bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Establishment and characterization of immortalized bovine endometrial epithelial cells
Authors: Bai Hanako , Sakurai Toshihiro , Bai Rulan , Yamakoshi Sachiko , Aoki Etsunari , Kuse Mariko , Okuda Kiyoshi , Imakawa Kazuhiko 
Published: April 2014

AbstractBovine primary uterine endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) are not ideal for long‐term studies, because primary EECs lose hormone responsiveness quickly, and/or they tend to have a short life span. The aims of this study were to establish immortalized bovine EECs and to characterize these cells following long‐term cultures. Immortalized bovine EECs were established by transfecting retroviral vectors encoding human papillomavirus (HPV) E6 and E7, and human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) genes. Established bovine immortalized EECs (imEECs) showed the same morphology as primary EECs, and could be grown without any apparent changes for over 60 passages. In addition, imEECs have maintained the features as EECs, exhibiting oxytocin (OT) and interferon tau (IFNT) responsiveness. Therefore, these imEECs, even after numbers of passages, could be used as an in vitro model to investigate cellular and molecular mechanisms, by which the uterine epithelium responds to IFNT stimulation, the event required for the maternal recognition of pregnancy in the bovine species.
Maximum likelihood estimation of semiparametric mixture component models for competing risks data
Authors: Choi Sangbum , Huang Xuelin 
Published: April 2014

SummaryIn the analysis of competing risks data, the cumulative incidence function is a useful quantity to characterize the crude risk of failure from a specific event type. In this article, we consider an efficient semiparametric analysis of mixture component models on cumulative incidence functions. Under the proposed mixture model, latency survival regressions given the event type are performed through a class of semiparametric models that encompasses the proportional hazards model and the proportional odds model, allowing for time‐dependent covariates. The marginal proportions of the occurrences of cause‐specific events are assessed by a multinomial logistic model. Our mixture modeling approach is advantageous in that it makes a joint estimation of model parameters associated with all competing risks under consideration, satisfying the constraint that the cumulative probability of failing from any cause adds up to one given any covariates. We develop a novel maximum likelihood scheme based on semiparametric regression analysis that facilitates efficient and reliable estimation. Statistical inferences can be conveniently made from the inverse of the observed information matrix. We establish the consistency and asymptotic normality of the proposed estimators. We validate small sample properties with simulations and demonstrate the methodology with a data set from a study of follicular lymphoma.
Dynamin 2 regulates actin‐mediated spindle migration in mouse oocytes
Authors: Wang Qiao‐Chu , Liu Jun , Wang Zhen‐Bo , Zhang Yu , Duan Xing , Cui Xiang‐Shun , Kim Nam‐Hyung , Sun Shao‐Chen 
Published: April 2014

Background informationDuring meiosis, a bipolar spindle forms in the central cytoplasm of an oocyte and then moves to the cortex to extrude the first polar body. This is dependent on the regulation of actin and actin‐related molecules. Dynamin 2, a large guanosine triphosphatases (GTPase) known to regulate clathrin‐mediated endocytosis, is involved in actin recruitment and actin‐based vesicle mobility. In this study, we investigated the role of Dynamin 2 in oocyte meiosis.ResultsDynamin 2 was localised at the cortex and around the spindles of oocytes. Disrupting Dynamin 2 activity by RNAi or an inhibitor resulted in polar body extrusion failure. Using time‐lapse microscopy to monitor aberrant oocyte cytokinesis, the chromosomes were first separated, but then re‐joined. Actin expression in oocytes was decreased; and actin cap formation was disrupted, which was confirmed by the disappearance of cortical‐granule‐free domains. In addition, live cell imaging showed that spindle migration had failed and that spindles were arrested centrally in oocytes. This may have been due to the Dynamin‐binding protein Profilin and actin‐related protein 2/3 (ARP2/3) complexes, which exhibited dispersed signals after disrupting Dynamin 2 activity.ConclusionsThus, our results indicate that Dynamin 2 regulates spindle migration and polar body extrusion during mouse oocyte meiosis through an actin‐based pathway.
Tree Species Distribution along Environmental Gradients in an Area Affected by a Hydroelectric Dam in Southern Amazonia
Authors: Moser Pamela , Oliveira Washington L. , Medeiros Marcelo B. , Pinto José R. , Eisenlohr Pedro V. , Lima Isabela L. , Silva Glocimar P. , Simon Marcelo F. 
Published: April 2014

AbstractWe describe the patterns of composition and abundance of tree species and their relationships to environmental factors in an area affected by the Jirau hydroelectric dam on the Madeira River in the Brazilian state of Rondônia. Trees were sampled in 20 1‐ha forest plots distributed among areas affected and unaffected by the hydroelectric reservoir. Predictors of species distribution included in the analyses were soil fertility (sum of bases) and texture, slope, and the vertical distance from the nearest drainage. We sampled 8504 individuals belonging to 909 species/morphospecies. Floristic differences occurred throughout the reservoir area and between the sides of the river, and were strongly associated with edaphic and geological factors. The predictor with the greatest effect on the floristic changes was the sum of bases, coupled with the vertical distance from the nearest drainage, the latter reflecting the influence of the riparian zone. The forests sampled were heterogeneous and included transitional formations between unfloodedterra firmeand seasonally inundated (varzea,campinarana) forests. Although a considerable number of species (253) were restricted to plots affected by the reservoir, most of these species have a widespread distribution in the Amazon region. However, conservation measures are required in order to preserve species associations and ecosystems processes similar to those most affected by the reservoir such as the river floodplains. Our study reinforces the need to consider the heterogeneity of habitats affected by reservoirs when making decisions concerning the building of hydroelectric dams in the Amazon.
A novel protocol allowing oral delivery of a protein complement inhibitor that subsequently targets to inflamed colon mucosa and ameliorates murine colitis
Authors: Elvington M , Blichmann P , Qiao F , Scheiber M , Wadsworth C , Luzinov I , Lucero J , Vertegel A , Tomlinson S 
Published: April 2014

Summary
While there is evidence of a pathogenic role for complement in inflammatory bowel disease, there is also evidence for a protective role that relates to host defence and protection from endotoxaemia. There is thus concern regarding the use of systemic complement inhibition as a therapeutic strategy. Local delivery of a complement inhibitor to the colon by oral administration would ameliorate such concerns, but while formulations exist for oral delivery of low molecular weight drugs to the colon, they have not been used successfully for oral delivery of proteins. We describe a novel pellet formulation consisting of cross-linked dextran coated with an acrylic co-polymer that protects the complement inhibitor CR2-Crry from destruction in the gastrointestinal tract. CR2-Crry containing pellets administered by gavage, were characterized using a therapeutic protocol in a mouse model of dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. Oral treatment of established colitis over a 5-day period significantly reduced mucosal inflammation and injury, with similar therapeutic benefit whether or not the proton pump inhibitor, omeprazole, was co-administered. Reduction in injury was associated with the targeting of CR2-Crry to the mucosal surface and reduced local complement activation. Treatment had no effect on systemic complement activity. This novel method for oral delivery of a targeted protein complement inhibitor will reduce systemic effects, thereby decreasing the risk of opportunistic infection, as well as lowering the required dose and treatment cost and improving patient compliance. Furthermore, the novel delivery system described here may provide similar benefits for administration of other protein-based drugs, such as anti-tumour necrosis factor-α antibodies.
Antibiotic prescription patterns among Swedish dentists working with dental implant surgery: adherence to recommendations
Authors: Khalil Dalia , Hultin Margareta , Andersson Fred Linda , Parkbring Olsson Nina , Lund Bodil 
Published: April 2014

AbstractObjectivesTo investigate antibiotic prophylaxis prescription behaviors among Swedish dentists working with dental implant surgery and the influence of scientific reviews.Material and methodsAn observational questionnaire study was conducted in 2008 and 2012. Dental clinic addresses were found through online search services of Swedish telephone directories. The questionnaires were posted to eligible dentists (120 in 2008, 161 in 2012) in the Stockholm region, Sweden. Absolute frequencies were used to describe the data. Chi‐square tests were applied to assess statistically significant differences.ResultsThe response rate was 75% in 2008 and 88% in 2012. In 2008, 88% of the dentists routinely prescribed antibiotic prophylaxis when performing implant surgery and 74% in 2012 (P = 0.01). There was a significant reduction in the dentists prescription patterns as 65% prescribed a single dose in 2012, compared to 49% in 2008 (P = 0.04). Amoxicillin was the drug of choice for 47% of the respondents in 2012, and 21% in 2008 (P = 0.01). Dentists without postgraduate clinical training were significantly more prone to extend antibiotic administration after surgery (P < 0.009).ConclusionsThere is a wide variation in the choice of compound and prescription patterns of prophylactic antibiotic prior to implant insertion. A reduction in antibiotic prescription to a single dose was observed comparing 2008 and 2012, probably influenced by scientific reviews. Dentists with postgraduate education are more likely to limit antibiotic usage.
Elevation and experimental snowmelt manipulation affect emergence phenology and abundance of soil‐hibernating arthropods
Authors: LEINGÄRTNER ANNETTE , KRAUSS JOCHEN , STEFFAN‐DEWENTER INGOLF 
Published: April 2014

1. Effects of climate change, such as higher average temperatures and earlier snowmelt, are already apparent, especially in alpine regions. However, community responses of functionally important arthropod taxa to changing climatic conditions are mostly unknown.2. In this study, an earlier snowmelt was simulated at 15 plots along an elevational gradient in the German Alps. At each study site, soil emergence traps were established for sampling soil‐hibernating arthropods on earlier and control snowmelt treatments during the growing season. The abundance and emergence phenology of the five most common arthropod orders (Araneae, Coleoptera, Diptera, Hemiptera, Hymenoptera) were analysed, as well as the species richness of Coleoptera.3. There was increasing abundance and species richness of Coleoptera along the elevational gradient, indicating that at higher altitudes more individuals and species hibernate in the soil. Abundances of Diptera also increased with elevation. By contrast, abundances of Hemiptera declined with increasing elevation, while abundances of Araneae and Hymenoptera did not show significant elevational patterns. Arthropods at higher elevations emerged, on average, 5 weeks later than arthropods at lower elevations, because of a longer‐lasting snow cover. The earlier snowmelt treatment resulted in higher abundances of Araneae and Hymenoptera compared with the control plots, indicating that the time of snowmelt influenced the abundance of predators, such as spiders or parasitic wasps, more than that of herbivores.4. An earlier emergence of certain arthropod guilds and a change in relative abundance of guilds might desynchronise species interactions, leading to a possible loss of biodiversity.
Toward an Anthropology of the Imaginary: Specters of Disability in Vietnam
Authors: Gammeltoft Tine M. 
Published: April 2014

AbstractIn this article, I discuss the analytical potential that the notion of the imaginary holds for anthropology as a concept that may capture some of the more subdued, yet socially vigorous, moods and sensations that hover where personal experience and socially salient forms of power merge. The ethnographic occasion for my inquiry is the eager uptake of new technologies for selective reproduction in Vietnam; technologies that are actively promoted by the party‐state as an element in efforts to enhance “population quality.” Drawing on nearly three years of fieldwork conducted in Vietnam's capital Hanoi, I frame selective reproduction as an issue of power and politics, investigating how people's fantasies, fears, and imaginings blend with the workings of state power in this realm. Attention to imaginary constructions of self and society, I argue, can further anthropological understanding of the ways in which state policies are shaped, implemented, justified, and received.
Capsular hyaluronic acid of equine isolates of Streptococcus zooepidemicus is upregulated at temperatures below 35°C
Authors: Velineni S. , Timoney J. F. 
Published: April 2014

SummaryReasons for performing studyStreptococcus zooepidemicus causes opportunist respiratory and other infections in the horse. Capsule expression is highly variable and known to affect resistance to phagocytosis. Most clinical isolates producing small, dry colonies at 37°C produce mucoid colonies at temperatures below 35°C.ObjectivesThe aim was to understand the molecular basis of increased capsule expression by equine isolates of S. zooepidemicus at temperatures lower than 35°C.Study designCross‐sectional observational study.MethodsCapsule production by groups of equine S. zooepidemicus strains was determined at 23, 30, 35 and 37°C. Hyaluronidase (HylC) at 23 and 37°C was measured by quantitative enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Expressions of hasA and hylC at 23 and 37°C were measured by quantitative reverse transcriptase‐PCR. The covRS genes in representative S. zooepidemicus were sequenced and checked for mutations.ResultsColonies of randomly selected S. zooepidemicus strains became mucoid or showed marked increase in colony mucoidy following the change in temperature to 23°C. Expression of hasA at 23°C was 45‐ to 700‐fold greater than at 37°C. Transcription of hylC at 23°C was 2.5‐ to 200‐fold greater than at 37°C, yet enzyme concentrations in cultures were significantly higher at 37°C (P<0.05), suggesting that production of HylC is regulated post transcriptionally. The covRS gene in S. zooepidemicus was not mutated as seen in isolates of Streptococcus pyogenes with increased capsule production at 25°C.ConclusionsSensitivity of capsule expression to temperature above 35°C but not HylC by the general population of equine S. zooepidemicus indicates that capsule is not required for extended colonisation nor for opportunist invasion. Instead, capsule production at lower than body temperature may reflect adaptation to life on skin and mucosal surfaces, where hyaluronic acid contributes to adhesion and resistance to desiccation. Pathogenicity of S. zooepidemicus following opportunist invasion is possibly dependent on factors other than capsule that may be co‐regulated with HylC.The Summary is available in Chinese – see Supporting information.
Trait of routinization and adaptation to life in continuing care communities among older adults inIsrael
Authors: Zisberg Anna , Kaabiya Waheed , Siegel Elena O 
Published: April 2014

AimTo examine the relationship between levels of adaptation to independent living in continuing care communities and the personality trait, routinization.MethodsUsing a correlative design, structured face‐to‐face interviews were carried out with 120 older adults residing in independent housing units across six continuing care facilities inIsrael, using theIndex ofRelocationAdjustment and theVarietyAssessmentScale questionnaires.ResultsIn a mixed model, one of the two routinization subscales (disliking disruption) was moderately associated with adaptation, controlling for decision to enter the facility, satisfaction with the facility, family relationship, functional status, education, family status and type of setting. Residents who expressed high levels of disliking disruption, higher functional status and less involvement in the decision to enter the facility reported poorer adaptation to their living conditions.ConclusionOur findings point out the complexity and intricacy of personal attributes as factors associated with adaptation to transitions in older age, and highlight the potential contribution of the trait of routinization to adaptation. Further research is required to identify ways to best support older adult transitions to institutional environments, considering different personality traits and environments.Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15: 501–507.
Comparisons of prognostic factors between young and elderly patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Sato Takamasa , Yamauchi Hiroyuki , Kanno Yuki , Suzuki Satoshi , Yoshihisa Akiomi , Yamaki Takayoshi , Sugimoto Koichi , Kunii Hiroyuki , Nakazato Kazuhiko , Suzuki Hitoshi , Saitoh Shu‐ichi , Takeishi Yasuchika 
Published: April 2014

AimThe purpose in the present study was to compare prognostic risk factors between older and younger chronic heart failure (CHF) patients.MethodsWe examined 598 consecutive CHF patients (476 men and 122 women, mean age 61.4 ± 14.3 years) who underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing, echocardiography and blood examination. We divided the 598 patients into two groups: the elderly group (age ≥75 years, n = 123) and the young group (age <75, n = 475). We compared blood testing data, exercise capacity, cardiac function and prognosis between the two groups. Patients were followed up (median 782 days) to register cardiac deaths or rehospitalization as a result of worsening heart failure.ResultsPatients in the elderly group were associated with higher frequencies of atrial fibrillation and diuretic use than those in the young group. Patients in the elderly group had lower hemoglobin concentration, more impaired renal function, higher plasma B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels, smaller left ventricular volume, longer deceleration time of early mitral wave and lower exercise capacity than those in the young group. There were 199 cardiac events during follow‐up periods. As expected, Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that patients in the elderly group had higher cardiac event rates than those in the young group. In the young group, multivariable Cox hazard analysis showed that hemoglobin concentration, log BNP and peak VO2 were independent predictors related to cardiac events. In contrast, in the elderly group, estimated glomerular filtration rate, atrial fibrillation and peak VO2 were independent factors to predict adverse clinical outcomes.ConclusionsPrognostic factors were different between the elderly and young patients in CHF. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15: 435–442.
Modified penile disassembly technique for boys with epispadias and those undergoing complete primary repair of exstrophy: Long‐term outcomes
Authors: Anwar Ahmed Zaki Mohamed , Mohamed Mamdouh Abdel‐Hamid , Hussein Alayman , Shaaban Alaa Mohammed 
Published: April 2014

ObjectivesTo describe our experience performing the modified penile disassembly technique for boys with epispadias and for those undergoing complete primary repair of exstrophy.MethodsBetween January 2004 and July 2009, 34 boys underwent the modified penile disassembly technique at our institution. The first group included 15 boys with bladder exstrophy who underwent complete primary repair of exstrophy. The second group comprised 11 boys with penopupic epispadias after previous closure of bladder exstrophy. The third group included 8 boys with isolated complete epispadias.ResultsThe age range was 3 months to 8 years (median, 9 months). The follow‐up time ranged from 36 months to 8 years (mean, 63 months). A conical‐shaped glans with the absence of any ischemic changes occurred in 94% of patients. A mild degree of penile dorsal tilt occurred in 11.7% of patients, urethrocutanous fistula in 17.6% and meatal stenosis 5.8%. In cases of complete primary repair of exstrophy, hydronephrosis occurred in 66.6% of patients. Vesicoureteral reflux appeared in 60% of patients; despite suppressive antibiotic therapy, 33.3% are awaiting reimplantation. Continence with volitional voiding with dry intervals of ≥3 h was achieved in 40% of patients.ConclusionsThe modified penile disassembly technique can be used in epispadias and complete primary repair of exstrophy with excellent cosmetic results. Preservation of the distal urethral plate along with both hemiglans avoids shortening and prevents occurrence of hypospadias. Complete primary repair of exstrophy is a feasible technique with positive effects on continence with preservation of kidney function.
Surgical periodontal therapy with and without initial scaling and root planing in the management of chronic periodontitis: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Aljateeli Manar , Koticha Tapan , Bashutski Jill , Sugai James V. , Braun Thomas M. , Giannobile William V. , Wang Hom‐Lay 
Published: April 2014

AbstractAimTo compare the outcomes of surgical periodontal therapy with and without initial scaling and root planing.MethodsTwenty‐four patients with severe chronic periodontitis were enrolled in this pilot, randomized controlled clinical trial. Patients were equally allocated into two treatment groups: Control group was treated with scaling and root planing, re‐evaluation, followed by Modified Widman Flap surgery and test group received similar surgery without scaling and root planing. Clinical attachment level, probing depth and bleeding on probing were recorded. Standardized radiographs were analysed for linear bone change from baseline to 6 months. Wound fluid inflammatory biomarkers were also assessed.ResultsBoth groups exhibited statistically significant improvement in clinical attachment level and probing depth at 3 and 6 months compared to baseline. A statistically significant difference in probing depth reduction was found between the two groups at 3 and 6 months in favour of the control group. No statistically significant differences in biomarkers were detected between the groups.ConclusionsCombined scaling and root planing and surgery yielded greater probing depth reduction as compared to periodontal surgery without initial scaling and root planing.