bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The type IIB string axiverse and its low-energy phenomenology
Authors: Cicoli Michele , Goodsell Mark D. , Ringwald Andreas
Published: October 2012

Abstract

We study closed string axions in type IIB orientifold compactifications. We show that for natural values of the background fluxes the moduli stabilisation mechanism of the LARGE Volume Scenario (LVS) gives rise to an axiverse characterised by the presence of a QCD axion plus many light axion-like particles whose masses are logarithmically hierarchical. We study the phenomenological features of the LVS axiverse, deriving the masses of the axions and their couplings to matter and gauge fields. We also determine when closed string axions can solve the strong CP problem, and analyse the first explicit examples of semi-realistic models with stable moduli and a QCD axion candidate which is not eaten by an anomalous Abelian gauge boson. We discuss the impact of the choice of inflationary scenario on the LVS axiverse, and summarise the astrophysical, cosmological and experimental constraints upon it. Moreover, we show how models can be constructed with additional light axion-like particles that could explain some intriguing astrophysical anomalies, and could be searched for in the next generation of axion helioscopes and light-shining-through-a-wall experiments.
Talking to Children About Maternal BRCA1/2 Genetic Test Results: A Qualitative Study of Parental Perceptions and Advice
Authors: Patenaude Andrea Farkas , DeMarco Tiffani A. , Peshkin Beth N. , Valdimarsdottir Heiddis , Garber Judy E. , Schneider Katherine A. , Hewitt Larissa , Hamilton Jennifer , Tercyak Kenneth P.
Published: October 2012

Family communication is the primary, initial means of educating the next, at‐risk generation about hereditary cancer risk. In this study, in‐depth parent narratives provided self‐report of motivations, planning, satisfactions and regrets associated with sharing or not sharing maternal BRCA1/2 test results with young children and advice for parents considering disclosure and for genetic counselors. Interviews were conducted with 32 mothers tested for BRCA1/2 with children ages 8–21 years and 24 of their co‐parents; interview narratives were analyzed qualitatively. Parents were concerned with both protecting and educating children about hereditary cancer risk. They expressed confidence that parents can constructively convey genetic information to minor children. Telling relieved most parents and satisfied a sense of parental duty. Parents strongly advised child‐specific, age‐appropriate tailoring of genetic information and emphasized conveying the positive, preventive utility of genetic information to children. Immunizing effects of disclosure were viewed as providing forewarning about and preparation for possible later family cancer diagnoses. Parents choosing not to tell children were advised to consider future disclosure. Narratives about parental sharing of BRCA1/2 test results with minor children support the feasibility of parental discussion of maternal genetic test results to the next at‐risk generation. Results suggest development of intervention tools for parents would support decision‐making and family communication and potentially reduce parental worry and regret. Recommendations are made for more active involvement by genetic counselors with tested parents around the topic of delivery of genetic information to children.
Functional analysis of MITF gene mutations associated with Waardenburg syndrome type 2
Authors: Zhang Hua , Luo Hunjin , Chen Hongsheng , Mei Lingyun , He Chufeng , Jiang Lu , Li Jia-Da , Feng Yong
Published: October 2012

MITF mutations results in an abnormal melanocyte development and lead to Waardenburg syndrome type 2 (WS2). Here, we analyzed the in vitro activities of two recently identified WS2‐associated MITF mutations (p.R217I and p.T192fsX18). The R217I MITF retained partial activity, normal DNA‐binding ability and nuclear distribution, whereas the T192fsX18 MITF failed to activate TYR promoter and showed aberrant subcellular localization which may be caused by deletion of nuclear localization signal (NLS) at aa 213–218 (ERRRRF). These results suggest that haploinsufficiency may be the underlying mechanism for the mild phenotypes of WS2 caused by these two mutations.
Mitotic centromere‐associated kinase (MCAK/Kif2C) regulates cellular senescence in human primary cells through a p53‐dependent pathway
Authors: Gwon Mi-Ri , Cho Jung Hee , Kim Jae-Ryong
Published: October 2012

Mitotic centromere‐associated kinase (MCAK/Kif2C) plays a critical role in chromosome movement and segregation with ATP‐dependent microtubule depolymerase activity. However, its role in cellular senescence remains unclear. MCAK/Kif2C expression decreased in human primary cells under replicative and premature senescence. MCAK/Kif2C down‐regulation in young cells induced premature senescence. MCAK/Kif2C overexpression in old cells partially reversed cell senescence. Senescence phenotypes by MCAK/Kif2C knockdown were observed in p16‐knockdown cells, but not in p53‐knockdown cells. These results suggest that MCAK/Kif2C plays an important role in the regulation of cellular senescence through a p53‐dependent pathway and might contribute to tissue/organism aging and protection of cellular transformation.
UDP‐N‐acetylglucosamine transporter and UDP‐galactose transporter form heterologous complexes in the Golgi membrane
Authors: Maszczak-Seneczko Dorota , Sosicka Paulina , Majkowski Michał , Olczak Teresa , Olczak Mariusz
Published: October 2012

UGT1
physically interacts with
NGT
by fluorescent resonance energy transfer (View interaction)
Sim3 shares some common roles with the histone chaperone Asf1 in fission yeast
Authors: Tanae Katsuhiro , Horiuchi Tomitaka , Yamakawa Takuya , Matsuo Yuzy , Kawamukai Makoto
Published: October 2012

An H3/H4 histone chaperone, Asf1, plays an essential role in maintaining genomic stability in many species, including fission yeast. Here, we showed that overexpression of a CENP‐A chaperone Sim3 suppressed the temperature sensitive phenotype of asf1–33 and asf1–30 mutants and the defect in chromatin structure, and prevented the accumulation of DNA damage in asf1–33 mutants at high temperatures. Furthermore, asf1–33 and Δsim3 were synthetic lethal. Consistent with this, shutdown of sim3 expression in asf1–33 Δsim3 double mutants that contained extragenic sim3 resulted in growth retardation. In addition, the Δsim3 mutant displayed sensitivity to thiabendazol and hydroxyurea, which suggests that Sim3 plays a general role in maintaining chromatin structure. Our results suggest a possibility that Sim3 functions as a histone chaperone.
Observational study of the use of Symphytum 5CH in the management of pain and swelling after dental implant surgery
Authors: Montanaro Fabio , Mazzocchi Alberto
Published: October 2012

Objective: To assess the effect of Symphytum 5CH on the postoperative pain and swelling after placement of a titanium dental implant.

Material and methods: Data on pain and swelling following pure titanium implants were reviewed. Patients were treated postoperatively with ketoprofen only or ketoprofen and Symphytum 5CH, according to the treating dentist's usual practice. Demographics and baseline characteristics were recorded and compared. Pain and swelling were compared between the two treatment groups using the Wilcoxon rank sum test and ordinal logistic regression, estimating odds ratios and confidence intervals.

Results: 100 implants in 57 patients (28 males, 29 females) were treated with ketoprofen alone; 100 implants in 60 patients (14 males, 46 females) with ketoprofen and Symphytum. The group treated with ketoprofen and Symphytum appeared to have a better response in terms of both pain and swelling. Ordinal logistic regression: pain 0.23, 95% CI 0.13–0.41; swelling 0.24, 95% CI 0.13–0.44. Correction for demographics and implant characteristics greatly widened the confidence intervals so that the results were no longer statistically significant (pain: OR = 0.15, 95% CI 0.07–34.56; swelling OR = 0.18, 95% CI 0.07–46.78).

Conclusions: Adding Symphytum 5CH to conventional analgesia may reduce pain and swelling after minor dental implant surgery. No firm conclusion can be drawn since the results are confounded by baseline differences, principally gender. Further, randomized, studies should be conducted.
A systematic review and meta-analysis on the use of Hypericum perforatum (St. John's Wort) for pain conditions in dental practice
Authors: Büssing Arndt , Gassmann Georg , Boehm Katja , Ostermann Thomas , Raak Christa
Published: October 2012

Background:
Hypericum perforatum (St. John's Wort) has been used for a variety of medicinal indications. Most recent research has focussed on its use in herbal form for depression, but its claimed analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties in homeopathic form have also led to a number of studies in patients with acute pain conditions. This systematic review overviews the literature on the use of St. John's Wort for pain conditions in homeopathic dental practice.

Material and methods:
PubMed, EMBASE, AMED, CAMbase and the electronic archives of Thieme Publishers were searched with the search terms “(Hypericum OR St. Johns Wort) AND pain”. We reviewed and meta-analysed the evidence on Hypericum in pain after tooth extraction was carried out.

Results:
Twenty one relevant articles were found: four described general recommendations, three basic research, six reported studies in dental care and eight were expert opinions or case reports. Four studies were eligible for the meta-analysis. There was marked high heterogeneity in the effects pain (Chi-Squared = 26.46; I2 = 0.89). The overall effect of 0.24 (95% CI: [0.06; 1.03]) favours Hypericum but is not statistically significant.

Conclusion:
Although case reports suggest therapeutic potential of Hypericum for pain conditions in dental care, this effect is not currently supported by clinical studies. All studies included in this meta-analysis used Arnica montana as well as Hypericum the results are more influenced by Arnica than Hypericum. Further clinical controlled trials of Hypericum alone in dental practice should be performed.
Reproductive health awareness among educated young women in Egypt
Authors: El Gelany Saad , Moussa Ola
Published: October 2012

Objective

To assess the awareness of female Egyptian university students regarding reproductive health (RH) issues, and determine the factors contributing to the students' awareness.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted, in which 220 female Egyptian university students selected by purposive random sampling were interviewed by means of an in‐depth questionnaire. The interviews were private and confidential, and the questions concerned female reproductive anatomy and physiology; sexually transmitted diseases and HIV/AIDS; personal preferences, such as age of marriage and spacing between pregnancies; and where young women can access RH care.

Results

A large proportion of the participants exhibited misunderstanding or a complete lack of knowledge about important RH issues. This overall result, which was determined to be attributable to age and sociocultural factors such as education level, comes as a source of concern for both health service providers and policy makers.

Conclusion

Awareness of RH is poor in Egypt, even among young women attending institutions of higher education. The present study not only highlights the persistent need for the ongoing RH information programs, but may also provide policy makers with data that will inform new strategies.
Endless loop tachycardia below the upper tracking rate of a pacemaker: A case report
Authors: Sakamoto Atsushi , Takeuchi Ryosuke , Hosoya Natsuko , Kageyama Shigetaka , Kajihara Jun , Takahashi Kosuke , Kurabe Takashi , Murata Koichiro , Nawada Ryuzo , Onodera Tomoya , Takizawa Akinori , Nomura Ryota , Nakai Masanao
Published: October 2012

An 82‐year‐old female with a history of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), sick sinus syndrome (SSS), and an implanted DDD pacemaker was admitted to our hospital for congestive heart failure caused by rapid atrial fibrillation. After administration of amiodarone, atrial fibrillation (AF) became atrial flutter (AFL). Electrophysiological investigation revealed counterclockwise AFL. Catheter ablation of the cavotricuspid isthmus was performed. Burst pacing from the coronary sinus ostium to confirm the block line of the isthmus induced rapid, regular, ventricular pacing at a rate of 110 bpm. The differential diagnosis of this tachycardia included ectopic atrial tachycardia and pacemaker‐mediated, endless loop tachycardia (ELT). We diagnosed this arrhythmia as ELT, because temporary reprogramming of the pacemaker mode from DDD to VVI terminated the tachycardia. In this patient, pacing parameters favored ELT (long atrioventricular delay [AVD] and short postventricular atrial refractory period [PVARP]), and atrioventricular and ventriculoatrial conduction time was prolonged as a result of amiodarone administration.

The ELT continued because the rate was lower than the programmed upper tracking rate. Reprogramming the parameter (decreasing AVD and increasing PVARP) resulted in termination of ELT.
Markedly reduced ventricular arrhythmia during the peripartum period in a pregnant woman with Andersen‐Tawil syndrome
Authors: Kamiya Chizuko A. , Shimizu Wataru , Kabayashi Yoshinari , Miyoshi Takekazu , Horiuchi Chinami , Umekawa Takashi , Yamanaka Kaoru , Neki Reiko , Katsuragi Shinji , Yoshimatsu Jun , Ikeda Tomoaki
Published: October 2012

Andersen‐Tawil syndrome (ATS), also known as long QT syndrome type 7, is a rare autosomal dominant disease caused by a KCNJ2 mutation. The characteristic triad of ATS is periodic paralysis, dysmorphic features, and ventricular arrhythmia. We describe a case of a woman with Andersen‐Tawil syndrome and a history of syncope whose pregnancy was complicated with frequent premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) and nonsustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT). Her PVCs and NSVT were significantly decreased during the peripartum period, especially during labor. We treated her with beta‐blockers throughout her pregnancy, and she experienced no complications. Although the mechanism underlying the decreased PVCs and NSVT in pregnancy has not been elucidated, women with ATS may have less arrhythmic event risk during pregnancy.
HDAC inhibitor‐based therapies: Can we interpret the code?
Authors: New Maria , Olzscha Heidi , La Thangue Nicholas B.
Published: October 2012

Abnormal epigenetic control is a common early event in tumour progression, and aberrant acetylation in particular has been implicated in tumourigenesis. One of the most promising approaches towards drugs that modulate epigenetic processes has been seen in the development of inhibitors of histone deacetylases (HDACs). HDACs regulate the acetylation of histones in nucleosomes, which mediates changes in chromatin conformation, leading to regulation of gene expression. HDACs also regulate the acetylation status of a variety of other non‐histone substrates, including key tumour suppressor proteins and oncogenes. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDIs) are potent anti‐proliferative agents which modulate acetylation by targeting histone deacetylases. Interest is increasing in HDI‐based therapies and so far, two HDIs, vorinostat (SAHA) and romidepsin (FK228), have been approved for treating cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL). Others are undergoing clinical trials. Treatment with HDIs prompts tumour cells to undergo apoptosis, and cell‐based studies have shown a number of other outcomes to result from HDI treatment, including cell‐cycle arrest, cell differentiation, anti‐angiogenesis and autophagy. However, our understanding of the key pathways through which HDAC inhibitors affect tumour cell growth remains incomplete, which has hampered progress in identifying malignancies other than CTCL which are likely to respond to HDI treatment.
Subtype‐specific response to bevacizumab is reflected in the metabolome and transcriptome of breast cancer xenografts
Authors: Borgan Eldrid , Lindholm Evita M. , Moestue Siver , Mælandsmo Gunhild M. , Lingjærde Ole Christian , Gribbestad Ingrid S. , Børresen-Dale Anne-Lise , Engebraaten Olav , Sørlie Therese
Published: October 2012

Antiangiogenic therapy with bevacizumab has shown varying results in breast cancer clinical trials. Identifying robust biomarkers for selecting patients who may benefit from such treatment and for monitoring response is important for the future use of bevacizumab.

Two established xenograft models representing basal‐like and luminal‐like breast cancer were used to study bevacizumab treatment response on the metabolic and gene expression levels. Tumor samples were obtained from mice treated with bevacizumab, doxorubicin or a combination of the two drugs, and high resolution magic angle spinning magnetic resonance spectroscopy and gene expression microarray analysis was performed.

Combination treatment with bevacizumab showed the strongest growth inhibiting effect in basal‐like tumors, and this was reflected by a significant change in the metabolomic and transcriptomic profiles. In the luminal‐like xenografts, addition of bevacizumab did not improve the effect of doxorubicin. On the global transcriptomic level, the largest gene expression changes were observed for the most efficient treatment in both models. Glycerophosphocholine showed opposite response in the treated xenografts compared with untreated controls; lower in basal‐like and higher in luminal‐like tumors. Comparing combination therapy with doxorubicin monotherapy in basal‐like xenografts, 14 genes showed significant differential expression, including very low density lipoprotein receptor (VLDLR) and hemoglobin, theta 1 (HBQ1). Bevacizumab‐treated tumors were associated with a more hypoxic phenotype, while no evidence was found for associations between bevacizumab treatment and vascular invasion or tumor grade.

This study underlines the importance of characterizing biological differences between subtypes of breast cancer to identify personalized biomarkers for improved patient stratification and evaluation of response to therapy.
Does Preoperative Rehabilitation Improve Patient‐Based Outcomes in Persons Who Have Undergone Total Knee Arthroplasty? A Systematic Review
Authors: Silkman Baker Carrie , McKeon Jennifer Medina
Published: October 2012

Background

Common clinical practice includes attempts to improve pain, function, motion, and patient independence before total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgery. Although preoperative rehabilitation often is prescribed, it is unknown whether this care improves patient outcomes after TKA surgery.

Objective

To focus on how TKA preoperative rehabilitation affects quality of life, pain, and physical outcomes after surgery.

Data Sources

A computerized search was performed in February 2011. We searched PubMed, Ageline, CIHNAL, and SPORTDiscus from 1950 through February 2011 using combinations of the terms knee, rehabilitation, arthroplasty, preoperative, and presurgical. Searches were limited to “human” and “English” studies reported in peer‐review journals.

Study Selection

Seven studies met the inclusion criteria. For all variables, none was consistently favorable toward preoperative rehabilitation over alternative or control treatment.

Data Extraction

Means and standard deviations (SDs) for each category of the Western Ontario and McMaster Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), range of motion, and length of stay (LOS) were obtained and served to calculate point measures and measures of variability. Specifically, bias‐adjusted Hedges' g effect sizes, along with 95% confidence intervals, were calculated to assess the magnitude of the treatment effect for each outcome, with separate meta‐analyses performed as a summary of the treatment response for each outcome.

Data Synthesis

A total of 240 studies were identified in the search of the literature. On the basis of the title, abstract, or study content, 203 studies were excluded. Of the remaining 37 studies, 30 were excluded on the basis of study design and choice of outcome measures. The results of this review indicate that preoperative rehabilitation likely had no true treatment effect on WOMAC scores, range of motion, and LOS because all effect sizes were weak (<0.4) and confidence intervals crossed zero.

Conclusion

For all outcomes, none was consistently favorable toward preoperative rehabilitation over the alternative for patients undergoing TKA with the exception of LOS in favor of the treatment group.
Can political science contribute to agricultural policy?
Authors: Grant Wyn P
Published: October 2012

The contribution made by political science to the study of agricultural policy and the food chain is reviewed with an emphasis on the literature on interests. There is a fundamental question about ‘Who benefits?’ from government policy. Six general propositions are extracted from this literature and assessed. Directions for future theoretical and empirical work are discussed, it being argued that accounts of how policy agendas are constructed could be particularly helpful. Political science needs to move beyond its existing frameworks of analysis and develop a more interdisciplinary political economy approach.
Paleoecology and radiocarbon dating of the Pleistocene megafauna of the Brazilian Intertropical Region
Authors: Dantas Mário André Trindade , Dutra Rodrigo Parisi , Cherkinsky Alexander , Fortier Daniel Costa , Kamino Luciana Hiromi Yoshino , Cozzuol Mario Alberto , Ribeiro Adauto de Souza , Vieira Fabiana Silva
Published: October 2012

During the Pleistocene a fauna composed of large (biomass > 44 kg) and giant mammals (biomass > 1000 kg) that are usually associated with open environments lived in the Brazilian Intertropical Region. We present here new information concerning the paleoecology and chronology of some species of this megafauna. Carbon isotope analyses were performed for a better understanding of the paleoecology of the species Eremotherium laurillardi (Lund, 1842), Notiomastodon platensis (Ameghino, 1888) and Toxodon platensis (Owen, 1849). The δ13C data allow attributing a generalist diet to these species, which varied according to the kind of habitat in which they lived. In more open habitats all species were grazers; in mixed habitats E. laurillardi and T. platensis were mixed feeders, and N. platensis was grazer; and in more closed habitats all species were mixed feeders.
Direct estimation of sialic acid in milk and milk products by fluorimetry and its application in detection of sweet whey adulteration in milk
Authors: Neelima  , Rao Priyanka Singh , Sharma Rajan , Rajput Yudhishthir S.
Published: October 2012

Sialic acid, being a biologically active compound, is recognised as an important component of milk and milk products. Almost all the sialic acid estimation protocols in milk require prior hydrolysis step to release the bound sialic acid followed by its estimation. The objective of this work was to estimate sialic acid in milk and milk products by fluorimetric assay which does not require a prior hydrolysis step thus decreasing the estimation time. The recovery of added sialic acid in milk was 91·6 to 95·8%. Sialic acid in milk was found to be dependent on cattle breed and was in the range of 1·68–3·93 g/kg (dry matter basis). The assay was further extended to detect adulteration of milk with sweet whey which is based on the detection of glycomacropeptide (GMP) bound sialic acid in adulterated milk. GMP is the C-terminal part of κ-casein which is released into the whey during cheese making. For detection of adulteration, selective precipitation of GMP was done using trichloroacetic acid (TCA). TCA concentration in milk was first raised to 5% to precipitate milk proteins, especially κ-casein, followed by raising the TCA concentration to 14% to precipitate out GMP. In the precipitates GMP bound sialic acid was estimated using fluorimetric method and the fluorescence intensity was found to be directly proportional to the level of sweet whey in adulterated milk samples. The method was found to detect the presence of 5% sweet whey in milk.
Time-dependent non-planar dust-acoustic solitary and shock waves in strongly coupled adiabatic dusty plasma
Authors: RAHMAN M. S. , SHIKHA B. , MAMUN A. A.
Published: October 2012

Time-dependent cylindrical and spherical dust-acoustic (DA) solitary and shock waves propagating in a strongly coupled dusty plasmas (containing strongly correlated negatively charged dust grains and weakly correlated adiabatic electrons and ions) are investigated. It is shown that cylindrical and spherical DA solitary and shock waves exist with negative potential, and that the strong correlation between the charged dust grains is a source of dissipation, and is responsible for the formation of cylindrical or spherical DA shock structures. It is also shown that the effects of a non-planar geometry (cylindrical and spherical) significantly modify the basic features (e.g. amplitude, width, speed, etc.) of DA solitary and shock waves. The implications of our results in laboratory experiments are briefly discussed.
Effectiveness of a nationwide aftercare program for suicide attempters
Authors: Pan Y.-J. , Chang W.-H. , Lee M.-B. , Chen C.-H. , Liao S.-C. , Caine E. D.
Published: October 2012

Background

The effectiveness of large-scale interventions to prevent suicide among persons who previously attempted suicide remains to be determined. The National Suicide Surveillance System (NSSS), launched in Taiwan in 2006, is a structured nationwide intervention program for people who survived their suicide attempts. This naturalistic study examined its effectiveness using data from the first 3 years of its operation.

Method

Effectiveness of the NSSS aftercare services was examined using a logistic/proportional odds mixture model, with eventual suicide as the outcome of interest. As well, we examined time until death for those who died and factors associated with eventual suicide.

Results

Receipt of aftercare services was associated with reduced risk for subsequent suicide; for service recipients who eventually killed themselves, there was a prolonged duration between the index and fatal attempts. Elderly attempters were particularly prone to a shorter duration between the index and fatal attempts. Male gender, the lethality potential of the index attempt, and a history of having had a mental disorder also were associated with higher risk.

Conclusions

The structured aftercare program of the NSSS appears to decrease suicides and to delay time to death for those who remained susceptible to suicide.
The Islamic penalty for adultery in the third centuryahand Al-Shāfiʿī'sRisāla
Authors: Pavlovitch Pavel
Published: October 2012

At the end of the second centuryahal-Shāfiʿī (d. 204/820) advocated stoning as the sole penalty for adultery instead of an earlier rule that combined flogging with stoning. Al-Shāfiʿī's innovative doctrine was barely noticed by the jurisprudents, exegetes andḥadīthcollectors during the first half of the third centuryah, but apparently provoked a legal debate shortly thereafter. This article explores the development of the third-century dual- vs. single-penalty dispute and its implications for the chronology of al-Shāfiʿī'sRisāla.
Dual power in Susa: Chronicle of a transitional period from Ur III via Šimaški to the Sukkalmaḫs
Authors: De Graef Katrien
Published: October 2012

This article brings together evidence from both documentary texts and royal inscriptions from Susa in order to develop a chronological and historical perspective on the transitional period between the loss of control of the Ur III empire and the institutionalization of the Sukkalmaḫ regime. A study of the archaeological and archival context of the administrative texts resulted in a new chronology for the beginning of the Sukkalmaḫat, the basic argument for which is the early dating of the rule of Atta-ḫušu. Newly discovered inscriptions and new interpretations of existing inscriptions serve not only to adjust this chronology, but also to pave the way for an innovative and coherent socio-economic history of the early Sukkalmaḫat.
End of Life in Residential Care from the Perspective of Care Aides
Authors: Waskiewich Shelly , Funk Laura M. , Stajduhar Kelli I.
Published: October 2012

Nous avons examiné les caractéristiques contextuelles qui façonnent les soins de fin de vie (SFV) dans les établissements de soins pour bénéficiaires, en s’appuyant sur les perspectives de 11 aidants résidents (AR) dans un centre urbain canadien de l’Ouest. ARs décrivent les soins de fin de vie comme “offrant un confort,” y compris le bien-être physique et émotionnel. Les inquiétudes au sujet des défis posés par le temps et la charge de travail ont dominé les comptes et ont généré la culpabilité, la tristesse et de la frustration. ARs ont essayé de “trouver le temps” en le prenant d’eux-mêmes ou les autres résidents, et en s’appuyant sur l’engagement des collègues et sur les familles. Les résultats soulignent l’importance du rôle d’AR (en particulier en offrant un confort émotionnel), mais faire appel à l’attention à l’interprétation de ce qui est impliqué dans ce travail, et à la définition du portée de la pratique et de la formation. Les résultats également réitère l’importance, entre aidants résidents canadiens, des charges de travail adéquates pour faciliter les soins de fin de vie de qualité, et soulève des préoccupations au sujet des contraintes et comment elles forment la pratique de soins de fin de vie et les significations qui infusent une telle pratique.
Respiratory Protection During Simulated Emergency Pediatric Life Support: A Randomized, Controlled, Crossover Study
Authors: Schumacher Jan , Gray Stuart A. , Michel Sophie , Alcock Roger , Brinker Andrea
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Emergency pediatric life support (EPLS) of children infected with transmissible respiratory diseases requires adequate respiratory protection for medical first responders. Conventional air-purifying respirators (APR) and modern loose-fitting powered air-purifying respirator-hoods (PAPR-hood) may have a different impact during pediatric resuscitation and therefore require evaluation.

Objective

This study investigated the influence of APRs and PAPR-hoods during simulated pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Methods

Study design was a randomized, controlled, crossover study. Sixteen paramedics carried out a standardized EPLS scenario inside an ambulance, either unprotected (control) or wearing a conventional APR or a PAPR-hood. Treatment times and wearer comfort were determined and compared.

Results

All paramedics completed the treatment objectives of the study arms without adverse events. Study subjects reported that communication, dexterity and mobility were significantly better in the APR group, whereas the heat-build-up was significantly less in the PAPR-hood group. Treatment times compared to the control group did not significantly differ for the APR group but did with the PAPR-hood group (261±12 seconds for the controls, 275±9 seconds for the conventional APR and 286±13 seconds for the PAPR-hood group, P < .05.

Conclusions

APRs showed a trend to better treatment times compared to PAPR-hoods during simulated pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Study participants rated mobility, ease of communication and dexterity with the tight-fitting APR system significantly better compared to the loose-fitting PAPR-hood.

SchumacherJ, GraySA, MichelS, AlcockR, BrinkerA. Respiratory protection during simulated emergency pediatric life support: a randomized, controlled, crossover study. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2013;28(1):1-6.
Elucidation of genetic identity and population structure of cacao germplasm within an international cacao genebank
Authors: Motilal Lambert A. , Zhang Dapeng , Umaharan Pathmanathan , Boccara Michel , Mischke Sue , Sankar Antoinette , Meinhardt Lyndel W.
Published: October 2012

Theobroma cacaoL., or cacao, is the source of cocoa products used in the making of chocolate. These tropical trees are conserved in living genebanks. The International Cocoa Genebank, Trinidad is one of the largestex situcollections in the public domain. Mislabelling is a critical problem and the correction of this problem is vital to improve the accuracy and efficiency of genebank management. Using microsatellite DNA markers, we assessed the level of mislabelling in a group of Refractario cacao that originated from Ecuador and determined their population memberships through Bayesian clustering analysis. The microsatellite data revealed a synonymous rate of 7.5% and an error rate of 39.4% in this germplasm subset. The analysis of the population structure grouped the Refractario accessions into four subclusters, indicating intra-population heterogeneity in this germplasm group. Based on the results, we recommend that when the assignment test is used for cacao genotype identification, it should (a) use duplicated samples as internal checks, (b) choose suitable reference accessions, including a known homogeneous group and (c) employ subclustering checks to obtain reliable results. The information framework generated is discussed in relation to the management of the collection, population enhancement and future research of the collection.
Colorado Twin Registry: An Update
Authors: Rhea Sally-Ann , Gross Andy A. , Haberstick Brett C. , Corley Robin P.
Published: October 2012

The Colorado Twin Registry (CTR) is a population-based registry housed at the Institute for Behavioral Genetics at the University of Colorado. Recruitment began in 1982 and includes twins born from 1968 to the present. Four samples are currently drawn from the CTR: The Community Twin Sample, the Longitudinal Twin Sample, the Early Reading Development Sample, and the Colorado Learning Sample. Criteria for enrollment, recruitment strategies, demographic information, and zygosity assignment are explained for each sample. In addition, five studies in which CTR twins are now participating are highlighted. These include studies of cognition, learning ability, and vulnerability to substance abuse and antisocial behavior. The development of the CTR is an ongoing and evolving process, and it has proven to be a valuable registry, relatively representative of the population from which it was drawn.
Vegetated mixing layer around a finite‐size patch of submerged plants: Part 2. Turbulence statistics and structures
Authors: Sukhodolov Alexander N. , Sukhodolova Tatiana A.
Published: October 2012

Dynamics of vegetated mixing layer displays analogy with canonical and shallow mixing layers. Universality of turbulence and minor influence of flexible aquatic plants on the individual turbulent eddies are anticipated as the prerequisites for the analogy. This paper explores theoretically and experimentally some aspects of analogy by examining spatial patterns of turbulence characteristics around a finite‐size patch of submerged flexible vegetation the population density of which was varied between the experimental runs [Sukhodolova and Sukhodolov, 2012]. It introduces analysis of turbulent shear stress, kinetic energy, dissipation rate, and periodicity of organized motions inside the vegetated mixing layer. The theory is compared with the field experiments. The results of the study indicate that the flow structure around the patch with dense population agrees well with the proposed theoretical scaling relations and reveals many aspects of the analogy to hydrodynamic mixing layers. Around the patch with sparse vegetation the flow structure is best represented by a perturbed boundary layer model. These conclusions on the dynamics of the flow are supported by the analysis of scaled turbulence characteristics. The patterns of turbulence profiles are approximated by scaling functions fairly well while the values of scaling parameters differ from the values reported for canonical and shallow mixing layers. This is an important result which agrees with the previous reports of laboratory research with model vegetation and is explained by a combined effect of internal shear and friction at the top of the canopy.
Constraints on the history of open‐basin lakes on Mars from the composition and timing of volcanic resurfacing
Authors: Goudge Timothy A. , Mustard John F. , Head James W. , Fassett Caleb I.
Published: October 2012

Abundant evidence exists for valley network‐related fluvial activity near the Noachian‐Hesperian transition on Mars, and areally significant quantities of volcanic ridged plains were emplaced during this period as well. Thus, it is worthwhile to explore the hypothesis that lava‐water interaction occurred on the surface of Mars at this time. We analyzed the morphology, physical properties, composition, and surface ages of thirty open‐basin lakes (topographic lows with both an inlet valley and an outlet valley) that were also resurfaced by volcanic flows. Hyperspectral imaging data from the Compact Reconnaissance Imaging Spectrometer for Mars (CRISM) and Observatoire pour la Minéralogie, l'Eau, les Glaces et l'Activité (OMEGA) instruments indicate that of the 30 basins, 12 exhibit the spectral properties of basaltic lithologies with diagnostic absorptions of olivine, high‐calcium pyroxene and low‐calcium pyroxene. An olivine/high‐calcium pyroxene mixture is the most commonly identified mineral assemblage, consistent with other Hesperian‐aged volcanic units. Therefore, our mineralogical results for over a third of the open‐basin lake floors analyzed support prior interpretations that the basins were resurfaced by volcanic flows. Supporting evidence for resurfacing by volcanic flows is also given by the observed morphology and physical properties (e.g., surface roughness, thermal inertia) of the resurfaced open‐basin lake floors. In these 30 examples, however, no evidence was found for lava‐water interaction. The ages of emplacement, derived through counts of superposed craters, of all 30 of the open‐basin lake volcanic resurfacing units show that resurfacing began in the Late Noachian, near the Noachian‐Hesperian boundary, was concentrated in the Hesperian, and continued into the Early Amazonian. The lack of geologic features indicative of lava‐water interaction suggests that the basins were likely to have been mostly devoid of water at the time of the latest phase of volcanic resurfacing. We conclude that there is no geologic evidence that suggests the fluvial activity associated with the studied paleolakes was coeval with the emplacement of the observed volcanic resurfacing units, several of which date to the Late Noachian‐Early Hesperian.
Mechanisms of mesenchymal stromal cell immunomodulation
Authors: English Karen
Published: October 2012

Multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have generated considerable interest in the fields of regenerative medicine, cell therapy and immune modulation. Over the past 5 years, the initial observations that MSCs could enhance regeneration and modulate immune responses have been significantly advanced and we now have a clearer picture of the effects that MSCs have on the immune system particularly in the context of inflammatory‐mediated disorders. A number of mechanisms of action have been reported in MSC immunomodulation, which encompass the secretion of soluble factors, induction of anergy, apoptosis, regulatory T cells and tolerogenic dendritic cells. It is clear that MSCs modulate both innate and adaptive responses and evidence is now emerging that the local microenvironment is key in the activation or licensing of MSCs to become immunosuppressive. More recently, studies have suggested that MSCs have the capacity to sense their environment and have a role in pathogen clearance in conjunction with the resolution of insult or injury. This review focuses on the mechanisms of MSC immunomodulation discussing the multistep process of MSC localisation at sites of inflammation, the cross talk between MSCs and the local microenvironment as well as the subsequent mechanisms of action used to resolve inflammation.
Transient Foxp3+ regulatory T‐cell depletion enhances therapeutic anticancer vaccination targeting the immune‐stimulatory properties of NKT cells
Authors: Mattarollo Stephen R , Steegh Kim , Li Ming , Duret Helene , Foong Ngiow Shin , Smyth Mark J
Published: October 2012

The natural killer T (NKT) cell ligand, alpha‐galactosylceramide (α‐GalCer), represents a potential adjuvant to boost immunotherapeutic vaccination strategies against poorly immunogenic cancers. The objective of this study was to assess the therapeutic potential of an α‐GalCer‐loaded tumor‐cell vaccine against solid tumors in mice and to enhance the effectiveness of this approach by removing immune suppression associated with the activity of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs). In the B16F10 melanoma model, we show that single vaccination with irradiated, α‐GalCer‐loaded tumor cells resulted in suppression of established subcutaneous (s.c.) B16F10 tumor growth, which was mediated by NKT cell‐dependent IFN‐γ production and enhanced in the absence of IL‐17 A. Selective depletion of Foxp3+ Tregs in transgenic DEpletion of REGulatory T cells (DEREG) mice led to significant inhibition of B16F10 tumor growth and enhanced survival of mice receiving vaccination. Short‐term elimination of Foxp3+ Tregs (<7 days) was sufficient to boost vaccine‐induced immunity. Enhanced antitumor activity with combination therapy was associated with an increase in systemic NK cell and effector CD8+ T‐cell activation and IFN‐γ production, as well as infiltration of effector CD8+ T cells into the tumor. Overall, these findings demonstrate that transient depletion of Foxp3+ Tregs constitutes a highly effective strategy to improve the therapeutic efficacy of anticancer vaccination with NKT cell adjuvants.
Identification of false positives in “HTS hits to lead”: The application of Bayesian models in HTS triage to rapidly deliver a series of selective TRPV4 antagonists
Authors: Skerratt Sarah E. , Mills James E. J. , Mistry Jayesh
Published: October 2012

The use of computational techniques to remove frequent hitters and enable the identification of a number of TRPV4 series from an HTS campaign will be described. The hit-to-lead efforts in one such series will also be discussed.
Current Issues
: Generational Spin: How Supervisors View the Millennials
Authors: Kerins Marie R. , Matrangola DeDe
Published: October 2012

The notion of understanding and working to develop supervisory skills that demonstrate understanding of generational differences is identified in the new Knowledge and Skills document for clinical supervision (ASHA, 2008). This article discusses the definition and delineation of the various generations and investigates the perceived differences between the generations. Specifically, the present study will explore how the clinical supervisor's demographics, characteristics, and perceptions may impact how a student's success is measured. Suggestions are offered by the authors on how to communicate supervision goals to students who belong to the Millennial Generation.
A Combined Scanning Electron Micrograph and Electrochemical Study of the Effect of Chemical Interaction on the Cyclability of Lithium Electrodes in an Ionic Liquid Electrolyte
Authors: Basile Andrew , Bhatt Anand I. , O'Mullane Anthony P.
Published: October 2012

The effect of storage time on the cyclability of lithium electrodes in an ionic liquid electrolyte, namely 0.5 m LiBF4 in N-methyl-N-propyl pyrrolidinium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide, [C3mpyr+][FSI–], was investigated. A chemical interaction was observed which is time dependent and results in a morphology change of the Li surface due to build up of passivation products over a 12‐day period. The formation of this layer significantly impacts on the Li electrode resistance before cycling and the charging/discharging process for symmetrical Li|0.5 m LiBF4 in [C3mpyr+][FSI–]|Li coin cells. Indeed it was found that introducing a rest period between cycling, and thereby allowing the chemical interaction between the Li electrode and electrolyte to take place, also impacted on the charging/discharging process. For all Li surface treatments the electrode resistance decreased after cycling and was due to significant structural rearrangement of the surface layer. These results suggest that careful electrode pretreatment in a real battery system will be required before operation.
Water extraction under terminal drought explains the genotypic differences in yield, not the anti-oxidant changes in leaves of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum)
Authors: Kholová Jana , Vadez Vincent
Published: October 2012

Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br.) is a resilient crop suiting the harshest conditions of the semi-arid tropics, in which we assessed possible relationships between crop tolerance, anti-oxidative enzyme activity and plant/soil water status. Biochemical acclimation and cell homeostasis traits have been proposed as critical for the drought tolerance of crops, but their limited practical application in breeding so far suggests that the role of biochemical acclimation for drought tolerance is still unclear. Previous research may have been of limited value because it has not approached biochemical acclimation from the angle of plant water relations. Four pearl millet genotypes, contrasting for terminal drought tolerance, were evaluated (sensitive H77/833–2, tolerant PRLT2/89–33 and two near isogenic lines carrying a terminal drought tolerance quantitative trait locus) under water-stress (WS) and well-watered (WW) conditions in a lysimetric system that simulates field-like conditions. We assessed the genotypic variation and relationship between photosynthetic pigments (chlorophylls a and b and carotenoids), antioxidative isoenzymatic spectrum (superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase and catalase), physiological traits (soil moisture available, normalised transpiration, stay-green score and water extraction) and biomass and yield. Biochemical traits investigated were tightly related among each other under WS conditions but not under WW conditions. Two major ascorbate peroxidase isoforms (APX6&7), whose variation in both water regimes reflected the presence/absence of the drought tolerance quantitative trait locus, were identified, but these did not relate to yield. Both, yield and biochemical traits under terminal drought stress were closely related to the traits linked to plant/soil water status (soil moisture available, normalised transpiration, stay-green score and water extraction), whereas yield and the biochemical indicators were not correlated, except for one. It is concluded that there is no direct effect of biochemical traits on yield parameters since both are consequences of soil-plant water status and their putative relation appear to be secondary – through plant/soil water status.
All good things come in threes – species delimitation through shape analysis of saccular, lagenar and utricular otoliths
Authors: Schulz-Mirbach Tanja , Plath Martin
Published: October 2012

Otoliths are calcium carbonate biomineralisates in the inner ear of teleost fishes. Otoliths of the saccule (sagittae) are known to show species-specific (or even population-specific) contour differences and, thus, are regularly used in fisheries management for stock identification. However, the other two otolith types from the utricle (lapilli) and lagena (asterisci) are typically neglected in studies of this kind, such that little information is available regarding potential species-specific contour differences. Using four species of livebearing fishes of the genus Poecilia (Cyprinodontiformes, Poeciliidae), we compared contour outlines of all three otolith types by applying Fourier shape analysis and tested for species delimitation success of the different otolith types alone, and all three otoliths combined. Our results indicated that also lapilli and especially asterisci convey species-specific information, and the classification success of discriminant function analyses was highest when combining shape information from all three otolith types. We propose that future studies on species delimitation or stock identification may benefit from considering all three otolith types together.