bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
More than a carbon economy: nutrient trade and ecological sustainability in facultative arbuscular mycorrhizal symbioses
Authors: Smith F. Andrew , Grace Emily J. , Smith Sally E. 
Published: February 2009

SummarySymbiosis is well recognized as a major force in plant ecology and evolution. However, there is considerable uncertainty about the functional, ecological and evolutionary benefits of the very widespread facultative arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) associations, in which the plants can grow and reproduce whether or not they are colonized by AM fungi. Here we address the significance of new research findings that are overturning conventional views that facultative AM associations can be likened to parasitic fungus–plant associations. Specifically, we address the occurrence and importance of phosphate uptake via AM fungi that does not result in increases in total phosphorus (P) uptake or in plant growth, and possible signalling between AM fungi and plants that can result in plant growth depressions even when fungal colonization remains very low. We conclude that, depending on the individual AM fungi that are present, the role of facultative AM associations in the field, especially in relation to plant competition, may be much more subtle than has been previously envisaged.
Densin‐180: revised membrane topology, domain structure and phosphorylation status
Authors: Thalhammer Agnes , Trinidad Jonathan C. , Burlingame Alma L. , Schoepfer Ralf 
Published: February 2009

AbstractDensin‐180 is a core component of post‐synaptic densities, the highly complex molecular assemblies that mediate signaling between neuronal cells. It is a multi‐domain scaffold protein characterized by multiple leucine‐rich repeat domains plus a single Psd95/Discs large/Zona occludens‐1 domain. In its original topology model a single transmembrane segment was proposed with an extracellular N‐terminus and an intracellular C‐terminus. However, recently discovered in vivo phosphorylation sites are incompatible with this topology. Here, we discuss an all‐intracellular and membrane‐associated localization of Densin‐180 that is consistent with and supported by all the latest experimental data. This revised topology which now includes also a phosphorylation‐rich area will have deciding influence on future research involving Densin‐180 and its signaling.
A new culturing strategy improves functional neuronal development of human neural progenitor cells
Authors: Schaarschmidt Grit , Schewtschik Sabine , Kraft Robert , Wegner Florian , Eilers Jens , Schwarz Johannes , Schmidt Hartmut 
Published: February 2009

AbstractCell replacement therapies that rely on in vitro differentiation of human neural progenitor cells are a promising strategy to compensate the progressive cell loss in neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s disease. We and others observed, that the functional differentiation of progenitors in standard differentiation medium remains limited. The aim of the present study was to optimize neuronal in vitro differentiation by mimicking the physiological shift from depolarizing to hyperpolarizing conditions that occurs during early brain development. Differentiation was initiated using a depolarizing high potassium‐ and low sodium‐containing medium. Subsequently, the high potassium‐containing medium was replaced by a hyperpolarizing medium containing low potassium and high sodium concentrations. This two‐phase strategy significantly promoted the expression of neuronal markers, enhanced neurite growth, enlarged sodium inward currents, and increased action potential firing. Thus, depolarizing followed by hyperpolarizing culture conditions enable developing human neural progenitor cells to adopt more mature functional qualities.
An immunohistochemical and stereological analysis of PSI‐induced nigral neuronal degeneration in the rat
Authors: Bukhatwa Salma , Iravani Mahmoud M. , Zeng Bai‐Yun , Cooper Jonathan D. , Rose Sarah , Jenner Peter 
Published: February 2009

AbstractSystemic administration of the proteasomal inhibitor I (PSI) to rats was reported to cause progressive nigral dopaminergic neuronal loss but this is disputed. A major controversy centres over the use of manual counting of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) positive neurons at the level of third cranial nerve as opposed to employing systematic stereological analysis of cell loss in the entire substantia nigra (SN). To provide a method of marking SN neurones independent of protein expression, fluorogold™ (FG) was stereotaxically injected bilaterally into the striatum of male Wistar rats to retrogradely label nigral dopaminergic neurons. After 1 week, animals were treated with six doses of PSI (8 mg/kg, s.c.) or its vehicle (dimethyl sulphoxide) on alternate days over a 2‐week period. Five weeks after the last treatment, PSI‐treated animals showed decreased spontaneous locomotor activity and reduced TH positive SN cell number at the level of the third cranial nerve compared to control rats. Manual cell counting showed loss of FG‐labelled SN neurones at this level, with a subpopulation of surviving neurons displaying abnormal morphology. Manual counting of all FG‐labelled cells in the entire SN also showed regional PSI‐induced loss of neurones with both normal and compromised morphology. Stereological optical fractionator estimates of total FG‐labelled cell number confirmed the manual cell counting data both at the level of the third cranial nerve and throughout the entire SN. These findings confirm that PSI does cause a persistent nigral dopaminergic neuronal loss. The reason for the lack of reproducibility between laboratories requires further investigation. We suggest that a failure to distinguish between TH‐positive neurones with normal and abnormal morphology following PSI administration contributes to equivocal results.
Portugal's semi‐presidentialism (re)considered: An assessment of the president's role in the policy process, 1976–2006
Authors: NETO OCTAVIO AMORIM , LOBO MARINA COSTA 
Published: February 2009

AbstractThis article analyses the policy‐making role of Portugal's heads of state in the period 1976–2006. Not only is Portugal rarely studied in the English language comparative literature, but there is no consensus concerning the proper definition of the country's system of government, whether it is semi‐presidential or parliamentary. This article presents new data on the Portuguese president's role in the following areas: cabinet appointment and dismissal; parliamentary dissolution; ministerial appointments; referral of legislative bills to judicial review; veto powers; and agenda‐setting through going‐public tactics. It is concluded that the president's role in the policy process has never been irrelevant. While the 1982 constitutional reform did eliminate the possibility of undisguised presidential government, presidents have continued to be important in policy making, particularly due to use of their veto and dissolution powers. Therefore, the article argues that Portugal has remained solidly semi‐presidential.
Calcium‐activated potassium channels and endothelial dysfunction: therapeutic options?
Authors: Félétou Michel 
Published: February 2009

The three subtypes of calcium‐activated potassium channels (KCa) of large, intermediate and small conductance (BKCa, IKCaand SKCa) are present in the vascular wall. In healthy arteries, BKCachannels are preferentially expressed in vascular smooth muscle cells, while IKCaand SKCaare preferentially located in endothelial cells. The activation of endothelial IKCaand SKCacontributes to nitric oxide (NO) generation and is required to elicit endothelium‐dependent hyperpolarizations. In the latter responses, the hyperpolarization of the smooth muscle cells is evoked either via electrical coupling through myo‐endothelial gap junctions or by potassium ions, which by accumulating in the intercellular space activate the inwardly rectifying potassium channel Kir2.1 and/or the Na+/K+‐ATPase. Additionally, endothelium‐derived factors such as cytochrome P450‐derived epoxyeicosatrienoic acids and under some circumstances NO, prostacyclin, lipoxygenase products and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) hyperpolarize and relax the underlying smooth muscle cells by activating BKCa. In contrast, cytochrome P450‐derived 20‐hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid and various endothelium‐derived contracting factors inhibit BKCa. Aging and cardiovascular diseases are associated with endothelial dysfunctions that can involve a decrease in NO bioavailability, alterations of EDHF‐mediated responses and/or enhanced production of endothelium‐derived contracting factors. Because potassium channels are involved in these endothelium‐dependent responses, activation of endothelial and/or smooth muscle KCacould prevent the occurrence of endothelial dysfunction. Therefore, direct activators of these potassium channels or compounds that regulate their activity or their expression may be of some therapeutic interest. Conversely, blockers of IKCamay prevent restenosis and that of BKCachannels sepsis‐dependent hypotension.Mandarin translation of abstract
Effect of Flasking and Polymerization Techniques on Tooth Movement in Complete Denture Processing
Authors: Shibayama Ricardo , Filho Humberto Gennari , Mazaro José Vitor Quinelli , Vedovatto Eduardo , Assunção Wirley Gonçalves 
Published: February 2009

Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the artificial tooth positional changes following the flasking and polymerization of complete dentures by a combination of two flasking methods and two polymerization techniques using computer graphic measurements. Materials and Methods: Four groups of waxed complete dentures (n = 10) were invested and polymerized using the following techniques: (1) adding a second investment layer of gypsum and conventional water bath polymerization (Control), (2) adding a second investment layer of gypsum and polymerization with microwave energy (Gypmicro), (3) adding a second investment layer of silicone (Zetalabor) and conventional polymerization (Silwater), and (4) adding a second investment layer of silicone and polymerization with microwave energy (Silmicro). For each specimen, six segments of interdental distances (A to F) were measured to determine the artificial tooth positions in the waxed and polymerized stages using software program AutoCad R14. The mean values of the changes were statistically compared by univariate ANOVA with Tukey post‐hoc test at 5% significance. Results: There were no significant differences among the four groups, except for segment D of the Silmicro group (−0.004 ± 0.032 cm) in relation to the Gypwater group (0.044 ± 0.031 cm) (p < 0.05), which presented, repectively, expansion and shrinkage after polymerization. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study, it was concluded that although the differences were not statistically significant, the use of a silicone investment layer when flasking complete dentures resulted in the least positional changes of the artificial teeth regardless of the polymerization technique.
Implant‐Retained Nasal Prosthesis for a Patient Following Partial Rhinectomy: A Clinical Report
Authors: Guttal Satyabodh S. , Patil Narendra P. , Thakur Srinath , Kumar Sunil , Kulkarni Sudhindra S. 
Published: February 2009

AbstractProsthetic rehabilitation of facial defects has always perplexed maxillofacial prosthodontists. Facial defects lead to functional and cosmetic deficiencies. Early rehabilitation improves patients’ quality of life. Osseointegrated rehabilitation of the maxillofacial prosthetic patient presents the potential for overcoming many of the disadvantages associated with conventional retentive methods. This paper presents the clinical report of a patient who had undergone partial rhinectomy due to basal cell carcinoma. Following post‐surgical healing, the patient was rehabilitated with a temporary acrylic resin nasal prosthesis retained by eyeglass frame. Later a silicone nasal prosthesis supported by an implant‐retained framework was fabricated as a definitive replacement.
A Tissue‐Specific Model of Reentry in the Right Atrial Appendage
Authors: ZHAO JICHAO , TREW MARK L. , LEGRICE IAN J. , SMAILL BRUCE H. , PULLAN ANDREW J. 
Published: February 2009

Introduction: Atrial fibrillation is prevalent in the elderly and contributes to mortality in congestive heart failure. Development of computer models of atrial electrical activation that incorporate realistic structures provides a means of investigating the mechanisms that initiate and maintain reentrant atrial arrhythmia. As a step toward this, we have developed a model of the right atrial appendage (RAA) including detailed geometry of the pectinate muscles (PM) and crista terminalis (CT) with high spatial resolution, as well as complete fiber architecture. Methods and Results: Detailed structural images of a pig RAA were acquired using a semiautomated extended‐volume imaging system. The generally accepted anisotropic ratio of 10:1 was adopted in the computer model. To deal with the regional action potential duration heterogeneity in the RAA, a Courtemanche cell model and a Luo‐Rudy cell model were used for the CT and PM, respectively. Activation through the CT and PM network was adequately reproduced with acceptable accuracy using reduced‐order computer models. Using a train of reducing cycle length stimuli applied to a CT/PM junction, we observed functional block both parallel with and perpendicular to the axis of the CT. Conclusion: With stimulation from the CT at the junction of a PM, we conclude: (a) that conduction block within the CT is due to a reduced safety factor; and (b) that unidirectional block and reentry within the CT is due to its high anisotropy. Regional differences in effective refractive period do not explain the observed conduction block.
Importance of Heart Rate During Exercise for Response to Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: MAASS ALEXANDER H. , BUCK SANDRA , NIEUWLAND WYBE , BRÜGEMANN JOHAN , VAN VELDHUISEN DIRK J. , VAN GELDER ISABELLE C. 
Published: February 2009

Background: Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is an established therapy for patients with severe heart failure and mechanical dyssynchrony. Response is only achieved in 60–70% of patients. Objectives: To study exercise‐related factors predicting response to CRT. Methods: We retrospectively examined consecutive patients in whom a CRT device was implanted. All underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing prior to implantation and after 6 months. The occurrence of chronotropic incompetence and heart rates exceeding the upper rate of the device, thereby compromising biventricular stimulation, was studied. Response was defined as a decrease in LVESV of 10% or more after 6 months. Results: We included 144 patients. After 6 months 86 (60%) patients were responders. Peak VO2 significantly increased in responders. Chronotropic incompetence was more frequently seen in nonresponders (21 [36%] vs 9 [10%], P = 0.03), mostly in patients in SR. At moderate exercise, defined as 25% of the maximal exercise tolerance, that is, comparable to daily life exercise, nonresponders more frequently went above the upper rate of the device (13 [22%] vs 2 [3%], P < 0.0001), most of whom were patients in permanent AF. Multivariate analysis revealed heart rates not exceeding the upper rate of the device during moderate exercise (OR 15.8 [3.3–76.5], P = 0.001) and nonischemic cardiomyopathy (OR 2.4 [1.0–5.7], P = 0.04) as predictive for response. Conclusions: Heart rate exceeding the upper rate during moderate exercise is an independent predictor for nonresponse to CRT in patients with AF, whereas chronotropic incompetence is a predictor for patients in SR.
Accuracy of Ottawa Ankle Rules to Exclude Fractures of the Ankle and Midfoot in Children: A Meta‐analysis
Authors: Dowling Shawn , Spooner Carol H. , Liang Yuanyuan , Dryden Donna M. , Friesen Carol , Klassen Terry P. , Wright R. Bruce 
Published: February 2009

AbstractObjectives:  The objectives were to conduct a systematic review to determine the diagnostic accuracy of the Ottawa Ankle Rules (OAR) to exclude ankle and midfoot fractures in children and the extent to which x‐ray use could be reduced without missing significant fractures.Methods:  The authors conducted comprehensive searches of electronic databases and gray literature sources. Independent reviewers applied standard inclusion and exclusion criteria. The criterion standard diagnostic test was an ankle and/or foot x‐ray or proxy measure to ensure no missed fractures. Standard 2 × 2 tables were constructed. Sensitivities and specificities were pooled using an approximation of the inverse variance; 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated using the exact method. Likelihood ratios (LR ±) and diagnostic odds ratios were combined under DerSimonian and Laird random effects model.Results:  A pooled analysis of 12 studies (N = 3,130) identified 671 fractures (prevalence = 21.4%). Ten studies reported Salter‐Harris Type I (SH‐I) fractures. The pooled sensitivity was 98.5% (95% CI = 97.3 to 99.2), suggesting that the OAR can be used to rule out a fracture. Four of 10 missed fractures were characterized: 1 SH‐I, 1 SH‐IV, and 2 “insignificant fractures” (either SH‐I or avulsion fractures <3 mm). The pooled estimate for rate of x‐ray reduction was 24.8% (95% CI = 23.3% to 26.3%; range = 5% to 44%).Conclusions:  The OAR appear to be a reliable tool to exclude fractures in children greater than 5 years of age presenting with ankle and midfoot injuries. Employing the OAR would significantly decrease x‐ray use with a low likelihood of missing a fracture.
Increased number of offspring in first degree relatives of psychotic individuals: a partial explanation for the persistence of psychotic illnesses
Authors: Weiser M. , Reichenberg A. , Werbeloff N. , Halperin D. , Kravitz E. , Yoffe R. , Davidson M. 
Published: February 2009

Objective:  As patients with psychotic illness have fewer offspring than controls, the persistence of psychotic illness is puzzling. We hypothesized that unaffected first‐degree relatives of patients have more offspring than controls.Method:  Probands were 4904, individuals with non‐affective psychotic disorders identified from a hospitalization registry. Unaffected first degree relatives and matched controls were identified from the Israeli Population Registry. The number of offspring of unaffected parents, biological siblings and controls was ascertained.Results:  Unaffected parents of psychotic patients had more offspring/person than controls; 4.5 ± 2.7 vs. 3.4 ± 2.2, P = 0.000. Unaffected parents from familial psychosis families (more than one affected family member) had 1.83 more offspring than controls; unaffected parents from non‐familial psychosis families had 0.97 more offspring than controls (both P < 0.001).Conclusion:  These findings might imply that genes which increase susceptibility for schizophrenia may be associated with increased number of offspring, perhaps supplying a partial explanation for the persistence of psychosis.
Salivary secretion, mucin concentrations and candida carriage in HIV‐infected patients
Authors: Jainkittivong A , Lin AL , Johnson DA , Langlais RP , Yeh C‐K 
Published: February 2009

Objectives:  To test whether the submandibular/sublingual (SMSL) salivary secretion, mucin concentration and candida carriage status were altered in human immunodeficiency virus‐positive (HIV+) patients.Subjects and methods:  SMSL saliva collected from 48 HIV‐infected and 31 HIV‐negative men were analyzed for flow rates, total protein and mucin concentrations. Salivary cultures were performed for Candida assessment.Results:  The salivary flow rate and protein secretion of the HIV+ patients was 37% and 32% less than that of the controls (P < 0.0001, P = 0.0087). The mucin concentrations (MG1 and MG2) were higher in the HIV+ subjects compared with controls (P = 0.0186, P = 0.0014); however, the mucin secretions were not different. The frequency of Candida‐positive cultures was higher in the HIV+ subjects than in the controls (61.4%vs 24.1%, P = 0.0018). In the HIV‐infected group, the unstimulated SMSL flow rates were lower in Candida‐positive than in Candida‐negative patients (P = 0.0158).Conclusion:  The salivary secretion of the SMSL glands was reduced in HIV infection. Although the mucin concentration increased in HIV+ subjects, mucin secretion was not altered. Highly active antiviral therapy had no effect on salivary function. We found an association between the level of candida carriage and salivary flow rate in HIV‐infected patients.
Furosemide in preterm infants treated with indomethacin for patent ductus arteriosus
Authors: Andriessen Peter , Struis Nicole C. , Niemarkt Hendrik , Oetomo Sidarto Bambang , Tanke Ronald B. , Van Overmeire Bart 
Published: February 2009

AbstractObjective: To evaluate the effect of furosemide on renal function and water balance in preterm infants treated with indomethacin (3 × 0.2 mg/kg at 12‐h intervals) for symptomatic patent ductus arteriosus.Patients and Methods: We performed a retrospective multi‐centre double cohort study in preterm infants <32 weeks of gestational age. Thirty‐two infants treated with furosemide (1 mg/kg i.v.) before each indomethacin dose (furosemide group) were matched with 32 infants with indomethacin treatment alone (control‐group). Renal effects (urine output, weight gain, serum creatinine, sodium concentration) were registered.Results: The study groups were comparable for gestational age, birth weight and day of therapy. Pretreatment differences were observed for urine output, weight and serum sodium. However, no differences were noticed in day‐to‐day urine output change or weight gain between the groups. A significant increase in serum creatinine concentration (50% vs. control, 18%; p < 0.05) and a concomitant significant decrease in serum sodium (–9 vs. control, –3 mmoL/L; p < 0.05) in the furosemide group was observed 72–96 h after starting therapy.Conclusion: Furosemide before each indomethacin dose resulted in a significant increase in serum creatinine and hyponatremia, without increasing urine output.
Neonatal liver abscesses due to Candida infection effectively treated with caspofungin
Authors: Filippi Luca , Poggi Chiara , Gozzini Elena , Meleleo Rosanna , Mirabile Lorenzo , Fiorini Patrizio 
Published: February 2009

AbstractCandidiasis is relatively frequent in neonatal and pediatric intensive care units (ICUs), particularly in preterm infants less than 28 weeks of gestational age. Neonatal candidiasis shows high mortality and is often associated to poor neurodevelopmental prognosis in survivor patients. Amphotericin B and fluconazole are the first choice drugs for the treatment of neonatal candidiasis. Caspofungin is an alternative antifungal agent, which is recommended for invasive candidiasis in adults, but has been poorly experienced in neonates and infants as far as now. We report the first two infants with Candida liver abscesses treated with caspofungin. In the first infant bloodstream and liver lesions were cleared by combination therapy with fluconazole, liposomal amphotericin and caspofungin, while in the second one by caspofungin alone.Conclusion: Our observations confirm the efficacy and tolerability of caspofungin in the treatment of neonatal candidiasis refractory to conventional antifungal drugs. More extensive data are recommended in order to asses a specific neonatal schedule.
EFFECTIVE PREVENTATIVE MEDICINE IN THE VERY OLD
Authors: Paterson J. 
Published: February 2009

AbstractThe emphasis in this article is on the effects of Ageism, Complacency and Prejudice on the delivery of effective health care to the elderly disabled population. It does not set out to support or deny the efficacy of the more traditional modalities used in Preventative care among the elderly. Rather it suggests that the adverse effects of Ageism, Complacency and Prejudice are very evident in our society and that they are clearly preventable.