bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metagenomic comparison of microbial communities inhabiting confined and unconfined aquifer ecosystems
Authors: Smith Renee J. , Jeffries Thomas C. , Roudnew Ben , Fitch Alison J. , Seymour Justin R. , Delpin Marina W. , Newton Kelly , Brown Melissa H. , Mitchell James G.
Published: October 2011

A metagenomic analysis of two aquifer systems located under a dairy farming region was performed to examine to what extent the composition and function of microbial communities varies between confined and surface‐influenced unconfined groundwater ecosystems. A fundamental shift in taxa was seen with an overrepresentation of Rhodospirillales, Rhodocyclales, Chlorobia and Circovirus in the unconfined aquifer, while Deltaproteobacteria and Clostridiales were overrepresented in the confined aquifer. A relative overrepresentation of metabolic processes including antibiotic resistance (β‐lactamase genes), lactose and glucose utilization and DNA replication were observed in the unconfined aquifer, while flagella production, phosphate metabolism and starch uptake pathways were all overrepresented in the confined aquifer. These differences were likely driven by differences in the nutrient status and extent of exposure to contaminants of the two groundwater systems. However, when compared with freshwater, ocean, sediment and animal gut metagenomes, the unconfined and confined aquifers were taxonomically and metabolically more similar to each other than to any other environment. This suggests that intrinsic features of groundwater ecosystems, including low oxygen levels and a lack of sunlight, have provided specific niches for evolution to create unique microbial communities. Obtaining a broader understanding of the structure and function of microbial communities inhabiting different groundwater systems is particularly important given the increased need for managing groundwater reserves of potable water.
Gender-Specific Differences and the Impact of Family Integration on Time Trends in Age-Stratified Swiss Suicide Rates
Authors: Riebler Andrea , Held Leonhard , Rue Håvard , Bopp Matthias
Published: October 2011

Suicide has become one of the leading causes of death of Swiss males aged between 15 and 44 years, whose age-standardized rates are about three times higher than those for females. We compared age-stratified suicide rates of Swiss men and women aged 15–79 years and analysed gender-specific differences from 1950 to 2007. Furthermore, we explored whether changes in measures of family integration can explain changes in suicide trends. The use of multivariate age–period–cohort models avoids age aggregation and allows the exploration of heterogeneous time trends across age, period and birth cohort. In addition, explanatory variables can be included. We found strong gender-specific differences in suicide mortality. Although the same risk factors may act on age and overdispersion, there was no significant correlation between gender-specific cohort effects. Family integration had an effect on Swiss suicide risk but only partially explained the underlying trends over time.
Stochastic Population Forecasts Based on Conditional Expert Opinions
Authors: Billari F. C. , Graziani R. , Melilli E.
Published: October 2011

The paper develops and applies an expert-based stochastic population forecasting method, which can also be used to obtain a probabilistic version of scenario-based official forecasts. The full probability distribution of population forecasts is specified by starting from expert opinions on the future development of demographic components. Expert opinions are elicited as conditional on the realization of scenarios, in a two-step (or multiple-step) fashion. The method is applied to develop a stochastic forecast for the Italian population, starting from official scenarios from the Italian National Statistical Office.
IgE‐mediated allergy: a rare cause of chronic spontaneous urticarial with allergen‐specific immunotherapy as treatment option – a systematic review with meta‐analysis from China
Authors: Shi C.‐R. , Li Y.‐P. , Luo Y.‐J. , Shi C.‐B. , Yan X. , Yang K.‐H. , Yi K.
Published: October 2011

Background  Allergen‐specific immunotherapy (SIT) has long been a controversial treatment for chronic urticaria (CU), although SIT has been used in patients with allergic diseases for more than 90 years.

Objectives  To evaluate the efficacy and safety of SIT vs. conventional treatment (CT) in the treatment of CU.

Methods  Systematic searches were conducted without language restrictions in MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, ISI Web of Knowledge, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Chinese Scientific Journals Full Text Database. The primary outcomes were efficacy and quality of life (QOL) and the secondary outcomes were relapse rate and adverse events (AEs).

Results  Fourteen studies (1838 patients) were included. None of them was double‐blind placebo controlled. Our study demonstrated that SIT seemed to show more clinical efficacy rate (OR 2.39; 95% CI, 1.73–3.30; I2 = 55%, P = 0.008), more complete recovery rate (OR 2.13; 95% CI, 1.55–2.91; I2 = 61%, P=0.008) and less relapse rate 2 weeks after treatment (OR 0.38; 95% CI, 0.24–0.61; I2 = 36%, P=0.20) than CT. Only one study reported improved QOL and no study reported serious AEs after SIT.

Conclusions  Current evidence indicates that IgE‐mediated allergy may be causative in a small number of CU patients and specific immunotherapy with these allergens may be beneficial in those patients. However, the number of included studies was small and those qualities were low. So, available evidence is not adequate to draw an affirmative conclusion and larger studies of high quality are needed to provide increasingly convincing data and cases.
Off‐label use of fumarate therapy for granulomatous and inflammatory skin diseases other than psoriasis vulgaris: a retrospective study
Authors: Klein A. , Coras B. , Landthaler M. , Babilas P.
Published: October 2011

Background  Fumarates are approved for the systemic treatment of moderate and severe psoriasis vulgaris in Germany. However, a number of studies and case reports indicate their efficacy in the treatment of further inflammatory skin disorders or granulomatous skin diseases.

Objectives  To examine the efficacy and safety of fumarates for the treatment of granulomatous and inflammatory skin diseases other than psoriasis vulgaris.

Patients and methods  The therapeutic efficacy and side‐effects of fumarate therapy were analysed retrospectively in patients with granuloma annulare (GA, n = 4), cutaneous sarcoidosis (SA, n = 1), lichen planus (LP, n = 3), pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP, n = 1) or chronic discoid lupus erythematosus (CDLE, n = 1).

Results  Six patients (GA: 3/4; LP: 2/3; PRP: 1/1) showed complete clearance and two patients (GA: 1/3; SA: 1/1) had a partial response, and the CDLE patient showed stable disease under a combination therapy with hydroxychloroquine. Side‐effects associated with fumarate therapy were seen in seven of ten patients and resolved spontaneously upon dose reduction or discontinuation of the therapy.

Conclusion  According to this data, fumarates may represent a new approach in the treatment of granulomatous and inflammatory skin diseases other than psoriasis vulgaris. For the first time, the successful treatment of LP and CDLE with fumarates is reported. Side‐effects are not limiting in most cases, but can hamper a dose escalation.
Thinking on Your Feet: Understanding the Immediate Responses of Staff to Adults Who Challenge Intellectual Disability Services
Authors: Ravoux Peggy , Baker Peter , Brown Hilary
Published: October 2011

Background  A gap prevails between the conceptualization of good practice in challenging behaviour management and its implementation in intellectual disability services. This study aimed to investigate staff members’ perspectives of managing clients with challenging behaviours in residential services.

Materials and Methods  Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with eleven staff in two services. Additionally, service documents on challenging behaviour management were examined in these services. A qualitative methodology was used to investigate staff members’ immediate responses to clients’ difficult behaviours and their decision‐making processes.

Results  The immediate responses of staff were conceptualized as the result of complex appraisals shaped by their service context involving the core processes of making the right choice and prioritizing the best interests of all involved.

Conclusions  Staff members’ responses were understood as a dynamic and retroactive process, where their past and current challenging behaviour management experiences in the service influenced their responses to clients in the future.
A piece of the puzzle: a method for comparing pollination quality and quantity across multiple species and reproductive events
Authors: Alonso Conchita , Herrera Carlos M. , Ashman Tia‐Lynn
Published: October 2011

Understanding how pollination affects plant reproductive success and how changes in pollination service affect plant populations, communities and ecosystems is of increasing concern. Yet supplemental hand‐pollination traditionally used to assess pollen limitation is prohibitive for large‐scale comparative work. Moreover, it does not differentiate between quality and quantity aspects of pollen limitation, and it may suffer from confounds of post‐pollination processes such as resource availability to fill seeds.

Here, we highlight pollen tubes as the functional link between pollen arrival and seed production and suggest that consideration of pollen tubes leads to a better depiction of limitation at the pre‐zygotic (pollination) phase of sexual reproduction.

We assessed the rigor of piecewise regression to analyze the relationship between the numbers of pollen grains and pollen tubes observed in nonmanipulated wilted flowers. We illustrate how parameters obtained from this analysis provide quantitative insight into the relative relevance of the quantity and quality of pollen receipt in limiting natural pollination success, and can facilitate comparisons among data sets.

This nonmanipulative method opens up new opportunities for rigorous assessment of the relative importance of the quantity and quality of pollination in limiting plant reproduction, especially from a community‐wide perspective.
Maternal waist to hip ratio is a risk factor for macrosomia
Authors: Salem W , Adler AI , Lee C , Smith GCS
Published: October 2011

Please cite this paper as: Salem W, Adler A, Lee C, Smith G. Maternal waist to hip ratio is a risk factor for macrosomia. BJOG 2011; DOI: 10.1111/j.1471‐0528.2011.03167.x.

Objective  Fetal growth during pregnancy may be affected by the metabolic activity and distribution of fat stores in women. This study investigates the association between waist to hip ratio (WHR) as a measure of the distribution of adiposity in primiparous mothers living in Avon, England, and macrosomia in their offspring.

Design  Prospective historical cohort study.

Setting  The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) prospective cohort study in Avon, UK.

Population  A cohort of 3083 primiparous women with a term singleton delivery with expected dates of delivery from 1 April 1991 to 31 December 1992.

Methods  The distribution of WHR was categorised into quartiles. We compared the second, third and fourth quartiles against the first (reference) quartile with respect to whether the mother delivered a macrosomic newborn. We controlled for maternal age, gestational age, body mass index (BMI), marital status and racial group using multivariate logistic regression.

Main outcome measures  Macrosomia defined in three ways: birthweight ≥ 4000 g; birthweight ≥ 4500 g; large for gestational age (LGA: ≥ 95th percentile of birth weight adjusted for sex and gestational age).

Results  Waist to hip ratios in the third and fourth quartiles were associated with a higher odds of delivering a macrosomic infant, defined as a birthweight ≥ 4000 g (third quartile, OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.12–2.26; fourth quartile, OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.18–2.42) or as LGA (≥95th percentile of the cohort; third quartile, OR 1.77, 95% CI 1.10–2.85; fourth quartile, OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.09–2.91). When defined as a birthweight ≥ 4500 g, the fourth quartile was associated with increased odds of macrosomia (OR 2.74, 95% CI 1.05–7.16). Odds ratios after adjustment for confounding factors followed a similar pattern.

Conclusion  Independent of confounding factors, women with increased WHRs were significantly more likely to give birth to macrosomic newborns.
Atp8a1 deficiency is associated with phosphatidylserine externalization in hippocampus and delayed hippocampus‐dependent learning
Authors: Levano Kelly , Punia Vineet , Raghunath Michael , Debata Priya Ranjan , Curcio Gina Marie , Mogha Amit , Purkayastha Sudarshana , McCloskey Dan , Fata Jimmie , Banerjee Probal
Published: October 2011

J. Neurochem. (2012) 120, 302–313.

The molecule responsible for the enzyme activity plasma membrane (PM) aminophospholipid translocase (APLT), which catalyzes phosphatidylserine (PS) translocation from the outer to the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane, is unknown in mammals. A Caenorhabditis elegans study has shown that ablation of transbilayer amphipath transporter‐1 (TAT‐1), which is an ortholog of a mammalian P‐type ATPase, Atp8a1, causes PS externalization in the germ cells. We demonstrate here that the hippocampal cells of the dentate gyrus, and Cornu Ammonis (CA1, CA3) in mice lacking Atp8a1 exhibit a dramatic increase in PS externalization. Although their hippocampi showed no abnormal morphology or heightened apoptosis, these mice displayed increased activity and a marked deficiency in hippocampus‐dependent learning, but no hyper‐anxiety. Such observations indicate that Atp8a1 plays a crucial role in PM‐APLT activity in the neuronal cells. In corroboration, ectopic expression of Atp8a1 but not its close homolog, Atp8a2, caused an increase in the population (Vmax) of PM‐APLT without any change in its signature parameter Km in the neuronal N18 cells. Conversely, expression of a P‐type phosphorylation‐site mutant of Atp8a1 (Atp8a1*) caused a decrease in Vmax of PM‐APLT without significantly altering its Km. The Atp8a1*‐expressing N18 cells also exhibited PS externalization without apoptosis. Together, our data strongly indicate that Atp8a1 plays a central role in the PM‐APLT activity of some mammalian cells, such as the neuronal N18 and hippocampal cells.
Expanding the Safety Net of Specialty Care for the Uninsured: A Case Study
Authors: Spatz Erica S. , Phipps Michael S. , Wang Oliver J. , Lagarde Suzanne , Lucas Georgina I. , Curry Leslie A. , Rosenthal Marjorie S.
Published: October 2011

Objective

To describe core principles and processes in the implementation of a navigated care program to improve specialty care access for the uninsured.

Study Setting

Academic researchers, safety‐net providers, and specialty physicians, partnered with hospitals and advocates for the underserved to establish Project Access‐New Haven (PA‐NH). PA‐NH expands access to specialty care for the uninsured and coordinates care through patient navigation.

Study Design

Case study to describe elements of implementation that may be relevant for other communities seeking to improve access for vulnerable populations.

Principal Findings

Implementation relied on the application of core principles from community‐based participatory research (CBPR). Effective partnerships were achieved by involving all stakeholders and by addressing barriers in each phase of development, including (1) assessment of the problem; (2) development of goals; (3) engagement of key stakeholders; (4) establishment of the research agenda; and (5) dissemination of research findings.

Conclusions

Including safety‐net providers, specialty physicians, hospitals, and community stakeholders in all steps of development allowed us to respond to potential barriers and implement a navigated care model for the uninsured. This process, whereby we integrated principles from CBPR, may be relevant for future capacity‐building efforts to accommodate the specialty care needs of other vulnerable populations.
Organizational Culture and Its Relationship with Hospital Performance in Public Hospitals in China
Authors: Zhou Ping , Bundorf Kate , Le Chang Ji , Huang Jin Xin , Xue Di
Published: October 2011

Objective

To measure perceptions of organizational culture among employees of public hospitals in China and to determine whether perceptions are associated with hospital performance.

Data Sources

Hospital, employee, and patient surveys from 87 Chinese public hospitals conducted during 2009.

Study Design

Developed and administered a tool to assess organizational culture in Chinese public hospitals. Used factor analysis to create measures of organizational culture. Analyzed the relationships between employee type and perceptions of culture and between perceptions of culture and hospital performance using multivariate models.

Principal Findings

Employees perceived the culture of Chinese public hospitals as stronger in internal rules and regulations, and weaker in empowerment. Hospitals in which employees perceived that the culture emphasized cost control were more profitable and had higher rates of outpatient visits and bed days per physician per day but also had lower levels of patient satisfaction. Hospitals with cultures perceived as customer‐focused had longer length of stay but lower patient satisfaction.

Conclusions

Managers in Chinese public hospitals should consider whether the culture of their organization will enable them to respond effectively to their changing environment.
Fatigue Resistance and Microleakage of CAD/CAM Ceramic and Composite Molar Crowns
Authors: Kassem Amr S. , Atta Osama , El‐Mowafy Omar
Published: October 2011

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine effect of compressive cyclic loading on fatigue resistance and microleakage of monolithic CAD/CAM molar ceramic and composite crowns.

Materials and Methods: Thirty‐two extracted molars were prepared to receive CEREC crowns according to manufacturer's guidelines using a special paralleling device (Parallel‐A‐Prep). Sixteen feldspathic ceramic crowns (VITABLOCS Mark II) (VMII) and 16 resin‐composite crowns (Paradigm‐MZ100 blocks) (PMZ) were milled using a CEREC‐3D machine. Eight crowns of each group were cemented to their respective teeth using self‐etching resin cement (Panavia‐F‐2.0) (PAN), and eight were cemented using self‐adhesive resin cement (RelyX‐Unicem‐Clicker) (RXU). Following storage for 1 week in water, specimens were subjected to uniaxial compressive cyclic loading in an Instron testing machine at 12 Hz for 1,000,000 cycles. Load was applied at the central fossa, and the cycle range was 60–600 N. Specimens were then subjected to microleakage testing. Data were statistically analyzed using factorial ANOVA and Post Hoc (Tukey HSD) tests.

Results: All composite crowns survived compressive cyclic loading without fracture, while three ceramic crowns from the subgroup cemented with RXU developed surface cracks at the center of occlusal surfaces, extending laterally. Microleakage scores of ceramic crowns cemented with PAN were significantly lower than those of the other three subgroups (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: After 1,000,000 cycles of compressive cyclic loading, PMZ composite molar crowns were more fatigue‐resistant than VMII ceramic crowns. Cement type had a significant effect on fatigue resistance of the ceramic crowns but not the composite ones. Microleakage scores of ceramic crowns cemented with PAN were significantly lower than those of the other subgroups (p < 0.05).
Focus on Multilingualism: A Study of Trilingual Writing
Authors: CENOZ JASONE , GORTER DURK
Published: October 2011

In this article, we analyze the relationship between studies in second language acquisition and studies in bilingualism as areas that have been traditionally ignored but which share some common perspectives. Then we look at new trends in both areas that are compatible with a holistic perspective in the study of multilingualism. Based on these trends, we propose “Focus on Multilingualism,” an approach that looks at the whole linguistic repertoire of multilingual speakers and language learners and at the relationships between the languages when conducting research, teaching, or assessing different languages. In the second part of the article, we report on the results of an exploratory study on the development of writing skills in three languages: Basque, Spanish, and English. We explore different ways to look at the three languages and their interaction by focusing on the multilingual speaker and his or her languages rather than each of the specific languages in isolation. The results indicate that the languages are related to each other in different ways and that multilingual speakers develop their creativity in these language practices. We argue that by focusing on the different languages, we can gain new insights about the way languages are learned and used.
Stimulating Upstream Engagement: An Experimental Study of Nanotechnology Information Seeking
Authors: Xenos Michael A. , Becker Amy B. , Anderson Ashley A. , Brossard Dominique , Scheufele Dietram A.
Published: October 2011

Objectives

The current study examines upstream engagement initiatives using the issue of nanotechnology as a case study.

Methods

A series of logistic and OLS regression analyses explore data from a laboratory experiment on information‐seeking behavior, knowledge, and willingness to engage with the issue of nanotechnology in the future.

Results

Our results fail to offer evidence of positive relationships between anticipated discussion and learning and the willingness to engage with the issue of nanotechnology in the future. In addition, our results show that anticipated discussion with opposing others actually encourages individuals to seek out an editorial or opinion piece first as opposed to a news item.

Conclusion

Our findings point toward important variations in the kinds of information‐seeking behaviors likely to emerge from different conditions under which individuals may be motivated to learn more about emerging science issues, and provide practical insights into which kinds of information‐seeking behaviors are most conducive to knowledge gain and issue engagement.
Contextual Predictors of Cumulative Biological Risk: Segregation and Allostatic Load
Authors: Bellatorre Anna , Finch Brian K. , Phuong Do D. , Bird Chloe E. , Beck Audrey N.
Published: October 2011

Objectives

Segregation is considered to be a fundamental cause of race/ethnic disparities in health. However, very few studies have tested whether levels of segregation are related to health outcomes using multilevel data and appropriate methodologies. In this study, we investigate the relationships between two distinct dimensions of segregation and allostatic load to determine whether the experiences of individuals in segregated neighborhoods are related to allostatic load as a possible predisease indicator.

Methods

To test our hypotheses, we utilized publicly available data from theNationalHealth andNutritionExaminationSurveyIII, 1988–1994. We utilized random‐intercept hierarchical generalized Poisson regression models to conduct our multivariate analyses.

Results

We find that inflammatory response is related to both the evenness and exposure domains of segregation. That is, both the unequal distribution of minority groups over areal units as well as the degree of potential contact between minority and majority group members are related to these predisease pathways.

Conclusions

In this study, we build on prior research byMassey (2004) to investigate the relationships between two distinct dimensions of segregation and allostatic load. Our results indicate that segregation is a significant predictor of allostatic load, net of individual‐level characteristics.
Timing of Early Invasive Intervention in Patients with Moderate to High Risk Acute Coronary Syndromes
Authors: JIANG MENG , HE BEN , ZHANG QI
Published: October 2011

Background:

Although international guidelines recommend an early invasive intervention for the treatment of patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), the optimal timing of this intervention remains uncertain. We aimed to determine the best time period for an early invasive intervention in ACS patients.

Methods:

Literature searches for controlled trials on ACS (1970–Sep. 2010) were conducted. Patients with moderate to high risk of ACS sent to the catheterization laboratory within 72 hours of admission/symptom onset were analyzed. The major outcome was the rate of death or recurrent myocardial infarction (re‐MI).

Results:

A total of 10 trials with 39,453 patients were eligible. Intervention performed within 24–48 hours was associated with a significantly lower death or re‐MI rate compared with intervention after 48 hours (odds ratio [OR] 0.64; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.52–0.79; P < 0.0001). Death or re‐MI was also reduced in the 12–24 hour group relative to the 24–48 hour group (8.4% vs. 10.8%; OR 0.85; 95% CI 0.75–0.97; P = 0.01). Performing angiography within <12 hours provided no benefit over 12–24 hours (P > 0.05). Interestingly, intervention before 3 hours was associated with a higher rate of death or re‐MI compared with intervention within 3–48 hours (P = 0.0008).

Conclusions:

Intervention following ACS should be undertaken within 24 hours; however, immediate (<3 hours) angiography does not provide any benefit and may even be harmful. (J Interven Cardiol 2012;25:10–18)
Optimal Matching with Minimal Deviation from Fine Balance in a Study of Obesity and Surgical Outcomes
Authors: Yang Dan , Small Dylan S. , Silber Jeffrey H. , Rosenbaum Paul R.
Published: October 2011

Summary In multivariate matching, fine balance constrains the marginal distributions of a nominal variable in treated and matched control groups to be identical without constraining who is matched to whom. In this way, a fine balance constraint can balance a nominal variable with many levels while focusing efforts on other more important variables when pairing individuals to minimize the total covariate distance within pairs. Fine balance is not always possible; that is, it is a constraint on an optimization problem, but the constraint is not always feasible. We propose a new algorithm that returns a minimum distance finely balanced match when one is feasible, and otherwise minimizes the total distance among all matched samples that minimize the deviation from fine balance. Perhaps we can come very close to fine balance when fine balance is not attainable; moreover, in any event, because our algorithm is guaranteed to come as close as possible to fine balance, the investigator may perform one match, and on that basis judge whether the best attainable balance is adequate or not. We also show how to incorporate an additional constraint. The algorithm is implemented in two similar ways, first as an optimal assignment problem with an augmented distance matrix, second as a minimum cost flow problem in a network. The case of knee surgery in the Obesity and Surgical Outcomes Study motivated the development of this algorithm and is used as an illustration. In that example, 2 of 47 hospitals had too few nonobese patients to permit fine balance for the nominal variable with 47 levels representing the hospital, but our new algorithm came very close to fine balance. Moreover, in that example, there was a shortage of nonobese diabetic patients, and incorporation of an additional constraint forced the match to include all of these nonobese diabetic patients, thereby coming as close as possible to balance for this important but recalcitrant covariate.
Survey of the Efficacy of a Short Fragment of the rbcL Gene as a Supplemental DNA Barcode for Diatoms
Authors: MacGillivary Michael L. , Kaczmarska Irena
Published: October 2011

DNA barcoding is a tool that uses a short, standard segment of DNA to identify organisms. In diatoms, a consensus on an appropriate DNA barcode has not been reached, but several markers show promise. These include the 5.8S gene plus a fragment of the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS‐2) of nuclear‐encoded ribosomal RNA, a 420‐bp segment of the 18S rRNA gene, and a 748‐bp fragment at the 3′‐end of the ribulose bisophosphate carboxylase large subunit (rbcL) gene. Here, we tested a 540‐bp fragment 417‐bp downstream of the start codon of the rbcL gene for its efficacy in distinguishing diatom species in a wide range of taxa. Overall, 381 sequences representing 66 genera and 245 species from the classes Mediophyceae and Bacillariophyceae were examined. Intra/interspecific thresholds were set at p = 0.01 differences per site (diff./site) for Mediophyceae and p = 0.02 diff./site for Bacillariophyceae and correctly segregated 96% and 93% of morphological congeners, respectively. When testing reproductively isolated or biological species, which are only available from Bacillariophyceae, 80% of species were discriminated. Therefore, we concluded that, alone, the rbcL region tested herein as potential a DNA barcode was not a sufficient discriminator of all diatoms. We suggest that this fragment could be used in a dual‐locus barcode with the more variable 5.8S+ITS‐2 to discriminate species without sufficient interspecific divergences in the tested rbcL region and to provide insight into species identity from a separately evolved genome.
Colloidal Processing of Macroporous TiO2 Materials for Photocatalytic Water Treatment
Authors: Natoli Alejandro , Cabeza Aurelio , De La Torre Ángeles G. , Aranda Miguel A. G. , Santacruz Isabel
Published: October 2011

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is considered one of the most attractive materials during the last decades due to its scientific and technological importance as photocatalyst. There are many reports dealing with several ways of processing TiO2 powders (coatings, tapes, and bulk sinters) and their photocatalytic characterization. However, very little research effort has been devoted to the preparation of macroporous TiO2 ceramics. This work deals with the colloidal processing of TiO2 powders to fabricate porous materials with tailored open macroporosity by direct foaming through gelcasting with polysaccharides. The obtained samples have been characterized through density, microstructure, porosimetry and photocatalytic studies. The effect of the processing parameters: suspension solid loading (20–65 wt%), viscosity, initial particle size (submicrometer and nano‐sized), tensoactive type (cationic, anionic, and non‐ionic), tensoactive content (0.1–1 wt%), and sintering temperature (1000°C–1400°C) onto the properties of the final samples is reported and discussed. Tailored macroporous samples with open porosity (up to 88 vol%) were obtained and they could be used as multifunctional filters with photocatalytic activity for water treatment under UV irradiation. The photocatalytic activity of the final samples depends on the porosity properties, tensoactive content and grain size.
Dumb Barter: A Seminal Form of Negotiation
Authors: Faure Guy Olivier
Published: October 2011

Negotiation requires communication, but not necessarily verbal exchanges. Adjustments can be achieved incrementally by other means. This article will examine how some parties have managed to strike a deal in situations characterized by total distrust and even hostility, asymmetric power relations, major cultural differences, extreme logistical difficulties in reaching the place in which the trade is to be made, and several additional process risks by employing a type of bargaining known as “dumb barter.”

This process presents a distinct paradigm with a specific and unique rationale. Sometimes called “silent trade,” it has been observed in many places (especially West Africa) for more than two millennia. It may well be the oldest form of trade negotiation and is still practiced in some parts of the world. An examination of this unlikely but real and effective process can also provide negotiation theorists with some useful insights into the fundamental nature of negotiation.
MicroRNA expression in formalin‐fixed paraffin embedded tissue using real time quantitative PCR: the strengths and pitfalls
Authors: Dijkstra J. R. , Mekenkamp L. J. M. , Teerenstra S. , De Krijger I. , Nagtegaal I. D.
Published: October 2011

Introduction

RNA isolation from formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tissue

RNA quality control

cDNA synthesis

Real Time Quantitative PCR

Reference genes

Data analysis

Conclusions

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of small non‐coding RNAs with a huge impact in a wide range of biological processes, including cancer. The evidence collected to date demonstrates that miRNAs represent valid diagnostic, prognostic and predictive markers in cancer. The identification of these miRNA biomarkers in archived tissues has been facilitated by novel development and refinement of detection methodologies. Quantitative real‐time reverse‐transcription PCR (qRT‐PCR) is one of the most common methods used to detect low levels of miRNAs with high sensitivity and specificity. However, several technical parameters should be identified and optimized in order to obtain meaningful and reproducible results. The purpose of this review is to describe some of these technical parameters and improve the validity and reliability of miRNA expression studies.
Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells for post‐myocardial infarction cardiac repair: microRNAs as novel regulators
Authors: Wen Zhuzhi , Zheng Shaoxin , Zhou Changqing , Yuan Woliang , Wang Jingfeng , Wang Tong
Published: October 2011

Introduction

MiRNAs and MSC differentiation into cardiovascular cells

MiRNAs and MSC‐mediated paracrine effects

MiRNAs and MSC‐mediated other potential effects

Preconditioning MSCs with MiRNAs as therapeutic perspectives

Future directions and concluding remarks

Transplantation of bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is safe and may improve cardiac function and structural remodelling in patients following myocardial infarction (MI). Cardiovascular cell differentiation and paracrine effects to promote endogenous cardiac regeneration, neovascularization, anti‐inflammation, anti‐apoptosis, anti‐remodelling and cardiac contractility, may contribute to MSC‐based cardiac repair following MI. However, current evidence indicates that the efficacy of MSC transplantation was unsatisfactory, due to the poor viability and massive death of the engrafted MSCs in the infarcted myocardium. MicroRNAs are short endogenous, conserved, non‐coding RNAs and important regulators involved in numerous facets of cardiac pathophysiologic processes. There is an obvious involvement of microRNAs in almost every facet of putative repair mechanisms of MSC‐based therapy in MI, such as stem cell differentiation, neovascularization, apoptosis, cardiac remodelling, cardiac contractility and arrhythmias, and others. It is proposed that therapeutic modulation of individual cardiovascular microRNA of MSCs, either mimicking or antagonizing microRNA actions, will hopefully enhance MSC therapeutic efficacy. In addition, MSCs may be manipulated to enhance functional microRNA expression or to inhibit aberrant microRNA levels in a paracrine manner. We hypothesize that microRNAs may be used as novel regulators in MSC‐based therapy in MI and MSC transplantation by microRNA regulation may represent promising therapeutic strategy for MI patients in the future.
Evaluating TIMP‐1, Ki67, and HER2 as markers for non‐sentinel node metastases in breast cancer patients with micrometastases to the sentinel node
Authors: TVEDSKOV TOVE FILTENBORG , BARTELS ANNETTE , JENSEN MAJ‐BRITT , PAASCHBURG BIRGITTE , KROMAN NIELS , BALSLEV EVA , BRÜNNER NILS
Published: October 2011

Tvedskov TF, Bartels A, Jensen M‐B, Paaschburg B, Kroman N, Balslev E, Brünner N. Evaluating TIMP‐1, Ki67 and HER2 as markers for non‐sentinel node metastases in breast cancer patients with micrometastases to the sentinel node. APMIS 2011; 119: 844–52.

The aim was to investigate whether the biochemical prognostic markers TIMP‐1, Ki67, and HER2 could predict metastatic spread to non‐sentinel nodes (NSN) in breast cancer patients with micrometastases to sentinel node (SN). We included all breast cancer patients with micrometastases to SN operated between 2001 and 2007 at the Department of Breast Surgery, Herlev Hospital. The study was designed as a matched case–control study with 25 cases with micrometastases to SN and, in addition, metastatic spread to NSN and 50 matched controls with micrometastases to SN, but without NSN metastases. Patient and tumor characteristics were retrieved from the Danish Breast Cancer Cooperative Group database. Immunohistochemical analyses of TIMP‐1 and Ki67 and measurements of HER2 on formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tumor tissue were performed. No significant differences in the immunoreactivity of TIMP‐1 and Ki67 were found between patients with and without NSN metastases. Six of seven HER2 positive patients did not have NSN metastases, but the results did not reach statistical significance. Despite being prognostic markers in breast cancer, TIMP‐1 and Ki67 could not predict NSN metastases in women with micrometastatic disease to SN. Larger studies are needed to further validate HER2 as a marker for NSN metastases in these patients.
Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis – achievements and prospective advances
Authors: BATOULIS HELENA , RECKS MASCHA S. , ADDICKS KLAUS , KUERTEN STEFANIE
Published: October 2011

Batoulis H, Recks MS, Addicks K, Kuerten S. Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis – achievements and prospective advances. APMIS 2011; 119: 819–30.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder of the CNS. Different subtypes of the disease have been noted, and characterized by distinct clinical courses and histopathologic manifestations. The most intensively studied animal model of MS, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), classically leads to deficits in motor functions, and is mediated by T helper cells. Recently, TH17 cells were ascribed an even greater pathogenic impact than TH1 cells, but new findings render this view controversial. Although classic EAE has been an invaluable tool, it does not cover the entire pathogenic entity of MS. Especially B‐cell contribution and autoantibody‐dependence are not mirrored adequately: therefore, new B‐cell‐dependent models, such as MP4‐induced EAE, have been introduced. Furthermore, certain symptoms and the spontaneous onset of MS are not featured in classic EAE. Herein, atypical and spontaneous EAE models can be used for investigation of common symptoms, such as tremor and ataxia, as well as spontaneous disease development. MS displays a marked inter‐individual heterogeneity, and no single model will be able to cover all features. Thus, depending on the objective of one’s study, the appropriate EAE model has to be carefully chosen. In addition, refined models should be designed to gain a more complete understanding of MS.
A mathematical approach to the optimal examination of lymph nodes
Authors: AHN CHI YOUNG , KIM SE HOON , JANG SEON JUNG , HONG SOON WON , KIM HYUNKI , LIM BEOM JIN
Published: October 2011

Ahn CY, Kim SH, Jang SJ, Hong SW, Kim H, Lim BJ. A mathematical approach to the optimal examination of lymph nodes. APMIS 2011; 119: 868–76.

There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that serial sectioning along the short axis of the lymph node is superior to a single bisection along the long axis. We mathematically evaluated methods of lymph node dissection and applied the result to six lymph nodes that had produced false negative results at the time of frozen examination. We simplified the geometry of a lymph node to that of a three‐dimensional ellipse and compared two different cutting methods. Let A be the cross‐sectional area obtained through a single bisection along the long axis, and let B be the sum of the cross‐sectional areas of n fragments obtained via serial cutting along the short axis. The smallest n (n*) that makes a B larger than A can be calculated. (, the smallest integer greater than or equal to α; L, long axis; S, short axis). The probabilities of tumor detection when the node is bisected along the long axis (P(DA|E)) and when serially cut along the short axis (P(DB|E)) are as follows. and (T, size of the tumor cell cluster). According to these formulas, three out of six lymph nodes were not examined in the most appropriate manner.
A network approach to orthodontic diagnosis
Authors: Auconi P , Caldarelli G , Scala A , Ierardo G , Polimeni A
Published: October 2011

To cite this article: Auconi P, Caldarelli G, Scala A, Ierardo G, Polimeni A:  A network approach to orthodontic diagnosis  Orthod Craniofac Res2011;14: 189–197

Structured Abstract

Authors – Auconi P, Caldarelli G, Scala A, Ierardo G, Polimeni A

Background – Network analysis, a recent advancement in complexity science, enables understanding of the properties of complex biological processes characterized by the interaction, adaptive regulation, and coordination of a large number of participating components.

Objective – We applied network analysis to orthodontics to detect and visualize the most interconnected clinical, radiographic, and functional data pertaining to the orofacial system.

Materials and Methods – The sample consisted of 104 individuals from 7 to 13 years of age in the mixed dentition phase without previous orthodontic intervention. The subjects were divided according to skeletal class; their clinical, radiographic, and functional features were represented as vertices (nodes) and links (edges) connecting them.

Results – Class II subjects exhibited few highly connected orthodontic features (hubs), while Class III patients showed a more compact network structure characterized by strong co‐occurrence of normal and abnormal clinical, functional, and radiological features. Restricting our analysis to the highest correlations, we identified critical peculiarities of Class II and Class III malocclusions.

Conclusions – The topology of the dentofacial system obtained by network analysis could allow orthodontists to visually evaluate and anticipate the co‐occurrence of auxological anomalies during individual craniofacial growth and possibly localize reactive sites for a therapeutic approach to malocclusion.
Accuracy of volumetric measurement of teeth in vivo based on cone beam computer tomography
Authors: Wang Y , He S , Yu L , Li J , Chen S
Published: October 2011

To cite this article:
 Wang Y, He S, Yu L, Li J, Chen S:  Accuracy of volumetric measurement of teeth in vivo based on cone beam computer tomography  Orthod Craniofac Res 2011;14:206–212

Structured Abstract

Authors –  Wang Y, He S, Yu L, Li J, Chen S

Objectives –  to evaluate the accuracy of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) for volumetric measurement of teeth, using micro‐computed tomography (Micro‐CT) as the reference standard.

Setting and Sample Population –  The Department of Orthodontics at Sichuan University. The sample consisted of 27 maxillary and mandibular premolars of 15 patients, planned to be extracted for orthodontic treatment.

Material and Methods –  The 27 teeth were subjected to standardized CBCT scanning before extraction and Micro‐CT scanning after extraction. From CBCT data, teeth were tissue segmented and then three‐dimensionally (3D) reconstructed, while from Micro‐CT data, teeth were 3D reconstructed directly. Tooth volumes were then calculated. The intra‐observer repeatability and reproducibility of two observers and the overall between‐instrument agreement of the measurements were evaluated using intra‐class correlation coefficients (ICCs) and concordance correlation coefficient (CCC), respectively.

Results –  The intra‐observer repeatability was high for both observers. ICCs were 0.999 and 0.998, respectively. The reproducibility of the two observers was also high (ICC, 0.740). The overall between‐instrument agreement of the measurements was good, and CCC was 0.993 and its lower 95% confidence interval was 0.989.

Conclusions –  The accuracy of the CBCT method for volumetric measurement of teeth in vivo is comparable to the Micro‐CT method in vitro. The CBCT method has the potential possibility to be applied in studies on root resorption associated with orthodontic force. Further study is needed to prove the sensitivity of the method.
The effect of an anterior biteplate on dental and skeletal Class II correction using headgears: a cephalometric study
Authors: Thurman MM , King GJ , Ramsay DS , Wheeler TT , Phillips C
Published: October 2011

To cite this article:
 Thurman MM, King GJ, Ramsay DS, Wheeler TT, Phillips C:  The effect of an anterior biteplate on dental and skeletal Class II correction using headgears: a cephalometric study  Orthod Craniofac Res 2011;14:213–221

Structured Abstract

Authors –  Thurman MM, King GJ, Ramsay DS, Wheeler TT, Phillips, C

Objective –  To test the hypothesis that there are significant differences in skeletal and/or dental changes between Class II subjects treated with headgear (HG) compared with those treated with HG plus maxillary acrylic biteplate (BP) discluding teeth.

Setting and Sample Population –  Secondary analysis performed in Department of Orthodontics at the University of Washington. Fifty pre‐adolescent Class II subjects were treated with HG as part of a randomized clinical trial (RCT) at the University of North Carolina/Chapel Hill, and 81 similar subjects were treated with HG plus a flatplane maxillary anterior BP for occlusal separation and anterior labial bow at the University of Florida as part of a separate RCT.

Material and Methods –  This retrospective cohort study examined anteroposterior (AP) and vertical cephalometric changes in two cohorts of Class II subjects. Pre‐ and post‐treatment cephalometric radiographs for each group were obtained from the two centers and measured for dental and skeletal changes. These data were adjusted for differences in magnification and compared using ancova, controlling for important cohort and protocol differences between the two centers.

Results –  Overbite and maxillary incisor inclinations were reduced significantly more in the HG/BP group. All other vertical and AP changes were not statistically significantly different between the groups.

Conclusion –  The maxillary anterior BP with labial bow is an effective appliance for reducing overbite and retracting incisors but provides no additional AP dental or skeletal benefit over HG treatment.