bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipidomic analysis of platelet senescence
Authors: Ruebsaamen Katharina , Liebisch Gerhard , Boettcher Alfred , Schmitz Gerd
Published: February 2010

BACKGROUND: A hallmark of platelet (PLT) storage lesion is the loss of PLT lipids. Due to technical limitations a detailed lipidomic analysis of plateletpheresis products during storage was so far not available.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Fifty plateletpheresis products were stored for 5 days at 22°C under agitation. Each day plasma and PLTs were isolated by gel filtration and lipid species analyzed by electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry.

RESULTS: During 5 days of storage the total lipid content decreased by 10% in PLTs and increased by 5% in plasma. We observed the following changes in lipid class fractions during storage relative to the day of preparation: increases of 69% ceramide (Cer), 32% lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), and 49% cholesteryl esters (CE) and a decrease of 10% free cholesterol (FC) in PLTs and elevation of 43% LPC and 14% CE and a decline of 20% phosphatidylcholine (PC) and 24% FC in plasma. Significant lipid species shifts were observed for phosphatidylserine, Cer, and LPC. Correlation analysis of lipid changes in plasma indicated that lecithin‐cholesterol‐acyltransferase (LCAT) activity may be responsible for the shift in plasma lipid composition. These lipid changes correlated between plasma and PLTs for LPC, FC, and CE fractions.

CONCLUSIONS: This study presents for the first time detailed lipid species profiles of PLTs and plasma during storage of PLT concentrates. These data provide clear evidence for LCAT‐mediated esterification of FC and LPC generation in the plasma of PLT concentrates. Moreover, we showed evidence that these changes also impact PLT lipid composition.
The status of massive transfusion protocols in United States trauma centers: massive transfusion or massive confusion?
Authors: Schuster Kevin M. , Davis Kimberly A. , Lui Felix Y. , Maerz Linda L. , Kaplan Lewis J.
Published: February 2010

BACKGROUND: Massive transfusion protocol (MTP) utilization and makeup is unknown.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A Web‐based survey was sent to members of the Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma and published in the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma newsletter. Comparisons were made with chi‐square and logistic regression.

RESULTS: A total of 186 surgeons and 59 center directors responded. To avoid bias, directors' responses are reported. Sixty percent annually admit more than 1500 patients. Sixty‐seven percent had in‐house attending coverage and 85% had a MTP. Presence of a MTP was not predicted by institution size, level, residency status, or admissions. Sixty‐five percent of MTPs had been in place less than 5 years with 18% less than 1 year. Designs varied: 23% had one batch of components, 25% had two or three, 41% had more than three, and 11% did not use batches. Only 62% of first batches contained fresh‐frozen plasma (FFP). In the second batch 98% had FFP. All third boxes had FFP. A ratio of FFP : red blood cells (RBCs) of less than 1 in the first batch predicted a ratio less than 1 in the second batch (p = 0.013). Twenty‐seven percent had blood stored in the emergency department and 14% in the operating room. Twenty‐four percent of MTPs autoactivate and 80% are trauma surgeon activated, 66% by the anesthesia staff, 32% by other surgeons, and 17% by the blood bank. Trauma surgeons activate the MTP most.

CONCLUSION: Most centers have a MTP. Protocols are variable and new, and half have a 1:1 FFP : RBC ratio. Protocols with fewer initial units of FFP compared to RBCs maintain this.
Evaluating Local Government Emergency Management Programs: What Framework Should Public Managers Adopt?
Authors: Henstra Daniel
Published: February 2010

Local governments play a key role in emergency management by developing the necessary policies and concrete procedures for responding effectively to community emergencies and their aftermath. However, because emergency measures in most jurisdictions are rarely, if ever, activated, public managers find it difficult to evaluate and assess the quality of existing emergency management programs. Drawing on expert literature to identify 30 elements of a high‐quality local emergency management program, key elements are refined and synthesized into a single framework that provides clear‐cut best practices for emergency program evaluation and performance measurement.
What Influences City Council Adoption and Support for Reinventing Government? Environmental or Institutional Factors?
Authors: Krebs Timothy B. , Pelissero John P.
Published: February 2010

What influences the degree to which city councils support reinventing government (REGO)? Controlling for environmental factors that are likely to shape council policy adoption as well as the tenure of the chief administrator, the findings of this study underscore that the type of representation system is most consistently related to opposition to REGO. In addition, the economic health of the city and the tenure of the chief administrator are positively associated with council support. Overall, institutional factors affect council policy adoption more than either environmental factors or an administrator's seniority, at least in this policy area.
Ablation of Severe Drug‐Resistant Tachyarrhythmia During Pregnancy
Authors: SZUMOWSKI LUKASZ , SZUFLADOWICZ EWA , ORCZYKOWSKI MICHAŁ , BODALSKI ROBERT , DEREJKO PAWEŁ , PRZYBYLSKI ANDRZEJ , URBANEK PIOTR , KUŚMIERCZYK MARIUSZ , KOŹLUK EDWARD , SACHER FREDERIC , SANDERS PRASHANTHAN , DANGEL JOANNA , HAISSAGUERRE MICHEL , WALCZAK FRANCISZEK
Published: February 2010

Ablation of Tachyarrhythmia During Pregnancy. Aims: The goal of this study was to describe mapping and ablation of severe arrhythmias during pregnancy, with minimum or no X‐ray exposure. Treatment of tachyarrhythmia in pregnancy is a clinical problem. Pharmacotherapy entails a risk of adverse effects and is unsuccessful in some patients. Radiofrequency ablation has been performed rarely, because of fetal X‐ray exposure and potential maternal and fetus complications.

Group and Method:
Mapping and ablation was performed in 9 women (age 24–34 years) at 12–38th week of pregnancy. Three had permanent junctional reciprocating tachycardia, and 2 had incessant atrial tachycardia. Four of them had left ventricular ejection fraction ≤45%. One patient had atrioventricular nodal reciprocating tachycardia requiring cardioversion. Three patients had Wolff‐Parkinson‐White syndrome. Two of them had atrial fibrillation with ventricular rate 300 bpm and 1 had atrioventricular tachycardia 300 bpm.

Fetal echocardiography was performed before and after the procedure.

Results:
Three women had an electroanatomic map and ablation done without X‐ray exposure. The mean fluoroscopy time in the whole group was 42 ± 37 seconds. The mean procedure time was 56 ± 18 minutes. After the procedure, all women and fetuses were in good condition. After a mean period of 43 ± 23 months follow up (FU), all patients were free of arrhythmia without complications related to ablation either in the mothers or children.

Conclusion:
Ablation can be performed safely with no or minimal radiation exposure during pregnancy. In the setting of malignant, drug‐resistant arrhythmia, ablation may be considered a therapeutic option in selected cases. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 877‐882, August 2010)
Correlative Anatomy for the Electrophysiologist: Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation. Part I: Pulmonary Vein Ostia, Superior Vena Cava, Vein of Marshall
Authors: MACEDO PAULA G. , KAPA SURAJ , MEARS JENNIFER A. , FRATIANNI AMY , ASIRVATHAM SAMUEL J.
Published: February 2010

Anatomy for Atrial Fibrillation.  Ablation procedures for atrial fibrillation (AF) have become an established and increasingly used option for managing patients with symptomatic arrhythmia. The anatomic structures relevant to the pathogenesis of AF and ablation procedures are varied and include the pulmonary veins (PVs), other thoracic veins, the left atrial myocardium, and autonomic ganglia. Exact regional anatomic knowledge of these structures is essential to allow correlation with fluoroscopy and electrograms, and, importantly, to avoid complications from damage of adjacent structures within the chest. We have presented this information in a 2‐part series. In the present article, we examine the general anatomic characteristics of the PVs, superior vena cava, and vein of Marshall. Features of particular relevance for the invasive electrophysiologist are pointed out. In a subsequent article, we discuss the regional anatomy of the left and right atria and anatomic considerations in preventing complications during AF ablation. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 721‐730, June 2010)
Capturing Children's Response to Parental Conflict and Making Use of It
Authors: LEE WAI‐YUNG , NG MAN‐LUN , CHEUNG BEN K. L. , YUNG JOYCE WA
Published: February 2010

To read this article's abstract in both Spanish and Mandarin Chinese, please visit the article's full‐text page on Wiley InterScience (http://interscience.wiley.com/journal/famp).

The aim of our study is to examine the interface between children's physiological changes and the specificities of parental conflict, and to develop a procedure in which such information can be shared with the family for therapeutic change. Children from 20 families were exposed to parental conflict discussion (CD) while their arousals were measured through skin conductance and heart rate sensors. It was found that regardless of the subject of the argument, 80% of the time they were complaining about each other. Likewise, 80% of the time the children were responding to the parents' own interpersonal tension, including moments of silence. The protocol established for the study, consisting of CD and debriefing, was found to be a powerful tool in moving parents toward conflict resolution.
Synthesis, Processing, and Properties of Submicrometer‐Grained Highly Transparent Yttria Ceramics
Authors: Serivalsatit Karn , Kokuoz Baris , Yazgan‐Kokuoz Basak , Kennedy Marian , Ballato John
Published: February 2010

In this article, we report on the fabrication of 0.3‐μm average grain‐sized transparent yttria ceramics using a modified two‐step sintering approach. This process yielded full densification of the yttria ceramics with a drastically reduced grain growth. These transparent yttria ceramics exhibited a transparency equivalent to that of single crystals in the near‐infrared spectral region. The microhardness and fracture toughness of the 0.3‐μm average grain‐sized transparent yttria ceramics fabricated by a modified two‐step sintering were found to exceed those of ∼300‐μm average grain‐sized transparent yttria ceramics fabricated by conventional sintering by 25 and 70%, respectively.
Innovative Pedagogies for Family and Consumer Science/Home Economics Education—Utilizing Computer‐Based Collaborative Learning to Foster Lifelong Learning Attributes
Authors: Ma Ada , Pendergast Donna
Published: February 2010

As we near the end of the first decade of the 21st century, the development in students of the attributes of lifelong learning is recognized internationally as a common goal of education systems. The field of Family and Consumer Science—in some parts of the world known by other names including Home Economics—is no exception to this trend. The use of Information and Computer Technologies as a medium to achieve this goal is an important consideration in this context, particularly given their proliferation and the trend toward pedagogical reform incorporating recent innovations relying on their use.
Comparison of GSR Composition Occurring at Different Locations Around the Firing Position
Authors: Rijnders Marco R. , Stamouli Amalía , Bolck Annabel
Published: February 2010

Abstract: Variations in gunshot residue (GSR) compositions are used in the reconstruction of shooting incidents. In this study, GSR samples taken from seven different locations around and in the firearm were collected and analyzed using scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X‐ray analysis. Four different types of ammunition were applied. Very low correlations were found when different ammunition were used. This clearly shows that it is possible to differentiate between ammunition types. When the same ammunition was used, high correlations were found between samples taken from external positions (such as hands of shooter, bullet‐entrance holes) but poor correlation was found between internal samples (such as firearm barrel, cartridge case) and external samples. A high degree of association was found between samples that simulated victim and shooter. These findings clearly demonstrate that GSR comparison studies are meaningful but care needs to be taken when choosing suitable exhibits. External samples (such as hands of shooter, bullet‐entrance holes) are more suitable candidates than internal samples (barrel of the firearm, cartridge case).
Emotional Experiences and Motivating Factors Associated with Fingerprint Analysis
Authors: Charlton David , Fraser‐Mackenzie Peter A.F. , Dror Itiel E.
Published: February 2010

Abstract:  In this study, we investigated the emotional and motivational factors involved in fingerprint analysis in day‐to‐day routine case work and in significant and harrowing criminal investigations. Thematic analysis was performed on interviews with 13 experienced fingerprint examiners from a variety of law enforcement agencies. The data revealed factors relating to job satisfaction and the use of skill. Individual satisfaction related to catching criminals was observed; this was most notable in solving high profile, serious, or long‐running cases. There were positive emotional effects associated with matching fingerprints and apparent fear of making errors. Finally, we found evidence for a need of cognitive closure in fingerprint examiner decision‐making.
Value of p63 and podoplanin (D2‐40) immunoreactivity in the distinction between primary cutaneous tumors and adenocarcinomas metastatic to the skin: a clinicopathologic and immunohistochemical study of 79 cases
Authors: Plaza Jose A. , Ortega Pablo F. , Stockman David L. , Suster Saul
Published: February 2010

The distinction of metastatic carcinomas to the skin from poorly differentiated primary cutaneous carcinomas and sometimes primary benign adnexal tumors can pose a significant diagnostic challenge. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of p63 and podoplanin (D2‐40) immunoreactivity for separating primary skin tumors vs. cutaneous metastases of carcinomas from internal organs. Thirty seven primary tumors and 42 cutaneous metastatic adenocarcinomas were evaluated. The 37 primary cutaneous tumors included 14 cases of benign adnexal tumors, 9 malignant skin adnexal neoplasms, and 14 primary squamous and basal cell carcinomas. The 42 metastatic adenocarcinomas all corresponded to metastases from patients with a well‐documented history of a primary tumor at another location. We found variable positivity with podoplanin in all primary cutaneous neoplasms including spiradenoma (6/6), hidradenoma (2/4), cylindroma (3/3), desmoplastic trichilemmoma (1/1), poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma (4/4), sebaceous carcinoma (1/1), basal cell carcinoma (4/10), trichilemmal carcinoma (2/2), eccrine carcinoma (3/3), microcystic adnexal carcinoma (1/1), adnexal carcinoma NOS (1/1), and porocarcinoma (1/1). In contrast, all metastatic carcinomas were negative (0/42) for podoplanin. In regards to p63, all cases of primary cutaneous tumors were positive for p63 (37/37); in contrast, all cutaneous metastatic carcinomas were negative (0/42). Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of podoplanin and p63 immunoreactivity to separate primary skin neoplasms from metastatic carcinomas were 78.4, 100.0, 100.0 and 84.0% for podoplanin, respectively, and 100.0, 100.0, 100.0 and 100.0% for p63, respectively. The differences in p63 and podoplanin immunohistochemical expression between primary skin tumors and metastatic carcinomas to the skin were statistically significant (p < 0, 0001). The results of our study suggest that the combined expression of p63 and podoplanin are a useful adjunct for the diagnosis of skin tumors in the clinical setting of a questionable metastasis and may be relatively specific for distinguishing primary skin tumors from metastatic carcinomas to the skin.

Plaza JA, Ortega PF, Stockman DL, Suster S. Value of p63 and podoplanin (D2‐40) immunoreactivity in the distinction between primary cutaneous tumors and adenocarcinomas metastatic to the skin: a clinicopathologic and immunohistochemical study of 79 cases.
The species–energy theory: a role for energy variability
Authors: Carrara Rodolfo , Vázquez Diego P.
Published: February 2010

Species–energy theory posits that energy availability regulates population sizes, extinction rates and ultimately species richness. This theory has focused mostly on total energy as a measure of energy availability. However, because energy variation can also influence population sizes and extinction rates, species–energy theory should arguably consider simultaneously both total energy and its variation. Using data on species richness of land birds and mammals, we compared the fit of three species–energy models including total energy, energy variation or both combined. We show that the combination of total energy and energy variation has greater predictive power than any of them considered separately. We also evaluate three crucial assumptions of this modified species–energy theory and show that they are supported by available data. These results illuminate the current debate on climate change, given that both average conditions and variability of climatic conditions are likely to change in the future.
Efficiency of buffer zones around ponds to conserve odonates and songbirds in mined peat bogs
Authors: Bonifait Sylvain , Villard Marc‐André
Published: February 2010

Patch isolation resulting from habitat loss and fragmentation generally has detrimental effects on associated species. Peatlands may be especially sensitive to such effects because peat mining results in drastic changes in the hydrology of natural remnants. This study aimed to assess the efficiency of conservation zones surrounding ponds in mined bogs for two taxa: songbirds and odonates. We compared songbird distribution and odonate assemblages between ponds isolated by peat mining (n=6–12) and control ponds (n=11–13) located in natural bogs. Birds did not show major responses to pond isolation, whether in terms of their relative abundance or reproductive activity. However, longer‐term data would be required to confirm this trend. In contrast, odonate abundance, as estimated from exuviae, was higher in natural ponds than in isolated ones. Some taxa, especially bog specialists, were more sensitive than others. Hence, pond isolation by peat mining significantly altered the structure of odonate assemblages. Pond size also influenced odonate abundances and distribution. Effective conservation of bog ponds should account not only for variations in the response of different taxa, but also for pond structural diversity, which influence species response to isolation.
A diversity of beta diversities: straightening up a concept gone awry. Part 2. Quantifying beta diversity and related phenomena
Authors: Tuomisto Hanna
Published: February 2010

The present two‐part review aims to put the different phenomena that have been called “beta diversity” over the years into a common conceptual framework and to explain what each of them measures. The first part (Tuomisto 2010) discussed basic definitions of “beta diversity”. Each arises from a different way of combining a definition of “diversity” with a definition of its alpha component and with a mathematical relationship between the alpha and gamma components. This second part assumes that an appropriate basic definition of a beta component (which may or may not be true beta diversity) has been chosen, and the focus here will be on how to quantify it for a given dataset. About twenty different approaches have been used for this purpose. It turns out that only two of these approaches accurately quantify the selected beta component: one does so for the entire dataset, and the other for two sampling units at a time. The other approaches actually quantify other phenomena, such as mean species turnover between sampling units, compositional gradient length (with or without reference to an external gradient), distinctness of a focal sampling unit, rate of species accumulation with increasing sampling effort, rate of compositional turnover along an external gradient, or the rate of decay in compositional similarity with increasing geographical distance. Although most of these phenomena can be expressed as a function of a beta component of diversity, they do not equal a beta component of diversity. Many of these derived variables are not even numerically correlated with the beta component on which they are based, which needs to be taken into account when interpreting the results. The effects of sampling decisions when results are extrapolated beyond the available data will also be discussed.
The profound influence of the Late Pliocene Panamanian uplift on the exchange, diversification, and distribution of New World birds
Authors: Smith Brian Tilston , Klicka John
Published: February 2010

Separated throughout most of the Cenozoic era, North and South America were joined during the mid‐Pliocene when the uplift of Panama formed a land bridge between these two continents. The fossil record indicates that this connection allowed an unprecedented degree of inter‐continental exchange to occur between unique, previously isolated biotic assemblages, a phenomenon now recognized as the “Great American Biotic Interchange”. However, a relatively poor avian fossil record has prevented our understanding the role of the land bridge in shaping New World avian communities. To address the question of avian participation in the GABI, we compiled 64 avian phylogenetic studies and applied a relaxed molecular clock to estimate the timing of trans‐isthmus diversification events. Here, we show that a significant pulse of avian interchange occurred in concert with the isthmus uplift. The avian exchange was temporally consistent with the well understood mammalian interchange, despite the presumed greater vagility of birds. Birds inhabiting a variety of habitats and elevational zones responded to the newly available corridor. Within the tropics, exchange was equal in both directions although between extratropical and tropical regions it was not. Avian lineages with Nearctic origins have repeatedly invaded the tropics and radiated throughout South America; whereas, lineages with South American tropical origins remain largely restricted to the confines of the Neotropical region. This previously unrecognized pattern of asymmetric niche conservatism may represent an important and underappreciated contributor to the latitude diversity gradient.
‘Fish matters’: the relevance of fish skin biology to investigative dermatology
Authors: Rakers Sebastian , Gebert Marina , Uppalapati Sai , Meyer Wilfried , Maderson Paul , Sell Anne F. , Kruse Charli , Paus Ralf
Published: February 2010

Please cite this paper as:‘Fish matters’: the relevance of fish skin biology to investigative dermatology. Experimental Dermatology 2010.

Abstract:  Fish skin is a multi‐purpose tissue that serves numerous vital functions including chemical and physical protection, sensory activity, behavioural purposes or hormone metabolism. Further, it is an important first‐line defense system against pathogens, as fish are continuously exposed to multiple microbial challenges in their aquatic habitat. Fish skin excels in highly developed antimicrobial features, many of which have been preserved throughout evolution, and infection defense principles employed by piscine skin are still operative in human skin. This review argues that it is both rewarding and important for investigative dermatologists to revive their interest in fish skin biology, as it provides insights into numerous fundamental issues that are of major relevance to mammalian skin. The basic molecular insights provided by zebrafish in vivo‐genomics for genetic, regeneration and melanoma research, the complex antimicrobial defense systems of fish skin and the molecular controls of melanocyte stem cells are just some of the fascinating examples that illustrate the multiple potential uses of fish skin models in investigative dermatology. We synthesize the essentials of fish skin biology and highlight selected aspects that are of particular comparative interest to basic and clinically applied human skin research.
Airway obstruction at time of symptoms prompting use of reliever therapy in children with asthma
Authors: Brouwer AFJ , Brand PLP , Roorda RJ , Duiverman EJ
Published: February 2010

Background:  In asthma treatment, doses of inhaled corticosteroids are often adapted to symptoms and need for bronchodilators. However, in cross‐sectional studies in emergency room settings, lung function and respiratory symptoms are not always concordant. Available longitudinal data are based on written peak flow diaries, which are unreliable. Using home spirometry, we studied prospectively whether mild respiratory symptoms, prompting reliever therapy are accompanied by a clinically relevant drop in lung function in children with asthma.

Methods:  For 8 weeks, children with asthma scored symptoms and measured peak expiratory flow (PEF) and forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1) on a home spirometer twice daily. Additional measurements were recorded when respiratory symptoms prompted them to use bronchodilators.

Results:  The mean difference between symptom free days and at times of symptoms was 6.6% of personal best for PEF (95% CI: 3.2–10.0; p = 0.0004) and 6.0% of predicted for FEV1 (95% CI: 3.0–9.0; p = 0.0004). There was complete overlap in PEF and FEV1 distributions between symptom free days and at times of symptoms.

Conclusions:  Although statistically significant, the degree of airway narrowing at times of respiratory symptoms, prompting the use of reliever therapy, is highly variable between patients, limiting the usefulness of home spirometry to monitor childhood asthma.
Successful Treatment of Early Implant Failure: A Case Series
Authors: AlGhamdi Ali Saad Thafeed
Published: February 2010

Background: The aim of this longitudinal study was to evaluate the effect of combined treatment on early progressive bone loss around dental implants.

Methods: The study sample consisted of 18 implants presenting at 4–6 weeks postplacement with early progressive bone loss. Clinical examination indicated the presence of a fistula in the soft tissue covering the implants in most cases. Defects around the implants were curetted, exposed implant surfaces were mechanically debrided and treated with tetracycline solution, and the defects were filled with bone graft and doxycycline powder. Bioabsorbable membranes were used. Final crowns were placed after 6 months. The patients were followed for an average of 30 months.

Results: The surgical sites healed without complication. At the time of loading, the defects were completely restored. At 12 months postloading, there was crestal bone loss to the level of the first thread (average, 1.3 mm). Pocket depths ranged from 3 to 5 mm (average, 3.6 mm) with no bleeding. No further changes were noticed throughout the remaining follow‐up visits. All implants were successful according to the criteria proposed by Albrektsson and colleagues.

Conclusions: Early detection and treatment of early progressive bone loss around dental implants are the key to saving early failing implants. The author recommends reevaluation visits 4–6 weeks postimplant placement to detect any signs of early failure so that immediate treatment can be undertaken if needed.
Alteration in anxiety‐related behaviors and reduction of serotonergic neurons in raphe nuclei in adult rats prenatally exposed to ethanol
Authors: Ohta Ken‐ichi , Sakata‐Haga Hiromi , Fukui Yoshihiro
Published: February 2010

It is known that the developing serotonergic system is one of the targets of ethanol teratogenicity. Because serotonin has multiple functions in both mature and immature brains, disturbance of the serotonergic system by ethanol exposurein uterocan be cause of a wide range of psychiatric problems in adulthood. In the present study, we observed serotonergic neurons in the midbrain raphe nuclei and anxiety‐like behaviors which would be affected by an altered serotonergic system in adult rats prenatally exposed to ethanol. Pregnant rats were fed a liquid diet containing 2.5–5.0% (w/v) ethanol on gestational days 10–21. Their offspring were examined at 60–70 days of age. A significant decrease in the number of serotonergic cells in the midbrain raphe nuclei was shown in prenatally ethanol‐exposed offspring. In an open field test, they spent more time in a central area compared to controls. Also in an elevated plus maze test, prenatally ethanol‐exposed offspring spent more time on the open arms than controls. These behavioral results suggested that prenatally ethanol‐exposed rats were less sensitive to anxiety. However, 44% of prenatally ethanol‐exposed offspring exhibited freezing behavior on the open arms of the elevated plus maze, causing strong anxiety, compared with 0% in intact control and 12.5% in isocaloric sucrose‐fed control groups. These findings suggest that prenatal ethanol exposure decreases both susceptibility and resistance of anxiety. Insufficient serotonergic actions caused by reduced serotonergic neurons in the raphe nuclei might contribute to the alterations in anxiety‐related behaviors observed in our prenatally ethanol‐exposed rats.
Brachmann‐de Lange syndrome with congenital diaphragmatic hernia and NIPBL gene mutation
Authors: Hosokawa Shinichi , Takahashi Nobumasa , Kitajima Hiroyuki , Nakayama Masahiro , Kosaki Kenjirou , Okamoto Nobuhiko
Published: February 2010

We report herein a case of Brachmann‐de Lange syndrome complicated with congenital diaphragmatic hernia in which a NIPBL gene mutation was identified. A female infant born at 37 weeks of gestation died 134 min after delivery, even though endotracheal intubation and resuscitation were performed immediately after the scheduled caesarean operation. We diagnosed the infant with Brachmann‐de Lange syndrome from her physical characteristics. An abnormal peak at the 29th exon in the translation area of the NIPBL gene was detected using denaturing high‐performance liquid chromatography. In addition, a mutation of cytosine to thymine (nonsense mutation) at the 5524th base was identified using the direct sequence method. This variation was likely the cause of the syndrome.
Nigrocin‐2 peptides from Chinese Odorrana frogs – integration of UPLC/MS/MS with molecular cloning in amphibian skin peptidome analysis
Authors: Wang Lei , Evaristo Geisa , Zhou Mei , Pinkse Martijn , Wang Min , Xu Ying , Jiang Xiaofeng , Chen Tianbao , Rao Pingfan , Verhaert Peter , Shaw Chris
Published: February 2010

Peptidomics is a powerful set of tools for the identification, structural elucidation and discovery of novel regulatory peptides and for monitoring the degradation pathways of structurally and catalytically important proteins. Amphibian skin secretions, arising from specialized granular glands, often contain complex peptidomes containing many components of entirely novel structure and unique site‐substituted analogues of known peptide families. Following the discovery that the granular gland transcriptome is present in such secretions in a PCR‐amenable form, we designed a strategy for peptide structural characterization involving the integration of ‘shotgun’ cloning of cDNAs encoding peptide precursors, deduction of putative bioactive peptide structures, and confirmation of these structures using tandem MS/MS sequencing. Here, we illustrate this strategy by means of elucidation of the primary structures of nigrocin‐2 homologues from the defensive skin secretions of four species of Chinese Odorrana frogs, O. schmackeri, O. livida, O. hejiangensis and O. versabilis. Synthetic replicates of the peptides were found to possess antimicrobial activity. Nigrocin‐2 peptides occur widely in the skin secretions of Asian ranid frogs and in those of the Odorrana group, and are particularly well‐represented and of diverse structure in some species. Integration of the molecular analytical technologies described provides a means for rapid structural characterization of novel peptides from complex natural libraries in the absence of systematic online database information.
Predicting Drug Disposition via Application of a Biopharmaceutics Drug Disposition Classification System
Authors: Benet Leslie Z.
Published: February 2010

Abstract: A Biopharmaceutics Drug Disposition Classification System (BDDCS) was proposed to serve as a basis for predicting the importance of transporters in determining drug bioavailability and disposition. BDDCS may be useful in predicting: routes of drug elimination; efflux and absorptive transporters effects on oral absorption; when transporter‐enzyme interplay will yield clinically significant effects (e.g. low drug bioavailability and drug‐drug interactions); and transporter effects on post‐absorptive systemic drug levels following oral and i.v. dosing. For highly soluble, highly permeable Class 1 compounds, metabolism is the major route of elimination and transporter effects on drug bioavailability and hepatic disposition are negligible. In contrast for the poorly permeable Class 3 and 4 compounds, metabolism only plays a minor role in drug elimination. Uptake transporters are major determinants of drug bioavailability for these poorly permeable drugs and both uptake and efflux transporters could be important for drug elimination. Highly permeable, poorly soluble, extensively metabolized Class 2 compounds present the most complicated relationship in defining the impact of transporters due to a marked transporter‐enzyme interplay. Uptake transporters are unimportant for Class 2 drug bioavailability, (ensure space after,) but can play a major role in hepatic and renal elimination. Efflux transporters have major effects on drug bioavailability, absorption, metabolism and elimination of Class 2 drugs. It is difficult to accurately characterize drugs in terms of the high permeability criteria, i.e. ≥90% absorbed. We suggest that extensive metabolism may substitute for the high permeability characteristic, and that BDDCS using elimination criteria may provide predictability in characterizing drug disposition profiles for all classes of compounds.
Biopharmaceutical Classification Based on Solubility and Dissolution: A Reappraisal of Criteria for Hypothesis Models in the Light of the Experimental Observations
Authors: Charkoftaki Georgia , Dokoumetzidis Aristides , Valsami Georgia , Macheras Panos
Published: February 2010

Abstract:  The diffusion layer model of drug dissolution is used for the simulation of oral drug absorption as well as for the analysis of experimental data. The governing role of saturation solubility in the rate of dissolution makes this parameter predominant for biopharmaceutical classification purposes. The hypothesis models and criteria associated with the use of solubility and dissolution for the biopharmaceutical classification of compounds and marketed drugs are reviewed in this article. The complex hydrodynamics in the in vitro dissolution apparatuses as well as the motility in the gastrointestinal tract do not allow the application of the diffusion layer model in these systems, as this has been built and verified in the rotating disk device. The solubilizing capacity of gastrointestinal fluids media is higher than the aqueous saturation solubility usually reported and used for biopharmaceutical purposes. Emphasis is given on the reaction‐limited model of dissolution which provides a useful alternative not based on diffusion principles. Model independent dissolution parameters are more useful for regulators as our knowledge for the dissolution mechanism(s) under in vivo conditions is limited.
Predictable and Less Predictable Unwanted Cardiac Drugs Effects: Individual Pre‐Disposition and Transient Precipitating Factors
Authors: Fabritz Larissa , Kirchhof Paulus
Published: February 2010

Abstract:  In addition to their therapeutic effect, all drugs have unwanted effects. For the purpose of this MiniReview, unwanted drug effects will be discussed as either predictable, dose‐dependent effects, or as less predictable events which only occur in patients pre‐disposed to unwanted drug reactions when confronted with specific situations. While clinicians have long been using biomarkers to identify patients prone to less predictable unwanted drug effects, emerging data clearly suggest that such effects are often a consequence of interactions between drug effects, drug metabolism, an individual, at times genetically conferred pre‐disposition to the interaction, and transient pre‐disposing factors. This paper describes general principles of predictable and less predictable unwanted drug effects and discusses the complex interplay of genetic and acquired pre‐disposing and precipitating factors for such effects using the example of ventricular pro‐dysrhythmia. The latter, an important unwanted effect of many drugs, is a common yet not fully understood less predictable cardiac drug effect. Understanding the mechanisms of ventricular pro‐dysrhythmia may allow to predict this unwanted drug effect better, and to identify novel markers for such events in the future.
Phenological growth stages of Cynara cardunculus: codification and description according to the BBCH scale
Authors: Archontoulis S.V. , Struik P.C. , Vos J. , Danalatos N.G.
Published: February 2010

Cynara cardunculus is a herbaceous perennial crop known from ancient times. During the last three decades this thistle has intensively been researched and recently became a commercial crop for biofuel production. As there is an increasing need for more information on this crop, we present here the phenological growth stages based on the Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt, CHemische Industrie (BBCH) scale and its associated decimal code. Nine principal growth stages have been defined and each principal stage has been subdivided into secondary growth stages. Descriptive keys with illustrations are also provided. A practical use of the scale is proposed, with particular reference to harvest time and management treatments. This scale aims to support farmers and researchers to efficiently plan management practices and experimental treatments.
LEMON PEEL DEGRADATION MODELING IN THE ENZYMATIC PEELING PROCESS
Authors: PAGÁN AXEL , CONDE JOSEP , PAGÁN JORDI , IBARZ ALBERTO
Published: February 2010

This work studies the optimization of the enzymatic peeling of Primofiore lemons, focusing on determining the changes that happen in the peel albedo. In this process, the conditions of temperature, time and concentration of the enzymatic preparation were determined in order to produce the maximum peel mass loss related to the best peeling efficiency. In this study, the effect of the temperature on the peeling process rate, the kinetic constants at different temperatures and the activation energy of the degradation of the peel albedo were determined.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The process described in this work is applied in the peel removal technology by enzyme infusion, being one of the stages in the preparation of minimally processed lemons.
APPARENT VISCOSITY OF BINARY AND TERNARY SYSTEMS OF TRAGACANTH, GUAR GUM AND METHYLCELLULOSE AT SEMIDILUTE RANGE OF CONCENTRATION
Authors: CHENLO F. , MOREIRA R. , PEREIRA G. , SILVA C.
Published: February 2010

The viscosity of the binary and ternary systems of tragacanth (T), guar (G) and methylcellulose (MC) was obtained by means of a rotational viscometer in the range of concentration from 1 to 10 g/L at 25, 35, 45 and 55C. The modeling was based on polymer concentration, temperature and shear rate. The viscometric parameters, flow and consistency indices were evaluated as a function of the cited variables, obtaining the corresponding correlations. Interactions between polymers are hypothesized because of its structure and molecular weight. An interaction parameterΔηijwas calculated for modeling. As expected, in all the cases, the apparent viscosity decreases with temperature and it was introduced in the proposed models for T–G and G–MC systems. Synergistic effects were found for T–G in all the cases and G–MC when G concentration was higher than MC concentration. These results could suggest that interactions between MC and G molecules are generated.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Hydrocolloids are additives used as stabilizers with multiple applications on different industries. In food industry, the interest to find new textures and sensorial properties has led to research on new sources, derivatives or mixtures. In the last case, new ingredients, developed from well‐characterized and widely used hydrocolloids have been the subject of recent patents. Additionally, rheological measurements are frequently used to process control and, therefore, it is the main reason to employ correlations of flow properties involving process variables in order to predict the rheological behavior.

This work contributes with models from experimental data to predict the combined effect of polymer concentration and temperature on viscosity of aqueous systems of one hydrocolloid and the corresponding blends of tragacanth, guar and methylcellulose. The extracted information is useful in processing as well as the design of new stabilizers in the food industry.
Cholesterol As An Aetiological Agent In Endodontic Failures—A Review
Authors: Nair P. N. Ramachandran
Published: February 2010

Presence of cholesterol clefts in apical periodontitis lesions is a common histopathological observation. However, a potential aetiological association of cholesterol crystals to non‐resolving apical periodontitis lesions after endodontic treatment has been suggested only recently. This article is an attempt to explain the biological basis for the inability of body cells to eliminate the local accumulation of cholesterol crystals, and to consolidate available clinical and experimental data in support of the view that massive accumulation of cholesterol crystals in inflamed periapical tissues can interfere with the periapical healing after conventional root canal treatment. As the irritating cholesterol crystals and certain other aetiological agents of failed endodontic treatment exist outside the root canal system, it is concluded that re‐treatment alone, of such cases, is unlikely to resolve the factors that sustain the lesion. Apical surgery is indicated for successful management of such cases.
Investigations On A Cell Culture Medium For Storage And Transportation Of Avulsed Teeth
Authors: Pohl Yango , Tekin U. , Boll M. , Filippi A. , Kirschner H.
Published: February 2010

Non‐physiologic storage of avulsed teeth leads to a high incidence of root resorption, resulting in poor prognosis. This study investigated the suitability of specially composed cell culture media for storage of extracted teeth for up to 48 hours.

Autoradiographic investigations revealed that the proliferative activity of periodontal ligament (PDL) cells of teeth stored in cell culture medium for up to 48 hours increased with storage time. Studies on proliferation of PDL cells after storage of teeth in different media for up to 24 hours demonstrated that the proliferative activity is dependent on the composition of the medium. Immunohistochemical investigations with markers for cell proliferation revealed that pulp cells of extracted immature teeth show numerous proliferations after storage for up to 24 hours in a special cell culture medium but few proliferations after storage in Hanks Balanced Salt Solution (HBSS).

The investigations indicate that a special cell culture medium can preserve cell viability of PDL cells adhering to extracted teeth for at least 48 hours. The in vitro results are confirmed by a case presented: After storage of two upper central incisors for 36 hours in the cell culture medium the teeth could be successfully reimplanted after extraoral insertion of titanium posts into the root canal (auto‐alloplastic reimplantation). Clinical and radiological follow‐up examinations for 12 months revealed normal periodontal healing.
Invasive Cervical Resorption Following Trauma
Authors: Heithersay Geoffrey S.
Published: February 2010

Invasive cervical resorption is an insidious and often aggressively destructive form of external root resorption which may occur as a late complication following dental trauma particularly where it involves damage to cementum and supporting tissues. While this resorption may be evident clinically as a pink coronal discolouration, later with cavitation of the enamel, often there are no obvious external signs and the condition is only detected radiographically. It is characterised by the invasion of the cervical region of the root by fibrovascular tissue which progressively resorbs dentine, enamel and cementum. The dental pulp remains protected by an intact layer of dentine and predentine until late in die process. Ectopic calcifications can be observed in advanced lesions both within the invading fibrous tissue and deposited directly onto the resorbed dentine surface.

The aetiology of invasive cervical resorption is unknown but trauma has been documented as a potential predisposing factor. A recent study by the author of 222 patients with a total of 257 teeth which displayed varying degrees of invasive cervical resorption showed that trauma alone was a potential predisposing sole factor in 14% of patients and 15.1% of teeth. Trauma in combination with bleaching, orthodontics or delayed eruption was found in an additional 11.2% of patients or 10.6% of teeth and of these a combination of trauma and bleaching occurred in a relatively high proportion of 7.7% of patients or 7.4% of teeth. This study also revealed that of other potential predisposing factors orthodontics was the most common sole factor constituting 21.2% of patients and 24.1% of teeth examined.

Successful treatment of invasive cervical resorption is dependent on the extent of the resorptive process. Teeth with invasive cervical resorption have been divided into four classes.

Whilst several treatment modalities are possible, a clinical evaluation of the treatment of this condition by the topical application of a 90% aqueous solution of trichloracetic acid, curettage, endodontic therapy where necessary and restoration with a glass ionomer cement has been evaluated on 94 patients with a total of 101 teeth with a minimum follow‐up period of three years. Results indicate a satisfactory treatment outcome can be anticipated in Class 1, 2 and 3 cases. In Class 4 resorption no treatment or alternative therapy is recommended. Diagnosis of lesions at an early stage of development is highly desirable and therefore the patients who have a potential for the development of this condition by virtue of a history such as trauma should be monitored radiographically at intervals throughout life.