bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enamel defects associated with coeliac disease: putative role of antibodies against gliadin in pathogenesis
Authors: Muñoz Florencia , Del Río Natalia , Sóñora Cecilia , Tiscornia Inés , Marco Alicia , Hernández Ana
Published: March 2012

Muñoz F, Del Río N, Sóñora C, Tiscornia I, Marco A, Hernández A. Enamel defects associated with coeliac disease: putative role of antibodies against gliadin in pathogenesis.
 
Eur J Oral Sci 2012; 120: 104–112. © 2012 Eur J Oral Sci

Enamel defects in the permanent teeth of patients with coeliac disease (CD) are often reported as an atypical manifestation, sometimes being suggestive of an undiagnosed atypical disease. We proposed to explore the pathogenesis of these oral defects, which are poorly studied. Sequence analyses of proteins from gluten (gliadins) and of proline‐rich enamel proteins (amelogenin and ameloblastin) suggested the presence of common antigenic motifs. Therefore, we analyzed, by ELISA and western blotting, the reactivity of sera from patients with CD against gliadin and enamel‐derived peptides. Correlation analyses between the levels of specific antibodies against gliadin and enamel derived peptides and inhibition experiments confirmed the presence of cross‐reactive antibodies. Immunoblot analysis revealed that the most prominent component in enamel matrix derivative (of approximately 18.6 kDa), identified by an amelogenin‐specific antibody, is recognized by sera from patients with CD; in addition, several fractions of pure gliadin were recognized by amelogenin‐specific antibody. In agreement, sera from mice immunized with enamel matrix‐derived proteins generated antibodies that recognized a peptide (of approximately 21.2 kDa) derived from gliadin. In conclusion, antibodies against gliadin generated in patients with CD can react in vitro with a major enamel protein. The involvement of anti‐gliadin serum in the pathogenesis of enamel defects in children with untreated CD can be hypothesized on the basis of these novel results.
Storms of Tears. Emotion Metaphors and the Construction of Gender in East Lynne
Authors: Hansson Heidi , Norberg Cathrine
Published: March 2012

Despite the fact that the consequences of emotional actions are a central theme in British nineteenth‐century sensation fiction, studies of the genre have generally focused on thrilling and socially disruptive elements of the genre. Attention to descriptions of transgressive behaviour and in particular women’s violations of patriarchal norms has enabled interpretations that endow the genre with a feminist agenda. Reading the novels with a focus on how emotions are represented, however, demonstrates an underlying patriarchal pattern that limits the potential for feminist interpretations.

This article focuses on the clusters of metaphors used to express emotion in Ellen Wood’s sensation novel East Lynne (1861–1862). Close readings of text examples in combination with analyses of metaphorical expressions highlight the novel’s ideological ambiguities and ambivalences concerning gender and emotion.
Michel de Ghelderode, the Wooster Group, and postmodernist revisions of La tentation de saint Antoine
Authors: Thomas Andrea S.
Published: March 2012

La tentation de saint Antoine initially recalls Hieronymus Bosch’s famous Renaissance painting or Flaubert’s onieric work‐in‐progress. A closer look at more recent adaptations of the story of Saint Anthony the Great, however, reveals that such transformations of the myth addressed shifting aesthetics in the twentieth century by combining genres and texts, designed to cast what Foucault considered Flaubert’s most modernist ideas in an entirely postmodern light. This paper examines two of these adaptations: first, Michel de Ghelderode’s multiple versions of the tale set in Flanders, published separately from 1919 to 1932, but not performed until 1957 as a radio play and marionette show; and, second, the Wooster Group’s provocative stage adaptation, which transplanted the hermit Anthony to an excess‐filled New York of the eighties in Frank Dell’s The Temptation of Saint Antony.

What Flaubert created as a self‐reflexive commentary on the dangers of books, twentieth‐century adaptors turned into a postmodern statement about other contemporary media forms, including stage, radio, cinema, and television. More importantly, by strategically appropriating not only Flaubert’s subject matter, but also his composition technique and passages from his texts, these artists draw attention to the perils of a culture‐saturated twentieth century in which art had become adaptation.
Effects of cigarette smoke and nicotine on cell viability, migration and myofibroblastic differentiation
Authors: Silva D. , Cáceres M. , Arancibia R. , Martínez C. , Martínez J. , Smith P. C.
Published: March 2012

Silva D, Cáceres M, Arancibia R, Martínez C, Martínez J, Smith P. Effects of cigarette smoke and nicotine on cell viability, migration and myofibroblastic differentiation. J Periodont Res 2012; 47: 599–607. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Background and Objective:  Several studies have analysed the role of nicotine as a prominent agent affecting wound repair in smokers. However, tobacco smoke contains several components that may alter gingival wound healing. The present study aimed to analyse the roles of cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) and nicotine on cell viability, cell migration/invasion and myofibroblastic differentiation using primary cultures of human gingival fibroblasts.

Material and Methods:  To compare the effects of CSC and nicotine, gingival fibroblasts were stimulated with CSC (0.4–500 μg/mL) and the corresponding nicotine concentrations (0.025–32 μg/mL) present in research cigarettes (1R3F). Cell viability was evaluated through the MTS assay. Cell migration and invasion were assessed through scratch wound assays, collagen nested matrices and transwell migration. α‐Smooth muscle actin production was evaluated by western blotting.

Results:  Cigarette smoke condensate at 50 μg/mL induced a moderate increase in cell viability, whereas the corresponding nicotine concentration (3.2 μg/mL) did not produce this response. Cigarette smoke condensate at 250 μg/mL, but not nicotine at 16 μg/mL (the corresponding nicotine concentration), induced cell death. Both nicotine and CSC stimulated cell migration (50 μg/mL CSC; 3.2 μg/mL nicotine). At 150 μg/mL, CSC inhibited cell migration; however, the corresponding concentration of nicotine (9.6 μg/mL), did not have this effect. Although both nicotine and CSC inhibited α‐smooth muscle actin production, only the latter induced a statistically significant effect on this response.

Conclusion:  Cigarette smoke condensate may stimulate cell survival and migration at low concentrations and inhibit these cell responses at higher levels of exposure. Moreover, CSC may interfere in myofibroblastic differentiation. These results show that cigarette smoke, but not nicotine, may significantly alter cell viability, cell migration and myofibroblastic differentiation in gingival mesenchymal cells.
Behavioral plasticity in honey bees is associated with differences in brain microRNA transcriptome
Authors: Greenberg J. K. , Xia J. , Zhou X. , Thatcher S. R. , Gu X. , Ament S. A. , Newman T. C. , Green P. J. , Zhang W. , Robinson G. E. , Ben‐Shahar Y.
Published: March 2012

Small, non‐coding microRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in many biological processes, including the development of the nervous system. However, the roles of miRNAs in natural behavioral and neuronal plasticity are not well understood. To help address this we characterized the microRNA transcriptome in the adult worker honey bee head and investigated whether changes in microRNA expression levels in the brain are associated with division of labor among honey bees, a well‐established model for socially regulated behavior. We determined that several miRNAs were downregulated in bees that specialize on brood care (nurses) relative to foragers. Additional experiments showed that this downregulation is dependent upon social context; it only occurred when nurse bees were in colonies that also contained foragers. Analyses of conservation patterns of brain‐expressed miRNAs across Hymenoptera suggest a role for certain miRNAs in the evolution of the Aculeata, which includes all the eusocial hymenopteran species. Our results support the intriguing hypothesis that miRNAs are important regulators of social behavior at both developmental and evolutionary time scales.
A Systematic Review of the Effectiveness of Videoconference‐Based Tele‐Education for Medical and Nursing Education
Authors: Chipps Jennifer , Brysiewicz Petra , Mars Maurice
Published: March 2012

Background: Rural nurses and doctors typically have little opportunity to further their education and training. Studies have shown high participant satisfaction with the use of educational technology, such as videoconferencing, for education. A review of effectiveness of videoconference‐based tele‐education for medical and nursing education was conducted.

Aims: The aims of this study were to: (1) systematically review the literature and critique the research methods on studies addressing the review question: “How effective is videoconference‐based education for the education of doctors and nurses?” (2) summarize the existing evidence on the effectiveness of videoconference education for medical and nursing staff; and (3) apply the findings to South Africa and other countries across the globe.

Methods: Research citations from 1990 to 2011 from cumulative index of nursing and allied health literature, Medline, Pubmed, PsycInfo, EBSCOhost, SABINET, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, the Cochrane Controlled Trial Registry, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effectiveness, unpublished abstracts through NEXUS and Internet search engines (Google/Google scholar) were searched. Review methods included searching, sifting, abstraction, and quality assessment of relevant studies by two reviewers. Studies were evaluated for sample, design, intervention, threats to validity, and outcomes. No meta‐analysis was conducted as the studies provided heterogeneous outcome data.

Results: Five studies were reviewed. Videoconference and face‐to‐face education is at least equivalent and one study reported an increase in knowledge and knowledge integration.

Recommendations: Despite the methodological limitations and heterogeneity of the reviewed studies, there appears to be sufficient evidence of effectiveness to provide a rigorous Grade B evidence‐based recommendation of moderate support.

Conclusions: The use of videoconferencing for nursing and medical education should be encouraged along with guidelines for the use of videoconferencing. The paucity of studies and the lack of empirical precision in evaluating effectiveness of these interventions necessitate future rigorously designed experimental studies.
Guillain–Barre syndrome in colorectal cancer
Authors: VATANDOUST Sina , JOSHI Rohit , PRICE Timothy J
Published: March 2012

Guillain–Barré syndrome has been reported in the setting of different malignancies. To the best of our knowledge, the association of Guillain–Barré syndrome and colorectal cancer has been reported in only two cases. As Guillain–Barré syndrome is potentially life threatening, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with colorectal cancer with neurological findings. Here we report two cases of Guillain–Barré syndrome in the setting of metastatic colorectal cancer.
Upfront maintenance therapy with arsenic trioxide in acute promyelocytic leukemia provides no benefit for non‐t(15;17) subtype
Authors: CHIANG Yi‐Hao , CHANG Yi‐Fang , HSIEH Ruey‐Kuen , LIN Johnson , CHEN Caleb Gonshen , LIM Ken‐Hong , LIN Huan‐Chau , CHANG Ming‐Chih
Published: March 2012

Aims:  The optimal maintenance therapy for patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) who achieved complete remission (CR) and complete consolidation chemotherapy is still controversial. Whether the use of arsenic trioxide (ATO) alone or along with all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) improves overall survival (OS) or disease‐free survival (DFS) is still debated.

Methods:  A retrospective reivew was conducted of 20 patients diagnosed with APL according to the French – American – British system. After achieving CR and receiving consolidation chemotherapy, nine patients were given maintenance therapy for 1 year (ATRA 45 mg/m2/day p.o., mercaptopurine 60 mg/m2/day p.o. and ATO 0.15 mg/kg/day × 5 days/week for six cycles in five patients; ATRA 45 mg/m2/d p.o. alternating with ATO 0.15 mg/kg/day × 5 days/week in 1 patient; ATRA only in three patients).

Results:  In all patients the rates of CR, 3‐year OS and 5‐year OS were 75, 71 and 57%, respectively. For patients treated with ATO maintenance, the rates were 100% for both 5‐year OS and 5‐year DFS. Four of six patients on ATO maintenance had grade 1 or grade 2 adverse events. Excluding the two patients who died from intracerebral hemorrhage within 4 days after diagnosis, these rates were 85, 82 and 78%, respectively.

Conclusion:  Upfront ATO maintenance therapy for one year is safe and appears to be effective, with the benefits restricted to patients with APL with t(15;17) translocation. Larger studies will be required to confirm this observation.
Impact of body mass index and visceral adiposity on outcomes in colorectal cancer
Authors: YAMAMOTO Naoto , FUJII Shoichi , SATO Tsutomu , OSHIMA Takashi , RINO Yasushi , KUNISAKI Chikara , MASUDA Munetaka , IMADA Toshio
Published: March 2012

Aim:  Obesity and visceral obesity are closely related to the development of colorectal cancer, as well as other metabolic complications. We investigated the prognostic significance of body mass index (BMI) and visceral obesity in 273 patients with resectable colorectal cancer.

Methods:  Visceral fat area (VFA) and subcutaneous fat area were measured on digital images of patients’ computed tomograms obtained before surgery. The patients were divided into two groups according to the cut‐off levels of VFA proposed by Oka et al. Men with a VFA of ≥130 cm2 and women with a VFA of ≥90 cm2 were classified as obese (VFA‐obese) and the others were classified as non‐obese (VFA‐non‐obese). The patients were also divided into an overweight group and a normal range group, according to their preoperative BMI.

Results:  There was no significant difference in cumulative recurrence‐free survival (RFS) or overall survival (OS) between the VFA‐obese group and the VFA‐non‐obese group. In the subgroup of patients with Dukes’ C disease (n = 100) there was no statistically significant difference in RFS and OS between the VFA‐obese group and the VFA‐non‐obese group. The results were similar when the patients were classified according to their BMI.

Conclusion:  Neither obesity nor increased visceral adiposity has any influence on outcomes in patients with resectable colorectal cancer.
Discovery of the novel HLA‐DRB1*10:04 allele in a Taiwanese volunteer bone marrow donor and identification of the probable HLA‐A, ‐B, ‐C and ‐DRB1 haplotype in association with DRB1*10:04
Authors: Yang K. L. , Lee S. K. , Kao R. H. , Lin C. L. , Lin P. Y.
Published: March 2012

We report here a novel variant of HLA‐DRB1*10, DRB1*10:04, discovered in a Taiwanese volunteer bone marrow donor by a sequence‐based typing (SBT) method. The DNA sequence of DRB1*10:04 differs from DRB1*10:01:01, in exon 2, at nucleotide positions 296 (G→A) and 303 (T→G). The nucleotide changes caused an amino acid substitution at amino acid residue 70 (R→Q). We hypothesize that the formation of DRB1*10:04 was probably the result of a gene recombination event where DRB1*10:01:01 received a minimum length of DNA sequence from DRB1*04:05:01, as the sequence of DRB1*10:04 is identical to DRB1*10:01:01 in exon 2 except the sequence from nucleotide 296 to nucleotide 303, which is identical to DRB1*04:05:01. The plausible HLA‐A, ‐B, ‐C and ‐DRB1 haplotypes in association with DRB1*10:04 was deduced as A*01:01‐B*37:01‐C*06:02‐DRB1*10:04.
Recent Progress Using High‐throughput Sequencing Technologies in Plant Molecular BreedingF
Authors: Gao Qiang , Yue Guidong , Li Wenqi , Wang Junyi , Xu Jiaohui , Yin Ye
Published: March 2012

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[ Ye Yin ]

High‐throughput sequencing is a revolutionary technological innovation in DNA sequencing. This technology has an ultra‐low cost per base of sequencing and an overwhelmingly high data output. High‐throughput sequencing has brought novel research methods and solutions to the research fields of genomics and post‐genomics. Furthermore, this technology is leading to a new molecular breeding revolution that has landmark significance for scientific research and enables us to launch multi‐level, multi‐faceted, and multi‐extent studies in the fields of crop genetics, genomics, and crop breeding. In this paper, we review progress in the application of high‐throughput sequencing technologies to plant molecular breeding studies.
Potential of rainwater resources based on urban and social aspects in Colombia
Authors: Morales‐Pinzón Tito , Rieradevall Joan , Gasol Carles M. , Gabarrell Xavier
Published: March 2012

The potential offered by non‐conventional water resources (rainwater) associated with high or low urban density in new housing in different rainfall zones (800–2300 mm) was studied. Ten cities in Colombia with over 250 000 inhabitants were used as a case study. The potential of substitution of tap water by rainwater according to population groups with different socioeconomic status was estimated. This study reveals the favourable conditions for rainwater harvesting in the Colombian context, and enables the linking of supply and demand issues related to local climatic and environmental sustainability in order to integrate the use of rainwater into urban housing projects. For the current consumption scenario (greater than 160 Lcd), rainwater becomes a potential replacement for mains water in urban areas with rainfall of above 1553 L/m2/year.
Diabetes and oral disease: implications for health professionals
Authors: Albert David A. , Ward Angela , Allweiss Pamela , Graves Dana T. , Knowler William C. , Kunzel Carol , Leibel Rudolph L. , Novak Karen F. , Oates Thomas W. , Papapanou Panos N. , Schmidt Ann Marie , Taylor George W. , Lamster Ira B. , Lalla Evanthia
Published: March 2012

“Diabetes and Oral Disease: Implications for Health Professionals” was a one‐day conference convened by the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, and the New York Academy of Sciences on May 4, 2011 in New York City. The program included an examination of the bidirectional relationship between oral disease and diabetes and the interprofessional working relationships for the care of people who have diabetes. The overall goal of the conference was to promote discussion among the healthcare professions who treat people with diabetes, encourage improved communication and collaboration among them, and, ultimately, improve patient management of the oral and overall effects of diabetes. Attracting over 150 members of the medical and dental professions from eight different countries, the conference included speakers from academia and government and was divided into four sessions. This report summarizes the scientific presentations of the event.a
Temporary impairment of reticulocyte haemoglobin content in subjects with community‐acquired pneumonia
Authors: SCHOORL M. , SNIJDERS D. , SCHOORL M. , BOERSMA W. G. , BARTELS P. C. M.
Published: March 2012

Introduction:  In the case of inflammation, imbalance of iron homoeostasis is caused by increased retention of iron within cells of the reticuloendothelial system. Iron‐restricted erythropoiesis occurs because of decreased availability of iron for haemoglobin (Hb) synthesis in erythroid progenitor cells.

Deviations in reticulocyte haemoglobin (Ret‐He) content are investigated together with inflammation markers in subjects with community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP). Short‐term alterations with regard to Ret‐He during and after completing antibiotic treatment are investigated.

Methods:  A total of 75 patients, classified into three subgroups with CURB‐65 scores of ≤1, 2 and ≥3, participated in the study.

Results:  Within the three subgroups, Hb results demonstrate a decline from the day of admission until day 4. From day 4, an increase towards higher values is observed at day 14. Within 24 h after admission, Ret‐He results are situated within the lower quartile region of the reference range interval. Until day 4 of hospital admission, a steady trend towards a decline of 3–8% is established. During antibiotic treatment, an increase in reticulocyte count occurs from 0.039 ± 0.014 × 1012/L at day 4 to 0.057 ± 0.020 × 1012/L at day 14 (mean ± SD). Recovery of Hb and Ret‐He occurs towards values within the reference range.

Conclusion:  In subjects with CAP, acute inflammation results in impairment of Ret‐He at an early stage. After onset of pneumonia, decreased results of Ret‐He and Ret‐He/RBC‐He ratio are demonstrated, reflecting acute erythropoietic dysfunction, which are amongst others caused by functional iron depletion.
A Simplified Mechanistic Algorithm for Treating Resistant Hypertension: Efficacy in a Retrospective Study
Authors: Mann Samuel J. , Parikh Neal S.
Published: March 2012

J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2012;14:191–197. ©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

This retrospective study assessed the efficacy of a recently described, mechanism‐based algorithm for treating resistant hypertension. Charts of consecutive patients seen for resistant hypertension were reviewed. Algorithm‐based intervention was limited to either or both of just 2 options: (1) strengthening of the diuretic regimen, usually with addition of spironolactone; and (2) treatment with the combination of an α‐ + nonmetabolized β‐blocker. Of 27 patients, 24 (89%) achieved control, including 13 (54%) in whom the diuretic regimen was strengthened, 6 (25%) in whom α‐/β‐blockade was instituted, and 5 (21%) who received both interventions. The most frequent medication adjustments were addition of a potassium‐sparing diuretic in 16 (67%), doxazosin in 9 (37.5%), and replacing a metabolized with a nonmetabolized β‐blocker in 6 (25%). The authors conclude that treatment based on this algorithm can both simplify and improve the management of resistant hypertension and merits further evaluation in prospective studies.
Unusual spindle cell tumours at the base of tongue (solitary fibrous tumour and malignant fibrous histiocytoma): report of two cases and review of literature
Authors: Dhingra S. , Mohindra S. , Vaiphei K.
Published: March 2012

Objective:  Two cases of rare spindle cell tumours of the tongue are described. Solitary fibrous tumour is a mesenchymal neoplasm which is usually benign and malignant fibrous histiocytoma is a high grade aggressive sarcoma.

Materials and methods:  Two patients presented to us with a mass at the base of the tongue. It is essential to keep tumours such as SFT and MFH in the differential diagnosis of lesions at the tongue base.

Results:  Histological similarities with other soft tissue tumours may present as a diagnostic challenge and immunohistochemistry plays a pivotal role to clinch the diagnosis.

Conclusion:  Surgical excision is the treatment of choice as they respond poorly to radiotherapy.
Milkweed loss in agricultural fields because of herbicide use: effect on the monarch butterfly population
Authors: PLEASANTS JOHN M. , OBERHAUSER KAREN S.
Published: March 2012

Abstract.  1. The size of the Mexican overwintering population of monarch butterflies has decreased over the last decade. Approximately half of these butterflies come from the U.S. Midwest where larvae feed on common milkweed. There has been a large decline in milkweed in agricultural fields in the Midwest over the last decade. This loss is coincident with the increased use of glyphosate herbicide in conjunction with increased planting of genetically modified (GM) glyphosate‐tolerant corn (maize) and soybeans (soya).

2. We investigate whether the decline in the size of the overwintering population can be attributed to a decline in monarch production owing to a loss of milkweeds in agricultural fields in the Midwest. We estimate Midwest annual monarch production using data on the number of monarch eggs per milkweed plant for milkweeds in different habitats, the density of milkweeds in different habitats, and the area occupied by those habitats on the landscape.

3. We estimate that there has been a 58% decline in milkweeds on the Midwest landscape and an 81% decline in monarch production in the Midwest from 1999 to 2010. Monarch production in the Midwest each year was positively correlated with the size of the subsequent overwintering population in Mexico. Taken together, these results strongly suggest that a loss of agricultural milkweeds is a major contributor to the decline in the monarch population.

4. The smaller monarch population size that has become the norm will make the species more vulnerable to other conservation threats.
Can Handheld Dynamometers Diagnose Partial-thickness Rotator Cuff Tears?
Authors: Millican Jared P. , Murrell George A. C.
Published: March 2012

Background

Partial tears of the rotator cuff tendons of the shoulder are a common cause of significant pain and disability, yet are difficult to diagnose clinically. Handheld dynamometry has demonstrated good sensitivity and specificity in the diagnosis of full-thickness rotator cuff tears. The present study aimed to determine whether handheld dynamometer measurements could predict the presence of a partial-thickness rotator cuff tear among patients with shoulder pain.

Methods

Handheld dynamometer measurements and signs of impingement were collected before surgical evaluation in 450 patients with a partial-thickness rotator cuff tear ( n = 150), full-thickness rotator cuff tear ( n = 150) or nonrotator cuff pathology ( n = 150).

Results

Patients with partial-thickness tears did not have significantly different strength compared to patients without rotator cuff tears. Patients with full-thickness tears had a decrease in abduction and external rotation strength ( p < 0.001). Patients with any rotator cuff tear were more likely to have signs of impingement during internal rotation ( p < 0.001) and impingement during external rotation ( p = 0.004).

Conclusions

Handheld dynamometer measurements were unable to reliably distinguish patients with partial-thickness rotator cuff tears from patients with other causes of shoulder pain. The abduction and external rotation muscle strength tests demonstrated their usefulness when distinguishing partial-thickness rotator cuff tears from full-thickness rotator cuff tears.
A Randomized Controlled Trial to Assess the Efficacy of Arthroscopic Subacromial Decompression with and without Rotator Cuff Repair Using a Mini-open Technique
Authors: Odak Saurabh , Powell Eric , Temperley David , Haines John F. , Trail Ian
Published: March 2012

Background

Management of degenerate rotator cuff tears associated with subacromial impingement is debatable.

Methods

We performed a prospective, randomised controlled trial to assess the efficacy of arthroscopic subacromial decompression (ASD) with or without repair of the rotator cuff using a mini-open technique.

Results

42 patients (29 males and 13 females) with a mean age of 64 years (range 54–77 years) were recruited. 25 patients underwent ASD and cuff repair using mini-open technique whereas 17 patients had only ASD alone. All the patients were followed for a minimal of 1 year post-operatively. At final follow-up the mean Constant scores and patient satisfaction scores were not different between the groups (p value 0.06 and 0.44 respectively). The mean DASH scores were marginally significant (p value 0.05) and mean ASES scores were significant (p value 0.03). A 38% cuff rerupture rate was noted in the cuff repair group.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that in short-term the results of ASD with or without rotator cuff repair are not significantly different, however positive trends were noted in the cuff repair group. Although a significant rerupture rate was noted (38%) this had little effect on the outcome.
Evolution of the 4‐coumarate:coenzyme A ligase (4CL) gene family: Conserved evolutionary pattern and two new gene classes in gymnosperms
Authors: GAO Hui , GUO Dong‐Mei , LIU Wen‐Juan , RAN Jin‐Hua , WANG Xiao‐Quan
Published: March 2012

Abstract  The 4‐coumarate:coenzyme A ligase (4CL) is the branch point enzyme that channels the general phenylpropanoid metabolism into specific lignin and flavonoid biosynthesis branches. Genetic engineering experiments on the 4CL gene have been carried out in many species, but the precise functions of different gene members are still unresolved. To investigate the evolutionary relationships and functional differentiation of the 4CL gene family, we made a comprehensive evolutionary analysis of this gene family from 27 species representing the major lineages of land plants. The phylogenetic analysis indicates that both vascular and seed plant 4CL genes form monophyletic groups, and that three and two 4CL classes can be recognized in gymnosperms and angiosperms, respectively. The evolutionary rate and frequency of duplication of the 4CL gene family are much more conserved than that of the CAD/SAD (cinnamyl/sinapyl alcohol dehydrogenase) gene family, which catalyzes the last step in monolignol biosynthesis. This may be due to different selective pressures on these genes whose products catalyze different steps in the biosynthesis pathway. In addition, we found two new major classes of 4CL genes in gymnosperms.
Detection of Oocyst‐Associated Toxoplasmosis in Swine from Southern Chile
Authors: Muñoz‐Zanzi C. , Tamayo R. , Balboa J. , Hill D.
Published: March 2012

Pork has been traditionally considered an important source of human Toxoplasma gondii infection. Pigs, as other meat‐producing animals, can become infected by the ingestion of oocysts that are shed in the environment by infected cats or by the consumption of cysts present in tissues of infected mammals, commonly small rodents. The objective of this study was to investigate the level of T. gondii infection in swine from southern Chile that can be associated with the ingestion of oocysts and therefore exposure to a contaminated environment. A total of 340 serum samples from swine were obtained from three commercial slaughterhouses located in the Araucania and Los Rios Regions from southern Chile. Study animals originated from local farms, mainly small commercial producers, and the meat is sold locally. Overall, 8.8% (30/340) of the samples showed T. gondii‐specific IgG antibodies. Of these sero‐positive animals, 80% (24/30) were also positive for antibodies specific against the oocyst stage of the parasite, indicating that animals had been infected recently by the ingestion of oocysts. The observed results suggest a high level of environmental contamination with oocysts on the farms of origin. In addition to the food safety problems associated with the consumption of meat from infected animals, the high level of environmental contamination on the farm represents a direct health risk for people living and/or working on these farms. Consequently, there is a need to develop on‐farm monitoring programmes and identify risk reduction strategies (food storage, water purification, rodent control and contact with cats) that are appropriate and cost‐effective for informal and outdoor type of farms.
Self‐Service Operations at Retail Stores: The Role of Inter‐Customer Interactions
Authors: Li Mei , Choi Thomas Y. , Rabinovich Elliot , Crawford Aaron
Published: March 2012

Inter‐customer interactions are important to the operation of self‐services in retail settings. More specifically, when self‐service terminals are used as part of customers’ checkout processes in retail operations without the explicit involvement of retailers as the direct service providers, inter‐customer interactions become a significant managerial issue. In this article, we examine the impact of inter‐customer interactions at retail self‐service terminals on customers’ service quality perceptions and repeat purchase intentions at retail stores. We conduct a scenario‐based experimental design ( N = 674) using a 2 × 2 factorial design in which inter‐customer interactions are divided into “positive” vs. “negative” and occur during the “waiting” or during the actual “transaction” stages of self‐services at a retail store. We use attribution theory to develop the hypotheses. The results demonstrate that, through their interactions, fellow customers can exert influences on a focal customer's quality perceptions and repeat purchasing intentions toward a retail store. Furthermore, these influences were impacted by how customers attribute blame or assign responsibility toward the retail store. Service operations managers should leverage these interactions by designing into self‐service settings the capacities and interfaces that are best suited for customers’ co‐production of their self‐service experiences.
Misbehaviour in Pony Club horses: Incidence and risk factors
Authors: BUCKLEY P. , MORTON J. M. , BUCKLEY D. J. , COLEMAN G. T.
Published: March 2012

Reasons for performing study: Horse misbehaviour is an important cause of poor performance in Pony Club horses, is associated with horse‐related rider injuries and has been implicated as a nonspecific presenting sign for musculoskeletal pain. Despite this, little is known about the incidence of and risk factors for misbehaviour in Pony Club horses.

Objective: This study aimed to describe the incidence and types of misbehaviour in a cohort of Pony Club horses and to identify risk factors for misbehaviour during riding.

Methods: A prospective longitudinal study was conducted with 84 Pony Club horses from 41 families belonging to 7 Pony Clubs in one inland region of Australia. Owners recorded misbehaviour events and kept daily records of horse housing, exercise, nutrition, healthcare and disease status. Horses were subjected to a monthly veterinary examination. Descriptive statistics were calculated to describe the incidence of misbehaviour, and multivariable logistic regression was used to assess putative risk factors.

Results: Misbehaviour during riding occurred on 3% of days when horses were ridden. On 52% of days with misbehaviour, the misbehaviour was classified as dangerous. Risk of misbehaviour was independently increased on exercise days when the horse was competing, and in months when the horse was fat or obese, fed supplementary feed daily, grazed on paddocks with >50% of ground cover as green grass, exercised on 5 days per month or less, and ridden for a total of 12 h or more in the month. No significant relationship was detected between misbehaviour and back pain.

Conclusions: In populations such as the study population the risk of misbehaviour is higher in fatter horses, in horses with access to pastures with greater green grass cover, in those fed daily supplements, in horses receiving exercise less frequently, and during competition.

Potential relevance: These results highlight the importance of considering horse body condition, nutrition and exercise in any investigation of horse misbehaviour. In addition, recommendations based on these results could be used by veterinarians assisting horse owners to prevent misbehaviour. From the perspective of recreational horse owners, behaviour is a key determinant of horse performance.
Effect of functionalization on the electrostatic charging, tunneling, and Raman spectroscopy of epitaxial graphene
Authors: Hong Jeongmin , Niyogi Sandip , Bekyarova Elena , Itkis Mikhail E. , Ramesh Palanisamy , Berger Claire , deHeer Walt A. , Haddon Robert C. , Khizroev Sakhrat
Published: March 2012

The authors report the effects of radical functionalization on the electrostatic force microscopy (EFM), the scanning tunneling spectra (STS), and Raman spectroscopy of epitaxial graphene. The EFM studies show the existence of layer-dependent trapped charges in the pristine graphene. The uniform enhancement of energy gap is observed through STS. Raman spectra show nonuniformly distributed D-band intensities throughout the functionalized sample as a result of the inhomogeneous distribution of covalent bonds to the graphene sheets. The functionalization chemistry has a marked effect on the homogeneity of the electrostatic charge and leads to an increase of the energy of the band gap.
Lagrangian displacement tracking using a polar grid between endocardial and epicardial contours for cardiac strain imaging
Authors: Ma Chi , Varghese Tomy
Published: March 2012

Purpose:

Accurate cardiac deformation analysis for cardiac displacement and strain imaging over time requires Lagrangian description of deformation of myocardial tissue structures. Failure to couple the estimated displacement and strain information with the correct myocardial tissue structures will lead to erroneous result in the displacement and strain distribution over time.

Methods:

Lagrangian based tracking in this paper divides the tissue structure into a fixed number of pixels whose deformation is tracked over the cardiac cycle. An algorithm that utilizes a polar‐grid generated between the estimated endocardial and epicardial contours for cardiac short axis images is proposed to ensure Lagrangian description of the pixels. Displacement estimates from consecutive radiofrequency frames were then mapped onto the polar grid to obtain a distribution of the actual displacement that is mapped to the polar grid over time.

Results:

A finite element based canine heart model coupled with an ultrasound simulation program was used to verify this approach. Segmental analysis of the accumulated displacement and strain over a cardiac cycle demonstrate excellent agreement between the ideal result obtained directly from the finite element model and our Lagrangian approach to strain estimation. Traditional Eulerian based estimation results, on the other hand, show significant deviation from the ideal result. Anin vivo comparison of the displacement and strain estimated using parasternal short axis views is also presented.

Conclusions:

Lagrangian displacement tracking using a polar grid provides accurate tracking of myocardial deformation demonstrated using both finite element andin vivo radiofrequency data acquired on a volunteer. In addition to the cardiac application, this approach can also be utilized for transverse scans of arteries, where a polar grid can be generated between the contours delineating the outer and inner wall of the vessels from the blood flowing though the vessel.
Advances and applications of induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Pietronave Stefano , Prat Maria
Published: March 2012

Direct reprogramming of somatic cells into pluripotent cells is an emerging technology for creating patient-specific cells, and potentially opens new scenarios in medical and pharmacological fields. From the discovery of Shinya Yamanaka, who first obtained pluripotent cells from fibroblasts by retrovirus-derived ectopic expression of defined embryonic transcription factors, new methods have been developed to generate safe induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells without genomic manipulations. This review will focus on the recent advances in iPS technology and their application in pharmacology and medicine.
COMPARISON OF AMINOLEVULINIC ACID AND ITS METHYL ESTER MEDIATED PHOTOCYTOTOXICITY ON HUMAN NASOPHARYNGEAL CARCINOMA CELLS
Authors: YOW CHRISTINE M. N. , WU RICKY W. K. , HUANG ZHENG
Published: March 2012

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a prevalent cancer in some areas of southern Asia. To explore the potential of photodynamic therapy (PDT) for the treatment of NPC, a small molecule prodrug 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) and its methyl ester (MAL) mediated PDT was studied in vitro. The results showed that human NPC cells were sensitive to both ALA- and MAL-mediated PDT. However, ALA was more effective than MAL, possiblly due to a higher efficiency of ALA on producing endogenous protoporphyrin (PpIX) in NPC cells. Neither ALA nor MAL caused any significant genotoxicity. The ALA-based PDT might be a useful modality in the treatment of NPC.
Longitudinal Analysis of Tetanus- and Influenza-Specific IgG Antibodies in Myeloma Patients
Authors: Kobold Sebastian , Luetkens Tim , Bartels Britta Marlen , Cao Yanran , Hildebrandt York , Sezer Orhan , Reinhard Henrike , Templin Julia , Bartels Katrin , Lajmi Nesrine , Haag Friedrich , Bokemeyer Carsten , Kröger Nicolaus , Atanackovic Djordje
Published: March 2012

Background. Multiple myeloma (MM) and its therapies may induce a severely compromised humoral immunity. We have performed a longitudinal analysis of IgG-antibody responses against influenza virus (FLU) and tetanus toxoid (TT) as surrogate markers for the B cell-mediated immunity in MM patients.Methods. 1094 serum samples of 190 MM patients and samples from 100 healthy donors were analyzed by ELISA for FLU- and TT-specific antibodies.Results. MM patients evidenced lower levels of FLU- and TT-specific antibodies than healthy controls (P<0.001). Immunoreactivity decreased with progressing disease and worsening clinical status. Levels of FLU- and TT-specific antibodies increased shortly (0-6 months) after alloSCT (P<0.001), a time-period during which intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is routinely applied. Thereafter, antibody concentrations declined and remained suppressed for 3 years in the case of FLU-specific and for more than 5 years in the case of TT-specific antibodies.Conclusions. We found that MM is associated with a profound disease- and therapy-related immunosuppression, which is compensated for a few months after alloSCT, most likely by application of IVIG. This and the differences regarding the recovery of anti-FLU and anti-TT antibody titers during the following years need to be taken into account for optimizing IVIG application and immunization after alloSCT.
Changes in Soluble-N in Forest and Pasture Soils after Repeated Applications of Tannins and Related Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Halvorson Jonathan J. , Gonzalez Javier M. , Hagerman Ann E.
Published: March 2012

Tannins (produced by plants) can reduce the solubility of soil-N. However, comparisons of tannins to related non-tannins on different land uses are limited. We extracted soluble-N from forest and pasture soils (0–5 cm) with repeated applications of water (Control) or solutions containing procyanidin from sorghum, catechin, tannic acid, β-1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-D-glucose (PGG), gallic acid, or methyl gallate (10 mg g−1soil). After eight treatments, samples were rinsed with cool water (23°C) and incubated in hot water (16 hrs, 80°C). After each step, the quantity of soluble-N and extraction efficiency compared to the Control was determined. Tannins produced the greatest reductions of soluble-N with stronger effects on pasture soil. Little soluble-N was extracted with cool water but hot water released large amounts in patterns influenced by the previous treatments. The results of this study indicate hydrolyzable tannins like PGG reduce the solubility of labile soil-N more than condensed tannins like sorghum procyanidin (SOR) and suggest tannin effects will vary with land management. Because they rapidly reduce solubility of soil-N and can also affect soil microorganisms, tannins may have a role in managing nitrogen availability and retention in agricultural soils.
Prussian Blue Modified Solid Carbon Nanorod Whisker Paste Composite Electrodes: Evaluation towards the Electroanalytical Sensing ofH2O2
Authors: Siimenson Carolin , Kruusma Jaanus , Anderson Erik , Merisalu Maido , Sammelselg Väino , Lust Enn , Banks Craig E.
Published: March 2012

Metallic impurity free solid carbon nanorod “Whiskers” (SCNR Whiskers), a derivative of carbon nanotubes, are explored in the fabrication of a Prussian Blue composite electrode and critically evaluated towards the mediated electroanalytical sensing of H2O2. The sensitivity and detection limits for H2O2on the paste electrodes containing 20% (w/w) Prussian Blue, mineral oil, and carbon nanorod whiskers were explored and found to be 120 mA/(M cm2) and 4.1 μM, respectively, over the concentration range 0.01 to 0.10 mM. Charge transfer constant for the 20% Prussian Blue containing SCNR Whiskers paste electrode was calculated, for the reduction of Prussian Blue to Prussian White, to reveal a value of1.8±0.2 1/s (α=0.43,N=3). Surprisingly, our studies indicate that these metallic impurity-free SCNR Whiskers, in this configuration, behave electrochemically similar to that of an electrode constructed from graphite.
Multiple Periodic Solutions of Delayed Predator‐Prey Systems with Type IV Functional Responses on Time Scales
Authors: Yu Shengbin , Wu Haihui , Chen Jiangbin
Published: March 2012

With the help of a continuation theorem based on Gaines and Mawhin′s coincidence degree, easily verifiable criteria are established for the existence of multiple positive periodic solutions of delayed predator‐prey systems with type IV functional responses on time scales. Our results not only unify the existing ones but also widen the range of applications.
A Generalized and Improved (G′/G)‐Expansion Method for Nonlinear Evolution Equations
Authors: Akbar M. Ali , Ali Norhashidah Hj. Mohd. , Zayed E. M. E.
Published: March 2012

A generalized and improved (G′/G)‐expansion method is proposed for finding more general type and new travelling wave solutions of nonlinear evolution equations. To illustrate the novelty and advantage of the proposed method, we solve the KdV equation, the Zakharov‐Kuznetsov‐Benjamin‐Bona‐Mahony (ZKBBM) equation and the strain wave equation in microstructured solids. Abundant exact travelling wave solutions of these equations are obtained, which include the soliton, the hyperbolic function, the trigonometric function, and the rational functions. Also it is shown that the proposed method is efficient for solving nonlinear evolution equations in mathematical physics and in engineering.
Genome Mutation Revealed by Artificial Hybridization between Chrysanthemum yoshinaganthum and Chrysanthemum vestitum Assessed by FISH and GISH
Authors: Abd El-Twab Magdy Hussein , Kondo Katsuhiko
Published: March 2012

Present study has been done to investigate artificial interspecific crossability between Japanese Chrysanthemum yoshinaganthum (2n=36) and Chinese C. vestitum (2n=54), which were cultured in vitro and in vivo and characterization of their artificial hybrid chromosomes and type of changes assessed by FISH and GISH. GISH was applied by using biotin-labeled total genomic DNA probe of C. vestitum, which were mixed with blocking DNA of C. yoshinaganthum. Approximately 18 yellow-green colored chromosomes of C. vestitum were detected by the probe, approximately 18 yellow-red- mixed colored chromosomes could be common chromosomes of the two species, and nine chromosomes were relatively red of Ch. yoshinaganthum that were not detected by the probe. The expected average of FISH six signals of 5S rDNA sites and ten of 45S rDNA were observed on the chromosomes of three and six hybrid plants, respectively. Multicolor FISH signals showed unexpected average of seven and 14 yellow signals of 5S rDNA sites on seven and thirteen chromosomes simultaneous with ten and 11 red signals of 45S rDNA sites on ten and 11 chromosomes which were detected by the probes respectively. FISH mapping of the 5S rDNA at terminal sites was detected in hybrid chromosomes, for the first time. Yellow-color signals of the telomeres were detected by the biotin-labeled probe of the PCR-amplified telomeric probe in interphase and terminal sites in metaphase. All chromosomes that showed terminal signals except four chromosomes showed subterminal sites of telomeres indicating the presence of translocations.