bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti‐adhesive and pro‐apoptotic effects of 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate on human gingival fibroblasts co‐cultured with Streptococcus mitis strains
Authors: Zara S. , Di Giulio M. , D’Ercole S. , Cellini L. , Cataldi A.
Published: September 2011

Zara S, Di Giulio M, D’Ercole S, Cellini L, Cataldi A. Anti‐adhesive and pro‐apoptotic effects of 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate on human gingival fibroblasts co‐cultured with Streptococcus mitis strains. International Endodontic Journal, 44, 1145–1154, 2011.

Aim  To evaluate and observe the cellular reactions that occur during the interaction/integration between 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate/host tissue/microbial environment, in a co‐culture of human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) and Streptococcus mitis strains.

Methodology  Streptococcus mitis were cultured with strains in the presence of 3 mmol L−1 HEMA for 48 h and 72 h. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by the trypan blue dye exclusion test. Apoptosis was evaluated by TUNEL analysis. Adhesion was evaluated by immunofluorescence and western blot analyses. Quantitative analyses of the results were acquired by Qwin Plus 3.5 and QuantityOne I‐D analysis software, respectively. The statistical significance of the results was evaluated using t‐tests and linear regression tests.

Results  The trypan blue dye test revealed 47.3% and 46.5% of dead fibroblasts after 48 and 72 h HEMA treatment, respectively, while bacterial viability was not influenced by the presence of HEMA and fibroblasts. The expression of pro‐collagen I, involved in fibroblast adhesion, in untreated samples ranged from 12.49% to 6.91% of the positive area after 48 and 72 h, respectively, dropping to below 2% of the positive area in the other experimental conditions. Unlike the trypan blue test, co‐cultured samples treated with HEMA showed 20% and 25% versus 17% and 21% (after 48 and 72 h, respectively) of apoptotic cells.

Conclusions  The evidence for HEMA toxicity and anti‐adhesive effects against eukaryotic cells was reduced in the presence of bacteria, suggesting that dental resins should be well polymerized to avoid the spread of toxic monomers within the mouth.
The effect of calcium hydroxide on the steroid component of Ledermix® and Odontopaste®
Authors: Athanassiadis M. , Jacobsen N. , Parashos P.
Published: September 2011

Athanassiadis M, Jacobsen N, Parashos P. The effect of calcium hydroxide on the steroid component of Ledermix® and Odontopaste®. International Endodontic Journal, 44, 1162–1169, 2011.

Aim  To investigate the chemical interaction of calcium hydroxide with the corticosteroid triamcinolone acetonide in Ledermix® Paste and in Odontopaste®, a new steroid/antibiotic paste.

Methodology  Validated methods were developed to analyse the interaction of calcium hydroxide in two forms, Pulpdent® Paste and calcium hydroxide powder, with triamcinolone acetonide within Odontopaste® and Ledermix® Paste. High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to analyse the mixed samples of the pastes and calcium hydroxide. The concentration of triamcinolone acetonide within the pastes was determined over 0, 2, 6, 24 and 72‐h time‐points. All tests with the HPLC involved the testing of the standard with triplicate injections alongside the samples. All samples were tested in duplicate with each injected twice; therefore, four tests were performed for each investigation. Linearity, precision and specificity of the testing procedures and apparatus were validated. Descriptive statistics are provided.

Results  In both pastes, there was a marked rapid destruction of the triamcinolone acetonide steroid upon mixing with calcium hydroxide. Odontopaste® suffered a lower rate of destruction of the triamcinolone acetonide component than Ledermix® Paste, but both pastes showed very similar degrees of steroid destruction after 72 h. When using calcium hydroxide powder with Ledermix® Paste, the triamcinolone was destroyed entirely and immediately.

Conclusion  The addition of calcium hydroxide to Odontopaste® or Ledermix® Paste results in the rapid destruction of the steroid.
Overexpression of interleukin‐6 and ‐8, cell growth inhibition and morphological changes in 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate‐treated human dental pulp mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Trubiani O. , Cataldi A. , De Angelis F. , D’Arcangelo C. , Caputi S.
Published: September 2011

Trubiani O, Cataldi A, De Angelis F, D’Arcangelo C, Caputi S. Overexpression of interleukin‐6 and ‐8, cell growth inhibition and morphological changes in 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate‐treated human dental pulp mesenchymal stem cells. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 19–25, 2012.

Aim  To evaluate morphological features, cell growth and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) secretion in expanded ex vivo human dental pulp mesenchymal stem cells (DP‐MSCs) after exposure to 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA).

Methodology  Dental pulp mesenchymal stem cells were derived from the dental pulps of 10 young donors. After in vitro isolation, DP‐MSCs were treated with 3 and 5 mmol L−1 HEMA, and after 24, 48 and 72 h of incubation, their morphological features, cell growth, IL‐6 and IL‐8 secretion were analysed. Differences in the cell growth and in the interleukin secretion were analysed for statistical significance with two‐way anova tests and the Holm–Sidak method for multiple comparisons.

Results  Dental pulp mesenchymal stem cells revealed a decrease in cell growth with both treatments (P < 0.05), more evident at 5mmol L−1. Microscopic analysis displayed extensive cytotoxic effects in treated cells, which lost their fibroblastoid features and became retracted, even roundish, with a large number of granules. An up‐regulation of IL‐6 and IL‐8 in treated cells cytokines was evident (P < 0.05).

Conclusions  2‐Hydroxyethyl methacrylate exhibited cytotoxicity, inhibited cell growth and induced morphological changes in cultured DP‐MSCs. Moreover, in treated samples, an up‐regulation of soluble mediators of inflammation such as IL‐6 and IL‐8 cytokines was found. The direct application of HEMA potentially induces an inflammation process that could be the starting point for toxic response and cell damage in DP‐MSCs.
The efficacy of five techniques for removing root filling material: microscopic versus radiographic evaluation
Authors: Kfir A. , Tsesis I. , Yakirevich E. , Matalon S. , Abramovitz I.
Published: September 2011

Kfir A, Tsesis I, Yakirevich E, Matalon S, Abramovitz I. The efficacy of five techniques for removing root filling material: microscopic versus radiographic evaluation. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 35–41, 2012.

Aim  To test and compare the efficacy of five methods for the removal of root filling material and to test the hypothesis that radiographs fail to represent the real extent of remaining material on canal walls.

Methodology  Fifty maxillary anterior single‐rooted teeth with straight root canals were selected. The coronal third of each root canal was prepared with Gates‐Glidden drills to number 3, whilst the apical two‐thirds were prepared with manual K‐files to size 40. Root fillings were performed using lateral compaction with gutta‐percha and AH‐26. After full setting, the coronal third of the root filling was removed with Gates‐Glidden drills and the teeth divided into five groups (n = 10). The remaining root filling material was then removed with either Hedström files and chloroform (25 μL), using size 40 as the last file, SafeSider files, using a NiTi Pleezer reamer with a 0.06 taper followed by size 40 reciprocating file, with or without chloroform, or ProTaper Universal retreatment files (D2, D3) with or without chloroform. Reaching working length with no more gutta‐percha on the last file was defined as the endpoint for all procedures. The presence of remaining filling material was first evaluated radiographically and then by the microscopic evaluation of split roots. The time required to accomplish the procedure was also recorded. anova and anova with repeated measures were used for statistical analysis of the results.

Results  Overall, 11–26% of the canal wall remained covered with filling material; no significant difference was found between the groups. The mechanized methods were faster than manual removal of filling material (P < 0.01); the use of solvent did not speed up the mechanized procedures. Radiographic evaluation failed to adequately and reliably detect the extent of filling material remaining on the canal walls, which was later observed by microscopic evaluation.

Conclusions  All methods left root canal filling material on the canal walls. Radiographic evaluation failed to detect the extent of remaining root filling material, which could only be detected using microscopy.
Effect of intracanal irrigants on the bond strength of epoxy resin‐based and methacrylate resin‐based sealers to root canal walls
Authors: Vilanova W. V. , Carvalho‐Junior J. R. , Alfredo E. , Sousa‐Neto M. D. , Silva‐Sousa Y. T. C.
Published: September 2011

Vilanova WV, Carvalho‐Junior JR, Alfredo E, Sousa‐Neto MD, Silva‐Sousa YTC. Effect of intracanal irrigants on the bond strength of epoxy resin‐based and methacrylate resin‐based sealers to root canal walls. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 42–48, 2012.

Aim  To assess the bond strength of Epiphany and AH Plus sealers to root canal walls using a push‐out test after use of several endodontic irrigants.

Methodology  Roots of 100 maxillary canines were sectioned horizontally 5 mm below the cemento‐enamel junction to provide 4‐mm‐thick dentine disks that were embedded in acrylic resin and had their root canals prepared with a tapered bur (larger diameter = 2.70 mm; smaller diameter = 2.30 mm; length = 4 mm). The specimens were randomly assigned to five groups (n = 20) according to the dentine surface treatment: I – 1% NaOCl (30 min); II – 1% NaOCl (30 min) + 17% EDTA (5 min); III – 17% EDTA (30 min); IV – 24% EDTA gel (30 min); V – 2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) gel (30 min). In each group, two specimens were prepared for scanning electron microscopy to examine the surface of root canal dentine after use of each irrigant. The other 18 specimens were filled with AH plus (n = 9) or Epiphany (n = 9) and subjected to a push‐out test in an Instron machine. Data (in MPa) were subjected to statistical analysis by two‐way anova and post‐hoc Tukey–Kramer test (P < 0.05).

Results  AH Plus had a significantly higher bond strength (8.74 ± 2.75) than Epiphany (6.74 ± 3.97) (P < 0.05). One per cent NaOCl/17% EDTA was associated with significantly higher bond strength values (10.88 ± 3.05) than the other irrigants (P < 0.05). Seventeen per cent EDTA (8.75 ± 1.75), 24% EDTA gel (7.48 ± 3.48) and 2% CHX gel (7.89 ± 3.41) had intermediate values that were not significantly different from each other (P > 0.05). One per cent NaOCl was associated with the lowest mean values (3.70 ± 0.86) (P < 0.05). The interaction between surface treatment and sealer revealed significantly higher bond strength for 24% EDTA gel with AH Plus, 2% CHX gel with AH Plus and 1%NaOCl/17%EDTA with Epiphany (P < 0.05).

Conclusion  Except for 1% NaOCl, the removal of smear layer with the other irrigants increased the bond strength of AH Plus to intracanal dentine. The use of 1% NaOCl for 30 min with 17% EDTA as final irrigant for 5 min increased the bond strength of Epiphany.
The experiences of women (65–74 years) living with a long‐term condition in the shadow of ageing
Authors: Roy Dianne E. , Giddings Lynne S.
Published: September 2011

roy d.e. & giddings l.s. (2012) The experiences of women (65–74 years) living with a long‐term condition in the shadow of ageing. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(1), 181–190.

Aims.  This paper reports on a study that explored experiences of women (65–74 years) as they grow older while living with a long‐term condition. The phenomenon of focus was ‘ageing with a long‐term condition’, rather than the experience of developing a long‐term condition after reaching older adulthood.

Background.  People with long‐term conditions are living into older age. There is limited literature on the nexus of ageing with a long‐term condition. It is known that ageing shapes and is shaped by women’s experiences of living with a long‐term condition.

Methods.  In this interpretive descriptive study, nine women participated in a series of three focus groups held in 2007 and 2008. Transcripts were analysed thematically and participants given the opportunity to respond to the analysis.

Findings.  ‘In the shadow of ageing’ was the overarching theme. The women reported that although their long‐term condition remained the referent point in their daily lives, for others including health professionals, the focus was on their appearance and the effects of older age. To overcome the back‐grounding of their long‐term condition, the women used ‘strategies already‐in‐place’; it became ‘just another thing to deal with’. Ageing, however, remained ‘a privilege’.

Conclusion.  If health professionals focus on age and its concomitant effects, rather than a woman’s long‐term condition, they are at risk of delivering inappropriate care. They need to be prepared to advocate for the special needs of older women who live with a long‐term condition and remain cognizant of the women’s resourcefulness and expertise developed over time.
Interspecific differences in wood decay rates: insights from a new short‐term method to study long‐term wood decomposition
Authors: Freschet Grégoire T. , Weedon James T. , Aerts Rien , van Hal Jurgen R. , Cornelissen Johannes H. C.
Published: September 2011

1. While the importance of wood decay for the global carbon balance is widely recognized, surprisingly little is known about its long‐term dynamics and its abiotic and biotic drivers. Progress in this field is hindered by the long time‐scales inherent to the low decay rates of wood and the lack of short‐term methods to assess long‐term decomposition dynamics in standardized field conditions.

2. Here, we present such a method, which relies on the sampling and short‐term incubation of wood from several decay stages covering the entire decay process. Together these short‐term decay steps are used to model and discriminate between three potential decay dynamics (linear, exponential and sigmoid) using an iterative optimization procedure. We applied this method to analyse long‐term wood decay of six subarctic tree species (six stems and two roots) and test the hypotheses that (i) different wood species follow distinct decay dynamics and (ii) interspecific variation in wood traits controls variation in wood decay rates in a standardized environment.

3. We found interspecific variation in long‐term wood decay dynamics: decay ofAlnusandSalixstems was best described by exponential models, whereas decay ofSorbusstems andBetulaandPinusroots was best fitted by linear models andBetula,PinusandPopulusstems each displayed a sigmoid decay dynamics (up to 5‐year initial lag phase). A six‐fold variation was observed between the decomposition half‐lives of all eight wood types, from 6.8 years (6.1–7.5, 95% C.I.) forAlnusstems to 41.3 years (34.5–51.8) forPinusroots. Initial wood traits such as pH (R2 = 0.92), dry matter content (R2 = 0.79) and lignin (R2 = 0.73) were good predictors of long‐term wood decay rates.

4. Synthesis.Our findings suggest changing decay dynamics across wood species and types that are likely to arise from changing underlying wood decay processes (i.e. varying wood functional traits/decomposer community interactions). Our new method, which combines advantages of direct observations and the chronosequence approach, allows reliable comparisons of species contributions to long‐term wood decay rates and provides future opportunities to experimentally disentangle intrinsic and external abiotic and biotic drivers of long‐term wood decay processes.
Using probability modelling and genetic parentage assignment to test the role of local mate availability in mating system variation
Authors: BLYTON MICHAELA D. J. , BANKS SAM C. , PEAKALL ROD , LINDENMAYER DAVID B.
Published: September 2011

The formal testing of mating system theories with empirical data is important for evaluating the relative importance of different processes in shaping mating systems in wild populations. Here, we present a generally applicable probability modelling framework to test the role of local mate availability in determining a population’s level of genetic monogamy. We provide a significance test for detecting departures in observed mating patterns from model expectations based on mate availability alone, allowing the presence and direction of behavioural effects to be inferred. The assessment of mate availability can be flexible and in this study it was based on population density, sex ratio and spatial arrangement. This approach provides a useful tool for (1) isolating the effect of mate availability in variable mating systems and (2) in combination with genetic parentage analyses, gaining insights into the nature of mating behaviours in elusive species. To illustrate this modelling approach, we have applied it to investigate the variable mating system of the mountain brushtail possum (Trichosurus cunninghami) and compared the model expectations with the outcomes of genetic parentage analysis over an 18‐year study. The observed level of monogamy was higher than predicted under the model. Thus, behavioural traits, such as mate guarding or selective mate choice, may increase the population level of monogamy. We show that combining genetic parentage data with probability modelling can facilitate an improved understanding of the complex interactions between behavioural adaptations and demographic dynamics in driving mating system variation.
Comparative metabolomics of drought acclimation in model and forage legumes
Authors: SANCHEZ DIEGO H. , SCHWABE FRANZISKA , ERBAN ALEXANDER , UDVARDI MICHAEL K. , KOPKA JOACHIM
Published: September 2011

Water limitation has become a major concern for agriculture. Such constraints reinforce the urgent need to understand mechanisms by which plants cope with water deprivation. We used a non‐targeted metabolomic approach to explore plastic systems responses to non‐lethal drought in model and forage legume species of the Lotus genus. In the model legume Lotus. japonicus, increased water stress caused gradual increases of most of the soluble small molecules profiled, reflecting a global and progressive reprogramming of metabolic pathways. The comparative metabolomic approach between Lotus species revealed conserved and unique metabolic responses to drought stress. Importantly, only few drought‐responsive metabolites were conserved among all species. Thus we highlight a potential impediment to translational approaches that aim to engineer traits linked to the accumulation of compatible solutes. Finally, a broad comparison of the metabolic changes elicited by drought and salt acclimation revealed partial conservation of these metabolic stress responses within each of the Lotus species, but only few salt‐ and drought‐responsive metabolites were shared between all. The implications of these results are discussed with regard to the current insights into legume water stress physiology.
First provincial survey of Angiostrongylus cantonensis in Guangdong Province, China
Authors: Deng Zhuo‐Hui , Zhang Qi‐Ming , Huang Shao‐Yu , Jones Jeffrey L.
Published: September 2011

The rat lungworm Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a zoonotic nematode with a wide distribution. We report the first provincial survey of the prevalence of A. cantonensis infection among wild rodents and snails in Guangdong Province, China. A total of 2929 Pomacea canaliculata and 1354 Achatina fulica were collected from fields in 22 survey sites with a larval infection rates ranging from 0–26.6% to 0–45.4%. In addition, 114 Cipangopaludina sp and 252 Bellamya sp were bought from markets; larvae were found only in Bellamya snails from two survey sites with an infection rate of 1.4% (1/70) and 3.3% (3/91), respectively. Four hundred and ninety‐one rodents were captured in nine sites (Rattus norvegicus, R. flavipectus, Suncus murinus, Mus musculus, Bandicota indica, R. losea and R. rattus). Adult worms were found in R. norvegicus, R. flavipectus and Bandicota indica. Our survey revealed a wide distribution of A. cantonensis and its intermediate hosts P. canaliculata and A. fulica in Guangdong. The prevalence of A. cantonensis in wild snails and rats poses a substantial risk for angiostrongyliasis in humans.
The process of social participation in primary health care: the case of Palencia, Guatemala
Authors: Ruano Ana L. , Sebastián Miguel S. , Hurtig Anna‐Karin
Published: September 2011

Background  In 2008, the World Health Organization issued a callback to the principles of primary health care, which renewed interests in social participation in health. In Guatemala, social participation has been the main policy for the decentralization process since the late 1990s and the social development council scheme has been the main means for participation for the country’s population since 2002.

Aim  The aim of this study was to explore the process of social participation at a municipal‐level health commission in the municipality of Palencia, Guatemala.

Methods  Analysis of legal and policy documents and in‐depth interviews with institutional and community‐level stakeholders of the commission.

Results  The lack of clear guidelines and regulations means that the stakeholders own motivations, agendas and power resources play an important part in defining the roles of the participants. Institutional stakeholders have the human and financial power to make policies. The community‐level stakeholders are token participants with little power resources. Their main role is to identify the needs of their communities and seek help from the authorities. Satisfaction and the perceived benefits that the stakeholders obtain from the process play an important part in maintaining the commission’s dynamic, which is unlikely to change unless the stakeholders perceive that the benefit they obtain does not outweigh the effort their role entails.

Conclusion  Without more uniformed mechanisms and incentives for municipalities to work towards the national goal of equitable involvement in the development process, the achievements will be fragmented and will depend on the individual stakeholder’s good will.
A novel deletion in ZBTB24 in a Lebanese family with immunodeficiency, centromeric instability, and facial anomalies syndrome type 2
Authors: Chouery E , Abou‐Ghoch J , Corbani S , El Ali N , Korban R , Salem N , Castro C , Klayme S , Azoury‐Abou Rjeily M , Khoury‐Matar R , Debo G , Germanos‐Haddad M , Delague V , Lefranc G , Mégarbané A
Published: September 2011

Chouery E, Abou‐Ghoch J Corbani S, El Ali N, Korban R, Salem N, Castro C, Klayme S, Azoury‐Abou Rjeily M, Khoury‐Matar R, Debo G, Germanos‐Haddad M, Delague V, Lefranc G, Mégarbané A. A novel deletion in ZBTB24 in a Lebanese family with immunodeficiency, centromeric instability, and facial anomalies syndrome type 2.

The immunodeficiency, centromeric instability and facial anomalies (ICF) syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive disease characterized by targeted chromosome breakage, directly related to a genomic methylation defect. It manifests with phenotypic and clinical variability, with the most consistent features being developmental delay, facial anomalies, cytogenetic defects and immunodeficiency with a reduction in serum immunoglobulin levels. From the molecular point of view, ICF syndrome was always divided into ICF type I (ICF1) and ICF type 2 (ICF2). Mutations in DNMT3B gene are responsible for ICF1, while mutations in ZBTB24 have been reported to be responsible for ICF2. In this study, we describe a Lebanese family with three ICF2 affected brothers. Sanger sequencing of the coding sequence of ZBTB24 gene was conducted and revealed a novel deletion: c.396_397delTA (p.His132Glnfs*19), resulting in a loss‐of‐function of the corresponding protein. ZBTB24 belongs to a large family of transcriptional factors and may be involved in DNA methylation of juxtacentromeric DNA. Detailed molecular and functional studies of the ZBTB24 and DNMT3B genes are needed to understand the pathophysiology of ICF syndrome.
Microhabitat distribution of Smacigastes micheli (Copepoda: Harpacticoida: Tegastidae) from deep‐sea hydrothermal vents at the Mid‐Atlantic Ridge, 37° N (Lucky Strike), with a morphological description of its nauplius
Authors: Ivanenko Viatcheslav N. , Corgosinho Paulo H.C. , Ferrari Frank , Sarradin Pierre‐Marie , Sarrazin Jozée
Published: September 2011

Abundant nauplii and copepodid stages attributed to Smacigastes micheli Ivanenko & Defaye (Crustacea: Copepoda: Harpacticoida: Tegastidae) were collected during the MoMARETO cruise (2006) on the Eiffel Tower edifice, the species type locality at the Lucky Strike vent field (37° N) of the Mid‐Atlantic Ridge at a depth of 1698 m. Specimens were sampled within different faunal assemblages dominated by either Bathymodiolus azoricus mussels or Mirocaris fortunata shrimps and the physico‐chemical conditions of their related microhabitats were characterized. A new preparation method for examination of copepod nauplii with confocal microscopy was developed and applied to the specimens. The description of the sixth naupliar stage of S. micheli revealed a number of distinctions from the only known last naupliar stage of the tegastid copepod Tegastes falcatus living associated with a shallow water bryozoan. Morphological features and ecological observations suggest that S.  micheli copepods could be feeding on the thick microbial mats that cover different surfaces on the Eiffel Tower edifice. The nauplii, copepodids and adults of S. micheli were found in >80% of the microhabitats sampled. These microhabitats were characterized by temperatures varying from 4.8 to 7.5 °C representing low hydrothermal inputs. Canonical analysis shows that the relative abundances of nauplii and adults of S. micheli were higher at the lower end of the chemical conditions, whereas the abundance of the subadult stages appears to be linked with slightly higher hydrothermal inputs. Whether this distribution is influenced by distinct physiological tolerances or nutritional needs of the different developmental stages is unknown. Total dissolved sulfur was the variable best explaining the distribution of S. micheli on the Eiffel Tower edifice.
Mohs' micrographic surgery as treatment for squamous dysplasia of the nail unit
Authors: Young Lauren Cordelia , Tuxen Alana Jane , Goodman Greg
Published: September 2011

We report a series of 14 cases of nail unit squamous cell carcinoma in situ/ Bowen's disease and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) treated with Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). MMS has been previously reported as an ideal treatment for nail unit SCC. This series adds to the current literature substantiating this claim, and also demonstrates the good outcomes achieved with secondary intention healing.
Mechanism of onset and exacerbation of chronic glomerulonephritis and its treatment
Authors: Kawasaki Yukihiko
Published: September 2011

Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is one of the most common causes of chronic glomerulonephritis (CGN) in the world. The proliferative and crescentic forms of IgA are found in up to 30% of cases and are associated with nephritic‐range proteinuria, accelerated hypertension, and accelerated decline toward end‐stage renal disease. On the other hand, Henoch–Schönlein purpura (HSP) is a systemic disorder characterized by leukocytoclastic vasculitis involving the capillaries and the deposition of IgA immune complexes. Renal involvement is the principal cause of morbidity and mortality in children with HSP. Two entity diseases are important as renal diseases in childhood. We herein review the mechanism of the onset and exacerbation of IgAN and HSP nephritis (HSPN) and its treatment.

As to the pathogenesis, we found that CB4 provoked exacerbation of renal pathologic findings in hyper IgA mice via endothelial injury, γ‐interferon production, and dysfunction of the mesangial pathway and could possibly become one of the factors involved in the mechanism of the onset or evolution of human IgAN. As to the treatment of IgAN and HSPN, we evaluated the efficacy of multidrug combination therapy (prednisolone, warfarin, and dipyridamole, including mizoribine) for diffuse IgAN and the efficacy of methylprednisolone and urokinase pulse therapy plus immunosuppressive drugs for severe HSPN in children. These therapies were effective in ameliorating the proteinuria and histologic severity of patients with IgAN or HSPN. In future, detailed investigations into the pathogenesis of CGN and double‐blind randomized control studies on children with IgAN or HSPN will be necessary.
Descemet's membrane substrate from human donor lens anterior capsule
Authors: Kopsachilis Nikolaos , Tsinopoulos Ioannis , Tourtas Theofilos , Kruse Friedrich E , Luessen Ulrich Welge
Published: September 2011

Abstract

Background:  To study the potential use of human donor anterior lens capsule as a Descemet's membrane substrate.

Methods:  Anterior lens capsules were recovered from the lenses of 30 cornea donors. Human corneal endothelial cells were recovered from the remaining corneal sclera rims of 15 donor corneas used for penetrating keratoplasty. Samples were sorted into three groups. Group 1 consisted of 10 samples in which the endothelial cells were allowed to grow on anterior lens capsules. In Group 2 human corneal endothelial cells grew on a collagen membrane and in Group 3 on polystyrene culture plates. Cell density, morphology and adherence of the cell–capsule complex were evaluated at 1, 4, 7 and 14 days with a phase‐contrast microscope, a scanning electron microscope and by histology. Cell viability was quantified by a microscopic live–dead assay. Expression of zonula occludens‐1, Na+/K+‐adenosine triphosphatase, tissue transglutaminase and vimentin were investigated by immunohistochemistry.

Results:  A mean diameter of 10.05 ± 0.13 mm of anterior capsule was obtained as a substrate for cell culture. Endothelial cell density of Group 1 was measured at 2455.4 ± 283.8 cells/mm2, which was also comparable with the cell density of the control group. Cell viability was 95% or superior in all groups and multiple cellular interconnections developed between growing cells. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated strongly positive staining for all investigated proteins. Electron microscopy confirmed the adherence and monolayer growth of the endothelial cells.

Conclusions:  Human donor anterior lens capsule might therefore be a potential scaffold for the ex vivo expansion of human corneal endothelial cells.
Examination of the performance of different pointwise linear regression progression criteria to detect glaucomatous visual field change
Authors: De Moraes Carlos G , Liebmann Craig A , Susanna Jr Remo , Ritch Robert , Liebmann Jeffrey M
Published: September 2011

Abstract

Background:  We aimed to investigate the performance of five different trend analysis criteria for the detection of glaucomatous progression and to determine the most frequently and rapidly progressing locations of the visual field.

Design:  Retrospective cohort.

Participants or Samples:  Treated glaucoma patients with ≥8 Swedish Interactive Thresholding Algorithm (SITA)‐standard 24‐2 visual field tests.

Methods:  Progression was determined using trend analysis. Five different criteria were used: (A) ≥1 significantly progressing point; (B) ≥2 significantly progressing points; (C) ≥2 progressing points located in the same hemifield; (D) at least two adjacent progressing points located in the same hemifield; (E) ≥2 progressing points in the same Garway‐Heath map sector.

Main Outcome Measures:  Number of progressing eyes and false‐positive results.

Results:  We included 587 patients. The number of eyes reaching a progression end–point using each criterion was: A = 300 (51%); B = 212 (36%); C = 194 (33%); D = 170 (29%); and E = 186 (31%) (P ≤ 0.03). The numbers of eyes with positive slopes were: A = 13 (4.3%); B = 3 (1.4%); C = 3 (1.5%); D = 2 (1.1%); and E = 3 (1.6%) (P = 0.06). The global slopes for progressing eyes were more negative in Groups B, C and D than in Group A (P = 0.004). The visual field locations that progressed more often were those in the nasal field adjacent to the horizontal midline.

Conclusions:  Pointwise linear regression criteria that take into account the retinal nerve fibre layer anatomy enhances the specificity of trend analysis for the detection glaucomatous visual field progression.
Prevalence of blindness and low vision: a study in the rural Heilongjiang Province of China
Authors: Zhang Yaoguang , Wang Haijing , Liu Jianju , Wang Tiebin , Cao Shujie , Zhou Dan , Du Lingling , Li Zhisheng , Liu Ping
Published: September 2011

Abstract

Background:  The prevalence of blind individuals in the north of China is unknown. The study aimed to investigate the prevalence and causes of blindness and low vision in rural areas in Heilongjiang province of China in 2008–2009.

Design:  Cross‐sectional study.

Participants or Samples:  A cluster random sampling method was used to recruit participants of all ages in rural areas of Heilongjiang.

Methods:  Trained professionals performed interviews and clinical examinations to measure visual acuity. The relationships between blindness or low vision and age, gender and education level were analysed.

Main Outcome Measures:  The main outcome measure was prevalence rates of bilateral blindness and bilateral low vision.

Results:  Of the 11 787 subjects, 10 384 (88.1%) were surveyed. The overall age‐adjusted prevalence rates were 0.7% (95% confidence interval: 0.5–0.8%) for bilateral blindness and 1.7% (95% confidence interval: 1.4–1.9%) for bilateral low vision. The prevalence rates of blindness and low vision were higher in the elderly and uneducated population (P < 0.05). The main causes for blindness and low vision were cataracts (44.1 and 46.0%, respectively) and refractive errors (17.7 and 42.5%, respectively).

Conclusion:  Blindness and low vision are highly prevalent among people with cataracts and refractive errors. Eye care planning must focus on treating the avoidable and curable forms of blindness.
Effect of lipoic acid on expression of angiogenic factors in diabetic rat retina
Authors: Lee Sul Gee , Lee Chang Gun , Yun Il Han , Hur Dae Young , Yang Jae Wook , Kim Hyun Woong
Published: September 2011

Abstract

Background:  This study evaluated the effect of a lipoic acid on reactive oxygen species formation and the simultaneous changes of several angiogenic factors in an experimental diabetic rat retina.

Methods:  Diabetes was induced chemically by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin in 30 Sprague–Dawley rats. After inducing diabetes, lipoic acid (10 mg/kg) was administered to 10 rats orally. The rats were divided into normal, diabetes mellitus, and lipoic acid‐treated groups (each group n = 10). The eyeballs were harvested 8 weeks after inducing diabetes. The expression of vascular endothelial growth factor, erythropoietin, angiopoietin 1 and 2 and NADPH oxidase was examined in the rat retina using reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. Superoxide formation was examined using dihydroethidium stain.

Results:  Dihydroethidium analyses showed increased superoxide formation in the retina of the diabetic group. The superoxide formation was suppressed with lipoic acid treatment. Western blot analysis showed that NADPH oxidase was decreased in the diabetic group and returned to normal level in the lipoic acid‐treated group. Treatment with lipoic acid blocked hyperglycaemia induced increases of vascular endothelial growth factor, angiopoietin 2 and erythropoietin shown by reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis.

Conclusions:  Lipoic acid treatment suppressed expression of vascular endothelial growth factor, angiopoietin 2 and erythropoietin via blockade of superoxide formation. Antioxidant treatment is suspected to have an antiangiogenic effect.
Combined catheter thrombus fragmentation and fibrinolysis for acute pulmonary embolism
Authors: Gao H. , Huang G.‐Y. , Ma L.‐L. , Wang L.‐X.
Published: September 2011

Aims: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of combined catheter thrombus fragmentation and fibrinolysis for acute pulmonary embolism (PE).

Methods: Forty‐six patients (19 men and 27 women, average age 52.3 ± 13.4 years) with acute PE and right ventricular dysfunction were treated by mechanical thrombus fragmentation with a percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty guide catheter. Urokinase was injected into the culprit pulmonary artery after catheter thrombus fragmentation in all patients.

Result: Clinical success was achieved in all patients. After the treatment, the average pulmonary artery pressure was decreased from 57.2 ± 6.2 to 36.3 ± 4.1 mmHg (P < 0.01). The oxygen saturation rate was raised from 81.4 ± 4.3% to 97.0 ± 2.0% (P < 0.01), and the right ventricular function was improved. There was no in‐hospital mortality and there were no major complications, such as haemorrhage. Patients were treated with warfarin for 6 months with no signs of PE recurrence during the follow up.

Conclusion: In PE patients with right ventricular dysfunction and unstable haemodynamics, combined catheter thrombus fragmentation and thrombolysis appears to be a useful therapeutic strategy. In PE patients with right ventricular dysfunction and stable haemodynamics, randomized trials are still required to show that combination of catheter‐directed thrombus fragmentation and thrombolysis is superior to standard anticoagulation.
Practical guidelines for the acute emergency sedation of the severely agitated older patient
Authors: Peisah C. , Chan D. K. Y. , McKay R. , Kurrle S. E. , Reutens S. G.
Published: September 2011

The vulnerability of older people to serious underlying medical illness and adverse effects of psychotropics means that the safe and effective treatment of severe agitation can be lifesaving, the primary management goals being to create a safe environment for the patient and others, and to facilitate assessment and treatment. We review the literature on acute sedation and provide practical guidelines for the management of this problem addressing a range of issues, including aetiology, assessment, pharmacological and non‐pharmacological strategies, restraint and consent. The assessment of the agitated older patient must include concurrent assessment of the likely aetiology of, the risks posed by, and the risks/benefits of management options for, the agitation. A range of environmental modifications and non‐pharmacological strategies might be implemented to maximize the safety of the patient and others. Physical restraints should only be considered after appropriate assessment and trial of alternative management and if the risk of restraint is less than the risk of the behaviour. Limited evidence supports a range of pharmacological options from traditional antipsychotics to atypical antipsychotics and benzodiazepines. It is advised to start low and go slow, using small increments of dose increase. Medical staff are frequently called to sedate agitated older patients in hospital settings, often after hours, with limited access to relevant medical information and history. Safe and effective management necessitates adequate assessment of the aetiology of the agitation, exhausting all non‐pharmacological strategies, and resorting to pharmacological and/or physical restraint only when necessary, judiciously and for a short‐term period, with frequent review and the obtaining of consent as soon as possible.
Initial results of a randomized controlled trial comparing clinical and pathological downstaging of rectal cancer after preoperative short‐course radiotherapy or long‐term chemoradiotherapy, both with delayed surgery
Authors: Latkauskas T. , Pauzas H. , Gineikiene I. , Janciauskiene R. , Juozaityte E. , Saladzinskas Z. , Tamelis A. , Pavalkis D.
Published: September 2011

Aim  The aim of this study was to compare the downstaging achieved after long‐course chemoradiotherapy (chRT) and short‐term radiotherapy (sRT) followed by delayed surgery.

Method  A randomized controlled trial was carried out. Eighty‐three patients with resectable stage II and III rectal adenocarcinoma were randomized to receive long‐course chemoradiotherapy (46) and short‐term radiotherapy (5 × 5Gy) (37). Surgery was performed 6 weeks after preoperative treatment in both groups.

Results  The R0 resection rate was 91.3% in the chRT and 86.5% in the sRT group (P = 0.734). Sphincter preservation rates were 69.6%vs 70.3% (P = 0.342) and postoperative complication rates were 26.1%vs 40.5% (P = 0.221). There were more patients with early pT stage [pT0 (complete pathological response) pT1] in the chRT group [21.8%vs 2.7% (P = 0.03)] and more patients with pT3 disease in the sRT group [75.7%vs 52.2% (P = 0.036)]. There were no differences in pN stage and lymphatic or vascular invasion in either group. Pathological downstaging (stage 0 and I) was observed in eight (21.6%) patients in the sRT group and in 18 (39.1%) in the chRT group (P = 0.07). Tumours were smaller after preoperative ChRT (2.5 cm vs 3.3 cm; P = 0.04).

Conclusion  Long‐course preoperative chemoradiation resulted in greater statistically significant tumour downsizing and downstaging compared with short‐term radiation, but there was no difference in the R0 resection rates. Similar postoperative morbidity was observed in each group.
Palliative excisional surgery for primary colorectal cancer in patients with incurable metastatic disease. Is there a survival benefit? A systematic review
Authors: Anwar S. , Peter M. B. , Dent J. , Scott N. A.
Published: September 2011

Aim  Patients with stage IV colorectal cancer with unresectable metastases can either receive chemotherapy or palliative resection of the primary lesion. In the absence of any randomized data the choice of initial treatment in stage IV colorectal cancer is not based on firm evidence.

Method  A search of MEDLINE, Pubmed, Embase and the Cochrane Library database was performed from 1980 to 2010 for studies comparing palliative resection in stage IV colorectal cancer with other treatment modalities. Audits and observational studies were excluded. Median survival was the primary outcome measure. The morbidity and mortality of surgical and nonsurgical treatments were compared.

Results  Twenty‐one studies (no randomized controlled trials) were identified. Most demonstrated a survival benefit for patients who underwent palliative resection. Multivariate analysis indicates that tumour burden and performance status are both major independent prognostic variables. Selection bias, incomplete follow up and nonstandardized reporting of complications make the data difficult to interpret.

Conclusion  The studies indicate that there may be a survival benefit for primary resection of colorectal cancer in stage IV disease. The findings suggest that resection of the primary tumour should be based on tumour burden and performance status rather than on the presence or absence of symptoms alone.
Ultra‐low gossypol cottonseed: generational stability of the seed‐specific, RNAi‐mediated phenotype and resumption of terpenoid profile following seed germination
Authors: Rathore Keerti S. , Sundaram Sabarinath , Sunilkumar Ganesan , Campbell LeAnne M. , Puckhaber Lorraine , Marcel Sylvain , Palle Sreenath R. , Stipanovic Robert D. , Wedegaertner Thomas C.
Published: September 2011

Cottonseed, containing 22.5% protein, remains an under‐utilized and under‐valued resource because of the presence of toxic gossypol. RNAi‐knockdown of δ‐cadinene synthase gene(s) was used to engineer plants that produced ultra‐low gossypol cottonseed (ULGCS). In the original study, we observed that RNAi plants, a month or older, maintain normal complement of gossypol and related terpenoids in the roots, foliage, floral organs, and young bolls. However, the terpenoid levels and profile of the RNAi lines during the early stages of germination, under normal conditions and in response to pathogen exposure, had not been examined. Results obtained in this study show that during the early stages of seed germination/seedling growth, in both non‐transgenic and RNAi lines, the tissues derived directly from bulk of the seed kernel (cotyledon and hypocotyl) synthesize little, if any new terpenoids. However, the growing root tissue and the emerging true leaves of RNAi seedlings showed normal, wild‐type terpenoid levels. Biochemical and molecular analyses showed that pathogen‐challenged parts of RNAi seedlings are capable of launching a terpenoid‐based defence response. Nine different RNAi lines were monitored for five generations. The results show that, unlike the unstable nature of antisense‐mediated low seed‐gossypol phenotype, the RNAi‐mediated ULGCS trait exhibited multi‐generational stability.
Neuroimaging and obesity: current knowledge and future directions
Authors: Carnell S. , Gibson C. , Benson L. , Ochner C. N. , Geliebter A.
Published: September 2011

Neuroimaging is becoming increasingly common in obesity research as investigators try to understand the neurological underpinnings of appetite and body weight in humans. Positron emission tomography (PET), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies examining responses to food intake and food cues, dopamine function and brain volume in lean vs. obese individuals are now beginning to coalesce in identifying irregularities in a range of regions implicated in reward (e.g. striatum, orbitofrontal cortex, insula), emotion and memory (e.g. amygdala, hippocampus), homeostatic regulation of intake (e.g. hypothalamus), sensory and motor processing (e.g. insula, precentral gyrus), and cognitive control and attention (e.g. prefrontal cortex, cingulate). Studies of weight change in children and adolescents, and those at high genetic risk for obesity, promise to illuminate causal processes. Studies examining specific eating behaviours (e.g. external eating, emotional eating, dietary restraint) are teaching us about the distinct neural networks that drive components of appetite, and contribute to the phenotype of body weight. Finally, innovative investigations of appetite‐related hormones, including studies of abnormalities (e.g. leptin deficiency) and interventions (e.g. leptin replacement, bariatric surgery), are shedding light on the interactive relationship between gut and brain. The dynamic distributed vulnerability model of eating behaviour in obesity that we propose has scientific and practical implications.
Remuneration Committees, Pay Consultants and the Determination of Executive Directors' Pay
Authors: Ogden Stuart , Watson Robert
Published: September 2011

This paper explores how Board Remuneration Committee (Remco) decisions about executive pay are influenced by pay consultants. Drawing on resource dependency theory and case study evidence from five companies, the paper illuminates the complexities of the pressures and processes confronting both Remcos and pay consultants in the determination of executive pay awards. In contrast to ‘managerial power’ arguments, it demonstrates that the Remcos are proactive in managing pay policy, conscientious in seeking to ensure that pay is appropriate and not over‐generous, and that pay consultants are independent and take their instructions entirely from the Remco. Nevertheless, Remcos' understandings of the wider pay environment, informed by the comparative data supplied by pay consultants, constructs a climate in which the Remcos come to perceive a need for periodic upward pay adjustments to ensure that executive remuneration is consistent with external benchmarks if they are to avoid recruitment and retention problems.