bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Exploration of New Product Development's Front‐end Knowledge Conceptualization Process in Discontinuous Innovations
Authors: Akbar Hammad , Tzokas Nikolaos
Published: February 2012

Organizational knowledge creation, as reflected in new product/service development, is a vital process for firms to master. Critical to the development of new products/services is the management of the front‐end phase, which crucially determines the eventual fate of a new product/service idea. However, studies on how knowledge is created at the front‐end of the new product development process are rare. This empirical paper addresses this gap by focusing on knowledge conceptualization – where new knowledge from its generation is crystallized into a concrete and explicit form. Employing a qualitative methodology, the paper examines ten discontinuous projects and develops a front‐end knowledge conceptualization framework. The framework consists of the identified knowledge conceptualization stages and illuminates the pattern of overlaps, outcomes, contributors, knowledge, interactions and volatility across each stage. Our main contribution is a knowledge‐based appreciation of the dynamic and interactive nature of the new product/service development's front‐end phase in the context of discontinuous innovations, and thence the paper provides clear managerial learning points for the effective management of this phase.
Temporary Work, Underemployment and Workplace Accommodations: Relationship to Well‐being for Workers with Disabilities
Authors: Konrad Alison M. , Moore Mark E. , Ng Eddy S. W. , Doherty Alison J. , Breward Katherine
Published: February 2012

This study examines whether employment status and workplace accommodations are associated with perceived well‐being among workers with disabilities. Data from the 2006 Participation and Activity Limitation Survey conducted by Statistics Canada were used to test the relationship between employment status, receipt of workplace accommodations and well‐being. Findings indicated that fully utilized permanent employees showed greater life satisfaction and less perceived disability‐related discrimination than either temporary workers or permanent workers who were underemployed. These findings support the theory that inadequate employment is associated with deleterious effects on employee well‐being due to inferior need fulfilment and reduced social status. Workplace accommodations were associated with higher levels of well‐being for all workers with disabilities and helped to mitigate the negative effects of temporary status and underemployment. These findings supported the theoretical extension of main effect and buffering models of workplace stress to the prediction of perceived workplace discrimination.
Rubbery Polya Tree
Authors: NIETO‐BARAJAS LUIS E. , MÜLLER PETER
Published: February 2012

Abstract.  Polya trees (PT) are random probability measures which can assign probability 1 to the set of continuous distributions for certain specifications of the hyperparameters. This feature distinguishes the PT from the popular Dirichlet process (DP) model which assigns probability 1 to the set of discrete distributions. However, the PT is not nearly as widely used as the DP prior. Probably the main reason is an awkward dependence of posterior inference on the choice of the partitioning subsets in the definition of the PT. We propose a generalization of the PT prior that mitigates this undesirable dependence on the partition structure, by allowing the branching probabilities to be dependent within the same level. The proposed new process is not a PT anymore. However, it is still a tail‐free process and many of the prior properties remain the same as those for the PT.
From Babylon to Christianity: William Foxwell Albright on Myth, Folklore, and Christian Origins
Authors: ALTER STEPHEN G.
Published: February 2012

The American Orientalist William F. Albright (1891–1971) is remembered as a leading voice of twentieth‐century “biblical archaeology,” a field that aimed to demonstrate empirically the Hebrew Bible's substantial historicity. Less well known is Albright's research on Christian backgrounds, which by contrast reflected modernist theology's scepticism about the gospel narratives' literal truth. Drawing ideas from the “Pan‐Babylonian” school of biblical criticism, Albright invoked the influence of ancient Near Eastern myth and folklore on the Christ story, this being the culminating theme of his magnum opus From the Stone Age to Christianity (1940). Originally Albright believed that this mythological interpretation would reestablish Christianity's intellectual credibility in the twentieth century and thus help revive New Testament theology. Yet in the latter part of his career he omitted the mythological thesis from his writings, apparently having concluded that it was harmful to orthodox Christian faith.
The Dormition of the Virgin Mary on the Island of Tinos: A Performance of Gendered Values in Greece
Authors: HÅLAND EVY JOHANNE
Published: February 2012

On the Greek island of Tinos, the Dormition of the Virgin Mary is celebrated on 15 August. This death, fertility, and healing festival is important for several reasons: the church of the “Annunciation” owes its fame to a miraculous holy icon; the miracles worked by this icon have made Tinos a centre of pan‐Orthodox worship; and pilgrimages are particularly made to the shrine during the Dormition. The celebration is also an important ideological festival for the Greek nation‐state, as illustrated through several ceremonies, particularly the procession when the icon is carried from the church to the harbour. The date 15 August is a special one for Hellenism; it combines religion with patriotism, and the Dormition is a profound social event. There are several meanings and values connected to the festival — female and male, popular and official — the pilgrimage site on Tinos presents an interrelationship of history, ritual, and gender.
Earlier initiation of antiretroviral therapy, increased tuberculosis case finding and reduced mortality in a setting of improved HIV care: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hermans SM , van Leth F , Manabe YC , Hoepelman AIM , Lange JMA , Kambugu A
Published: February 2012

Objectives

High early mortality after antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation in resource‐limited settings is associated with low baseline CD4 cell counts and a high burden of opportunistic infections. Our large urban HIV clinic in Uganda has made concerted efforts to initiate ART at higher CD4 cell counts and to improve diagnosis and care of patients coinfected with tuberculosis (TB). We sought to determine associated treatment outcomes.

Methods

Routinely collected data for all patients who initiated ART from 2005 to 2009 were analysed. Median baseline CD4 cell counts by year of ART initiation were compared using the Cuzick test for trend. Mortality and TB incidence rates in the first year of ART were computed. Hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

First‐line ART was initiated in 7659 patients; 64% were women, and the mean age was 37 years (standard deviation 9 years). Median baseline CD4 counts increased from 2005 to 2009 [82 cells/μL (interquartile range (IQR) 24, 153) to 148 cells/μL (IQR 61, 197), respectively; P < 0.001]. The mortality rate fell from 6.5/100 person‐years at risk (PYAR) [95% confidence interval (CI) 5.5–7.6 PYAR] to 3.6/100 PYAR (95% CI 2.2–5.8 PYAR). TB incidence rates increased from 8.2/100 PYAR (95% CI 7.1–9.5 PYAR) to 15.6/100 PYAR (95% CI 12.4–19.7 PYAR). A later year of ART initiation was independently associated with decreased mortality (HR 0.91; 95% CI 0.83–1.00; P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Baseline CD4 cell counts have increased over time and are associated with decreased mortality. Additional reductions in mortality might be a result of a better standard of care and increased TB case finding. Further efforts to initiate ART earlier should be prioritized even in a setting of capped or reduced funding for ART programmes.
Improved serological response to H1N1 monovalent vaccine associated with viral suppression among HIV‐1‐infected patients during the 2009 influenza (H1N1) pandemic in the Southern Hemisphere
Authors: Maruszak H , Jeganathan S , Smith DE , Robertson P , Barnes T , Furner V
Published: February 2012

Objectives

Patients infected with HIV‐1 were targeted for vaccination against H1N1 influenza because of their anticipated increased risk of mortality associated with H1N1 infection. Reports regarding the efficacy of vaccination in HIV‐1‐infected patients have suggested a reduced immunogenic response compared with the general population. Hence, the study aimed to determine the serological response to pandemic H1N1 influenza vaccine in HIV‐1‐infected patients in a clinical setting.

Methods

A retrospective review of all HIV‐1‐infected patients who attended mass H1N1 vaccination between October 2009 and March 2010 at an Australian HIV clinic was carried out. Pre‐ and post‐vaccination H1N1 antibody titres were measured. The main outcome measure was response to the vaccination, which was defined as an H1N1 antibody titre of ≥ 1:40 using a haemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay.

Results

Baseline blood samples were collected from 199 patients, of whom 154 agreed to receive vaccination; of these, 126 had pre‐ and post‐vaccination HI titres measured. Seventy‐seven of 199 patients (38.7%) showed a baseline antibody titre of ≥ 1:40. Eighty‐five (67.4%) showed a fourfold or greater increase in titre and 109 of 126 (86.5%) achieved an antibody titre of ≥ 1:40 after vaccination. The serum HI H1N1 antibody geometric mean titre (GMT) for the 126 paired samples was 39.32 ± 3.46 pre‐vaccination and increased to 237.36 ± 3.94 [standard deviation (SD)] post‐vaccination (P < 0.001). In a binary logistic regression analysis, HIV viral load and baseline HI antibody titre were significantly associated with post‐vaccination increase in HI H1N1 antibody titre.

Conclusions

A high prevalence of HI H1N1 antibodies was found before vaccination in the cohort, consistent with previous exposure to H1N1 influenza virus. The response to vaccination was considered adequate, as more than two‐thirds of patients achieved a fourfold or more increase in antibody titre after vaccination. The response to vaccination was significantly greater in those patients who were aviraemic for HIV, suggesting that antiretroviral therapy improves the humoral response, which is important in optimizing vaccine effectiveness.
The Problem of Criteria and the Necessity of Natural Theology
Authors: Barua Ankur
Published: February 2012

Most streams of Christianity have emphasized the unknowability of God, but they have also asserted that Christ is the criterion through whom we may have limited access to the depths of God, and through whose life and death we can formulate the doctrine of God as Triune. This standpoint, however, leads to certain complications regarding ‘translating’ the Christian message to adherents of other religious traditions, and in particular the question, ‘Why do you accept Christ as the criterion?’, is one that Christian thinkers have attempted to answer in different ways. There are two influential responses to this query in recent Christian thought: an ‘evidentialist’ approach which gradually moves from a theistic metaphysics to a Christ‐centred soteriology, and an ‘unapologetic’ standpoint which takes God's self‐disclosure in Christ as the perspectival lens through which to view the world. The opposition between these two groups is primarily over the status of ‘natural theology’, that is, whether we may speak of a ‘natural’ reason, which human beings possess even outside the circle of the Christian revelation, and through which they may arrive at some minimalist understanding of the divine reality. I outline the status of ‘natural theology’ in these strands of contemporary Christian thought, from Barthian ‘Christomonism’ to post‐liberal theology to Reformed epistemology, and suggest certain problems within these standpoints which indicate the need for an appropriately qualified ‘natural theology’. Most of the criticisms leveled against ‘natural theology’, whether from secular philosophers or from Christian theologians themselves, can be put in two groups: first, the arguments for God's existence are logically flawed, and, second, even if they succeed they do not point to the Triune God that Christians worship. In contrast to such an old‐fashioned ‘natural theology’ which allegedly starts from premises self‐evidently true for all rational agents and leads through an inexorable logic to God, the qualified version is an attempt to spell out the doctrinal beliefs of Christianity such as the existence of a personal God who interacts with human beings in different ways, and outline the reasons offered in defence of such statements. In other words, without denying that Christian doctrines operate at one level as the grammatical rules which structure the Christian discourse, such a natural theology insists on the importance of the question of whether these utterances are true, in the sense that they refer to an objective reality which is independent of the Christian life‐world. Such a ‘natural theology’, as the discussion will emphasize, is not an optional extra but follows in fact from the internal logic of the Christian position on the universality of God's salvific reach.
International Strategic Choice of Minimum Quality Standards and Welfare*
Authors: LUTZ STEFAN , PEZZINO MARIO
Published: February 2012

This article looks at the influence of minimum quality standards in a two‐region partial‐equilibrium model of vertical product differentiation and trade. Three alternative standard‐setting arrangements are considered: full harmonization, national treatment and mutual recognition. The analysis integrates the choice of a particular standard‐setting alternative by governments into the model. The article provides a set of sufficient conditions for which mutual recognition emerges as one regulatory alternative that always improves welfare in both regions. Mutual recognition, being the default procedure if governments do not reach a unanimous decision, is the only possible equilibrium of the game.
Who's Afraid of Justice? A Rejoinder to Danny Nicol
Authors: NEYER JÜRGEN
Published: February 2012

Danny Nicol argues in this journal that my effort to devise a realistic normative conception of the European Union is unconvincing. I respond to his objections by correcting a number of misunderstandings of my original argument. I also use a more principled standard for providing evidence that the EU is indeed structurally unfit for democracy and emphasize the argument that the supranational layer of the EU is in need of a normative standard that is independent from the idea of democracy. The last section explicates the strength of normative realism.
Gut bacteria in health and disease: a survey on the interface between intestinal microbiology and colorectal cancer
Authors: Boleij Annemarie , Tjalsma Harold
Published: February 2012

A healthy human body contains at least tenfold more bacterial cells than human cells and the most abundant and diverse microbial community resides in the intestinal tract. Intestinal health is not only maintained by the human intestine itself and by dietary factors, but is also largely supported by this resident microbial community. Conversely, however, a large body of evidence supports a relationship between bacteria, bacterial activities and human colorectal cancer. Symbiosis in this multifaceted organ is thus crucial to maintain a healthy balance within the host‐diet‐microbiota triangle and accordingly, changes in any of these three factors may drive a healthy situation into a state of disease. In this review, the factors that sustain health or drive this complex intestinal system into dysbiosis are discussed. Emphasis is on the role of the intestinal microbiota and related mechanisms that can drive the initiation and progression of sporadic colorectal cancer (CRC). These mechanisms comprise the induction of pro‐inflammatory and pro‐carcinogenic pathways in epithelial cells as well as the production of (geno)toxins and the conversion of pro‐carcinogenic dietary factors into carcinogens. A thorough understanding of these processes will provide leads for future research and may ultimately aid in development of new strategies for CRC diagnosis and prevention.
The use of design‐based stereology to evaluate volumes and numbers in the liver: a review with practical guidelines
Authors: Marcos Ricardo , Monteiro Rogério A.F. , Rocha Eduardo
Published: February 2012

Stereology offers a number of tools for the analysis of sections in microscopy (which usually provide only two‐dimensional information) for the purpose of estimating geometric quantities, such as volume, surface area, length or number of particles (cells or other structures). The use of these tools enables recovery of the three‐dimensional information that is inherent in biological tissues. This review uses the liver as a paradigm for summarizing the most commonly used state‐of‐the‐art methods for quantitation in design‐based stereology. Because it is often relevant to distinguish hyperplasia and hypertrophy in liver responses, we also focus on potential pitfalls in the sampling and processing of liver specimens for stereological purposes, and assess the existing methods for volume and number estimation. With respect to volume, we considered whole liver volume (V), volume density (VV) and so‐called local volumes, including the number‐weighted volume () and the volume‐weighted volume (). For number, we considered the total number (N) and the numerical density (NV). If correctly applied, current stereological methods guarantee that no bias is introduced in the estimates, which will be therefore accurate; additionally, methods can be tuned for obtaining precise quantitative estimates that can reveal subtle changes in the volume or number of selected hepatic cells. These methods have already detailed the effects of some substances and specific diets on the liver, and should be routinely included in the toolbox of liver research.
Inhibitory effect of cannabichromene, a major non‐psychotropic cannabinoid extracted from Cannabis sativa, on inflammation‐induced hypermotility in mice
Authors: Izzo Angelo A , Capasso Raffaele , Aviello Gabriella , Borrelli Francesca , Romano Barbara , Piscitelli Fabiana , Gallo Laura , Capasso Francesco , Orlando Pierangelo , Di Marzo Vincenzo
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Cannabichromene (CBC) is a major non‐psychotropic phytocannabinoid that inhibits endocannabinoid inactivation and activates the transient receptor potential ankyrin‐1 (TRPA1). Both endocannabinoids and TRPA1 may modulate gastrointestinal motility. Here, we investigated the effect of CBC on mouse intestinal motility in physiological and pathological states.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Inflammation was induced in the mouse small intestine by croton oil. Endocannabinoid (anandamide and 2‐arachidonoyl glycerol), palmitoylethanolamide and oleoylethanolamide levels were measured by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry; TRPA1 and cannabinoid receptors were analysed by quantitative RT‐PCR; upper gastrointestinal transit, colonic propulsion and whole gut transit were evaluated in vivo; contractility was evaluated in vitro by stimulating the isolated ileum, in an organ bath, with ACh or electrical field stimulation (EFS).

KEY RESULTS Croton oil administration was associated with decreased levels of anandamide (but not 2‐arachidonoyl glycerol) and palmitoylethanolamide, up‐regulation of TRPA1 and CB1 receptors and down‐regulation of CB2 receptors. Ex vivo CBC did not change endocannabinoid levels, but it altered the mRNA expression of TRPA1 and cannabinoid receptors. In vivo, CBC did not affect motility in control mice, but normalized croton oil‐induced hypermotility. In vitro, CBC reduced preferentially EFS‐ versus ACh‐induced contractions. Both in vitro and in vivo, the inhibitory effect of CBC was not modified by cannabinoid or TRPA1 receptor antagonists.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS CBC selectively reduces inflammation‐induced hypermotility in vivo in a manner that is not dependent on cannabinoid receptors or TRPA1.
Does terfenadine‐induced ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation directly relate to its QT prolongation and Torsades de Pointes?
Authors: Lu Hua Rong , Hermans An N , Gallacher David J
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Terfenadine has been reported to cause cardiac death. Hence, we investigated its pro‐arrhythmic potential in various in vitro models.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Pro‐arrhythmic effects of terfenadine were investigated in rabbit isolated hearts and left ventricular wedge preparations. Also, using whole‐cell patch‐clamp recording, we examined its effect on the human ether‐à‐go‐go‐related gene (hERG) current in HEK293 cells transfected with hERG and on the INa current in rabbit ventricular cells and human atrial myocytes.

KEY RESULTS Terfenadine concentration‐ and use‐dependently inhibited INa in rabbit myocytes and in human atrial myocytes and also inhibited the hERG. In both the rabbit left ventricular wedge and heart preparations, terfenadine at 1 µM only slightly prolonged the QT‐ and JT‐intervals but at 10 µM, it caused a marked widening of the QRS complex, cardiac wavelength shortening, incidences of in‐excitability and non‐TdP‐like ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation (VT/VF) without prolongation of the QT/JT‐interval. At 10 µM terfenadine elicited a lower incidence of early afterdepolarizations versus non‐ Torsades de Pointes (TdP)‐like VT/VF (100% incidence), and did not induce TdPs. Although the concentration of terfenadine in the tissue‐bath was low, it accumulated within the heart tissue.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our data suggest that: (i) the induction of non‐TdP‐like VT/VF, which is caused by slowing of conduction via blockade of INa (like Class Ic flecainide), may constitute a more important risk for terfenadine‐induced cardiac death; (ii) although terfenadine is a potent hERG blocker, the risk for non‐TdP‐like VT/VF exceeds the risk for TdPs; and (iii) cardiac wavelength (λ) could serve as a biomarker to predict terfenadine‐induced VT/VF.
Nociceptive and pro‐inflammatory effects of dimethylallyl pyrophosphate via TRPV4 activation
Authors: Bang S , Yoo S , Yang TJ , Cho H , Hwang SW
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Sensory neuronal and epidermal transient receptor potential ion channels (TRPs) serve an important role as pain sensor molecules. While many natural and synthetic ligands for sensory TRPs have been identified, little is known about the endogenous activator for TRPV4. Recently, we reported that endogenous metabolites produced by the mevalonate pathway regulate the activities of sensory neuronal TRPs. Here, we show that dimethylallyl pyrophosphate (DMAPP), a substance produced by the same pathway is an activator of TRPV4.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We examined the effects of DMAPP on sensory TRPs using Ca2+ imaging and whole‐cell electrophysiology experiments with a heterologous expression system (HEK293T cells transfected with individual TRP channels), cultured sensory neurons and keratinocytes. We then evaluated nociceptive behavioural and inflammatory changes upon DMAPP administration in mice in vivo.

KEY RESULTS In the HEK cell heterologous expression system, cultured sensory neurons and keratinocytes, µM concentrations of DMAPP activated TRPV4. Agonistic and antagonistic potencies of DMAPP for other sensory TRP channels were examined and activation of TRPV3 by camphor was found to be inhibited by DMAPP. In vivo assays, intraplantar injection of DMAPP acutely elicited nociceptive flinches that were prevented by pretreatment with TRPV4 blockers, indicating that DMAPP is a novel pain‐producing molecule through TRPV4 activation. Further, DMAPP induced acute inflammation and noxious mechanical hypersensitivities in a TRPV4‐dependent manner.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Overall, we found a novel sensory TRP acting metabolite and suggest that its use may help to elucidate the physiological role of TRPV4 in nociception and associated inflammation.
Transforming growth factor‐β impairs glucocorticoid activity in the A549 lung adenocarcinoma cell line
Authors: Salem S , Harris T , Mok JSL , Li MYS , Keenan CR , Schuliga MJ , Stewart AG
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The lung adenocarcinoma cell line, A549, undergoes epithelial‐mesenchymal cell transition (EMT) in response to TGF‐β. Glucocorticoids do not prevent the EMT response, but TGF‐β induced resistance to the cytokine‐regulatory action of glucocorticoids. We sought to characterize the impairment of glucocorticoid response in A549 cells.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH A549 cells were exposed to TGF‐β for up to 96 h before glucocorticoid treatment and challenge with IL‐1α to assess glucocorticoid regulation of IL‐6 and CXCL8 production. Nuclear localization of the glucocorticoid receptor α (GRα) was ascertained by immunofluorescence and Western blotting. Transactivation of the glucocorticoid response element (GRE) was measured with a transfected GRE‐secreted human placental alkaline phosphatase reporter.

KEY RESULTS TGF‐β (40–400 pM) reduced the maximum inhibitory effect of dexamethasone on IL‐1α‐induced IL‐6 and CXCL8 production. The impaired glucocorticoid response was detected with 4 h of TGF‐β (40 pM) exposure (and 4 h IL‐1α to induce CXCL8 expression) and therefore was not secondary to EMT, a process that requires longer incubation periods and higher concentrations of TGF‐β. TGF‐β also impaired dexamethasone regulation of granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor in thrombin‐stimulated BEAS‐2B epithelial cells. Impaired regulation of CXCL8 was associated with markedly reduced GRE transactivation and reduced induction of mRNA for IκBα, the glucocorticoid‐inducible leucine zipper and the epithelial sodium channel (SCNN1A). The expression, cellular levels and nuclear localization of GRα were reduced by TGF‐β.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS We have identified mechanisms underlying the impairment of responses to glucocorticoids by TGF‐β in the A549 and BEAS‐2B cell lines.
Hydrogen sulfide‐induced mechanical hyperalgesia and allodynia require activation of both Cav3.2 and TRPA1 channels in mice
Authors: Okubo Kazumasa , Matsumura Midori , Kawaishi Yudai , Aoki Yuka , Matsunami Maho , Okawa Yasumasa , Sekiguchi Fumiko , Kawabata Atsufumi
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Hydrogen sulfide, a gasotransmitter, facilitates somatic pain signals via activation of Cav3.2 T‐type calcium channels in rats. Given evidence for the activation of transient receptor potential ankyrin‐1 (TRPA1) channels by H2S, we asked whether TRPA1 channels, in addition to Cav3.2 channels, contribute to the H2S‐induced mechanical hyperalgesia and allodynia in mice.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Mechanical hyperalgesia and allodynia were evaluated by the von Frey test in mice. Cav3.2 or TRPA1 channels in the sensory neurons were silenced by repeated intrathecal administration of antisense oligodeoxynucleotides in mice.

KEY RESULTS

Intraplantar administration of NaHS evoked hyperalgesia and allodynia in mice, an effect attenuated or abolished by NNC 55–0396 or mibefradil, T‐type calcium channel blockers, and by ascorbic acid or zinc chloride, known to selectively inhibit Cav3.2 channels, out of the three isoforms of T‐type calcium channels. Silencing of Cav3.2 channels in the sensory neurons also prevented the NaHS‐induced hyperalgesia and allodynia in mice. The NaHS‐induced hyperalgesia and allodynia in mice were significantly suppressed by AP18, a TRPA1 channel blocker, and by silencing of TRPA1 channels in the sensory neurons.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Mechanical hyperalgesia and allodynia induced by NaHS/H2S required activation of both Cav3.2 and TRPA1 channels in mice.
Abdominal ultrasonographic findings at diagnosis of osteosarcoma in dogs and association with treatment outcome
Authors: Sacornrattana O. , Dervisis N. G. , McNiel E. A.
Published: February 2012

The purpose of this study was to describe abdominal ultrasonographic findings present at diagnosis of osteosarcoma (OSA) in dogs and to investigate for associations with treatment outcome. Medical records from 118 dogs diagnosed withOSAthat had abdominal ultrasonography performed as part of their initial evaluation were reviewed. Fifty‐seven percent had ultrasonographic abnormalities identified. The organ with the highest frequency of ultrasonographic changes was the spleen. While most sonographic changes were considered to be either benign or of unknown clinical consequences, metastases were identified in three dogs (2.5%), two of which (1.7%) did not have other evidence of metastasis. Dogs with any ultrasonographic abnormality were less likely to receive definitive therapy (P= 0.005) and exhibited shorter survival, although the latter observation was not statistically significant (P= 0.071). However, the identification of lesions in either the liver (P= 0.021) or the kidney (P= 0.003) was statistically associated with shorter survival.
Discrimination, Crypticity, and Incipient Taxa in Entamoeba
Authors: Espinosa Avelina , Paz‐Y‐Miño‐C. Guillermo
Published: February 2012

Persistent difficulties in resolving clear lineages in diverging populations of prokaryotes or unicellular eukaryotes (protistan polyphyletic groups) are challenging the classical species concept. Although multiple integrated approaches would render holistic taxonomies, most phylogenetic studies are still based on single‐gene or morphological traits. Such methodologies conceal natural lineages, which are considered “cryptic.” The concept of species is considered artificial and inadequate to define natural populations. Social organisms display differential behaviors toward kin than to nonrelated individuals. In “social” microbes, kin discrimination has been used to help resolve crypticity. Aggregative behavior could be explored in a nonsocial protist to define phylogenetic varieties that are considered “cryptic.” Two Entamoeba invadens strains, IP‐1 and VK‐1:NS are considered close populations of the same “species.” This study demonstrates that IP‐1 and VK‐1:NS trophozoites aggregate only with alike members and discriminate members of different strains based on behavioral and chemical signals. Combined morphological, behavioral/chemical, and ecological studies could improve Archamoebae phylogenies and define cryptic varieties. Evolutionary processes in which selection acted continuously and cumulatively on ancestors of Entamoeba populations gave rise to chemical and behavioral signals that allowed individuals to discriminate nonpopulation members and, gradually, to the emergence of new lineages; alternative views that claim a “Designer” or “Creator” as responsible for protistan diversity are unfounded.
The conclusiveness of less‐invasive imaging techniques (computer tomography, X‐ray) with regard to their identification of bone diseases in a primate model (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Grohmann J. , Taetzner S. , Theuss T. , Kuehnel F. , Buchwald U. , Einspanier A.
Published: February 2012

Background  Although common marmosets seem to be appropriate animal models to examine bone diseases, no data about the conclusiveness of less‐invasive techniques are available. Therefore, the aim was to combine different techniques to analyse changes in bone metabolism of common marmosets with bone diseases.

Methods  Five monkeys were examined by X‐ray, computer tomography (CT), histology and immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Results  Monkeys with lowest bone mineral density (BMD) showed increased bone marrow, decreased cancellous bone and decreased contrast in X‐ray. Highest alkaline phosphatase (AP)‐levels were detected in bones with low elastic modulus. Expression of osteopontin (OPN), osteocalcin (OC) and runt‐related transcriptions factor 2 (RUNX 2) was detected in bones with high modulus. No expression was present in bones with lower modulus. Collagen type I and V were found in every bone.

Conclusions  In conclusion, CT, X‐ray and AP are useful techniques to detect bone diseases in common marmosets. These observations could be confirmed by IHC.
The effect of various concentrations of iodine potassium iodide on the antimicrobial properties of mineral trioxide aggregate – a pilot study
Authors: Saatchi Masoud , Hosseini Hananeh Sadat , Farhad Ali Reza , Narimany Tahmineh
Published: February 2012

Abstract –  Background: Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is a multi‐purpose dental material with various uses in dentistry. Iodine potassium iodide (IKI) is the most commonly used iodine compound in endodontics. We aimed to assess the antimicrobial activity of tooth‐colored ProRoot MTA combined with IKI. Materials and methods: The antimicrobial activity of IKI was assessed at three concentrations (1%, 2%, and 4%) as the mixing agents combined with MTA against Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans. For each microorganism, three plates were inoculated with 100 μl of a microbial suspension (McFarland 0.5). Four wells were prepared in each plate. MTA (70 mg) was mixed with any of the three concentrations of IKI (25 μl) or sterile distilled water (25 μl) and placed in each well. The plates were incubated for 24 h at 37°C. Zones of inhibition (ZOI) were measured in millimeters by a blinded observer. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance and the Dunnett t‐test. Results: All MTA mixtures with water or IKI solutions showed inhibitory zones. The mean ZOI of each MTA/IKI mixture was not significantly different from MTA/water mixture (P > 0.05). MTA/1% IKI had smaller ZOI than MTA/water against E. coli, E. faecalis, and C. albicans. MTA/2% IKI showed larger ZOI only against P. aeruginosa. MTA/4% IKI showed larger ZOI against P. aeruginosa and E. coli (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Substitution of IKI solutions (1%, 2%, and 4%) for water did not significantly increase the antimicrobial activity of MTA.
Contact dermatitis to para‐phenylenediamine in hair dye following sensitization to black henna tattoos – an ongoing problem
Authors: Kind Fabiola , Scherer Kathrin , Bircher Andreas J.
Published: February 2012

Summary  Background: The increased frequency of case reports of allergic contact dermatitis from non‐permanent black henna tattoos in recent years shows the popularity of this form of body painting.

Patients and methods: Seven patients presented with allergic contact dermatitis after initial hair or eyelash dyeing. They all had a history of a previous reaction from a black henna tattoo. All were patch tested with the European standard patch test series and the standard supplemental series, as well as special series for dyes and hairdressers.

Results: All seven patients showed a positive reaction in patch testing with para‐phenylenediamine (PPD) (0.3 % and/or 1.0 % in pet.). Five patients also had positive reactions to other dyes such as aminophenol, para‐toluene diamine, disperse orange and yellow and four patients reacted to benzocaine. These were interpreted as cross‐reactions. The time from sensitization by the black henna tattoo to the onset of allergic contact dermatitis after hair dyeing was an average of 6.2 years.

Conclusions: The most common cause of allergic contact dermatitis after black henna tattoos is PPD. Both the long skin contact and the high concentrations of PPD increase the risk of sensitization. Allergic contact dermatitis may be followed by post‐inflammatory hyper‐ or hypopigmentation, scarring and lifelong sensitization, which can have occupational impact, especially for hair dressers and cosmeticians.
Biotic homogenization of upland vegetation: patterns and drivers at multiple spatial scales over five decades
Authors: Ross Louise C. , Woodin Sarah J. , Hester Alison J. , Thompson Des B.A. , Birks H. John B.
Published: February 2012

Questions

Is there evidence for biotic homogenization of upland vegetation? Do the magnitude and nature of floristic and compositional change vary between vegetation types? What can be inferred about the drivers responsible for the observed changes?

Location

Upland heath, mire and grassland communities of the northwest Highlands of Scotland, UK.

Methods

We re‐survey plots first described in a phytosociological study of 1956–1958 to assess the changes in plant species composition over the last 50 yr in five major upland vegetation types. Using a combination of multivariate analysis, dissimilarity measures, diversity metrics and published data on species attributes; we quantify, characterize and link potential drivers of environmental change with the observed changes in species composition.

Results

Grassland and heath vegetation declined in species richness and variation in community composition, while mires showed little change. Previously distinct vegetation types became more similar in composition, characterized by the increased dominance of generalist upland graminoids and reduced dwarf‐shrub, forb and lichen cover, although novel assemblages were not apparent. Species with an oceanic distribution increased at the expense of those with an arctic‐montane distribution. Temperature, precipitation and acidity were found to be potentially important in explaining changes in species composition: species that had undergone the greatest increases had a preference for warmer, drier and more acidic conditions.

Conclusions

The vegetation of the northwest Scottish Highlands has undergone marked biotic homogenization over the last 50 yr, manifested through a loss of various aspects of diversity at the local, community and landscape scales. The magnitude of change varies between vegetation types, although the nature of change shows many similar characteristics. Analyses of species attributes suggest these changes are driven by climate warming and acidification, although over‐grazing may also be important. This study highlights the importance of the link between the loss of plant diversity and homogenization at multiple scales, and demonstrates that boreal heath communities are particularly at risk from these processes.
Elevational advance of alpine plant communities is buffered by herbivory
Authors: Speed James D. M. , Austrheim Gunnar , Hester Alison J. , Mysterud Atle
Published: February 2012

Question

A warming climate has been linked to changes in the distribution of many species, yet the interactions between climate and other environmental drivers are relatively poorly understood. Mountain regions are expected to be particularly at risk in a warming climate, and in many upland regions land use has also changed dramatically over the past few decades, with densities of grazing livestock often decreasing. Does livestock grazing influence elevational shifts of plant communities?

Location

Southern Scandes, Norway.

Methods

We use a unique long‐term experimental study at the landscape scale along an altitudinal gradient to study elevational shifts of plant communities and species under high and low sheep densities and in ungrazed conditions.

Results

We show that elevational advance of the whole alpine grassland plant community occurred in the absence of herbivores (with a 3 m elevational advance over 8 yr), but was suppressed at low sheep density. At high sheep density there was a downward shift in plant community composition of 4 m. The average change in median altitude across species was positive in the absence of herbivores, but not significantly different from zero under both grazing treatments. There was no convincing evidence that species from lower altitudes showed a greater elevational advance than species from higher altitudes.

Conclusions

This study presents evidence that grazing sheep suppressed an elevational advance of the plant community, suggesting that grazing can limit the altitude of the plant community. This implies that grazing management has the potential to buffer climate‐driven shifts in plant communities. Conversely, the widespread recent changes in land use, with reductions in large herbivore densities in alpine areas, could further increase the vulnerability of alpine communities to warming.
Evaluation of a self‐assessed screening test for masticatory ability of Taiwanese older adults
Authors: Hsu Kun‐Jung , Lee Huey‐Er , Lan Shou‐Jen , Huang Shun‐Te , Chen Chun‐Min , Yen Yea‐Yin
Published: February 2012

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2012.00632.x

Evaluation of a self‐assessed screening test for masticatory ability of Taiwanese older adults

Objectives:  The aim of this study was to evaluate a screening test based on a food intake questionnaire to discriminate the masticatory ability of Taiwanese older adults with 20 and more natural teeth and at least 8 functional tooth units (FTUs) from the masticatory ability of those with fewer than 20 natural teeth and 8 FTUs.

Materials and Methods:  The subjects were 2244 patients (mean age, 60.4±10.0 years) recruited from 23 counties and cities in Taiwan. Information about their demographic data, dentition, and masticatory ability was collected. Masticatory ability was measured for 23 food groups comprising 35 common Taiwanese foods, and receiver operation characteristic curve analysis was performed.

Results:  The results showed that the final questionnaire included 14 food groups and a subject choosing ’difficult to eat‘ responses for 4 and more of these food groups had the same masticatory ability as individuals with fewer than 20 natural teeth and 8 FTUs.

Conclusion:  In conclusion, foods that are the most difficult to eat are not necessarily good discriminatory indicators. Hence, the 14‐food group questionnaire can be considered the best screening test for masticatory ability of Taiwanese older adults in terms of the presence of 20 and more natural teeth and at least 8 FTUs.
The Concept of Shame in Late‐Medieval English Literature
Authors: Flannery Mary C.
Published: February 2012

As well as describing dishonor itself, the Middle English word ‘shame’ can refer either to the emotion resulting from an awareness of dishonor or disgrace, or to the anticipation of dishonor, the potential for disgrace to be experienced. Late‐medieval English literature reveals the interrelation between the personal experience of shame and the way it is produced in relation to others, typically through such kinds of exposure as showing and telling. This essay draws attention to the complex ways in which shame is imagined in late‐medieval English literature. It begins by considering the two major focal points of late‐medieval shame studies so far: chivalric literature and Christian shame. After surveying the approaches that have been taken to date, it suggests new themes that deserve critical attention in these areas. The remainder of this essay points to other literary contexts in which we might investigate shame more closely. While chivalric and devotional texts are significant areas in which shame was imagined, medical, conduct, and advisory texts also engage with the concept of shame in important ways.
Development of an evidence‐based protocol for care of pilonidal sinus wounds healing by secondary intent using a modified Reactive Delphi procedure. Part 2: methodology, analysis and results
Authors: Harris Connie L , Holloway Samantha
Published: February 2012

This is the second part of the article based on the thesis work for a Masters of Science in Wound Healing and Tissue Repair, Cardiff University, to develop an evidence‐based protocol for the care of pilonidal sinus wounds (PSWs) healing by secondary intent, using a modified Reactive Delphi process. The sample included surgeons, clinic physicians, nurses and enterostomal therapy nurses experienced in the care of these wounds. Item generation involved an extensive review of the literature to identify key aspects of evidence‐based wound care essential to wound healing, infected wounds and pilonidal wounds healing by secondary intent and drawing on clinical experience. The participants responded via an electronic Delphi website, using a 4‐point Likert rating scale and a ranking system. Comments were invited. Feedback was provided to the participants at the end of each round, that included comments, consensus scores, content validity index and additional information that provided rationale and references, or minor revision if requested. This project successfully achieved the objectives, which were to identify the areas of care that negatively or positively influences healing of postoperative PSWs and to inform, educate and broaden the considerations regarding these factors for health care professionals.
Wound‐healing potential of an ethanol extract of Carica papaya (Caricaceae) seeds
Authors: Nayak Bijoor Shivananda , Ramdeen Ria , Adogwa Andrew , Ramsubhag Adash , Marshall Julien Rhodney
Published: February 2012

Carica papaya L. (Linn) (Caricaceae) is traditionally used to treat various skin disorders, including wounds. It is widely used in developing countries as an effective and readily available treatment for various wounds, particularly burns. This study evaluated the wound‐healing and antimicrobial activity of C. papaya seed extract. Ethanol extract of C. papaya seed (50 mg/kg/day) was evaluated for its wound‐healing activity in Sprague‐Dawley rats using excision wound model. Animals were randomly divided into four groups of six each (group 1 served as control, group 2 treated with papaya seed extract, group 3 treated with a standard drug mupirocin and papaya seed extract (1:1 ratio) and group 4 treated with a mupirocin ointment. Rate of wound contraction and hydroxyproline content were determined to assess the wound‐healing activity of the seed extract. The group 2 animals showed a significant decrease in wound area of 89% over 13 days when compared with groups 1 (82%), 3 (86%) and 4 (84%) respectively. The hydroxyproline content was significantly higher with the granulation tissue obtained from group 2 animals which were treated with C. papaya seed extract. Histological analysis of granulation tissue of the group 2 animals showed the deposition of well‐organized collagen. The extract exhibited antimicrobial activity against Salmonella choleraesuis and Staphylococcus aureus. Our results suggest that C. papaya promotes significant wound healing in rats and further evaluation for this activity in humans is suggested.
Wound outcomes in patients with advanced illness
Authors: Maida Vincent , Ennis Marguerite , Corban Jason
Published: February 2012

A prospective case series was studied to assess the potential for complete healing of wounds among patients with advanced illness referred to a regional palliative care program in Toronto, Canada. Two hundred and eighty‐two patients, of which 148 were primarily diagnosed with cancer and 134 with non cancer advanced illness, were assessed and followed until their deaths. On the baseline initial referral date, 823 wounds were documented. The wound classes assessed included pressure ulcers, malignant wounds, skin tears, venous leg ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers and arterial leg/foot ulcers. Proportions of patients showing complete healing of at least one wound were calculated, stratified by patient's survival time post‐baseline (1 week, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months). Proportions of patients showing complete healing of at least one wound increased the longer patients lived and ranged between 12·9% and 43·5% for stage I pressure ulcers, 0% and 60% for stage II pressure ulcers, 2·4% and 100% for skin tears, 10% and 100% for venous leg ulcers and 0% and 50% for diabetic foot ulcers. Only one person showed complete healing of a stage III pressure ulcer and no complete healing was observed with stage IV pressure ulcers, unstageable pressure ulcers, malignant wounds and arterial leg/foot ulcers.