bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human endogenous peptide p33 inhibits detrimental effects of LL‐37 on osteoblast viability
Authors: Svensson D. , Westman J. , Wickström C. , Jönsson D. , Herwald H. , Nilsson B.‐O.
Published: April 2014

Background and Objective

High levels of the antimicrobial peptide, LL‐37, are detected in gingival crevicular fluid from patients with chronic periodontitis. LL‐37 not only shows antimicrobial activity but also affects host‐cell viability. The objective of the present study was to identify endogenous mechanisms that antagonize the detrimental effects of LL‐37 on osteoblast viability, focusing on the human peptide p33 expressed on the surface of various cell types.

Material and Methods

Human osteoblast‐like MG63 cells and human hFOB1.19 osteoblasts were treated with or without LL‐37 in the presence or absence of p33. Recombinant human p33 was expressed in an Escherichia coli expression system. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was assessed using an enzymatic spectrophotometric assay. DNA synthesis was determined by measuring [3H]‐thymidine incorporation. Cell number was assessed by counting cells in a Bürker chamber. Intracellular Ca2+ was monitored by recording Fluo 4‐AM fluorescence using a laser scanning confocal microscope. Cellular expression of p33 was determined by western blotting.

Results

LL‐37 caused a concentration‐dependent release of LDH from human osteoblasts, showing a half‐maximal response value (EC50) of 4 μm and a rapid and sustained rise in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration of osteoblasts, suggesting that LL‐37 forms pores in the cell membrane. p33 (10 μm) inhibited the LL‐37‐induced LDH release and LL‐37‐evoked rise in intracellular Ca2+ concentration, suggesting that p33 prevents LL‐37‐induced permeabilization of the cell membrane. Moreover, p33 blocked LL‐37‐induced attenuation of osteoblast numbers. Also, mucin antagonized, at concentrations representative for nonstimulated whole saliva, LL‐37‐evoked LDH release, whilst cationic endogenous polyamines had no impact on LL‐37‐induced LDH release from osteoblasts.

Conclusions

The endogenous peptide p33 prevents LL‐37‐induced reduction of human osteoblast viability. Importantly, this mechanism may protect the osteoblasts from LL‐37‐induced cell damage in patients suffering from chronic periodontitis associated with high levels of LL‐37 locally.
A Homozygous KCNJ10 Mutation in Jack Russell Terriers and Related Breeds with Spinocerebellar Ataxia with Myokymia, Seizures, or Both
Authors: Gilliam D. , O'Brien D.P. , Coates J.R. , Johnson G.S. , Johnson G.C. , Mhlanga‐Mutangadura T. , Hansen L. , Taylor J.F. , Schnabel R.D.
Published: April 2014

Background

Juvenile‐onset spinocerebellar ataxia has been recognized in Jack Russell Terriers and related Russell group terriers (RGTs) for over 40 years. Ataxia occurs with varying combinations of myokymia, seizures, and other signs of neurologic disease. More than 1 form of the disease has been suspected.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The objective was to identify the mutation causing the spinocerebellar ataxia associated with myokymia, seizures, or both and distinguish the phenotype from other ataxias in the RGTs.

Animals

DNA samples from 16 RGTs with spinocerebellar ataxia beginning from 2 to 12 months of age, 640 control RGTs, and 383 dogs from 144 other breeds along with the medical records of affected dogs were studied.

Methods

This case‐control study compared the frequencies of a KCNJ10 allele in RGTs with spinocerebellar ataxia versus control RGTs. This allele was identified in a whole‐genome sequence of a single RGT with spinocerebellar ataxia and myokymia by comparison to whole‐genome sequences from 81 other canids that were normal or had other diseases.

Results

A missense mutation in the gene coding for the inwardly rectifying potassium channel Kir4.1 (KCNJ10:c.627C>G) was significantly (P < .001) associated with the disease. Dogs homozygous for the mutant allele all had spinocerebellar ataxia with varying combinations of myokymia and seizures.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Identification of the KCNJ10 mutation in dogs with spinocerebellar ataxia with myokymia, seizures, or both clarifies the multiple forms of ataxia seen in these breeds and provides a DNA test to identify carriers.
Nutrient Digestibility of Reduced‐Soybean‐Meal Diets Containing Moringa or Leucaena Leaf Meals for Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus
Authors: Kasiga Tom , Lochmann Rebecca
Published: April 2014

Vegetable leaf meals are cheaper feed ingredients than soybean meal (SBM) in developing countries, and leaf meals are less important as human food. We evaluated the nutrient digestibility of practical diets containing reduced levels of SBM in combination with leaf meals made from Moringa oleifera and Leucaena leucocephala in Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus. Five isonitrogenous diets (32% crude protein) were made: the control diet contained 50% SBM, and the test diets were made by substituting 15 or 30% of SBM protein with either Moringa or Leucaena. Dry matter, protein, and lipid digestibility decreased with increasing Moringa or Leucaena in the diet. Protein and lipid digestibility were high across diets (75–90%). Ash digestibility of the control diet was similar to that of both Moringa diets, while the ash digestibility of the Leucaena diets was lower than other diets. Overall, nutrient digestibilities of Moringa diets exceeded those of Leucaena diets. Dry matter, protein, and lipid digestibilities decreased with increasing dietary fiber, which increased with increasing leaf meals. Ash digestibility was generally low for all diets. Better digestibility of practical diets containing Moringa compared to Leucaena indicates greater potential for Moringa to replace SBM in Nile tilapia diets without compromising fish performance.
Identification of Two Channel Catfish Stocks, Ictalurus punctatus, Cultivated in Northeast Mexico
Authors: De La Rosa‐Reyna Xochitl F. , Sifuentes‐Rincón Ana M. , Parra‐Bracamonte Gaspar M. , Arellano‐Vera Williams
Published: April 2014

The channel catfish farming in Mexico began in the 1970s. One of the most important areas of production is its northeastern region. Traditionally, the channel catfish farmers have attempted to preserve their original genetic stock. After more than 30 yr of production, the genetic relationship between stocks has not been assessed. The goal of this study was to evaluate the genetic differentiation between five channel catfish farm populations, using 13 microsatellite markers. A total of 154 fin clip samples were collected from five channel catfish farms in Tamaulipas. We also included 31 individuals of the commercial strain NWAC103. In each population, we calculated parameter of genetic variability: inbreeding coefficient (FIS), pairwise differentiation (FST), and genetic distance (DC). For the inference of populations and individual assignment two Bayesian methods were used. Genetic variability parameters were NA = 9.54–11.08 and AE = 5.40–6.67. Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium deviations were observed for all farm populations examined, and a deficit of heterozygotes was found. Signals of inbreeding were observed, particularly for the ACU (Acuamex) hatchery. Populations EKA (Empresas Karol) and ACU showed higher genetic differentiation values with respect to the commercial strain (FST = 0.107; FST = 0.082, respectively). Moderated genetic differences (FST = 0.067; DC = 0.080) were observed between the EKA and ACU. Clustering analysis revealed a well‐defined group between EKA and TPA (El Tiron Parejo). In the Bayesian analysis three groups were defined. The first group was formed by EKA and TPA, the second group included ACU, LAJ (La Lajilla), and PRO (Prodatec). In the third group was the commercial strain. In the assignment of individuals, EKA and ACU were represented by exclusive genotypes. Identification of two genetic stocks, one located in the EKA and the other in the ACU population, will be relevant for future management of these hatcheries. Additionally, the information from microsatellites and the statistical procedures presented will be important tools for genetic monitoring of these farm populations.
Shakespeare's Linguistic Creativity: A Reappraisal
Authors: Kolentsis Alysia
Published: April 2014

Shakespeare occupies a rarefied place in the popular imagination. In particular, he is widely celebrated for his creativity with language, and he tends to be portrayed as a singular genius with an inimitable vocabulary and an astounding gift for word invention. Yet as recent scholarship has shown, Shakespeare's language was in fact remarkably average; rather than standing as a shining exception, Shakespeare had a lexicon and a word‐invention rate in keeping with those of his contemporaries. However, Shakespeare's “ordinariness” does not mean that he was not linguistically creative. This essay focuses on Shakespeare's brilliant but subtle manipulation of the existing resources of his language. Shakespeare has an uncanny ability to render common words fresh, and to exploit the unique features of the English of his day, so that even the most ordinary language is transformed into something resonant. Revising Shakespeare's reputation as linguistic innovator means acknowledging his more understated language skills and ultimately allows for a more complete understanding, and fuller appreciation, of his work.
Neurology and Modernist Literature
Authors: Christensen Susie
Published: April 2014

In recent years, there has been a surge in work by literary critics which considers the literature of the late‐nineteenth and early‐twentieth centuries in relation to neurology. This builds upon an already substantial body of work which has studied the literature of this period in relation to psychology or psychoanalysis. The work of medical historians is crucial for literary critics seeking to tease out the complex relationship between psychology and neurology in this period and also in establishing that psychology must form a central aspect of historically grounded studies of neurology and literature which focus on the late‐nineteenth and early‐twentieth centuries. Focusing on neurology and psychology alongside one another in relation to modernist literature demands a new account of Freud and Freudianism. Neurology also needs to be seen as a key element of embodiment in modernist literature. The first part of the article explores these issues. The second part considers recent work by literary critics on neurology and literature and is split into two sections. The first surveys recent work which gives a historically grounded account of neurology and modernist literature, touching on work which considers authors such as Samuel Beckett and Virginia Woolf. The second section focuses on works which examine modernist literature in relation to the neurology and/or neuroscience of today, questioning the efficacy of such an approach.
Beyond Politics? Marvell and the Fortunes of Context
Authors: Augustine Matthew C.
Published: April 2014

This article situates the construction of a ‘political Marvell’ within and against the ‘new’ literary historicisms that have arisen since the late 1970s. Despite the disciplinary prestige garnered in the 1980s and 90s by New Historicism in the United States and by Cultural Materialism in Great Britain, students of Marvell – I argue – were more directly influenced by the examples of John Pocock, Quentin Skinner, and the so‐called Cambridge School of intellectual history. But if students of Marvell thereby early demonstrated the potential of contextual analysis for literary scholarship, Marvellians today must grapple with the limits of contextualization. Is there not, we now wonder, anything ‘beyond politics’?
Evidence for ecological divergence across a mosaic of soil types in an Amazonian tropical tree:Protium subserratum(Burseraceae)
Authors: Misiewicz Tracy M. , Fine Paul V. A.
Published: April 2014

Soil heterogeneity is an important driver of divergent natural selection in plants. Neotropical forests have the highest tree diversity on earth, and frequently, soil specialist congeners are distributed parapatrically. While the role of edaphic heterogeneity in the origin and maintenance of tropical tree diversity is unknown, it has been posited that natural selection across the patchwork of soils in the Amazon rainforest is important in driving and maintaining tree diversity. We examined genetic and morphological differentiation among populations of the tropical treeProtium subserratumgrowing parapatrically on the mosaic of white‐sand, brown‐sand and clay soils found throughout western Amazonia. Nuclear microsatellites and leaf morphology were used to (i) quantify the extent of phenotypic and genetic divergence across habitat types, (ii) assess the importance of natural selection vs. drift in population divergence, (iii) determine the extent of hybridization and introgression across habitat types, (iv) estimate migration rates among populations. We found significant morphological variation correlated with soil type. Higher levels of genetic differentiation and lower migration rates were observed between adjacent populations found on different soil types than between geographically distant populations on the same soil type.PST‐FSTcomparisons indicate a role for natural selection in population divergence among soil types. A small number of hybrids were detected suggesting that gene flow among soil specialist populations may occur at low frequencies. Our results suggest that edaphic specialization has occurred multiple times inP. subserratumand that divergent natural selection across edaphic boundaries may be a general mechanism promoting and maintaining Amazonian tree diversity.
Assessing Skeletal Muscle Variations in Microvascular Pressure and Unstressed Blood Volume at the Bedside
Authors: De Blasi Roberto Alberto , Arcioni Roberto
Published: April 2014

Objective

Quantitative NIRS measurements for MBV partitioning inside microvessels are of current physiologic and clinical interest. In this study, in healthy subjects, we sought new bedside NIRS variables for noninvasively measuring Vu and Pi changes.

Methods

Fifteen healthy subjects underwent graded venous congestion for MBV measurements with NIRS and the reference technique strain‐gauge plethysmography. From ΔMBV we calculated vascular compliance, blood flow, and new NIRS variables including Vu and Pit and Pcrit.

Results

Extrapolating MBV changes to 0 yielded Pit 4.19 ± 0.5 mmHg corresponding to a Vu of 2.53 ± 0.43 mL/100 mL T. The slope for MBV began steeper at values below 18 mmHg (Pcrit). Microvascular compliance measured with NIRS or with strain gauge gave matching results. The change in MBV depended on the oxyhemoglobin increase. No correlation was found between Vu and microvascular compliance or the overall ΔMBV. Cumulative pressure steps showed higher linearity in ΔMBV than that induced by discontinuous steps.

Conclusions

The new NIRS variables we report could be a practical bench‐to‐bedside tool to assess venous driving pressure for systemic perfusion and measure changes in Vu within the microvascular bed.
Non‐Newtonian Flow of Blood in Arterioles: Consequences for Wall Shear Stress Measurements
Authors: Sriram Krishna , Intaglietta Marcos , Tartakovsky Daniel M.
Published: April 2014

Objective

Our primary goal is to investigate the effects of non‐Newtonian blood properties on wall shear stress in microvessels. The secondary goal is to derive a correction factor for the Poiseuille‐law‐based indirect measurements of wall shear stress.

Methods

The flow is assumed to exhibit two distinct, immiscible and homogeneous fluid layers: an inner region densely packed with RBCs, and an outer cell‐free layer whose thickness depends on discharge hematocrit. The cell‐free layer is assumed to be Newtonian, while rheology of the RBC‐rich core is modeled using the Quemada constitutive law.

Results

Our model provides a realistic description of experimentally observed blood velocity profiles, tube hematocrit, core hematocrit, and apparent viscosity over a wide range of vessel radii and discharge hematocrits.

Conclusions

Our analysis reveals the importance of incorporating this complex blood rheology into estimates of WSS in microvessels. The latter is accomplished by specifying a correction factor, which accounts for the deviation of blood flow from the Poiseuille law.
Real‐Time Estimation of Pollution Emissions and Dispersion from Highway Traffic
Authors: Samaranayake Samitha , Glaser Steven , Holstius David , Monteil Julien , Tracton Ken , Seto Edmund , Bayen Alexandre
Published: April 2014

Traffic‐related air pollution is a serious problem with significant health impacts in both urban and suburban environments. Despite an increased realization of the negative impacts of air pollution, assessing individuals' exposure to traffic‐related air pollution remains a challenge. Obtaining high‐resolution estimates are difficult due to the spatial and temporal variability of emissions, the dependence on local atmospheric conditions, and the lack of monitoring infrastructure. This presents a significant hurdle to identifying pollution concentration hot spots and understanding the emission sources responsible for these hot spots, which in turn makes it difficult to reduce the uncertainty of health risk estimates for communities and to develop policies that mitigate these risks. We present a novel air pollution estimation method that models the highway traffic state, highway traffic‐induced air pollution emissions, and pollution dispersion, and describe a prototype implementation for the San Francisco Bay Area. Our model is based on the availability of real‐time traffic estimates on highways, which we obtain using a traffic dynamics model and an estimation algorithm that augments real‐time data from both fixed sensors and probe vehicles. These traffic estimates combined with local weather conditions are used as inputs to an emission model that estimates pollutant levels for multiple gases and particulates in real‐time. Finally, a dispersion model is used to assess the spread of these pollutants away from the highway source. Maps generated using the output of the dispersion model allow users to easily analyze the evolution of individual pollutants over time, and provides transportation engineers and public health officials with valuable information that can be used to minimize health risks.
Timeless Reflections: Form, Cadence and Tonal Structure in the Scherzo and Finale of Schubert's String Quintet
Authors: Koslovsky John
Published: April 2014

Schubert's Quintet in C major has drawn the attention of a number of Schenkerian analysts. While most have examined aspects of form and tonal structure within specific movements (Beach 1993, 1994 and 1995; Smith 2006; and Suurpää 2000), others have attempted to analyse the entire Quintet along a single linear trajectory (Rast 1998). In general, however, Schenkerian analyses of this piece have emphasised the opening two movements, and they have quite understandably done so from a mainly teleological perspective. However, such a perspective stands in stark contrast to the more retrospective, introspective and lyrical qualities that the Quintet exhibits (Gingerich 2000).

This article offers an analysis of the last two movements of Schubert's masterpiece, the Scherzo‐Trio and Finale (Allegretto). These deploy many of the same techniques as the first and the second movements: delayed tonal arrivals, chromatically altered sonorities, harmonic and motivic cross‐references and structured paths from tonic to dominant. While negotiating the ways in which form, cadence and voice leading articulate the overall tonal structure, the article aims to bring together the forward‐driving and retrospective impulses by investigating the ways in which Schubert revisits many of the same ‘timeless’ moments found in the previous movements while still allowing the work to close as a single dramatic gesture.
Mesenchymal stem cells and transplant tolerance
Authors: Vanikar Aruna V , Trivedi Hargovind L , Kumar Ashutosh , Gopal Saroj Chooramani , Kute Vivek B
Published: April 2014

Different strategies are being tried to induce transplant tolerance in clinical settings; however, none of them are both safe and effective. Mesenchymal stem cells have been found to be potent immunomodulators and immunosuppressants. We discuss in this review different sources of mesenchymal stem cells and the potent role of adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells in induction of transplant tolerance including when to use them and how to use them for achieving the Utopian dream of transplant tolerance.
Aggressive rhabdoid meningioma with osseous, papillary and chordoma‐like appearance
Authors: Karabagli Pinar , Karabagli Hakan , Yavas Guler
Published: April 2014

Meningiomas are the most common primary intracranial tumors. They are usually benign and slowly growing; however, they may show histologically malignant features categorizing them into grade II or III of World Health Organization (WHO) classification. Rhabdoid meningioma (RM) is an uncommon meningioma variant categorized as WHO grade III. The clinical course of RM is determined by local recurrences, invasion of adjacent brain and/or dura, widespread leptomeningeal dissemination, remote metastases and fatal clinical outcome. Herein we report a case with recurrent aggressive left occipital parasagittal region RM in which the patient initially declined radiation treatment. The tumor was resected four times in 5 years. Histopathological examination revealed a rhabdoid meningioma with metaplastic, papillary and chordoid differentiation. Six months after her fourth operation the patient died of progressive disease. RM is a rare subtype of malignant meningioma and the role of different adjuvant therapeutic options are still unknown. Clinical presentation, radiological features and pathologic findings of this uncommon tumor are discussed.
Relationship between nurse staffing levels and nurse outcomes in community hospitals, Thailand
Authors: Nantsupawat Apiradee , Nantsupawat Raymoul , Kulnaviktikul Wipada , McHugh Matthew D.
Published: April 2014

A growing body of research has shown an association between nurse staffing levels and a range of nurse outcomes. There is little empirical research evaluating this relationship in Thailand. This study evaluated the influence of nurse staffing levels on outcomes among nurses. A cross‐sectional survey design was conducted at 92 community hospitals using a stratified random sampling design across Thailand during May and July 2012. Questionnaires included items focusing on nurse staffing levels; job dissatisfaction and emotional exhaustion, both related to nurse retention; and needlestick and sharps injuries. The study sample comprised 1412 registered nurses who provided direct patient care. The findings showed that each additional patient per nurse was associated with an additional 5% of nurses reporting dissatisfaction in their job; 8% of nurses reporting high emotional exhaustion, and 4% of nurses reporting needlestick and sharps injuries. This study provides evidence of how nurse staffing levels result in nurse outcomes. Nurses are significant healthcare providers that directly affect quality of care and patient safety in hospitals. Improvement of nurse staffing levels holds promise for improving nurse outcomes in Thailand.
Modifying factors and phenotypic diversity in Wilson's disease
Authors: Lutsenko Svetlana
Published: April 2014

Wilson's disease (WD) is a human disorder of copper homeostasis caused by mutations in the copper‐transporting ATPase ATP7B. WD is characterized by copper accumulation, predominantly in the liver and brain, hepatic pathology, and wide differences between patients in the age of onset and the spectrum of symptoms. Several factors contribute to the phenotypic variability of WD. The WD‐causing mutations produce a wide range of changes in stability, activity, intracellular localization, and trafficking of ATP7B; the nonpathogenic genetic polymorphisms may contribute to the phenotype. In Atp7b−/− mice, a mouse model of WD, an abnormal intracellular distribution of copper in the liver triggers distinct changes in the transcriptome; these mRNA profiles might be used to more specifically define disease progression. The major effect of accumulating copper on lipid metabolism and especially cholesterol homeostasis in mice and humans suggests the importance of fat and cholesterol metabolism as modifying factors in WD.
A prospective longitudinal controlled assessment of pain experience and oral health‐related quality of life in adolescents undergoing fixed appliance treatment
Authors: Johal A. , Fleming P. S. , Al Jawad F. A.
Published: April 2014

Structured Abstract

Objective

To compare subjective pain experience and oral health‐related quality of life (OH‐QoL) in treated and untreated subjects over the first 3 months of fixed appliance therapy.

Setting and Sample Population

The Department of Orthodontics, School of Medicine and Dentistry. One hundred and twenty‐four subjects aged between 11 and 14 years either commencing or awaiting fixed appliance treatment.

Material & Methods

A prospective controlled longitudinal study design was applied to subjects, over a 3‐month observation period, following the placement of fixed appliances. Socio‐economic status, OH‐QoL, pain experience and analgesic consumption were recorded on questionnaires at baseline (T0), 6 weeks (T1) and 3 months (T2).

Results

Oral symptoms and functional limitation domains of OH‐QoL were found to worsen, during the follow‐up period, in the test group (p = 0.001 and p = 0.002, respectively). In the treated group, pain intensity declined significantly on days 3 and 2 at T1 and T2, respectively (p < 0.001). Analgesia was required during both periods in a total of 13 participants (24.5%) undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Conclusion

Based on this prospective controlled study, the initial stages of fixed appliance treatment results in subjective pain experience, with subsequent reduction, and a significant impact on oral symptoms and functional limitation domains of OH‐QoL.
Near‐genomewide RNAi screening for regulators of BRAFV600E‐induced senescence identifies RASEF, a gene epigenetically silenced in melanoma
Authors: Kaplon Joanna , Hömig‐Hölzel Cornelia , Gao Linda , Meissl Katrin , Verdegaal Els M. E. , van der Burg Sjoerd H. , van Doorn Remco , Peeper Daniel S.
Published: April 2014

The activation of oncogenes in primary cells blocks proliferation by inducing oncogene‐induced senescence (OIS), a highly potent in vivo tumor‐suppressing program. A prime example is mutant BRAF, which drives OIS in melanocytic nevi. Progression to melanoma occurs only in the context of additional alteration(s) like the suppression of PTEN, which abrogates OIS. Here, we performed a near‐genomewide short hairpin (sh)RNA screen for novel OIS regulators and identified by next generation sequencing and functional validation seven genes. While all but one were upregulated in OIS, depletion of each of them abrogated BRAFV600E‐induced arrest. With genome‐wide DNA methylation analysis, we found one of these genes, RASEF, to be hypermethylated in primary cutaneous melanomas but not nevi. Bypass of OIS by depletion of RASEF was associated with suppression of several senescence biomarkers including senescence‐associated (SA)‐β‐galactosidase activity, interleukins, and tumor suppressor p15INK4B. Restoration of RASEF expression inhibited proliferation. These results illustrate the power of shRNA OIS bypass screens and identify a potential novel melanoma suppressor gene.
Language as the House of Being? How to Bring Intelligibility to Heidegger While Keeping the Excitement
Authors: Vandevelde Pol
Published: April 2014

At the core of Heidegger's philosophy, there lies this nagging question: what is the link between language and being? Using a famous formulation by Heidegger as a guide (‘When we go to the well, when we go through the woods, we are always already going through the word “well”, through the word “woods”’), the analysis focuses on the connection Heidegger establishes between being (what woods and well ‘are’), understanding (something is understood ‘as’ woods or well), and temporality (human understanding of woods and well has changed since ancient Greek times, for example). Language is both what grants things their way to matter to us and thus to ‘be’ for us to the extent that we understand them, but language is also linked to a ‘happening’ (Geschehen) or an event so that things are not bound to their Geek being or current being: things ‘become being’ (seiend werden). Language is both the means for things to materialize in historical times: ‘being woods’ or ‘being a well,’ as well as a testimony to their entry into being. This is why language in its poetic use can make beings ‘more being’ (seiender).
Immune response to Cystoisospora suis in piglets: local and systemic changes in T‐cell subsets and selected mRNA transcripts in the small intestine
Authors: Gabner S. , Worliczek H. L. , Witter K. , Meyer F. R. L. , Gerner W. , Joachim A.
Published: April 2014

Infections of neonatal piglets with Cystoisospora suis are responsible for substantial economic losses in pig production. To investigate kinetics of T‐cell populations, which are possibly involved in this infection, lymphocytes from blood, spleen, mesenteric lymph nodes and the jejunal mucosa of infected and noninfected piglets were investigated by flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry at five time points during the acute phase of primary infection. Additionally, mRNA expression levels of pattern recognition receptors and immunomodulatory cytokines in the jejunum were investigated. T‐cell receptor‐γδ+ T cells were found to be increased in the gut mucosa 4 days after infection and were most likely involved in the primary local immune response. Five to eleven days later, cytotoxic T cells peaked in this location, which was preceded by an expansion of this lymphocyte population in the mesenteric lymph nodes. In intestines of infected piglets, mRNA expressions of TLR‐2, NOD2 and TNF‐α were significantly upregulated, suggesting an involvement in parasite recognition, immune response and possibly also in immunopathology. Taken together, this study identifies cellular and molecular players involved in the early immune responses against C. suis, but their precise role in the pathogenesis and control of this neonatal disease requires further investigation.
Maternal Stressors and Social Support as Risks for Delivering Babies with Structural Birth Defects
Authors: Carmichael Suzan L. , Ma Chen , Tinker Sarah , Rasmussen Sonia A. , Shaw Gary M. ,   National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: April 2014

Background

We examined the association of maternal stressful life events and social support with risks of birth defects using National Birth Defects Prevention Study data, a population‐based case–control study.

Methods

We examined seven stressful life events and three social support questions applicable to the periconceptional period, among mothers of 552 cases with neural tube defects (NTDs), 413 cleft palate (CP), 797 cleft lip ± cleft palate (CLP), 189 d‐transposition of the great arteries (dTGA), 311 tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), and 2974 non‐malformed controls. A stressful life events index equalled the sum of ‘yes’ responses to the seven questions. Social support questions were also summed to form an index. Data were analyzed using logistic regression to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), adjusted for maternal race‐ethnicity, age, education, body mass index, smoking, drinking, and intake of vitamin supplements.

Results

Associations with the stress index tended to be higher with higher scores, but few 95% CIs excluded one. A four‐point increase in the index was moderately associated with NTDs (OR 1.5, [95% CI 1.1, 2.0]) and CLP (OR 1.3, [95% CI 1.0, 1.7]). The social support index tended to be associated with reduced risk but most 95% CIs included one, with the exception of dTGA (OR for a score of 3 vs 0 was 0.5 [95% CI 0.3, 0.8]).

Conclusions

Maternal periconceptional stressful life events, social support, and the two factors in combination were at most modestly, if at all, associated with risks of the studied birth defects.
Dietary Fat Supplementation and the Consequences for Oocyte and Embryo Quality: Hype or Significant Benefit for Dairy Cow Reproduction?
Authors: Leroy JLMR , Sturmey RG , Van Hoeck V , De Bie J , McKeegan PJ , Bols PEJ
Published: April 2014

Contents

In many countries, fat supplementation in the diet has become common in the dairy industry. There are several ideas as to how dietary fat could influence reproductive performance. Saturated fatty acids, such as palm oil, can increase milk yield but may aggravate negative energy balance and thus may impair fertility when fed during the first week post‐partum. However, priming the lipid oxidation in the liver by feeding saturated fats during the dry period has recently been shown to be a potentially promising strategy to mitigate fat mobilization and liver accumulation post‐partum. Furthermore, polyunsaturated fats (omega‐3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acids) are fed to reduce the ‘de novo’ fat synthesis in the udder and thus the milk fat content, which may be of modest benefit for overall energy balance. Furthermore, omega‐6 and omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are reported to alter follicular growth, steroid synthesis and prostaglandin metabolism in the ovary and endometrium, respectively. Omega‐6 fatty acids are believed to have pro‐inflammatory and thus PGF2α‐stimulating properties rendering them extra value as ‘nutraceutical’ early post‐partum, while omega‐3 fatty acids can weaken this inflammatory potency, leading to a higher chance of survival of the embryo when supplemented during the periconceptual period. Unfortunately, research results rarely provide a consensus in this perspective. The consequences of these fat‐feeding strategies on oocyte and embryo quality remain an intriguing issue for debate. Fat feeding may alter the microenvironment of the growing and maturing oocyte of the early and older embryo and thus may affect reproductive outcome. We recently reported that dietary‐induced hyperlipidaemic conditions can be harmful for embryo development and metabolism. However, to date, research results remain somewhat conflicting most probably due to differences in fat sources used, in diet and duration of supplementation and in experimental set‐up in general.
A Framework for Analyzing the Economic Tradeoffs Between Urban Commerce and Security Against Terrorism
Authors: Rose Adam , Avetisyan Misak , Chatterjee Samrat
Published: April 2014

This article presents a framework for economic consequence analysis of terrorism countermeasures. It specifies major categories of direct and indirect costs, benefits, spillover effects, and transfer payments that must be estimated in a comprehensive assessment. It develops a spreadsheet tool for data collection, storage, and refinement, as well as estimation of the various components of the necessary economic accounts. It also illustrates the usefulness of the framework in the first assessment of the tradeoffs between enhanced security and changes in commercial activity in an urban area, with explicit attention to the role of spillover effects. The article also contributes a practical user interface to the model for emergency managers.
Oral health status of individuals with cerebral palsy at a nationally recognized rehabilitation center
Authors: Al‐Allaq Tumouh , DeBord Terrie K. , Liu Honghu , Wang Yan , Messadi Diana V.
Published: April 2014

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a set of nonprogressive neuromuscular disorders caused by defects in the developing fetal brain. The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence and distribution of various dental conditions including dental caries and periodontitis among individuals with CP who receive care at the Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center dental clinic.

Medical records of 478 patients between the ages of 3 and 78 years were reviewed. Patients were divided into four age groups: 3–20, 21–35, 36–55, and 56 and above year old. Data related to their dental conditions including caries, periodontitis, and other oral diseases were assessed. Statistical analyses were conducted to evaluate the correlations between these oral diseases and age, gender, ethnicity as well as their living conditions (home or group home).

The 36–55‐year‐old age group displayed significantly more caries and periodontitis than any other age groups. Individuals aged 3–20 years showed a significantly lower rate of periodontitis and caries. There was no significant association between gender and race with these outcome variables but there was a correlation between these variables and living conditions.

Differences in oral health exist among people with CP from different age groups and living conditions. These findings suggest that there is a dire need for more oral hygiene training and education for the care givers. Dental schools should better prepare their graduates to meet the treatment demands of individuals with special healthcare needs.
The Continuum of “Survivorship”: Definitional Issues in the Aftermath of Suicide
Authors: Cerel Julie , McIntosh John L. , Neimeyer Robert A. , Maple Myfanwy , Marshall Doreen
Published: April 2014

In light of prevailing confusion over the meaning of the term “suicide survivor,” we propose a more exact terminology for designating different levels of impact on those left behind by suicide, ranging on a continuum from those exposed to suicide through those who are affected by it and finally to those who are bereaved by suicide in the short‐ or long‐term, as a function of their loss of a close emotional attachment through this tragic form of loss. We briefly note the possible utility of this terminological specificity in promoting more clearly targeted research and intervention efforts, and call for closer investigation of various categories of “survivorship” in future studies.
Reproductive risk factors assessment for anaemia among pregnant women in India using a multinomial logistic regression model
Authors: Perumal Vanamail
Published: April 2014

Objective

To assess reproductive risk factors for anaemia among pregnant women in urban and rural areas of India.

Method

The International Institute of Population Sciences, India, carried out third National Family Health Survey in 2005–2006 to estimate a key indicator from a sample of ever‐married women in the reproductive age group 15–49 years. Data on various dimensions were collected using a structured questionnaire, and anaemia was measured using a portable HemoCue instrument. Anaemia prevalence among pregnant women was compared between rural and urban areas using chi‐square test and odds ratio. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was used to determine risk factors.

Results

Anaemia prevalence was assessed among 3355 pregnant women from rural areas and 1962 pregnant women from urban areas. Moderate‐to‐severe anaemia in rural areas (32.4%) is significantly more common than in urban areas (27.3%) with an excess risk of 30%. Gestational age specific prevalence of anaemia significantly increases in rural areas after 6 months. Pregnancy duration is a significant risk factor in both urban and rural areas. In rural areas, increasing age at marriage and mass media exposure are significant protective factors of anaemia. However, more births in the last five years, alcohol consumption and smoking habits are significant risk factors.

Conclusion

In rural areas, various reproductive factors and lifestyle characteristics constitute significant risk factors for moderate‐to‐severe anaemia. Therefore, intensive health education on reproductive practices and the impact of lifestyle characteristics are warranted to reduce anaemia prevalence.
Rab12 Localizes to Shiga Toxin‐Induced Plasma Membrane Invaginations and Controls Toxin Transport
Authors: Rydell Gustaf E. , Renard Henri‐François , Garcia‐Castillo Maria‐Daniela , Dingli Florent , Loew Damarys , Lamaze Christophe , Römer Winfried , Johannes Ludger
Published: April 2014

Several exogenous and endogenous cargo proteins are internalized independently of clathrin, including the bacterial Shiga toxin. The mechanisms underlying early steps of clathrin‐independent uptake remain largely unknown. In this study, we have designed a protocol to obtain gradient fractions containing Shiga toxin internalization intermediates. Using stable isotope labeling with amino acids in cell culture (SILAC) and quantitative mass spectrometry, Rab12 was found in association with these very early uptake carriers. The localization of the GTPase on Shiga toxin‐induced plasma membrane invaginations was shown by fluorescence microscopy in cells transfected with GFP‐Rab12. Furthermore, using a quantitative biochemical assay, it was found that the amount of receptor‐binding B‐subunit of Shiga toxin reaching the trans‐Golgi/TGN membranes was decreased in Rab12‐depleted cells, and that cells were partially protected against intoxication by Shiga‐like toxin 1 under these conditions. These findings demonstrate the functional importance of Rab12 for retrograde toxin trafficking. Among several other intracellular transport pathways, only the steady‐state localizations of TGN46 and cation‐independent mannose‐6‐phosphate receptor were affected. These data thus strongly suggest that Rab12 functions in the retrograde transport route.
Impact of ethnicity on human umbilical cord blood banking: a systematic review
Authors: Akyurekli Celine , Chan Joshua Y.S. , Elmoazzen Heidi , Tay Jason , Allan David S.
Published: April 2014

Background

How ethnicity impacts characteristics of umbilical cord blood collected by cord blood banks remains unclear.

Study Design and Methods

After a systematic search, we identified 11 studies for analysis that reported on various variables of collected cord blood units.

Results

Non‐Caucasian ethnicity of the cord blood donor was associated with a higher risk of failing to meet banking criteria, lower cord blood volume, reduced total nucleated cell count, fewer CD34+ cells, and reduced colony‐forming units.

Conclusions

Non‐Caucasian ethnicity is associated with reductions in hematopoietic measures of collected cord blood units. Public banking efforts will have to balance issues related to building ethnic diversity within the bank and maintaining the characteristics of banked units that remain desirable by transplant centers.
Clinical management of patients receiving cell‐based immunoregulatory therapy
Authors: Hutchinson James A. , Ahrens Norbert , Riquelme Paloma , Walter Lisa , Gruber Michael , Böger Carsten A. , Farkas Stefan , Scherer Marcus N. , Broichhausen Christiane , Bein Thomas , Schlitt Hans‐J. , Fändrich Fred , Banas Bernhard , Geissler Edward K.
Published: April 2014

Administering immunoregulatory cells as medicinal agents is a revolutionary approach to the treatment of immunologically mediated diseases. Isolating, propagating, and modifying cells before applying them to patients allows complementation of specific cellular functions, which opens astonishing new possibilities for gain‐of‐function antigen‐specific treatments in autoimmunity, chronic inflammatory disorders, and transplantation. This critical review presents a systematic assessment of the potential clinical risks posed by cell‐based immunotherapy, focusing on treatment of renal transplant recipients with regulatory macrophages as a concrete example.
Control of Laminar Pulsating Flow and Heat Transfer in Backward-Facing Step by Using a Square Obstacle
Authors: Selimefendigil Fatih , Oztop Hakan F.
Published: April 2014

In the present study, laminar pulsating flow over a backward-facing step in the presence of a square obstacle placed behind the step is numerically studied to control the heat transfer and fluid flow. The working fluid is air with a Prandtl number of 0.71 and the Reynolds number is varied from 10 and 200. The study is performed for three different vertical positions of the square obstacle and different forcing frequencies at the inlet position. Navier–Stokes and energy equation for a 2D laminar flow are solved using a finite-volume-based commercial code. It is observed that by properly locating the square obstacle the length and intensity of the recirculation zone behind the step are considerably affected, and hence, it can be used as a passive control element for heat transfer augmentation. Enhancements in the maximum values of the Nusselt number of 228% and 197% are obtained for two different vertical locations of the obstacle. On the other hand, in the pulsating flow case at Reynolds number of 200, two locations of the square obstacle are effective for heat transfer enhancement with pulsation compared to the case without obstacle.
A Sensitivity Approach for Eliminating Clashes From Computer Aided Design Model Assemblies
Authors: Shaheer Zubairi Mohammad , Robinson Trevor T. , Armstrong Cecil G. , Soban Danielle S.
Published: April 2014

Clashes occur when components in an assembly unintentionally violate others. If clashes are not identified and designed out before manufacture, product function will be reduced or substantial cost will be incurred in rework. This paper introduces a novel approach for eliminating clashes by identifying which parameters defining the part features in a computer aided design (CAD) assembly need to change and by how much. Sensitivities are calculated for each parameter defining the part and the assembly as the change in clash volume due to a change in each parameter value. These sensitivities give an indication of important parameters and are used to predict the optimum combination of changes in each parameter to eliminate the clash. Consideration is given to the fact that it is sometimes preferable to modify some components in an assembly rather than others and that some components in an assembly cannot be modified as the designer does not have control over their shape. Successful elimination of clashes has been demonstrated in a number of example assemblies.
Optimal Distribution of Discrete Heat Sources Under Mixed Convection—A Heuristic Approach
Authors: Kumar Hotta Tapano , Balaji C. , Venkateshan S. P.
Published: April 2014

Steady state experiments are conducted in a low speed horizontal wind tunnel under mixed convection for five discrete heat sources (aluminum) of nonidentical sizes arranged at different positions on a substrate board (bakelite) to determine the optimal configuration. The optimal configuration is one for which the maximum temperature excess (difference between the maximum temperature among the heat sources of that configuration, and the ambient temperature) is the lowest among all the other possible configurations and is determined by a heuristic nondimensional geometric parameter λ. The maximum temperature excess is found to decrease with λ, signifying an increase in heat transfer coefficient. In view of this, the configuration with highest λ is deemed to be the optimal one. The effect of surface radiation on the heat transfer characteristic of heat sources is also studied by painting their surface with black, which reduces their temperature by as much as 12%. An empirical correlation is developed for the nondimensional maximum temperature excess (θ) in terms of λ, by taking into account the effect of surface radiation. The correlation when applied for highest λ of the configuration returns the minimum value of θ at the optimal condition, which is a key engineering quantity that is sought in problems of this class.