bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Building the niche through time: using 13,000 years of data to predict the effects of climate change on three tree species in Europe
Authors: Maiorano L. , Cheddadi R. , Zimmermann N. E. , Pellissier L. , Petitpierre B. , Pottier J. , Laborde H. , Hurdu B. I. , Pearman P. B. , Psomas A. , Singarayer J. S. , Broennimann O. , Vittoz P. , Dubuis A. , Edwards M. E. , Binney H. A. , Guisan A. 
Published: May 2012

ABSTRACTAim  Species distribution models (SDMs) based on current species ranges underestimate the potential distribution when projected in time and/or space. A multi‐temporal model calibration approach has been suggested as an alternative, and we evaluate this using 13,000 years of data.Location  Europe.Methods  We used fossil‐based records of presence for Picea abies, Abies alba and Fagus sylvatica and six climatic variables for the period 13,000 to 1000 yr bp. To measure the contribution of each 1000‐year time step to the total niche of each species (the niche measured by pooling all the data), we employed a principal components analysis (PCA) calibrated with data over the entire range of possible climates. Then we projected both the total niche and the partial niches from single time frames into the PCA space, and tested if the partial niches were more similar to the total niche than random. Using an ensemble forecasting approach, we calibrated SDMs for each time frame and for the pooled database. We projected each model to current climate and evaluated the results against current pollen data. We also projected all models into the future.Results  Niche similarity between the partial and the total‐SDMs was almost always statistically significant and increased through time. SDMs calibrated from single time frames gave different results when projected to current climate, providing evidence of a change in the species realized niches through time. Moreover, they predicted limited climate suitability when compared with the total‐SDMs. The same results were obtained when projected to future climates.Main conclusions  The realized climatic niche of species differed for current and future climates when SDMs were calibrated considering different past climates. Building the niche as an ensemble through time represents a way forward to a better understanding of a species' range and its ecology in a changing climate.
The Two Pathways to Being an (Un‐)Popular Narcissist
Authors: Küfner Albrecht C. P. , Nestler Steffen , Back Mitja D. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractObjectiveNarcissism affects social relationships from the very first interactions. The overall positivity of social impressions narcissists evoke is, however, unclear—with previous research reporting positive, negative, or null effects on popularity at short‐term acquaintance. Here we postulate a dual‐pathway model, which explains the effects of narcissism on (un‐)popularity as the result of two opposing behavioral pathways: assertiveness and aggressiveness.MethodIn two studies, unacquainted German college students (N = 100; N = 68) met in groups of four to six persons and engaged in group discussions. Afterward, they provided ratings of each other's assertiveness, aggressiveness, and likeability. In Study 2, we additionally videotaped the sessions and assessed participants’ actual behavior.ResultsResults of both studies confirm our dual‐pathway hypothesis: There was a “positive” and a “negative” path from targets’ narcissism to being liked or not—dependent upon being seen as assertive or aggressive. Behavioral observations showed that expressive and dominant behaviors mediated the positive path, whereas arrogant and combative behaviors mediated the negative path.ConclusionsInitial (un‐)popularity of narcissists at early stages of interpersonal interactions depends on the behavioral pathway that is triggered in the given situational context.
Muscle MRI in female carriers of dystrophinopathy
Authors: Tasca G. , Monforte M. , Iannaccone E. , Laschena F. , Ottaviani P. , Silvestri G. , Masciullo M. , Mirabella M. , Servidei S. , Ricci E. 
Published: May 2012

Background and purposeDuchenne muscular dystrophy carriers represent a rare condition that needs to be recognized because of the possible implications for prenatal diagnosis. Muscle biopsy is currently the diagnostic instrument of choice in sporadic patients. We wanted to verify whether muscle magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) could identify a pattern of involvement suggestive of this condition and whether it was similar to that reported in Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy.MethodsEvaluation of pelvic and lower limb MRI scans of 12 dystrophinopathy carriers was performed.ResultsWe found a frequent involvement of the quadratus femoris, gluteus maximus and medius, biceps femoris long head, adductor magnus, vasti and paraspinal muscles, whilst the popliteus, iliopsoas, recti abdominis, sartorius, and gracilis were relatively spared. Asymmetry was a major feature on MRI; it could be detected significantly more often than with sole clinical examination and even in patients without weakness.ConclusionsThe pattern we describe here is similar to that reported in Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy, although asymmetry represents a major distinctive feature. Muscle MRI was more sensitive than clinical examination for detecting single muscle involvement and asymmetry. Further studies are needed to verify the consistency of this pattern in larger cohorts and to assess whether muscle MRI can improve diagnostic accuracy in carriers with normal dystrophin staining on muscle biopsy.
Involvement of α2‐adrenoceptors, imidazoline, and endothelin‐A receptors in the effect of agmatine on morphine and oxycodone‐induced hypothermia in mice
Authors: Bhalla Shaifali , Andurkar Shridhar V. , Gulati Anil 
Published: May 2012

AbstractPotentiation of opioid analgesia by endothelin‐A (ETA) receptor antagonist, BMS182874, and imidazoline receptor/α2‐adrenoceptor agonists such as clonidine and agmatine are well known. It is also known that agmatine blocks morphine hyperthermia in rats. However, the effect of agmatine on morphine or oxycodone hypothermia in mice is unknown. The present study was carried out to study the role of α2‐adrenoceptors, imidazoline, and ETA receptors in morphine and oxycodone hypothermia in mice. Body temperature was determined over 6 h in male Swiss Webster mice treated with morphine, oxycodone, agmatine, and combination of agmatine with morphine or oxycodone. Yohimbine, idazoxan, and BMS182874 were used to determine involvement of α2‐adrenoceptors, imidazoline, and ETA receptors, respectively. Morphine and oxycodone produced significant hypothermia that was not affected by α2‐adrenoceptor antagonist yohimbine, imidazoline receptor/α2 adrenoceptor antagonist idazoxan, or ETA receptor antagonist, BMS182874. Agmatine did not produce hypothermia; however, it blocked oxycodone but not morphine‐induced hypothermia. Agmatine‐induced blockade of oxycodone hypothermia was inhibited by idazoxan and yohimbine. The blockade by idazoxan was more pronounced compared with yohimbine. Combined administration of BMS182874 and agmatine did not produce changes in body temperature in mice. However, when BMS182874 was administered along with agmatine and oxycodone, it blocked agmatine‐induced reversal of oxycodone hypothermia. This is the first report demonstrating that agmatine does not affect morphine hypothermia in mice, but reverses oxycodone hypothermia. Imidazoline receptors and α2‐adrenoceptors are involved in agmatine‐induced reversal of oxycodone hypothermia. Our findings also suggest that ETA receptors may be involved in blockade of oxycodone hypothermia by agmatine.
Racial Differences in Gait Velocity in an Urban Elderly Cohort
Authors: Blanco Irene , Verghese Joe , Lipton Richard B. , Putterman Chaim , Derby Carol A. 
Published: May 2012

ObjectivesTo investigate whether there are racial differences in gait velocity in elderly adults.DesignCross‐sectional analysis.SettingBronx, New York.ParticipantsTwo hundred thirteen participants of the Einstein Aging Study (157 Caucasian, 56 African American), a longitudinal study of community‐residing elderly adults recruited using Medicare and voter registration records.MeasurementsDemographic characteristics, medical history, Geriatric Depression Scale, Blessed Information–Memory–Concentration Test, Total Pain Index, gait velocity.ResultsCaucasians were older (median 79.9 vs 75.5, P = .002) and more educated (median 14 vs 12 years, P = .007) and had lower body mass index (mean 26.9 ± 4.3 vs 28.9 ± 6.4, P = .03). African Americans were more likely to be female (80.4% vs 59.9%, P = .006) and to have diabetes mellitus (28.6% vs 13.4%, P = .01). Pain levels were not significantly different between Caucasians and African Americans. African Americans had a significantly slower gait velocity (mean 90.2 ± 17.9 vs 99.1 ± 20.1 cm/s, P = .004). This difference persisted after adjusting for multiple covariates. Differences in common factors known to influence gait did not explain a 7.79‐cm/s slower gait speed in African Americans than Caucasians.ConclusionDifferences in gait velocity persist between African Americans and Caucasians despite adjusting for many confounders. Increases of just 10 cm/s are associated with lower mortality. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether there are modifiable risk factors that may explain this difference and whether an intervention could reduce the discrepancy between the groups.
Effectiveness of Tai Chi as a Community‐Based Falls Prevention Intervention: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Taylor Denise , Hale Leigh , Schluter Philip , Waters Debra L. , Binns Elizabeth E. , McCracken Hamish , McPherson Kathryn , Wolf Steven L. 
Published: May 2012

ObjectivesTo compare the effectiveness of tai chi and low‐level exercise in reducing falls in older adults; to determine whether mobility, balance, and lower limb strength improved and whether higher doses of tai chi resulted in greater effect.DesignRandomized controlled trial.SettingEleven sites throughout New Zealand.ParticipantsSix hundred eighty‐four community‐residing older adults (mean age 74.5; 73% female) with at least one falls risk factor.InterventionTai chi once a week (TC1) (n = 233); tai chi twice a week (TC2) (n = 220), or a low‐level exercise program control group (LLE) (n = 231) for 20 wks.MeasurementsNumber of falls was ascertained according to monthly falls calendars. Mobility (Timed‐Up‐and‐Go Test), balance (step test), and lower limb strength (chair stand test) were assessed.ResultsThe adjusted incident rate ratio (IRR) for falls was not significantly different between the TC1 and LLE groups (IRR = 1.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.83–1.33, P = .70) or between the TC2 and LLE groups (IRR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.68–1.16, P = .37). Adjusted multilevel mixed‐effects Poisson regression showed a significant reduction in logarithmic mean fall rate of −0.050 (95% CI = −0.064 to −0.037, P < .001) per month for all groups. Multilevel fixed‐effects analyses indicated improvements in balance (P < .001 right and left leg) and lower limb strength (P < .001) but not mobility (P = .54) in all groups over time, with no differences between the groups (P = .37 (right leg), P = .66 (left leg), P = .21, and P = .44, respectively).ConclusionThere was no difference in falls rates between the groups, with falls reducing similarly (mean falls rate reduction of 58%) over the 17‐month follow‐up period. Strength and balance improved similarly in all groups over time.
Gene polymorphism of interleukin‐1 alpha and beta in keratocystic odontogenic tumors
Authors: Eshghyar Nosratollah , Nikbin Behrouz , Amirzargar Aliakbar , Dehghani Nazhvani Ali , Shakiba Yadollah 
Published: May 2012

J Oral Pathol Med (2012) 41: 697–701Aim and background:  Odontogenic keratocysts have a different growth mechanism and biologic behavior in comparison with more common dentigerous and radicular cysts. It was reclassified as keratocystic odontogenic tumor (KCOT). The proliferative activity of the epithelial cells of KCOT has a close relationship with tissue levels of interleukin‐1 (IL‐1). Moreover, IL‐1 increases the expression of several matrix metalloproteinases in the fibroblasts of adjacent stroma and activates the osteoclastogenesis process. So it plays an important role in the activity, spread, and local aggressiveness of this tumor. Therefore, it seems that the gene polymorphism of the cytokines of the IL‐1 family is influential in the pathogenesis of KCOT and the patients’ susceptibility to disease.Method:  A total of 38 blood samples of patients suffering from KCOT and 150 blood samples of healthy patients were assessed using PCR‐SSP. The blood samples were assessed for the following polymorphisms: interleukin‐1 alpha (‐889) and interleukin‐1 beta (‐511). Following up the patients, we found six recurrent and one syndromic cases.Findings:  By comparing the case and control groups, we observed the significant dominance of allele T over C, and genotype TT over CC and CT in IL‐1α, although no significant difference was seen in the allele frequency and genotypes regarding IL‐1β.Conclusion:  The function of IL‐1α has a significant relationship with KCOT. Its effective genotype associated with pathogenesis, growth, local invasion, and recurrence is TT.
The effect of herbal, essential oil and chlorhexidine mouthrinse on de novo plaque formation
Authors: Singh A , Daing A , Dixit J 
Published: May 2012

To cite this article:   Int J Dent Hygiene DOI: 10.1111/j.1601‐5037.2012.00556.x Singh A, Daing A, Dixit J. The effect of herbal, essential oil and chlorhexidine mouthrinse on de novo plaque formation.Abstract:  Background:  Brushing and flossing are the most widely accepted procedures, the ‘gold standard’, for controlling bacterial plaque, but these mechanical methods have limitations. Based on results derived from several clinical trials, essential oil (EO) mouthrinse (Listerine®) and a chlorhexidine mouthrinse have been accepted by ADA to be used as an adjunct to routine mechanical oral hygiene measures however, both of them are associated with side effects, therefore, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the antiplaque efficacy of a new herbal formulation as compared to an EO and chlorhexidine rinse.Materials and method:  The study was a single blind parallel randomized controlled trial involving four groups. 48 volunteers refrained from all oral hygiene measures for 4 days, but rinsed instead twice daily with 10 ml of a herbal (HM), EO, chlorhexidine (CHX) or a placebo (PL) solution. Plaque index and plaque area (PA) was assessed on Day 4.Results:  The HM and EO showed a significant inhibition of plaque regrowth compared to PL (P < 0.001), but the lowest values of PI and PA were obtained with CHX. Statistically significant difference in plaque parameters was observed when CHX was compared to HM and EO, and HM to EO rinse.Conclusion:  The new herbal mouthrinse had a promising plaque inhibitory potential but it not as efficacious as chlorhexidine in preventing plaque regrowth.
Calcium homeostasis may influence resting energy expenditure with effects most apparent in early pubertal girls
Authors: Hanks LJ , Casazza K , Ashraf A , Fernandez JR 
Published: May 2012

AbstractAim:  Perturbations in dietary and hormonal components of the calciotropic network may be mediated through the influence of calcium homoeostasis on resting energy expenditure (REE). We investigated the association of dietary and hormonal factors involved in the regulation of calcium homoeostasis with REE in girls.Methods:  Thirty‐six girls aged 7–11 years participated. REE was assessed by indirect calorimetry, and body composition, dietary intake (calcium, vitamins D and K, phosphorus) and serum hormones (PTH, osteocalcin, 25OHD) were evaluated by DXA, 24 h recall and serum assay, respectively.Results:  A positive association between vitamin K and REE and an inverse association of parathyroid hormone (PTH) with REE (p = 0.05) were observed. PTH and REE were positively related in those having normal adiposity (p = 0.03) and inversely related in those with excess adiposity (p = 0.01). The association of REE with vitamin K intake was evident in lean individuals (p = 0.001), but was null in those with excess adiposity.Conclusion:  Decreased calciotropic hormone levels along with increased related nutrient intakes were associated with greater REE, although these relationships differed according to adiposity. The physiologic response to the diet and subsequent energy partitioning needs to be considered in the context of puberty. In particular, regulation and signalling of the calciotropic network during pubertal maturation warrant investigation.
Palliative radiotherapy for patients with tracheobronchial and esophageal compression due to intrathoracic malignant tumors
Authors: TANAKA Hidekazu , HAYASHI Shinya , OHTAKARA Kazuhiro , HOSHI Hiroaki 
Published: May 2012

AbstractAims:  To evaluate palliative outcomes of patients with extrinsic malignant tracheobronchial or esophageal stenosis treated with radiation. Mediastinal or hilar lymphadenopathy surrounding the tracheobronchi or esophagus may cause compression, presenting as dyspnea and dysphagia respectively. Treatment is important for symptom relief and maintaining patients' quality of life.Methods:  Dyspnea and dysphagia were assessed using the Hugh–Jones score and a modified dysphagia scale, respectively. A total of 13 patients (median age, 60 years) with dyspnea received palliative radiotherapy. The primary organs were lung (n = 6), colorectum (n = 5), hypopharynx (n = 1) and uterine cervix (n = 1). Three patients received concurrent chemotherapy. The median time‐adjusted biological effective dose (BED) was 33.0 Gy10. Ten patients (median age, 61) with dysphagia received palliative radiotherapy. The primary organs were lung (n = 7), esophagus (n = 2) and hypopharynx (n = 1). Three patients received concurrent chemotherapy. The median time‐adjusted BED was 32.1 Gy10.Results:  Palliation of dyspnea and dysphagia occurred in seven (54%) and five (50%) patients, respectively. Patients treated with doses over 35 Gy10 had greater score improvements than those treated with less than 35 Gy10 in both groups. Patients who received concurrent chemoradiotherapy had greater score improvements than those treated with radiotherapy alone. Dyspnea patients with pretreatment scores of 2 (n = 5) had greater score improvements than those with scores of 3 or more (n = 8).Conclusion:  External beam radiotherapy should be considered for patients with tracheobronchial or esophageal stenosis before their symptoms worsen. The prescription dose should be over 35 Gy10.
Organizations and Learning: A Critical Appraisal
Authors: Casey Catherine 
Published: May 2012

AbstractDiscussions about organizations and learning continue to attract critical interest. Since the emergence in the 1970s of the notion of the “learning organization,” notions of systems’ learning, knowledge management and lifelong learning have progressively entered into the debates. Earlier debates, which drew on education and psychology fields as well as organization and management studies, frequently explored plural objectives for learning occurring within organizational and workplace arenas. They included emphasis on workers’ as well as managerial interests in various forms and objectives of learning. Latter debates on organizational learning appear predominantly shaped by a distinctive economic rationality and management interest. This article, from a sociological vantage point, reviews key thematic issues and critically explores some current questions in regard to organizations and learning. It proposes that a prevailing economic model in accordance with generalized policy objectives evident across the advanced economies for a neo‐liberalized “knowledge‐based economy” and “learning society” poses a particular set of contemporary issues and problems. The current juncture may, however, stimulate further innovation in models of learning organizations that widen agenda and prospects for learning.
Variations in Discovery‐Based Preeclampsia Candidate Genes
Authors: Founds Sandra A. , Shi Haiwen , Conley Yvette P. , Jeyabalan Arun , Roberts James M. , Lyons‐Weiler James 
Published: May 2012

AbstractPreeclampsia is a common and potentially lethal pregnancy disorder with lifelong increased risk of cardiovascular disease in survivors. Our prior global gene expression microarray analysis led to a novel set of 36 candidates in first trimester placentas of women who subsequently developed preeclampsia. In this report, we present preliminary studies demonstrating biomarkers of genotype and methylation variations in a subset of these candidate genes in maternal leukocyte and fetoplacental DNA of 28 case and 27 control dyads. We tested 84 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) using MassArray iPLEX and 50 CpG sites using EpiTYPER assays. Promising prediction modeling was identified with 25 SNPs selected using Fisher's exact tests (p< 0.05) and 20 CpG sites selected on fold change. Genotype Distribution Analysis identified SNP variations that differed between nine paired cases versus paired controls. The findings validate the examined candidate genes and support feasibility of methods for further biomarker development. The integrative approach that was implemented begins to translate the 36 candidates toward clinical utility as a screening modality for preeclampsia. Clin Trans Sci 2012; Volume 5: 333–339
Induction of Angiogenesis by Controlled Delivery of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Using Nanoparticles
Authors: Xie Jiaqi , Wang Haibin , Wang Yunya , Ren Fangping , Yi Wei , Zhao Kun , Li Zilin , Zhao Qiang , Liu Zhenhua , Wu Hong , Gu Chunhu , Yi Dinghua 
Published: May 2012

SummaryAimsThe study reports the feasibility and efficiency of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) delivery using nanoparticles synthesized from glycidyl methacrylated dextran (Dex‐GMA) and gelatin for therapeutic angiogenesis.MethodsThe nanoparticles were prepared using phase separation method, and the drug release profile was determined by ELISA study. The bioactivity of VEGF‐incorporated nanoparticles (VEGF‐NPs) were determined using tube formation assay. A rabbit hind limb ischemia model was employed to evaluate the in vivo therapeutic effect. Blood perfusion was measured by single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Vessel formation was evaluated by contrast angiography and immunohistochemistry.ResultsThe nanoparticles synthesized were spherical in shape with evenly distributed size of about 130 ± 3.5 nm. The VEGF encapsulated was released in a biphase manner, with the majority of 69% released over 1–12 days. Tube formation assays showed increased tubular structures by VEGF‐NP compared with empty nanoparticles and no treatment. Both free VEGF and VEGF‐NP significantly increased blood perfusion compared with empty nanoparticles (both P < 0.001), but it was much higher in VEGF‐NP‐treated limbs (P < 0.001). Contrast angiography and immunohistological analysis also revealed more significant collateral artery formation and higher capillary density in VEGF‐NP‐treated limbs.ConclusionsDex‐GMA and gelatin‐based nanoparticles could provide sustained release of VEGF and may serve as a new way for angiogenesis.