bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The use of MTA/blood mixture to induce hard tissue healing in a root fractured maxillary central incisor. Case report and treatment considerations
Authors: Chaniotis A.
Published: December 2013

Aim

To report the use of MTA/blood mixture for the induction of hard tissue healing of multiple horizontal root fractures in a maxillary incisor.

An 18‐year‐old male patient was referred after suffering trauma to the anterior maxilla. Radiographic evaluation revealed multiple horizontal fractures in the middle and cervical third of his maxillary right central incisor. Clinical evaluation revealed third grade mobility of the coronal segment. The patient's accompanying radiographs revealed that root canal treatment of all segments had been previously initiated and both segments had been rendered pulpless. The coronal segment was repositioned and stabilized. A bi‐antibiotic mixture, containing equal parts of ciprofloxacin and metronidazole, was used for the disinfection of the root canal segments. A blood clot was induced from the periapical area and MTA powder was mixed with the blood creating a bioceramic mixture covering all the fractures. Thick MTA was placed as a coronal barrier and the tooth was restored. Recall examination after 24 months revealed healing of the horizontal fractures. The MTA mixed with the blood lost its radio‐opacity over time. Tooth mobility returned to normal limits.

Key learning points

A low range of 5–25% of all horizontally root fractured cases develop pulp necrosis, confined in the coronal segment, leaving the apical segment with vital tissue.

In the unfortunate situation that the pulp of both segments becomes necrotic or the entire pulp tissue is removed, the use of MTA/blood mixture may be beneficial for the induction of hard tissue healing.

MTA when mixed with blood seems to lose its radio‐opacity over time.
Early hyperglycaemia and the early‐term death in patients with spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Tan X. , He J. , Li L. , Yang G. , Liu H. , Tang S. , Wang Y.
Published: December 2013

Background and Aims

Stroke is often accompanied by hyperglycaemia, and this has an important impact on prognosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between early hyperglycaemia and the outcome of spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage (sICH).

Methods

A systematic literature search on PubMed, Embase, Cochran, WANFANG DATA, VIP and CNKI databases was conducted, and eight eligible studies were retrieved. Relative risks and 95% confidence interval (CI) in the hyperglycaemia group compared with the non‐hyperglycaemia group were calculated and meta‐analysed when possible.

Results

Eight controlled trials and cohort studies totalling 3756 patients addressing early hyperglycaemia and the outcome of sICH were compiled for this meta‐analysis. Cut‐off points for defining hyperglycaemia was 6.1–8.3 mmol/L, and the median cut‐off value was 7.5 mmol/L. Studies were assigned to one of the two subgroups: the group A (for studies with the values of glucose concentrations above the median cut‐off) and the group B (for studies with the values of glucose concentrations below the median cut‐off). The RR for short‐term death associated with hyperglycaemia was 3.65 (95% confidence interval (CI) (3.08, 4.33); P < 0.0001). In the subgroup analysis, the relative risk values were 3.46 (95% CI (1.66, 7.20); P = 0.0009) and 3.53 (95% CI (2.92, 4.26); P < 0.00001) for the groups A and B respectively. The publication bias showed that Egger's test (P > 0.1), Begg's test (P > 0.05) and Nfs0.05 exceeded included studies.

Conclusions

Early hyperglycaemia can significantly increase the rate of early‐term death in patients with sICH, independent of the cut‐off points for hyperglycaemia.
Using periodic point‐prevalence surveys to assess appropriateness of antimicrobial prescribing in Australian private hospitals
Authors: Cotta M. O. , Robertson M. S. , Upjohn L. M. , Marshall C. , Liew D. , Buising K. L.
Published: December 2013

Background and Aims

Appropriateness of antimicrobial use is a measure of key importance in evaluating safety and quality of prescribing but has been difficult to define and assess on a wide scale. Published work is limited and has generally focused on tertiary public hospitals, whereas the private sector provides a significant proportion of care in many countries. Information on prescribing in the private hospital context is needed to identify where intervention might be required. An antimicrobial prescribing survey tool was utilised to assess the appropriateness of antimicrobial prescribing among large private hospitals in Australia.

Methods

‘Appropriateness’ of antimicrobial therapy was evaluated by a team consisting of an infectious diseases physician and specialist infectious diseases pharmacist based on clear criteria.

Results

Thirteen hospital‐wide point‐prevalence surveys were conducted. Three thousand, four hundred and seventy‐two inpatient medication charts were reviewed to identify 1125 (32.4%) inpatients on 1444 antimicrobials. An indication was documented in 911 (63.1%) of surveyed prescriptions, and overall, 757 (52.4%) of antimicrobials were assessed as appropriate. Antimicrobials prescribed for treatment had a higher proportion of appropriateness when compared with antimicrobials prescribed for surgical prophylaxis (80.4% vs 40.6%). The main reason for a treatment prescription to be considered inappropriate was incorrect selection, while prolonged duration (>24 h) was the main reason for inappropriate surgical prophylaxis prescriptions.

Conclusions

This study provides important data on antimicrobial prescribing patterns in Australian private hospitals. Results can be used to target areas for improvement, with documentation of indication and surgical antibiotic prophylaxis requiring initial attention.
Employment choice and mobility in multi‐sector labour markets: Theoretical model and evidence from Ghana
Authors: TAIWO Olumide
Published: December 2013

Using detailed household survey data on male workers in Ghana, the author tests a theoretical model incorporating capital market failure and labour market segmentation into sectors of (largely formal) wage employment and (largely informal) self‐employment and family enterprise employment, in which credit‐constrained individuals draw self‐employment capital from family assets. The data show very low rates of mobility across the three sectors, the highest mobility being observed among family enterprise workers, and the lowest, among the self‐employed. The findings show no robust evidence that wage earnings ease liquidity constraints, while suggesting that both liquidity and skill transferability constraints are important for mobility.
Extending social security coverage to self‐employed workers in Brazil
Authors: NAGAMINE COSTANZI Rogério , DUARTE BARBOSA Edvaldo , DA SILVA BICHARA Julimar
Published: December 2013

Self‐employed workers in Brazil are to a large extent excluded from the national social security system. This article describes two programmes introduced in the 2000s that have achieved good results in terms of the “formalization” and protection of these workers. The programmes offer microentrepreneurs and self‐employed workers simplified administrative procedures, commercial benefits (ability to take out bank loans and issue invoices) and levels of social security contributions adapted to their incomes. The data provided by the authors illustrate the effectiveness of the programmes, which could also be implemented in other countries.
Chronic unexplained orchialgia: a concept analysis
Authors: Quallich Susanne A. , Arslanian‐Engoren Cynthia
Published: December 2013

Aims

To conduct an analysis of the concept of chronic unexplained orchialgia.

Background

Chronic unexplained orchialgia is a concept unique to men's health; however, clarity is lacking regarding the precise meaning of the key attributes of this important concept.

Design

Walker and Avant's framework was used to guide this concept analysis.

Data sources

Literature sources included bibliographic databases.

Review methods

Literature published in English from January 1970 to December 31, 2012 was reviewed. Thematic analysis identified critical attributes, antecedents and consequences of the concept.

Results

Based on the analysis, a contemporary definition for chronic unexplained orchialgia is proposed, rooted in the concept of chronic pain. This definition is based on the concept analysis and the defining attributes that were identified in the literature. Chronic unexplained orchialgia is a subjective negative experience of adult men, perceived as intermittent or continuous pain of variable intensity, present at least three months, localizing to the testis(es) in the absence of objective organic findings and that interferes with quality of life.

Conclusion

This analysis provides a precise definition for chronic unexplained orchialgia and distinguishes it from other similar terms. This concept analysis provides conceptual clarity that can guide understanding and development of a conceptual framework, middle range theory, or situation‐specific theory. Further exploration of this concept is recommended to uncover the influence of social, sexual and cultural factors.
How women caregivers deal with their own long‐term illness: a qualitative study
Authors: Martinez‐Marcos Mercedes , De la Cuesta‐Benjumea Carmen
Published: December 2013

Aim

To explore the strategies used by women caregivers to deal with their own chronic health conditions.

Background

Providing care has a negative impact on the physical and mental health of caregivers. When caregivers suffer chronic health problems, it increases the burden of caring, making them more vulnerable and less likely to look after their own health.

Design

Qualitative study carried out between April 2010–December 2011.

Method

Thirty‐nine women with long‐term illness who care for dependent family members took part in the study, 23 in semi‐structured interviews and 16 in two focus groups. The data were analysed using the grounded theory method.

Findings

Women caregivers feel that they cannot let their own chronic health problems prevent them from caring for others. Dealing with their health problems enables them to provide the time and effort their family member requires. They do this by: (1) normalizing their chronic conditions; (2) neutralizing the effects of their long‐term illness; and (3) forgetting that they are chronic sufferers.

Conclusions

This study analyses the strategies that family caregivers use to deal with their own chronic health problems, so that they can continue to provide family care. It shows that, to forget about their own illnesses, these women must take charge of them. Nurses need to recognize and value the strategies that caregivers use to deal with their own health problems. They also need to encourage them to use the most effective strategies, to improve their quality of life.
Gymnodinium smaydae n. sp., a New Planktonic Phototrophic Dinoflagellate from the Coastal Waters of Western Korea: Morphology and Molecular Characterization
Authors: Kang Nam Seon , Jeong Hae Jin , Moestrup Øjvind , Lee Sung Yeon , Lim An Suk , Jang Tae Young , Lee Kyung Ha , Lee Moo Joon , Jang Se Hyeon , Potvin Eric , Lee Sook Kyung , Noh Jae Hoon
Published: December 2013

The marine phototrophic dinoflagellate Gymnodinium smaydae n. sp. is described from cells prepared for light, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy. Also, sequences of the small (SSU) and large subunits (LSU) and the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS1–5.8S–ITS2) of ribosomal DNA were analyzed. This newly isolated dinoflagellate possessed nuclear chambers, nuclear fibrous connective, an apical groove running in a counterclockwise direction around the apex, and a major accessory pigment peridinin, which are four key features for the genus Gymnodinium. The epicone was conical with a round apex, while the hypocone was ellipsoid. Cells growing photosynthetically were 6.3–10.9 μm long and 5.1–10.0 μm wide, and therefore smaller than any other Gymnodinium species so far reported except Gymnodinium nanum. Cells were covered with polygonal amphiesmal vesicles arranged in 11 horizontal rows, and the vesicles were smaller than those of the other Gymnodinium species. This dinoflagellate had a sharp and elongated ventral ridge reaching half way down the hypocone, unlike other Gymnodinium species. Moreover, displacement of the cingulum was 0.4–0.6 × cell length while in other known Gymnodinium species it is less than 0.3 × cell length. In addition, the new species possessed a peduncle, permanent chloroplasts, pyrenoids, trichocysts, pusule systems, and small knobs along the apical furrow, but it lacked an eyespot, nematocysts, and body scales. The sequence of the SSU, ITS1–5.8S–ITS2, and LSU rDNA region differed by 1.5–3.8%, 6.0–17.4%, and 9.1–17.5%, respectively, from those of the most closely related species. The phylogenetic trees demonstrated that the new species belonged to the Gymnodinium clade at the base of a clade consisting of Gymnodinium acidotum, Gymnodinium dorsalisulcum, Gymnodinium eucyaneum, etc. Based on morphological and molecular data, we suggest that the taxon represents a new species, Gymnodinium smaydae n. sp.
Sequence Diversity of the Nucleoprotein Gene of Peanut bud necrosis virus Isolates from South India
Authors: Yeturu Sivaprasad , Bhaskara Reddy Bommu Veera , Asadhi Sujitha , Sai Gopal Divi Venkata Ramana
Published: December 2013

Peanut bud necrosis virus (PBNV), genus Tospovirus (family Bunyaviridae), is an important virus infecting peanut and other crops in South India. PBNV isolates naturally infecting groundnut, brinjal, tomato, black gram, field bean, cowpea, cotton, jute, taro and Calotropis plants were collected from different regions of South India and characterized. Infection was confirmed by direct antigen‐coating enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (DAC‐ELISA) using PBNV‐specific antiserum. The coat protein gene was further amplified using PBNV coat protein‐specific primers. The amplicon (830 bp) was cloned and sequenced; sequence analysis revealed that the N gene shared 93–100% and 95–100% sequence identity with PBNV at the nucleotide and amino acid levels, respectively.
Relations between daytime pre‐ejection period reactivity and sleep in late childhood
Authors: Bagley Erika J. , El‐Sheikh Mona
Published: December 2013

The sympathetic nervous system and children's sleep serve critical arousal regulation functions. Shortened pre‐ejection period, a reliable indirect index of greater sympathetic nervous system activity, has been associated with reduced sleep duration and quality in adults, but limited evidence exists in children regarding associations between pre‐ejection period and sleep. We examined relations between pre‐ejection period reactivity in response to a laboratory‐based stressor and multiple parameters of actigraphy‐based sleep duration and quality in children. The sample included 123 boys and 112 girls [mean age = 11.31 years, standard deviation (SD) = 0.63 years]. Controlling for body mass index, sex and pre‐ejection period baseline, increased sympathetic nervous system reactivity, indexed by a lower level of pre‐ejection period during the challenge than the baseline, was associated with worse sleep quality indicated by lower sleep efficiency, greater sleep activity and greater long wake episodes. The findings add to a small literature on relations between sympathetic nervous system functioning and children's sleep, suggesting that poor sleep quality is related to dysregulation of this stress response system.
Establishment of Fracturability Standard Reference Scale by Instrumental and Sensory Analysis of Chinese Food
Authors: Duan Huiling , Gu Shuqin , Zhao Lei , Lu Daxin
Published: December 2013

Twenty kinds of fracturable food were tested using instrumental measurement, and the result was analyzed with cluster analysis. Seven kinds of food were selected by coefficient of variation and were estimated by magnitude estimation. The result indicates that the correlation coefficient between estimated sensory value and instrument measured value is significant (R2=0.9248), which fits well with the Stevens' power law. The selected references of food fracturability were accurate, effective and traceable. The research could provide reliable theoretical basis for the determination of sensory evaluation references as well as instrumental measurement.

Practical Applications

This study was to establish the fracturability reference scale by choosing Chinese well‐known foods according to Szczesniak's studies and Chinese characteristics. The research provides reliable theoretical basis and practical reference for quantitative study on food texture sensory parameters, and is a basis for further development of Chinese food texture research. Research will benefit textural studies through an improvement of consistent textural definitions and development of standard scales and evaluation techniques.
Pharmacokinetics and ex‐vivo pharmacodynamics of cefquinome against Klebsiella pneumonia in healthy dogs
Authors: Zhang B. , Gu X. , Li X. , Gu M. , Zhang N. , Shen X. , Li Y. , Ding H.
Published: December 2013

A two‐period cross‐over study was carried to investigate the pharmacokinetics (PK) and ex‐vivo pharmacodynamics (PD) of cefquinome when administrated intravenously (IV) and intramuscularly (IM) in seven healthy dogs at a dose of 2 mg/kg of body weight. Serum concentrations were determined by HPLC‐MS/MS assay and cefquinome concentration vs. time data after IV and IM were best fit to a two‐compartment open model. Cefquinome mean values of area under concentration–time curve (AUC) were 5.15 μg·h/mL for IV dose and 4.59 μg·h/mL for IM dose. Distribution half‐lives and elimination half‐lives after IV dose and IM dose were 0.27 and 0.44 h, 1.53 and 1.94 h, respectively. Values of total body clearance (ClB) and volume of distribution at steady‐state (Vss) were 0.49 L·kg/h and 0.81 L/kg, respectively. After IM dose, Cmax was 2.53 μg/mL and the bioavailability was 89.13%. For PD profile, the determined MIC and MBC values against K. pneumonia were 0.030 and 0.060 μg/mL in MHB and 0.032 and 0.064 μg/mL in serum. The ex vivo time‐kill curves also were established in serum. In conjunction with the data on MIC, MBC values and the ex vivo bactericidal activity in serum, the present results allowed prediction that a single cefquinome dosage of 2 mg/kg may be effective in dogs against K. pneumonia infection.
Advances in Therapeutic Development for Radiation Cystitis
Authors: RAJAGANAPATHY Bharathi Raja , JAYABALAN Nirmal , TYAGI Pradeep , KAUFMAN Jonathan , CHANCELLOR Michael B.
Published: December 2013

Radiation treatment for pelvic malignancies is typically associated with radiation injury to urinary bladder that can ultimately lead to radiation cystitis (RC). The late sequelae of radiation therapy may take many years to develop and include bothersome storage symptoms such as hematuria, which may be life‐threatening in severe cases of hemorrhagic cystitis. Although no definitive treatment is currently available, various interventions are used for radiation and hemorrhagic cystitis including blood transfusion, bladder irrigation, intravesical instillation of substances such as alum, silver nitrate, prostaglandins or formalin, and fulguration of intravesical bleeding sites and surgery options such as supravesical urinary diversions and cystectomy. Effects of non‐surgical treatments for radiation and hemorrhagic cystitis are of modest success and studies are lacking to control the effects caused by RC. When such measures have proven ineffective, use of bladder botulinum toxin injection has been reported. New therapy, such as intravesical immunosuppression with local tacrolimus formulation is being developed for the treatment of radiation hemorrhagic cystitis.
Middle Devonian liverwort herbivory and antiherbivore defence
Authors: Labandeira Conrad C. , Tremblay Susan L. , Bartowski Kenneth E. , VanAller Hernick Linda
Published: December 2013

To test the extent of herbivory in early terrestrial ecosystems, we examined compression–impression specimens of the late Middle Devonian liverwort Metzgeriothallus sharonae, from the Catskill Delta deposit of eastern New York state.

Shale fragments of field‐collected specimens were processed by applying liquid nitrocellulose on exposed surfaces. After drying, the film coatings were lifted off and mounted on microscope slides for photography. Unprocessed fragments were photographed under cedarwood oil for enhanced contrast.

An extensive repertoire of arthropodan‐mediated herbivory was documented, representing three functional feeding groups and nine subordinate plant–arthropod damage types (DTs). The herbivory is the earliest occurrence of external foliage‐feeding and galling in the terrestrial fossil record. Our evidence indicates that thallus oil body cells, similar to the terpenoid‐containing oil bodies of modern liverworts, were probably involved in the chemical defence of M. sharonae against arthropod herbivores.

Based on damage patterns of terrestrial plants and an accompanying but sparse body‐fossil record, Devonian arthropodan herbivores were significantly smaller compared to those of the later Palaeozoic. These data collectively suggest that a broad spectrum herbivory may have had a more important role in early terrestrial ecosystems than previously thought.
Drivers of leaf‐out phenology and their implications for species invasions: insights from Thoreau's Concord
Authors: Polgar Caroline , Gallinat Amanda , Primack Richard B.
Published: December 2013

To elucidate climate‐driven changes in leaf‐out phenology and their implications for species invasions, we observed and experimentally manipulated leaf out of invasive and native woody plants in Concord, MA, USA.

Using observations collected by Henry David Thoreau (1852–1860) and our own observations (2009–2013), we analyzed changes in leaf‐out timing and sensitivity to temperature for 43 woody plant species. We experimentally tested winter chilling requirements of 50 species by exposing cut branches to warm indoor temperatures (22°C) during the winter and spring of 2013.

Woody species are now leafing out an average of 18 d earlier than they did in the 1850s, and are advancing at a rate of 5 ± 1 d °C−1. Functional groups differ significantly in the duration of chilling they require to leaf out: invasive shrubs generally have weaker chilling requirements than native shrubs and leaf out faster in the laboratory and earlier in the field; native trees have the strongest chilling requirements.

Our results suggest that invasive shrub species will continue to have a competitive advantage as the climate warms, because native plants are slower to respond to warming spring temperatures and, in the future, may not meet their chilling requirements.
Interfamilial recombination between viruses led to acquisition of a novel translation‐enhancing RNA element that allows resistance breaking
Authors: Miras Manuel , Sempere Raquel N. , Kraft Jelena J. , Miller W. Allen , Aranda Miguel A. , Truniger Veronica
Published: December 2013

Many plant viruses depend on functional RNA elements, called 3′‐UTR cap‐independent translation enhancers (3′‐CITEs), for translation of their RNAs. In this manuscript we provide direct proof for the existing hypothesis that 3′‐CITEs are modular and transferable by recombination in nature, and that this is associated with an advantage for the created virus.

By characterizing a newly identified Melon necrotic spot virus (MNSV; Tombusviridae) isolate, which is able to overcome eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E)‐mediated resistance, we found that it contains a 55 nucleotide insertion in its 3′‐UTR. We provide strong evidence that this insertion was acquired by interfamilial recombination with the 3′‐UTR of an Asiatic Cucurbit aphid‐borne yellows virus (CABYV; Luteoviridae).

By constructing chimeric viruses, we showed that this recombined sequence is responsible for resistance breaking. Analysis of the translational efficiency of reporter constructs showed that this sequence functions as a novel 3′‐CITE in both resistant and susceptible plants, being essential for translation control in resistant plants.

In conclusion, we showed that a recombination event between two clearly identified viruses from different families led to the transfer of exactly the sequence corresponding to a functional RNA element, giving rise to a new isolate with the capacity to infect an otherwise nonsusceptible host.
Unusual presentation of postdural puncture headache requiring repeat epidural blood patch in a 4‐year‐old child
Authors: Borges Bruno C. R. , Wong Gail , Isaac Lisa , Hayes Jason
Published: December 2013

We present the case of a 4‐year‐old child who required two epidural blood patches (EBPs) to treat a delayed onset postdural puncture headache (PDPH) caused by lumbar cerebrospinal fluid drain. The first EBP was unsuccessful with 0.41 ml·kg−1 of blood injected. A second EBP with 0.76 ml·kg−1 of blood was performed 2 days later with the complete resolution of symptoms. The volume of blood necessary for effective treatment for symptomatic cerebrospinal fluid leaks in children remains controversial, and a repeat EBP may be required for resolution of symptoms.
Effects of hypergravity stimulus on global gene expression during reproductive growth in Arabidopsis
Authors: Tamaoki D. , Karahara I. , Nishiuchi T. , Wakasugi T. , Yamada K. , Kamisaka S.
Published: December 2013

The life cycle of higher plants consists of successive vegetative and reproductive growth phases. Understanding effects of altered gravity conditions on the reproductive growth is essential, not only to elucidate how higher plants evolved under gravitational condition on Earth but also to approach toward realization of agriculture in space. In the present study, a comprehensive analysis of global gene expression of floral buds under hypergravity was carried out to understand effects of altered gravity on reproductive growth at molecular level. Arabidopsis plants grown for 20–26 days were exposed to hypergravity of 300 g for 24 h. Total RNA was extracted from flower buds and microarray (44 K) analysis performed. As a result, hypergravity up‐regulated expression of a gene related to β‐1,3‐glucanase involved in pectin modification, and down‐regulated β‐galactosidase and amino acid transport, which supports a previous study reporting inhibition of pollen development and germination under hypergravity. With regard to genes related to seed storage accumulation, hypergravity up‐regulated expression of genes of aspartate aminotransferase, and down‐regulated those related to cell wall invertase and sugar transporter, supporting a previous study reporting promotion of protein body development and inhibition of starch accumulation under hypergravity, respectively. In addition, hypergravity up‐regulated expression of G6PDH and GPGDH, which supports a previous study reporting promotion of lipid deposition under hypergravity. In addition, analysis of the metabolic pathway revealed that hypergravity substantially changed expression of genes involved in the biosynthesis of phytohormones such as abscisic acid and auxin.
Analysis of gene expression during parabolic flights reveals distinct early gravity responses in Arabidopsis roots
Authors: Aubry‐Hivet D. , Nziengui H. , Rapp K. , Oliveira O. , Paponov I. A. , Li Y. , Hauslage J. , Vagt N. , Braun M. , Ditengou F. A. , Dovzhenko A. , Palme K.
Published: December 2013

Plant roots are among most intensively studied biological systems in gravity research. Altered gravity induces asymmetric cell growth leading to root bending. Differential distribution of the phytohormone auxin underlies root responses to gravity, being coordinated by auxin efflux transporters from the PIN family. The objective of this study was to compare early transcriptomic changes in roots of Arabidopsis thaliana wild type, and pin2 and pin3 mutants under parabolic flight conditions and to correlate these changes to auxin distribution. Parabolic flights allow comparison of transient 1−g, hypergravity and microgravity effects in living organisms in parallel. We found common and mutation‐related genes differentially expressed in response to transient microgravity phases. Gene ontology analysis of common genes revealed lipid metabolism, response to stress factors and light categories as primarily involved in response to transient microgravity phases, suggesting that fundamental reorganisation of metabolic pathways functions upstream of a further signal mediating hormonal network. Gene expression changes in roots lacking the columella‐located PIN3 were stronger than in those deprived of the epidermis and cortex cell‐specific PIN2. Moreover, repetitive exposure to microgravity/hypergravity and gravity/hypergravity flight phases induced an up‐regulation of auxin responsive genes in wild type and pin2 roots, but not in pin3 roots, suggesting a critical function of PIN3 in mediating auxin fluxes in response to transient microgravity phases. Our study provides important insights towards understanding signal transduction processes in transient microgravity conditions by combining for the first time the parabolic flight platform with the transcriptome analysis of different genetic mutants in the model plant, Arabidopsis.
Education in COPD self‐management: only part of the game
Authors: Effing Tanja , van der Palen Job , Frith Peter
Published: December 2013

See article, page 193
A Comprehensive Framework for Intrinsic OpenStreetMap Quality Analysis
Authors: Barron Christopher , Neis Pascal , Zipf Alexander
Published: December 2013

OpenStreetMap (OSM) is one of the most popular examples of a Volunteered Geographic Information (VGI) project. In the past years it has become a serious alternative source for geodata. Since the quality of OSM data can vary strongly, different aspects have been investigated in several scientific studies. In most cases the data is compared with commercial or administrative datasets which, however, are not always accessible due to the lack of availability, contradictory licensing restrictions or high procurement costs. In this investigation a framework containing more than 25 methods and indicators is presented, allowing OSM quality assessments based solely on the data's history. Without the usage of a reference data set, approximate statements on OSM data quality are possible. For this purpose existing methods are taken up, developed further, and integrated into an extensible open source framework. This enables arbitrarily repeatable intrinsic OSM quality analyses for any part of the world.
Changes in blood transfusion practices in the UK role 3 medical treatment facility in Afghanistan, 2008–2011
Authors: Jansen J. O. , Morrison J. J. , Midwinter M. J. , Doughty H.
Published: December 2013

Objective

To document blood component usage in the UK medical treatment facility, Afghanistan, over a period of 4 years; and to examine the relationship with transfusion capability, injury pattern and survival.

Background

Haemostatic resuscitation is now firmly established in military medical practice, despite the challenges of providing such therapy in austere settings.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective study of blood component use in service personnel admitted for trauma. Data were extracted from the UK Joint Theatre Trauma Registry.

Results

A total of 2618 patients were identified. Survival increased from 76 to 84% despite no change in injury severity. The proportion of patients receiving blood components increased from 13 to 32% per annum; 417 casualties received massive transfusion (≥10 units of RCC), the proportion increasing from 40 to 62%. Use of all blood components increased significantly in severely injured casualties, to a median (IQR) of 16 (9–25) units of red cell concentrate (P = 0·006), 15 (8–24) of plasma (P = 0·002), 2 (0–5) of platelets (P < 0·001) and 1 (0–3) of cryoprecipitate (P < 0·001). Cryoprecipitate (P = 0·009) and platelet use (P = 0·005) also increased in moderately injured casualties.

Conclusions

The number of blood components transfused to individual combat casualties increased during the 4‐year period, despite no change in injury severity or injury pattern. Survival also increased. Combat casualties requiring massive transfusion have a significantly higher chance of survival than civilian patients. Survival is the product of the entire system of care. However, we propose that the changes in military transfusion practice and capability have contributed to increased combat trauma survival.
Predictors of iron levels in 14,737 Danish blood donors: results from the Danish Blood Donor Study
Authors: Rigas Andreas Stribolt , Sørensen Cecilie Juul , Pedersen Ole Birger , Petersen Mikkel Steen , Thørner Lise Wegner , Kotzé Sebastian , Sørensen Erik , Magnussen Karin , Rostgaard Klaus , Erikstrup Christian , Ullum Henrik
Published: December 2013

Background

Dietary studies show a relationship between the intake of iron enhancers and inhibitors and iron stores in the general population. However, the impact of dietary factors on the iron stores of blood donors, whose iron status is affected by blood donations, is incompletely understood.

Study Design and Methods

In the Danish Blood Donor Study, we assessed the effect of blood donation frequency, physiologic factors, lifestyle and supplemental factors, and dietary factors on ferritin levels. We used multiple linear and logistic regression analyses stratified by sex and menopausal status.

Results

Among high‐frequency donors (more than nine donations in the past 3 years), we found iron deficiency (ferritin below 15 ng/mL) in 9, 39, and 22% of men, premenopausal women, and postmenopausal women, respectively. The strongest predictors of iron deficiency were sex, menopausal status, the number of blood donations in a 3‐year period, and the time since last donation. Other significant factors included weight, age, intensity of menstruation, iron tablets, vitamin pills, and consumption of meat and wine.

Conclusion

The study confirms iron deficiency as an important problem, especially among menstruating women donating frequently. The risk of iron depletion was largely explained by sex, menopausal status, and donation frequency. Other factors, including dietary and supplemental iron intake, had a much weaker effect on the risk of iron depletion.
Monocytic suppressor cells derived from human peripheral blood suppress xenogenic immune reactions
Authors: Maeda Akira , Kawamura Takuji , Ueno Takehisa , Usui Noriaki , Miyagawa Shuji
Published: December 2013

Background

Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSC) were initially found to contribute to the immunosuppression in tumor patients and have recently been recognized as a subset of innate immune cells that are capable of regulating adaptive immunity. A variety of innate immune stimuli such as Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which act as a double‐edged sword, induce both the maturation of dendritic cells (DC) and the expansion of MDSCs.

Methods

In this study, we isolated MDSCs from peripheral blood mononuclear cells and examined the suppressive effect of MDSCs against cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL)‐mediated xenocytotoxicity.

Results

Peripheral blood monocytes cultured in the presence of GM‐CSF and IL‐4 were stimulated with polyiosinic‐polycytidylic acid [poly (I:C)] or LPS. Flow cytometric analyses revealed that LPS and poly I:C stimulation allows the CD33+ CD14+ HLA‐DR− subset to be significantly increased. To assess the suppressive capacity of MDSCs in xenotoxicity, CTL assay was performed. Poly (I:C)‐activated MDSCs dramatically suppressed the CTL xenocytotoxicity. Phagocytosis assays revealed that activated MDSCs aggressively phagocytose the xenogenic CTLs. Characterization of MDSCs by real‐time PCR revealed that poly (I:C) and LPS‐stimulated MDSCs expressed significant amounts of mRNA for indolamine 2,3‐dioxygenase (IDO) compared to untreated MDSCs. Furthermore, when MDSCs were incubated with the IDO inhibitor, the MDSC‐induced suppression of xenocytotoxicity was abolished. Taken together, the possibility that activated MDSCs could induce apoptosis in xenogenic CTLs via an IDO‐dependent manner and aggressively phagocytose apoptotic CTLs cannot be excluded.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that MDSCs have a great deal of potential as a therapeutic strategy for dealing with xenograft rejection. Further investigations of the underlying mechanisms will facilitate the development of this therapeutic strategy.
Looping circuit: a novel mechanism for prolonged spontaneous [Ca2+]i increases in developing embryonic mouse brainstem
Authors: Watari Hirofumi , Tose Amanda J. , Bosma Martha M.
Published: December 2013

Key points

Calcium concentration is kept at extremely low levels inside brain cells; each episode of calcium entry is cleared within seconds.

Changes in calcium entry are mediated by spontaneous activity in embryonic mouse brainstem from embryonic day 11.5 to 13.5.

Transiently, at embryonic day 12.5, spontaneous events occur frequently such that calcium concentration stays above baseline levels for minutes.

This unusual phenomenon, which we termed ‘bash bursts’, is caused by an event that propagates by looping along a defined path; the path gets modified a day later, ending it.

The results help us to understand how prolonged increases in calcium concentration can occur in development and how the increases may influence the development of serotonin and dopamine circuits that are related to neurological diseases later in life, such as depression and Parkinson's disease.

Most cells maintain [Ca2+]i at extremely low levels; calcium entry usually occurs briefly, and within seconds it is cleared. However, at embryonic day 12.5 in the mouse brainstem, trains of spontaneous events occur with [Ca2+]i staying close to peak value, well above baseline, for minutes; we termed this ‘bash bursts’. Here, we investigate the mechanism of this unusual activity using calcium imaging and electrophysiology. Bash bursts are triggered by an event originating at the mid‐line of the rostral hindbrain and are usually the result of that event propagating repeatedly along a defined circular path. The looping circuit can either encompass both the midbrain and hindbrain or remain in the hindbrain only, and the type of loop determines the duration of a single lap time, 5 or 3 s, respectively. Bash bursts are supported by high membrane excitability of mid‐line cells and are regulated by persistent inward ‘window current’ at rest, contributing to spontaneous activity. This looping circuit is an effective means for increasing [Ca2+]i at brief, regular intervals. Bash bursts disappear by embryonic day 13.5 via alteration of the looping circuit, curtailing the short epoch of bash bursts. The resulting sustained [Ca2+]i may influence development of raphe serotonergic and ventral tegmental dopaminergic neurons by modulating gene expression.
Huntingtin‐associated protein 1 regulates exocytosis, vesicle docking, readily releasable pool size and fusion pore stability in mouse chromaffin cells
Authors: Mackenzie Kimberly D. , Duffield Michael D. , Peiris Heshan , Phillips Lucy , Zanin Mark P. , Teo Ee Hiok , Zhou Xin‐Fu , Keating Damien J.
Published: December 2013

Key points

Huntingtin‐associated protein 1 (HAP1) is expressed in neurons and endocrine cells, in which it is thought to regulate vesicle trafficking.

HAP1 is a binding partner of the Huntington's disease (HD)‐causing protein huntingtin, and binding is stronger in HD.

Whether HAP1 regulates a significant end‐point of vesicle transport, exocytosis, and what stage of exocytosis HAP1 may regulate, is unknown.

We use mouse chromaffin cells to demonstrate that HAP1 regulates exocytosis via two potentially interlinked mechanisms: control of vesicle docking and the readily releasable vesicle pool, and regulation of fusion pore stabilization.

These results establish HAP1 as a significant player in exocytosis control with potential relevance for HD and for a number of neuronal and homeostatic pathways.

Huntingtin‐associated protein 1 (HAP1) was initially established as a neuronal binding partner of huntingtin, mutations in which underlie Huntington's disease. Subcellular localization and protein interaction data indicate that HAP1 may be important in vesicle trafficking and cell signalling. In this study, we establish that HAP1 is important in several steps of exocytosis in adrenal chromaffin cells. Using carbon‐fibre amperometry, we measured single vesicle exocytosis in chromaffin cells obtained from HAP1−/− and HAP1+/+ littermate mice. Numbers of Ca2+‐dependent and Ca2+‐independent full fusion events in HAP1−/− cells are significantly decreased compared with those in HAP1+/+ cells. We observed no change in the frequency of ‘kiss‐and‐run’ fusion events or in Ca2+ entry. Whereas release per full fusion event is unchanged in HAP1−/− cells, early fusion pore duration is prolonged, as indicated by the increased duration of pre‐spike foot signals. Kiss‐and‐run events have a shorter duration, indicating opposing roles for HAP1 in the stabilization of the fusion pore during full fusion and transient fusion, respectively. We use electron microscopy to demonstrate a reduction in the number of vesicles docked at the plasma membrane of HAP1−/− cells, where membrane capacitance measurements reveal the readily releasable pool of vesicles to be reduced in size. Our study therefore illustrates that HAP1 regulates exocytosis by influencing the morphological docking of vesicles at the plasma membrane, the ability of vesicles to be released rapidly upon stimulation, and the early stages of fusion pore formation.
Parameter Identification in Population Models for Insects Using Trap Data
Authors: Dufourd Claire , Weldon Christopher , Anguelov Roumen , Dumont Yves
Published: December 2013

Traps are used commonly to establish the presence and population density of pest insects. Deriving estimates of population density from trap data typically requires knowledge of the properties of the trap (e.g. active area, strength of attraction) as well as some properties of the population (e.g. diffusion rate). These parameters are seldom exactly known, and also tend to vary in time, (e.g. as a result of changing weather conditions, insect physiological condition). We propose using a set of traps in such a configuration that they have different rate of trapping the insects. The properties of the traps and the characteristics of the population, including its density, are simultaneously estimated from the insects captured in these traps. The basic model is an advection-diffusion equation where the traps are represented via suitable advection term defined on the active area of the trap. The values of the unknown parameters of the model are derived by solving an optimization problem. Numerical simulations demonstrate the accuracy and the robustness of this method of parameter identification.
Name the experiment! Interpreting thermodynamic derivatives as thought experiments
Authors: Roundy David , Bridget Kustusch Mary , Manogue Corinne
Published: December 2013

We introduce a series of activities to help students understand the partial derivatives that arise in thermodynamics. Students construct thought experiments that would allow them to measure given partial derivatives. These activities are constructed with a number of learning goals in mind, beginning with helping students to learn to think of thermodynamic quantities in terms of how one can measure or change them. A second learning goal is for students to understand the importance of the quantities held fixed in either a partial derivative or an experiment. Students additionally are given an experimental perspective—particularly when this activity is combined with real laboratory experiments—on the meaning of either fixing or changing entropy. In this paper, we introduce the activities and explain their learning goals. We also include examples of student work from classroom video and follow-up interviews.
What should be the role of field energy in introductory physics courses?
Authors: Hilborn Robert C.
Published: December 2013

A Framework for K-12 Science Education: Practices, Crosscutting Concepts, and Core Ideas gives the concept of field energy a prominent role in the physical sciences sections of its recommendations for K-12 science education. I examine what A Framework suggests for the role of field energy and point out that, given the ambiguities and complexities associated with field energy, a traditional approach focusing on potential energy is more appropriate for introductory physics in secondary schools, colleges, and universities.
Anti-resonance in a one-dimensional chain of driven coupled oscillators
Authors: Belbasi Somayyeh , Ebrahim Foulaadvand M. , Joe Yong S.
Published: December 2013

We investigate a driven system of N one-dimensional coupled oscillators with identical masses. The first mass is connected to a sinusoidal driving force of frequency ω. In the steady state, when all the masses perform simple harmonic motion, we analytically obtain the dependence of their amplitudes on ω and show that there are resonance and anti-resonance frequencies. At an anti-resonance frequency, the amplitude of one of the masses becomes exactly zero. The mass directly connected to the driving force has the largest number of anti-resonance frequencies, N – 1. The phase of each mass's motion is either 0 or π with respect to the driving force. The case where damping forces are present is also considered, and the amplitude dependence on driving frequency is analytically obtained. In the presence of damping, there is no anti-resonance.
Resource Letter N-1: Nanotechnology
Authors: Cela Devin , Dresselhaus Mildred , Helen Zeng Tingying , Terrones Mauricio , Souza Filho Antonio G. , Ferreira Odair P.
Published: December 2013

This Resource Letter provides a guide to the literature on Nanotechnology. Journal articles, books, websites, and other documents are cited on the following topics: attributes of various types of nanomaterials, nanotechnology in the context of different academic fields, and the effects of nanotechnology on society.
Probing university students' understanding of electromotive force in electricity
Authors: Garzón Isabel , De Cock Mieke , Zuza Kristina , van Kampen Paul , Guisasola Jenaro
Published: December 2013

The goal of this study is to identify students' difficulties with learning the concepts of electromotive force (emf) and potential difference in the context of transitory currents and resistive direct-current circuits. To investigate these difficulties, we developed a questionnaire based on an analysis of the theoretical and epistemological framework of physics, which was then administered to first-year engineering and physics students at universities in Spain, Colombia, and Belgium. The results of the study show that student difficulties seem to be strongly linked to the absence of an analysis of the energy balance within the circuit and that most university students do not clearly understand the usefulness of and the difference between the concepts of potential difference and emf.
Reduced Antimony Accumulation in
ARM58
-Overexpressing Leishmania infantum
Authors: Schäfer Carola , Tejera Nevado Paloma , Zander Dorothea , Clos Joachim
Published: December 2013

Antimony-based drugs are still the mainstay of chemotherapy against
Leishmania
infections in many countries where the parasites are endemic. The efficacy of antimonials has been compromised by increasing numbers of resistant infections, the basis of which is not fully understood and likely involves multiple factors. By using a functional cloning strategy, we recently identified a novel antimony resistance marker,
ARM58
, from the parasite
Leishmania braziliensis
that protects the parasites against antimony-based antileishmanial compounds. Here we show that the
Leishmania infantum
homologue also confers resistance against antimony but not against other antileishmanial drugs and that its function depends critically on one of four conserved domains of unknown function. This critical domain requires at least two hydrophobic amino acids and is predicted to form a transmembrane structure. Overexpression of ARM58 in antimony-exposed parasites reduces the intracellular Sb accumulation by over 70%, indicating a role for ARM58 in Sb extrusion pathways, but without involvement of energy-dependent transporter proteins.