from these two pathways is distinct in terms of survival, location, and the quantity and quality of antibody they secrete. The extra‐follicular pathway represents a relatively unchecked route to differentiation resulting in the generation of short‐lived plasma cells that secrete low‐affinity antibody. The germinal center response, however, allows the integration of external signals to delay plasma cell differentiation, eventually generating a plasma cell that secretes high‐affinity antibody of an appropriate class, and that persists for a lifetime. The means by which these varying properties are conferred to a developing plasma cell are the subject of intense investigation.
Taste dysfunction: a practical guide for oral medicine
Authors: Cowart BJ
Published: August 2010

Oral Diseases (2010) 17, 2–6

Dental practitioners are often the first clinicians to be presented with complaints about changes in taste. This raises a problem in terms of appropriate evaluative response. It is a difficult issue both because of the common confusion between smell and taste problems (with smell being the more vulnerable sense and contributing substantially to the flavor of food that most patients equate with ‘taste’), and because of the lack of widely accepted standardized techniques to assess true taste function. This brief review provides a summary of some of the problems associated with assessing taste function in a clinical setting and of patient management options available to the practitioner of oral medicine.
Tumour necrosis factor‐alpha gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to oral lichen planus
Authors: Kimkong I , Hirankarn N , Nakkuntod J , Kitkumthorn N
Published: August 2010

Oral Diseases (2011) 17, 206–209

Objective:  This study is aimed to investigate the association between OLP susceptibility and clinical type in the Thai population and three polymorphisms within the promoter region of the TNF‐α at positions ‐863, ‐308 and ‐238 which have putative functional significances.

Materials and Methods:  Genomic DNA from 75 Thai patients with OLP and 154 healthy controls were genotyped for TNF‐α polymorphisms – ‐863(rs1800630), ‐308(rs1800629), and ‐238(rs361525) – using polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP).

Results:  We found a higher proportion of TNF‐alpha‐308 AA genotype (high producer genotype) among OLP patients (5/75; 6.67%) when compared to healthy controls (1/154; 0.65%; OR = 10.93; 95% CI = 1.21–251.9). For other polymorphisms (‐863 and ‐238), we did not find any significant association with OLP development; this was also the case with haplotype analysis (‐863/‐308/‐238).

Conclusion:  TNF‐α‐308AA may play a relevant role in the susceptibility and severity of OLP in the Thai population. However, further investigation of this study is needed.
Stem cells and the repair of radiation‐induced salivary gland damage
Authors: Coppes RP , Stokman MA
Published: August 2010

Oral Diseases (2011) 17, 143–153

Hyposalivation underlying xerostomia after radiotherapy is still a major problem in the treatment of head and neck cancer. Stem cell therapy may provide a means to reduce radiation‐induced hyposalivation and improve the quality of life of patients. This review discusses the current status in salivary gland stem cell research with respect to their potential to attenuate salivary gland dysfunction. Knowledge on the embryonic development, homeostasis and regeneration after atrophy of the salivary glands has provided important knowledge on the location of the salivary gland as well as on the factors that influence proliferation and differentiation. This knowledge has helped to locate, isolate and characterize cell populations that contain the salivary gland stem cell, although the exact tissue stem cell is still unidentified. The role that stem/progenitor cells play in the response to radiation and the factors that can influence stem/progenitor induced proliferation and differentiation are discussed. Finally, the mobilization and transplantation of stem cells and supportive cells and their potential to attenuate radiation‐induced salivary gland damage are discussed. Based on the major advances made in the field of stem cell research, stem cell‐based therapy has great potential to allow prevention or treatment of radiation‐induced hyposalivation.