bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High possum mortality on urban roads: implications for the population viability of the common brushtail and the common ringtail possum
Authors: Russell Tracey C. , Herbert Catherine A. , Kohen James L.
Published: February 2010

Animal–vehicle collisions impact wildlife populations and in the northern suburbs of Sydney, both the common brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula) and the common ringtail possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus) are killed in large numbers. Over a two-year period almost 600 road-killed possums were observed from 217 road surveys covering over 7800 km, equating to 5.45 possums per week over the 36-km study area. Surveys were conducted along roads where the environment ranged from low-rise suburban to continuous sclerophyll forest. Significantly more ringtail possums were observed as road-kill, outnumbering brushtail possums by almost three to one. No sex bias was found amongst road-killed ringtail possums; however, seasonal trends and weight fluctuations were significant, with both males and females being at their lowest weights during the autumn breeding season. For brushtail possums a bias towards young males was observed. Sex and weight of road-killed brushtail possums were comparable to live-trap data from a previous study in the same location. In areas of such high possum mortality, wildlife managers may need to take action to mitigate possum road-kill.
Predator or prey? The dive response to aerial and aquatic predators of Arafura filesnakes
Authors: Pratt Kirstin L. , Franklin Craig E.
Published: February 2010

In air-breathing aquatic animals, predation is a strong selection pressure that may be reduced by modification to diving patterns. The risk of predation increases with time spent at the surface, thus shorter, more frequent surfacing events or longer, less frequent surfacing events would decrease predation risk. A reduction in time spent on the surface can be achieved by use of bimodal respiration, which is an ability to extend dive duration using dissolved oxygen to supplement aerially acquired oxygen. Air is a more efficient respiratory medium; however, under predation pressure, the cost of surfacing increases and the reliance on aquatic gas exchange should therefore increase. We tested whether the bimodally respiring filesnake (Acrochordus arafurae) changed its diving behaviour under simulated aerial (model bird) and aquatic (large fish) predation. Aerial predation did not alter dive or surface duration, percentage time surfacing or activity. However, a greater number of longer dives were observed with fewer long surface intervals, suggesting an increase in the use of aquatic gas exchange. The diel diving patterns (short night dives, long day dives) may provide an in-built antipredatory response to aerial predation. The threat of aquatic predation produced atypical antipredator behaviour, with longer surface intervals, shorter dives and increased activity, indicating that piscivorous filesnakes may have identified the predatory fish as prey rather than a predator.
The parasite assemblages of Zyzomys argurus (Thomas, 1889) (Muridae:Murinae) from northern Australia
Authors: Weaver H. J. , Smales L. R.
Published: February 2010

In this study, we present an analysis of the ecto- and endoparasite fauna of Zyzomys argurus from Queensland and the Northern Territory. The finding of the louse Hoplopleura zyzomydis, and the nematodes Syphacia abertoni and S. boodjamullaensis, together with the new host records for Nippostrongylus sp., Aspiculuris tetraptera and Raillietina sp., have increased the number of parasites known from Z. argurus from 18 to 24, and provide the first records of parasites from Z. argurus from central and eastern Australia. Analysis of the assemblage of parasites found from Z. argurus appears to indicate that, while intraspecific transmission of parasites is relatively common, host-switching from other species is not. The ecology of Z. argurus appears to be the main determinant of its depauperate parasite fauna.
SOLO: a meiotic protein required for centromere cohesion, coorientation, and SMC1 localization in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Yan Rihui , Thomas Sharon E. , Tsai Jui-He , Yamada Yukihiro , McKee Bruce D.
Published: February 2010

Sister chromatid cohesion is essential to maintain stable connections between homologues and sister chromatids during meiosis and to establish correct centromere orientation patterns on the meiosis I and II spindles. However, the meiotic cohesion apparatus in Drosophila melanogaster remains largely uncharacterized. We describe a novel protein, sisters on the loose (SOLO), which is essential for meiotic cohesion in Drosophila. In solo mutants, sister centromeres separate before prometaphase I, disrupting meiosis I centromere orientation and causing nondisjunction of both homologous and sister chromatids. Centromeric foci of the cohesin protein SMC1 are absent in solo mutants at all meiotic stages. SOLO and SMC1 colocalize to meiotic centromeres from early prophase I until anaphase II in wild-type males, but both proteins disappear prematurely at anaphase I in mutants for mei-S332, which encodes the Drosophila homologue of the cohesin protector protein shugoshin. The solo mutant phenotypes and the localization patterns of SOLO and SMC1 indicate that they function together to maintain sister chromatid cohesion in Drosophila meiosis.
Tapping into the glial reservoir: cells committed to remaining uncommitted
Authors: Chong S.Y. Christin , Chan Jonah R.
Published: February 2010

The development and maturation of the oligodendrocyte requires a series of highly orchestrated events that coordinate the proliferation and differentiation of the oligodendrocyte precursor cell (OPC) as well as the spatiotemporal regulation of myelination. In recent years, widespread interest has been devoted to the therapeutic potential of adult OPCs scattered throughout the central nervous system (CNS). In this review, we highlight molecular mechanisms controlling OPC differentiation during development and the implication of these mechanisms on adult OPCs for remyelination. Cell-autonomous regulators of differentiation and the heterogeneous microenvironment of the developing and the adult CNS may provide coordinated inhibitory cues that ultimately maintain a reservoir of uncommitted glia.
Snoopy—a unifying Petri net framework to investigate biomolecular networks
Authors: Rohr Christian , Marwan Wolfgang , Heiner Monika
Published: February 2010

Summary: To investigate biomolecular networks, Snoopy provides a unifying Petri net framework comprising a family of related Petri net classes. Models can be hierarchically structured, allowing for the mastering of larger networks. To move easily between the qualitative, stochastic and continuous modelling paradigms, models can be converted into each other. We get models sharing structure, but specialized by their kinetic information. The analysis and iterative reverse engineering of biomolecular networks is supported by the simultaneous use of several Petri net classes, while the graphical user interface adapts dynamically to the active one. Built-in animation and simulation are complemented by exports to various analysis tools. Snoopy facilitates the addition of new Petri net classes thanks to its generic design.

Availability: Our tool with Petri net samples is available free of charge for non-commercial use at http://www-dssz.informatik.tu-cottbus.de/snoopy.html; supported operating systems: Mac OS X, Windows and Linux (selected distributions).

Contact:  snoopy@informatik.tu-cottbus.de
The new age of structural dynamics
Authors: Zewail Ahmed H.
Published: February 2010

A perspective on the new developments of structural dynamics is presented. The scope of applications and advances, from microscopy to diffraction and spectroscopy, defines the new age of endeavour.
Photoinduced structural dynamics of polar solids studied by femtosecond X-ray diffraction
Authors: Elsaesser Thomas , Woerner Michael
Published: February 2010

Femtosecond X-ray diffraction allows for real-time mapping of structural changes in condensed matter on atomic length and timescales. Sequences of diffraction patterns provide both transient geometries and charge-density maps of crystalline materials. This article reviews recent progress in this field, the main emphasis being on experimental work done with laser-driven hard X-ray sources. Both Bragg diffraction techniques for bulk and nanostructured single crystals as well as the recently implemented powder diffraction from polycrystalline samples are discussed. In ferroelectric superlattice structures, coherent phonon motions and the driving stress mechanisms are observed in real time. In molecular crystals charge-transfer processes and the concomitant changes of the lattice geometry are analyzed.
Tracking ligand-migration pathways of carbonmonoxy myoglobin in crystals at cryogenic temperatures
Authors: Tomita Ayana , Sato Tokushi , Nozawa Shunsuke , Koshihara Shin-ya , Adachi Shin-ichi
Published: February 2010

In order to explore the ligand-migration dynamics in myoglobin induced by photodissociation, cryogenic X-ray crystallographic investigations of carbonmonoxy myoglobin crystals illuminated by continuous wave and pulsed lasers at 1–15 kHz repetition rate have been carried out. Here it is shown that this novel method, extended pulsed-laser pumping of carbonmonoxy myoglobin, promotes ligand migration in the protein matrix by crossing the glass transition temperature repeatedly, and enables the visualization of the migration pathway of the photodissociated ligands in native Mb at cryogenic temperatures. It has revealed that the migration of the CO molecule into each cavity induces structural changes of the amino-acid residues around the cavity which result in the expansion of the cavity. The sequential motion of the ligand and the cavity suggests a self-opening mechanism of the ligand-migration channel arising by induced fit.
Non-equilibrium phonon dynamics studied by grazing-incidence femtosecond X-ray crystallography
Authors: Johnson S. L. , Beaud P. , Vorobeva E. , Milne C. J. , Murray É. D. , Fahy S. , Ingold G.
Published: February 2010

The timescales for structural changes in a single crystal of bismuth after excitation with an intense near-infrared laser pulse are studied with femtosecond pump-probe X-ray diffraction. Changes in the intensity and reciprocal-lattice vector of several reflections give quantitative information on the structure factor and lattice strain as a function of time, with a resolution of 200 fs. The results indicate that the majority of excess carrier energy that remains near the surface is transferred to vibrational modes on a timescale of about 10 ps, and that the resultant increase in the variance of the atomic positions at these times is consistent with the overall magnitude of lattice strain that develops.
Epidermal growth factor‐dependent enhancement of invasiveness of squamous cell carcinoma of the breast
Authors: Kimura Fuyo , Iwaya Keiichi , Kawaguchi Tokuichi , Kaise Hiroshi , Yamada Kimito , Mukai Kiyoshi , Matsubara Osamu , Ikeda Norihiko , Kohno Norio
Published: February 2010

Factors that promote the aggressiveness of squamous cell carcinoma of the breast are not well understood. To examine the involvement of cell motility and the mechanism of this behavior, a squamous cell carcinoma cell line of the breast (HBC9) was established from a metastatic lymph node of a Japanese woman. HBC9 expressed epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), but was negative for Her2 or Her3.The invasive ability of HBC9 was compared with that of four breast ductal carcinoma cell lines by Matrigel invasion assay. EGF stimulation induced the formation of surface protrusions and cell migration in HBC9 cells, and significantly increased the number of cells migrating through the Matrigel. The invasive ability of HBC9 was compared with other cell lines of breast carcinoma; it was much greater than that of MCF‐7, BT474, or HBC5, but did not differ significantly from that of MDA‐MB‐231. Observation of the surface protrusions of HBC9 by confocal laser microscopy revealed co‐localization of Arp2 and N‐WASP with actin polymerization, detected by visualization with phalloidin, indicating that the protrusions induced by EGF were invadopodia. In HBC9 cells, cortactin also co‐localized with the N‐WASP/Arp2/3 complex in the protrusions. Immunohistochemistry of 12 cases of squamous cell carcinoma of the breast revealed expression of cortactin and EGFR in all of them, and this was confirmed by western blotting in two cases. These results suggest that EGF‐dependent enhancement of cell motility by formation of invadopodia associated with cortactin is a cause of the clinical aggressiveness of squamous cell carcinoma of the breast.

(Cancer Sci 2010; 101: 1133–1140)
Omeprazole‐Mg 20.6 mg is superior to lansoprazole 15 mg for control of gastric acid: a comparison of over‐the‐counter doses of proton pump inhibitors
Authors: MINER P. B. , MCKEAN L. A. , GIBB R. D. , ERASALA G. N. , RAMSEY D. L. , MCRORIE J. W.
Published: February 2010

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 31, 846–851

Background  Over‐the‐counter (OTC) proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) relieve heartburn by decreasing the production of gastric acid, but may not do so with equal effectiveness. It is important for healthcare professionals to compare the ability of OTC PPIs to control gastric acid when recommending them for patients with frequent heartburn.

Aim  To compare the effects of omeprazole‐Mg 20.6 mg and lansoprazole 15 mg (OTC doses in the US) on 24‐h steady state gastric acid suppression.

Methods  This single‐centre, randomized, double‐blind clinical study compared the steady‐state gastric acid control of omeprazole‐Mg 20.6 mg vs. lansoprazole 15 mg, dosed before breakfast. Volunteers were enrolled in a 3‐period, cross‐over design (ABB, BAA) with 24‐h gastric pH monitoring on dosing day 5. The primary efficacy variable was the percentage time intragastric pH was >4.0 over 24 h on day 5 of dosing.

Results  Forty subjects were enrolled; all completed the study. The mean (SE) percentage time pH was >4.0 was 45.7% (3.45%) for omeprazole‐Mg 20.6 mg and 36.8% (3.45%) for lansoprazole 15 mg, an absolute difference of 8.9% (P < 0.0001), and a relative difference of 24.2%. Both drugs were well tolerated.

Conclusion  Omeprazole‐Mg 20.6 mg provided a statistically significantly (P < 0.0001) greater acid control than lansoprazole 15 mg.
Endocannabinoid control of gastric sensorimotor function in man
Authors: AMELOOT K. , JANSSEN P. , SCARPELLINI E. , VOS R. , BOESMANS W. , DEPOORTERE I. , VANDEN BERGHE P. , TACK J.
Published: February 2010

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 31, 1123–1131

Background  Little is known about the physiological role of the endocannabinoid system in the regulation of the motility and the sensitivity of the stomach. Endocannabinoid system dysfunction has been hypothesized to contribute to the control of food intake and the pathogenesis of functional dyspepsia.

Aim  To study the influence of rimonabant, the endocannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptor antagonist, on gastric sensorimotor function in healthy controls.

Methods  After 4 days of pre‐treatment with rimonabant 20 mg/day or placebo, 12 healthy volunteers (mean age 34 ± 12 years, six men) participated in a placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, randomized, crossover study with a gastric barostat assessment of gastric sensitivity to distension, gastric compliance, gastric accommodation and phasic motility on day 3 and a liquid nutrient challenge test on day 4.

Results  Rimonabant did not influence gastric compliance and sensitivity to distension. The meal‐induced gastric accommodation reflex was significantly inhibited by rimonabant (154.3 ± 30.9 vs. 64.3 ± 32.4 mL, P = 0.02). Rimonabant did not affect maximal nutrient tolerance or meal‐related symptoms during the satiety drinking test.

Conclusion  Endocannabinoids acting on the CB1 receptor are involved in the control of gastric accommodation in man.
Interleukin‐13 directly promotes oesophagus production of CCL11 and CCL24 and the migration of eosinophils
Authors: Neilsen C. V. , Bryce P. J.
Published: February 2010

Background
Eosinophilic oesophagitis (EE) is a clinico‐pathologically defined oesophageal disorder that is characterized by eosinophil migration into oesophageal tissues. There is growing support for EE being an allergic disease and for a contribution of T‐helper type 2 (Th2)‐associated cytokines in disease pathogenesis. The respiratory system has been shown to be critical in driving the development of EE in animal models. However, the mechanisms underlying the recruitment of eosinophils into the oesophagus remain unclear.

Objective
We sought to investigate the influence of Th2‐associated cytokines on the production of eosinophil‐specific chemokines from the oesophagus directly.

Methods
In order to eliminate the potential involvement of the lung, we utilized isolated oesophageal rings. These were treated in vitro with IL‐4 or IL‐13 and the expression and production of CCL11 and CCL24 were determined.

Results
Our data demonstrate that IL‐13 is a potent and direct inducer of both CCL11 and CCL24 production from the oesophagus, as is IL‐4 also. The expression of CCL11 precedes CCL24 by several hours but then diminishes over time, as well as at high concentrations of IL‐13. We demonstrate that there is an up‐regulation of the inhibitory IL‐13 receptor, IL‐13Rα2 but that IL‐13Rα1 remains unaltered. Oesophagus rings isolated from STAT6−/− mice were unable to produce CCL11 or CCL24 upon IL‐13 treatment. Lastly, we demonstrate that oesophageal production of CCL11 and CCL24 upon IL‐13 stimulation is sufficient to promote eosinophil migration.

Conclusions
IL‐13 is capable of directly stimulating oesophageal tissue to produce eosinophil‐attracting chemokines and drive eosinophil migration.

Cite this as: C. V. Neilsen and P. J. Bryce, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2010 (40) 427–434.
Developments in allergen‐specific immunotherapy: from allergen extracts to allergy vaccines bypassing allergen‐specific immunoglobulin E and T cell reactivity
Authors: Focke M. , Swoboda I. , Marth K. , Valenta R.
Published: February 2010

Allergen‐specific immunotherapy (SIT) is the only specific and disease‐modifying approach for the treatment of allergy but several disadvantages have limited its broad applicability. We argue that the majority of the possible disadvantages of SIT such as unwanted effects, poor efficacy and specificity as well as inconvenient application are related to the poor quality of natural allergen extracts, which are the active ingredients of all currently available allergy vaccines. Because of the progress made in the field of molecular allergen characterization, new allergy vaccines based on recombinant allergens, recombinant hypoallergenic allergen derivatives and allergen‐derived T cell peptides have entered clinical testing and hold promise to reduce the side‐effects and to increase the specificity as well as the efficacy of SIT. Here, we present a refined immunotherapy concept, which is based on the use of peptides derived from allergen surfaces that exhibit reduced, allergen‐specific IgE as well as T cell reactivity. These peptides when fused to non‐allergenic carriers give rise to allergen‐specific protective IgG responses with T cell help from a non‐allergenic carrier molecule. We summarize the experimental data demonstrating that such peptide vaccines can bypass allergen‐specific IgE as well as T cell activation and may be administered at high doses without IgE‐ and T cell‐mediated side‐effects. Should these peptide vaccines prove efficacious and safe in clinical trials, it may become possible to develop convenient, safe and broadly applicable forms of SIT as true alternatives to symptomatic, drug‐based allergy treatment.

Cite this as: M. Focke, I. Swoboda, K. Marth and R. Valenta,Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2010 (40) 385–397.
Drug‐induced rhinitis
Authors: Varghese M. , Glaum M. C. , Lockey R. F.
Published: February 2010

Background
Rhinitis is characterized by inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the nose and can be divided into two categories, allergic and non‐allergic. Drug‐induced is a type of non‐allergic rhinitis.

Objective
A review of the literature was conducted. Very little is known about this topic and there are no publications to date solely devoted to drug‐induced rhinitis.

Methods
A PubMed and Medline search was conducted using a combination of the keywords; drug, medication, rhinitis, congestion, rhinorrhea, sneezing, pruritus, vasomotor, reflex, neurogenic, allergic and non‐allergic. Medications that were found in the search were then cross‐referenced with the physicians desk reference and Epocrates. The final literature search was conducted in August 2009.

Results
Three categories of drug‐induced rhinitis exist based on the mechanism of action. These include local inflammatory, neurogenic and idiopathic types. Rhinitis medicamentosa, a form of drug‐induced rhinitis, has unique characteristics.

Conclusion
When possible, the offending medication should be discontinued or substituted. Although there are no established treatment recommendations for drug‐induced rhinitis other than avoidance, clinical experience suggests that it would be reasonable to initiate use of an intranasal corticosteroid spray to treat symptomatically. The addition of an intranasal antihistamine in combination with use of an intranasal corticosteroid may be considered as step‐up therapy if the intranasal corticosteroid alone is not effective.

Cite this as: M. Varghese, M. C. Glaum and R. F. Lockey, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2010 (40) 381–384.
Micro‐CT evaluation of residual material in canals filled with Activ GP or GuttaFlow following removal with NiTi instruments
Authors: Roggendorf M. J. , Legner M. , Ebert J. , Fillery E. , Frankenberger R. , Friedman S.
Published: February 2010

Roggendorf MJ, Legner M, Ebert J, Fillery E, Frankenberger R, Friedman S. Micro‐CT evaluation of residual material in canals filled with Activ GP or GuttaFlow following removal with NiTi instruments. International Endodontic Journal, 43, 200–209, 2010.

Aim  To assess the efficacy of removing Activ GP or GuttaFlow from canals using NiTi instruments.

Methodology  Root canals in 55 extracted pre‐molars were prepared to apical size 40, 0.04 taper. The teeth were imaged with micro‐CT, and 30 teeth selected that had consistent apical size and taper of the shaped canals. They were randomly assigned to root filling with either the glass‐ionomer‐based ActivGP system (n = 15) or the polyvinylsiloxane‐based GuttaFlow system (n = 15). After 2 weeks, canals were retreated stepwise with size 40–50 EndoSequence 0.04 taper instruments. Micro‐CT scans (8 μm) were taken after use of each instrument to detect root filling residue in the coronal, middle and apical segment, and the retreatment time recorded. Residue, expressed as percentage of canal surface area, was compared between groups with t‐tests, and within groups with repeated measures anova and Bonferroni‐adjusted pairwise comparisons. Retreatment time was analysed with one‐way anova.

Results  The percentage of sealer residue‐coated canal surface was consistently highest (P < 0.001) in the apical third of canals, and it did not differ significantly between the two root filling groups. Stepwise enlargement from size 40 to 50 significantly decreased the amount of sealer residue in both groups (P < 0.001). Retreatment time did not differ significantly between groups.

Conclusions  Both root fillings with ActivGP and GuttaFlow were removed with nickel‐titanium rotary instruments. Enlargement of canals up to two sizes beyond the pre‐retreatment size was necessary to minimize the amount of sealer remaining.
Radio‐opaque nanosized bioactive glass for potential root canal application: evaluation of radiopacity, bioactivity and alkaline capacity
Authors: Mohn D. , Zehnder M. , Imfeld T. , Stark W. J.
Published: February 2010

Mohn D, Zehnder M, Imfeld T, Stark WJ.Radio‐opaque nanosized bioactive glass for potential root canal application: evaluation of radiopacity, bioactivity and alkaline capacity.International Endodontic Journal,43, 210–217, 2010.

Aim To produce novel nanosized bioactive glass particles with radio‐opaque properties and high alkaline capacity and to evaluate their performance as a potential bioactive root canal dressing or filling material.

Methodology Flame spray‐derived bioactive glass particles in the nanometre range were produced including bismuth oxide as a radiopacifier. Calcium hydroxide, barium sulphate and bismuth oxide served as controls. Corresponding materials were compressed to obtain dense specimens with increased alkaline capacity. Radiopacity was evaluated, andin vitrobioactivity was monitored using Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Leaching of bismuth was controlled using atomic absorption spectroscopy.

Results Bioactive glass particles with up to 50 wt% bismuth oxide revealed radiopacity with an equivalent of 4.94‐mm aluminium. The introduction of bismuth into the bioactive glass altered the alkaline capacity and thein vitrobioactivity only for high bismuth oxide quantities. Bismuth oxide leaching out of the glass matrix was hardly detectable.

Conclusion Bioactive glass can be modified with bismuth oxide to become radio‐opaque.
Vertical fracture of root filled teeth restored with posts: the effects of patient age and dentine thickness
Authors: Mireku A. S. , Romberg E. , Fouad A. F. , Arola D.
Published: February 2010

Mireku AS, Romberg E, Fouad AF, Arola D. Vertical fracture of root filled teeth restored with posts: the effects of patient age and dentine thickness. International Endodontic Journal, 43, 218–225, 2010.

Aim  To determine whether patient age contributed to the fracture resistance of teeth subjected to root canal treatment and post placement.

Methodology  Forty‐five single‐rooted, single‐canal human teeth were mounted, instrumented, obturated and prepared for a post. The teeth were divided into young (18 ≤ age ≤ 35) and old (60 ≤ age) groups and subjected to cyclic loading until fracture; those reaching 200 000 cycles without undergoing failure were then subjected to static loading to fracture. Statistical differences between groups were examined using one‐way anovas, and correlations were identified using Pearson’s r; significance was established at P ≤ 0.05.

Results  There was no significant difference between the two age groups in terms of the number of cycles to fracture (P > 0.05) or the load to fracture (P > 0.05). However, there was a significant correlation (P ≤ 0.05) between the root fracture resistance and individual age, indicating that the susceptibility to root fracture increases significantly with increasing patient age. Also, the dentine thickness of roots that fractured was significantly less than those that did not (P = 0.04).

Conclusion  Vertical root fracture of teeth receiving root canal treatment with posts is more likely to occur in the teeth of older patients (60+) and particularly in those with low dentine thickness.
Cyclic fatigue of NiTi rotary instruments in a simulated apical abrupt curvature
Authors: Plotino G. , Grande N. M. , Melo M. C. , Bahia M. G. , Testarelli L. , Gambarini G.
Published: February 2010

Plotino G, Grande NM, Melo MC, Bahia MG, Testarelli L, Gambarini G. Cyclic fatigue of NiTi rotary instruments in a simulated apical abrupt curvature. International Endodontic Journal, 43, 226–230, 2010.

Aim  To evaluate the cyclic fatigue resistance of five NiTi rotary systems in an abrupt apical curvature.

Methodology  Cyclic fatigue testing was performed in stainless‐steel artificial canals with a 2‐mm radius of curvature and an angle of curvature of 90° constructed to the dimensions of the instruments tested. The middle of the simulated curvature was 2.5 mm from the tip of the instrument that was placed at full working length. All instruments were new and 25 mm in length. Ten ProTaper Universal F2 (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland); FlexMaster (VDW, Munich, Germany) tip size 25, taper 0.06; Mtwo (Sweden & Martina, Padova, Italy) tip size 25, taper 0.06; ProFile tip size 25, taper 0.06 from Dentsply Maillefer (Ballaigues, Switzerland); and ProFile tip size 25, taper 0.06 from Dentsply Tulsa (Tulsa, OK, USA) were rotated passively at 300 rpm until fracture occurred, and the number of cycles to failure (NCF) recorded. Length of the fractured tip was measured. Data were analysed by one‐way anova and Tukey HSD test to determine any statistical difference amongst groups.

Results  Mtwo had the highest fatigue resistance compared to the other instruments (NCF 124 ± 25) (P < 0.001); there was no statistical difference between ProFile from the two different brands, although ProFile from Maillefer had the higher fatigue life (NCF 75 ± 10) compared to ProFile from Tulsa (NCF 66 ± 10). No difference was registered between FlexMaster (NCF 53 ± 5) and ProFile from Tulsa; ProTaper F2 had a significantly (P < 0.001) lower fatigue life compared to the other instruments tested (NCF 29 ± 5).

Conclusions  Lifespan registered for the instruments tested in an apical abrupt curvature was Mtwo > ProFile from Maillefer > ProFile from Tulsa > FlexMaster > ProTaper.
Evaluation of the physical properties of an endodontic Portland cement incorporating alternative radiopacifiers used as root‐end filling material
Authors: Camilleri J.
Published: February 2010

Camilleri J. Evaluation of the physical properties of an endodontic Portland cement incorporating alternative radiopacifiers used as root‐end filling material. International Endodontic Journal, 43, 231–240, 2010.

Aim  To investigate the physical and chemical properties of Portland cement (PC) loaded with alternative radiopacifying materials for use as root‐end filling materials in a mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA)‐like system.

Methodology  Portland cement loaded with barium sulphate, gold and silver/tin alloy was mixed with water, and the physical and chemical properties of the hydrated cements were evaluated. MTA and intermediate restorative material (IRM) were used as controls. The radiopacity was compared to the equivalent thickness of aluminium, and the setting time of the cements was assessed using an indentation technique. The compressive strength and the stress–strain relationship were determined at 28 days. The stress–strain relationship was determined by monitoring the strain generated when the cement was subjected to compressive load. In addition, the pH was determined in water and simulated body fluid for a period of 28 days.

Results  The radiopacity of the cements using alternative radiopacifiers was comparable to MTA (P > 0.05). IRM demonstrated a higher radiopacity than all the materials tested (P < 0.05). All the cements with the exception of IRM exhibited an alkaline pH and had an extended setting time when compared to IRM. MTA had a longer setting time than the PC (P < 0.001), and its setting time was similar to the gold‐loaded cement (P = 0.159). The addition of a radiopacifier retarded the setting time (P < 0.001) but did not have any effect on the compressive strength as all loaded cements had comparable strength to PC (P > 0.05). IRM was the weakest cement tested (P < 0.001). The cement loaded with gold radiopacifier had comparable strength to MTA (P = 1). The stress–strain relationship was linear for all the cements with IRM generating more strain on loading.

Conclusions  Within the parameters set in this study, bismuth oxide in MTA can be replaced by gold or silver/tin alloy. The physical, mechanical and chemical properties of the cement replaced with alternative radiopacifiers were similar and comparable to ProRoot MTA.
Comparative cytotoxicity of five root canal sealers on cultured human periodontal ligament fibroblasts
Authors: Chang M. C. , Lin L. D. , Chen Y. J. , Tsai Y. L. , Cheng Y. A. , Kuo C. S. , Chang H. H. , Tai T. F. , Lin H. J. , Jeng J. H.
Published: February 2010

Chang MC, Lin LD, Chen YJ, Tsai YL, Cheng YA, Kuo CS, Chang HH, Tai TF, Lin HJ, Jeng JH. Comparative cytotoxicity of five root canal sealers on cultured human periodontal ligament fibroblasts. International Endodontic Journal, 43, 251–257, 2010.

Aim  To evaluate the cytotoxicity of current root canal sealers to periodontal ligament (PDL) fibroblasts.

Methodology  Five root canal sealers (Canals, Canals‐N, Topseal, Sealapex, Tubliseal) were prepared and placed into transwells. After initial setting for 1 h, the transwells with sealers were placed into cultured PDL fibroblasts. They were cultured for further 3 or 18 h. Morphological changes were observed. Cell viability was estimated by 3‐(4,5‐dimethyl‐thiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐ diphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay.

Results  Marked retraction and death of PDL fibroblasts were observed after exposure to Canals or Topseal for 3 h. A 3‐h exposure of PDL fibroblasts to Tubliseal stimulated MTT reduction. Canals‐N showed little cytotoxicity even after an exposure of 18 h.

Conclusion  Canals was the most toxic sealer, followed by Topseal. Sealapex and Tubliseal had comparable and moderate cytotoxicity to PDL fibroblasts, whereas Canals‐N showed little cytotoxicity. Exposure to Tubliseal may modulate MTT reduction in PDL fibroblasts. Canals‐N had good biocompatibility.
Forest aboveground biomass along an elevational transect in Sulawesi, Indonesia, and the role of Fagaceae in tropical montane rain forests
Authors: Culmsee Heike , Leuschner Christoph , Moser Gerald , Pitopang Ramadhanil
Published: February 2010

Aim  This study investigates how estimated tree aboveground biomass (AGB) of tropical montane rain forests varies with elevation, and how this variation is related to elevational change in floristic composition, phylogenetic community structure and the biogeography of the dominant tree taxa.

Location  Lore Lindu National Park, Sulawesi, Indonesia.

Methods  Floristic inventories and stand structural analyses were conducted on 13 plots (each 0.24 ha) in four old‐growth forest stands at 1050, 1400, 1800 and 2400 m a.s.l. (submontane to upper montane elevations). Tree AGB estimates were based on d.b.h., height and wood specific gravity. Phylogenetic diversity and biogeographical patterns were analysed based on tree family composition weighted by AGB. Elevational trends in AGB were compared with other Southeast Asian and Neotropical transect studies (n = 7).

Results  AGB was invariant from sub‐ to mid‐montane elevation (309–301 Mg ha−1) and increased slightly to 323 Mg ha−1 at upper montane elevation. While tree and canopy height decreased, wood specific gravity increased. Magnoliids accounted for most of the AGB at submontane elevations, while eurosids I (including Fagaceae) contributed substantially to AGB at all elevations. Phylogenetic diversity was highest at upper montane elevations, with co‐dominance of tree ferns, Podocarpaceae, Trimeniaceae and asterids/euasterids II, and was lowest at lower/mid‐montane elevations, where Fagaceae contributed > 50% of AGB. Biogeographical patterns showed a progression from dominant tropical families at submontane to tropical Fagaceae (Castanopsis, Lithocarpus) at lower/mid‐montane, and to conifers and Australasian endemics at upper montane elevations. Cross‐continental comparisons revealed an elevational AGB decrease in transects with low/no presence of Fagaceae, but relatively high AGB in montane forests with moderate to high abundance of this family.

Main conclusions  AGB is determined by both changes in forest structure and shifts in species composition. In our study, these two factors traded off so that there was no net change in AGB, even though there were large changes in forest structure and composition along the elevational gradient. Southeast Asian montane rain forests dominated by Fagaceae constitute important carbon stocks. The importance of biogeography and species traits for biomass estimation should be considered by initiatives to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD) and in taxon choice in reforestation for carbon offsetting.
Participation in intellectual disability research: a review of 20 years of studies
Authors: Cleaver S. , Ouellette‐Kuntz H. , Sakar A.
Published: February 2010

Background  Researchers have noted difficulties in attracting adequate numbers of participants with intellectual disabilities (ID) to their studies.

Methods  This study was a review of participation by adults with ID in research conducted in South Eastern Ontario over a 20‐year period (1987–2006). Original research studies were identified by local investigators and then reviewed for inclusion and exclusion criteria. The report of each study was then reviewed by three reviewers and key information was extracted. The extent of study participation was calculated using three methods and compared along with key design characteristics.

Results  Nine studies met all inclusion/exclusion criteria and provided sufficient data to calculate participation. Among the studies there was a variety of purposes, research designs and recruitment strategies. Using the participant/approached calculation, participation varied between 41.8% and 100%. Higher participation was observed in studies where investigators had direct access to participants, the data collection was non‐invasive and consent was required from substitute decision‐makers only. There was no clear trend of increasing or decreasing participation over time.

Conclusions  Researchers seeking the participation of adults with ID in their studies must incorporate factors influencing participation into study designs to ensure robust results and effective use of research resources.
Regional connectivity and coastal expansion: differentiating pre‐border and post‐border vectors for the invasive tunicate Styela clava
Authors: GOLDSTIEN S. J. , SCHIEL D. R. , GEMMELL N. J.
Published: February 2010

The dramatic increase in marine bio‐invasions, particularly of non‐indigenous ascidians, has highlighted the vulnerability of marine ecosystems and the productive sectors that rely on them. A critical issue in managing invasive species is determining the relative roles of ongoing introductions, versus the local movement of propagules from established source populations. Styela clava (Herdman, 1882), the Asian clubbed tunicate, once restricted to the Pacific shores of Asia and Russia, is now abundant throughout the northern and southern hemispheres and has had significant economic impact in at least one site of incursion. In 2005 S. clava was identified in New Zealand. The recent introduction of this species, coupled with its restricted distribution, provided an ideal model to compare and contrast the introduction and expansion process. In this study, the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene (COI) gene and 11 microsatellite markers were used to test the regional genetic structure and diversity of 318 S. clava individuals from 10 populations within New Zealand. Both markers showed significant differentiation between the northern and southern populations, indicative of minimal pre‐ or post‐border connectivity. Additional statistics further support pre‐ and post‐border differentiation among Port and Harbour populations (i.e. marinas and aquaculture farms). We conclude that New Zealand receives multiple introductions, and that the primary vector for pre‐border incursions and post‐border spread is most likely the extensive influx of recreational vessels that enter northern marinas independent of the Port. This is a timely reminder of the potential for hull‐fouling organisms to expand their range as climates change and open new pathways.
The Casiquiare river acts as a corridor between the Amazonas and Orinoco river basins: biogeographic analysis of the genus Cichla
Authors: WILLIS S. C. , NUNES M. , MONTAÑA C. G. , FARIAS I. P. , ORTÍ G. , LOVEJOY N. R.
Published: February 2010

The Casiquiare River is a unique biogeographic corridor between the Orinoco and Amazonas basins. We investigated the importance of this connection for Neotropical fishes using peacock cichlids (Cichla spp.) as a model system. We tested whether the Casiquiare provides a conduit for gene flow between contemporary populations, and investigated the origin of biogeographic distributions that span the Casiquiare. Using sequences from the mitochondrial control region of three focal species (C. temensis, C. monoculus, and C. orinocensis) whose distributions include the Amazonas, Orinoco, and Casiquiare, we constructed maximum likelihood phylograms of haplotypes and analyzed the populations under an isolation‐with‐migration coalescent model. Our analyses suggest that populations of all three species have experienced some degree of gene flow via the Casiquiare. We also generated a mitochondrial genealogy of all Cichla species using >2000 bp and performed a dispersal‐vicariance analysis (DIVA) to reconstruct the historical biogeography of the genus. This analysis, when combined with the intraspecific results, supports two instances of dispersal from the Amazonas to the Orinoco. Thus, our results support the idea that the Casiquiare connection is important across temporal scales, facilitating both gene flow and the dispersal and range expansion of species.
Scale‐dependent genetic structure of the Idaho giant salamander (Dicamptodon aterrimus) in stream networks
Authors: MULLEN LINDY B. , ARTHUR WOODS H. , SCHWARTZ MICHAEL K. , SEPULVEDA ADAM J. , LOWE WINSOR H.
Published: February 2010

The network architecture of streams and rivers constrains evolutionary, demographic and ecological processes of freshwater organisms. This consistent architecture also makes stream networks useful for testing general models of population genetic structure and the scaling of gene flow. We examined genetic structure and gene flow in the facultatively paedomorphic Idaho giant salamander, Dicamptodon aterrimus, in stream networks of Idaho and Montana, USA. We used microsatellite data to test population structure models by (i) examining hierarchical partitioning of genetic variation in stream networks; and (ii) testing for genetic isolation by distance along stream corridors vs. overland pathways. Replicated sampling of streams within catchments within three river basins revealed that hierarchical scale had strong effects on genetic structure and gene flow. amova identified significant structure at all hierarchical scales (among streams, among catchments, among basins), but divergence among catchments had the greatest structural influence. Isolation by distance was detected within catchments, and in‐stream distance was a strong predictor of genetic divergence. Patterns of genetic divergence suggest that differentiation among streams within catchments was driven by limited migration, consistent with a stream hierarchy model of population structure. However, there was no evidence of migration among catchments within basins, or among basins, indicating that gene flow only counters the effects of genetic drift at smaller scales (within rather than among catchments). These results show the strong influence of stream networks on population structure and genetic divergence of a salamander, with contrasting effects at different hierarchical scales.
IgE to peanut allergen components: relation to peanut symptoms and pollen sensitization in 8‐year‐olds
Authors: Asarnoj A. , Movérare R. , Östblom E. , Poorafshar M. , Lilja G. , Hedlin G. , Van Hage M. , Ahlstedt S. , Wickman M.
Published: February 2010

To cite this article: Asarnoj A, Movérare R, Östblom E, Poorafshar M, Lilja G, Hedlin G, van Hage M, Ahlstedt S, Wickman M. IgE to peanut allergen components: relation to peanut symptoms and pollen sensitization in 8‐year‐olds. Allergy 2010; 65: 1189–1195.

Background:  Allergen‐specific IgE testing is often performed with crude peanut extract, but the results may be difficult to interpret because of cross‐reactions between peanut and other plant allergens. The aim was to investigate IgE reactivity to peanut allergen components in children from a birch‐rich region in relation to pollen sensitization and peanut symptoms.

Methods:  From a birth cohort, clinical parameters were obtained through questionnaires and IgE antibody levels to peanut and birch pollen were measured. Different peanut/birch sensitization phenotypes were defined among 200 selected children. IgE reactivity to peanut and pollen allergen components was analysed using microarray technique.

Results:  Peanut symptoms were reported in 87% of the children with IgE reactivity to any of the peanut allergens Ara h 1, 2 or 3 but not to Ara h 8 (n = 46) vs 17% of children with IgE reactivity to Ara h 8 but not to Ara h 1, 2 or 3 (n = 23), P < 0.001. Furthermore, symptoms were more severe in children with Ara h 1, 2 or 3 reactivity. Children with IgE reactivity both to Ara h 2 and to Ara h 1 or 3 more often reported peanut symptoms than children with IgE only to Ara h 2 (97%vs 70%, P = 0.016), particularly respiratory symptoms (50%vs 9%, P = 0.002).

Conclusions:  IgE analysis to peanut allergen components may be used to distinguish between peanut‐sensitized individuals at risk of severe symptoms and those likely to have milder or no symptoms to peanut if sensitized to pollen allergens and their peanut homologue allergens.
Drug management in emergent liver transplantation of mitochondrial disorder carriers: review of the literature
Authors: Vater Youri , Dembo Gregory , Martay Kenneth , Klein Yifat , Vitin Alex , Weinbroum Avi A.
Published: February 2010

Vater Y, Dembo G, Martay K, Klein Y, Vitin A, Weinbroum AA. Drug management in emergent liver transplantation of mitochondrial disorder carriers: review of the literature. Clin Transplant 2010 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399‐0012.2009.01203.x © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Background:  Mitochondrial respiratory‐chain disorders (MRCD) lead to progressive disabling of neurological and cellular conditions that involve muscles, brain, kidney, and liver dysfunction. Affected individuals may need surgery, including orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). Surgery poses anesthesia challenges because of the prolonged use of anesthetic drugs and sedatives, which may inhibit oxidative phosphorylation, mimic mitochondrial cytopathic disorders, or unveil them ex novo.

Materials and methods:  We conducted a multilingual PubMed search of surgical and non‐surgical anesthesia reports between the years 1992 and 2008, where anesthetic drugs were used in MRCD patients, especially for those undergoing urgent OLTs.

Results:  There were 51 case reports of 210 anesthesia and critical care interventions in patients with MRCD, a large part of them were children. Data pertaining to the safe usage of anesthesia and perioperative drugs were limited and conflicting. We found no article that addressed the issue of perioperative handling of urgent OLT in MRCD patients. We therefore suggest our own – although limited – experience for such occasions.

Conclusion:  There are no randomized, controlled, trial‐based indications regarding safe anesthetic drugs to be used perioperatively in MRCD carriers. Consultation among geneticists, anesthesiologists, intensivists, and surgeons is essential in patients with known/suspected metabolic syndrome for planning appropriate perioperative care.
Methyl jasmonate and miconazole differently affect arteminisin production and gene expression in Artemisia annua suspension cultures
Authors: Caretto S. , Quarta A. , Durante M. , Nisi R. , De Paolis A. , Blando F. , Mita G.
Published: February 2010

Artemisia annua L. is a herb traditionally used for treatment of fevers. The glandular trichomes of this plant accumulate, although at low levels, artemisinin, which is highly effective against malaria. Due to the great importance of this compound, many efforts have been made to improve knowledge on artemisinin production both in plants and in cell cultures. In this study, A. annua suspension cultures were established in order to investigate the effects of methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and miconazole on artemisinin biosynthesis. Twenty‐two micro molar MeJA induced a three‐fold increase of artemisinin production in around 30 min; while 200 μm miconazole induced a 2.5‐fold increase of artemisinin production after 24 h, but had severe effects on cell viability. The influence of these treatments on expression of biosynthetic genes was also investigated. MeJA induced up‐regulation of CYP71AV1, while miconazole induced up‐regulation of CPR and DBR2.