bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Symmetry-mode analysis of the phase transitions in SrLaZnRuO6and SrLaMgRuO6ordered double perovskites
Authors: Iturbe-Zabalo E. , Igartua J. M. , Gateshki M.
Published: June 2013

The crystal structures of double perovskites SrLaMRuO6(M= Zn and Mg) have been studied using X-ray and neutron diffraction data. Both compounds have monoclinic structure at room temperature with space groupP21/n. A first-order structural phase transitionP21/n→R{\overline 3} has been observed in SrLaZnRuO6and SrLaMgRuO6, at about 800 and 500 K, respectively, with the two phases coexisting in a temperature interval of 150 K. The temperature- and tolerance-factor-dependent phase diagram of the SrLnMRuO6(Ln = La, Nd and Pr;M= Zn, Co, Cu, Mg and Ni) family shows two different phase transition sequences depending on theA-site cation. The structures of the title compounds at room and high temperatures have been analyzed using the symmetry-mode decomposition approach.
Heterocyclic and aromatic based polyurethane scaffolds: morphology and crystallinity studied by X-ray diffraction, small-angle X-ray scattering and differential scanning calorimetry
Authors: Madkour Tarek M. , Mohamed Sahar K.
Published: June 2013

The morphology, crystallinity and X-ray diffraction of speciality heterocyclic and aromatic based polyurethane and poly(urethane–urea) elastomers synthesized via a one-shot polymerization method were studied. The samples were chain extended by mixtures of aliphatic diols and furanic or aromatic diamine chain extenders. Small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) measurements confirmed the results obtained by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and revealed the presence of phases with sharp phase boundaries. The SAXS patterns are best fitted with a model that consists of liquid-like ordered polydisperse spheres. Most of the samples were shown to be poorly crystalline, but some soft-phase crystals do exist and these melted at about 353 K as confirmed by DSC and temperature-dependent wide-angle X-ray diffraction. Annealing at 273 K did not affect the thermal stability but influenced the morphology of the samples. The effect of annealing on the samples of poly(urethane–urea) extended using diamine chain extenders was smaller than that for polyurethane samples, which indicates a much higher thermal stability of the poly(urethane–urea) samples owing to the formation of bidentate hydrogen-bond networks across the urea groups.
Are Systems‐Centered® teams more collaborative, productive and creative?
Authors: O'Neill Richard , Murphy Verena , Mogle Jacqueline , MacGregor Kristin L. , MacKenzie Michael J. , Parekh Mariam , Pearson Mindy
Published: June 2013

Purpose

Research from numerous theories shows teams' information sharing and discussion enhances effectiveness. Likewise, team communication structure can increase information sharing, manage conflict productively and foster creativity. However, the lack of unifying theory hinders understanding of the disparate research findings. Agazarian aims to unify the field with her meta‐theoretical, multi‐level Theory of Living Human Systems (TLHS). Furthermore, her TLHS‐derived Systems‐Centered Training (SCT) presents an innovative structure to improve team performance. The purpose of this paper is to compare the verbal process, productivity, and creativity of pre‐existing work groups using SCT methods or Robert's Rules of Order (RRO), to test TLHS/SCT reliability and validity.

Design/methodology/approach

The verbal characteristics, information sharing, productivity, and creativity in SCT and RRO teams were compared using the System for Analyzing Verbal Interaction (SAVI), Group Productivity Scale and Work Group Inventory.

Findings

SCT teams, compared to groups using RRO, talked in ways more likely to transfer and integrate task‐related information. Furthermore, SCT teams were more productive, better performing, and more creative.

Research limitations/implications

The study's design does not permit cause‐and‐effect conclusions. Proposals for future research are made.

Practical implications

The results suggest SCT methods improve team communication, productivity, and creativity. Because this study examined “real‐world” teams, the findings may apply to similar groups in various workplaces.

Social implications

Having the ability to use differences as resources could improve society.

Originality/value

This paper suggests SCT methods offer innovative communication structures that focus teams effectively, perhaps by minimizing off‐task communications and conflict. Also, as SCT operationally defines TLHS, these results support the validity of TLHS.
Eggshell coloration reflects both yolk characteristics and dietary carotenoid history of female mallards
Authors: Butler Michael W. , McGraw Kevin J.
Published: June 2013

Avian eggshell coloration has frequently been examined in a functional context (e.g. mimicry, camouflage), but in recent years, an interest has emerged in identifying the mechanisms that drive eggshell colour variation.

Eggshell coloration is predominately caused by pigment deposition; one such pigment is the antioxidant biliverdin, and deposition of biliverdin into eggshells may be costly to mothers due to depletion of their antioxidant reserves. Previous work has shown that dietary supplementation during laying with another type of antioxidant – carotenoid pigments – induces females to produce more biliverdin‐rich eggshells. However, the impact of pre‐laying nutrition – including the developmental period early in life – on eggshell coloration has not been investigated.

Here, we raised female mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) from hatching, supplemented their diets with carotenoids during early‐, mid‐ or late‐developmental periods, and at adulthood measured female circulating carotenoid levels, yolk carotenoid levels, and eggshell coloration. We found that carotenoid supplementation during the late stages of development (transitional period from juvenile to adult plumage) promoted the laying of eggs with more biliverdin‐rich eggshells. Independent of developmental dietary treatment, females with higher circulating carotenoid levels at the time of egg laying produced more biliverdin‐rich eggshells and more carotenoid‐rich yolks. When controlling for female identity, we found that more biliverdin‐rich eggshells were associated with more carotenoid‐rich, but smaller, yolks. We also detected a laying order effect; later‐laid eggs had larger, less carotenoid‐rich yolks and less biliverdin‐rich eggshells.

Taken together, these results demonstrate that eggshell coloration reveals carotenoid status of both mothers and yolks and that diet quality more than 1 month prior to laying can affect eggshell coloration in a waterfowl species. As mallards are considered to be capital breeders in terms of lipid stores, our findings provide a new developmental perspective on the carryover of lipid‐soluble and antioxidant nutrient reserves for breeding.
Increasing density leads to generalization in both coarse‐grained habitat selection and fine‐grained resource selection in a large mammal
Authors: van Beest Floris M. , Uzal Antonio , Vander Wal Eric , Laforge Michel P. , Contasti Adrienne L. , Colville David , McLoughlin Philip D.
Published: June 2013

Density is a fundamental driver of many ecological processes including habitat selection. Theory on density‐dependent habitat selection predicts that animals should be distributed relative to profitability of habitat, resulting in reduced specialization in selection (i.e. generalization) as density increases and competition intensifies.

Despite mounting empirical support for density‐dependent habitat selection using isodars to describe coarse‐grained (interhabitat) animal movements, we know little of how density affects fine‐grained resource selection of animals within habitats [e.g. using resource selection functions (RSFs)].

Using isodars andRSFs, we tested whether density simultaneously modified habitat selection and within‐habitat resource selection in a rapidly growing population of feral horses (Equus ferus caballusLinnaeus;SableIsland,NovaScotia,Canada; 42% increase in population size from 2008 to 2012).

Among three heterogeneous habitat zones onSableIsland describing population clusters distributed along a west–east resource gradient (west–central–east), isodars revealed that horses used available habitat in a density‐dependent manner. Intercepts and slopes of isodars demonstrated a pattern of habitat selection that first favoured the west, which generalized to include central and east habitats with increasing population size consistent with our understanding of habitat quality on Sable Island.

Resource selection functions revealed that horses selected for vegetation associations similarly at two scales of extent (total island and within‐habitat zone). When densities were locally low, horses were able to select for sites of the most productive forage (grasslands) relative to those of poorer quality. However, as local carrying capacity was approached, selection for the best of available forage types weakened while selection for lower‐quality vegetation increased (and eventually exceeded that of grasslands).

Isodars can effectively describe coarse‐grained habitat selection in large mammals. Our study also shows that the main predictions of density‐dependent habitat selection are highly relevant to our interpretation ofRSFs in space and time. At low but not necessarily high population size, density will be a leading indicator of habitat quality. Fitness maximization from specialist vs. generalist strategies of habitat and resource selection may well be apparent at multiple spatial extents and grains of resolution.
Homoserine catabolism by Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. viciae 3841 requires a plasmid‐borne gene cluster that also affects competitiveness for nodulation
Authors: Vanderlinde Elizabeth M. , Hynes Michael F. , Yost Christopher K.
Published: June 2013

Homoserine represents a substantial component of pea root exudate that may be important for plant–microbe interactions in the rhizosphere. We identified a gene cluster on plasmid pRL8JI that is required for homoserine utilization by Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. viciae. The genes are arranged as two divergently expressed predicted operons that were induced by L‐homoserine, pea root exudate, and were expressed on pea roots. A mutation in gene pRL80083 that prevented utilization of homoserine as a sole carbon and energy source affected the mutant's ability to nodulate peas and lentils competitively. The homoserine gene cluster was present in approximately 47% of natural R. leguminosarum isolates (n = 59) and was strongly correlated with homoserine utilization. Conjugation of pRL8JI to R. leguminosarum 4292 or Agrobacterium tumefaciens UBAPF2 was sufficient for homoserine utilization. The presence of L‐homoserine increased conjugation efficiency of pRL8JI from R. leguminosarum to a pRL8JI‐cured derivative of R. leguminosarum 1062 and to A. tumefaciens UBAPF2, and induced expression of the plasmid transfer gene trbB; however, there was no difference in conjugation efficiency or trbB expression with A. tumefaciens UBAPF2pRL8‐Gm as the donor suggesting that other genes in R. leguminosarum may contribute to regulating conjugation of pRL8 in the presence of homoserine.
Three‐dimensional structure of the Z‐ring as a random network of FtsZ filaments
Authors: Piro Oreste , Carmon Gideon , Feingold Mario , Fishov Itzhak
Published: June 2013

The spatial organization of the Z‐ring, the central element of the bacterial division machinery, is not yet fully understood. Using optical tweezers and subpixel image analysis, we have recently shown that the radial width of the Z‐ring in unconstricted Escherichia coli is about 100 nm. The relatively large width is consistent with the observations of others. Moreover, simulation of the experimental FtsZ distribution using the theoretical three‐dimensional (3D) point spread function was strongly in favour of a toroidal rather than a thin cylindrical model of the Z‐ring. Here, we show that the low density of FtsZ filaments in the ring coincides within experimental uncertainty with the critical density of a 3D random network of cylindrical sticks. This suggests that the Z‐ring may consist of a percolating network of FtsZ filaments. Several factors that are expected to affect the polymerization state and the extent of self‐interaction of FtsZ within the Z‐ring, as well as the functional implications of its sparse toroidal structure, are discussed in terms of percolation theory.
Influence of carboxymethylcellulose on the physicochemical, rheological and sensory attributes of a low‐fat Domiati cheese
Authors: Abd Elhamid Abeer M
Published: June 2013

The physicochemical, rheological and sensory attributes of a low‐fat Domiati cheese produced using carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), a hydrocolloid, at 0.4, 0.6, 0.8 and 1% (w⁄w) were examined during the ripening period. Results indicated that, as the carboxymethylcellulose content of cheese milk increased, cheese yield and moisture of low‐fat Domiati cheese significantly increased but the protein, salt and fat values significantly decreased. Rheological parameters were significantly lower in cheeses made with CMC. With regard to the sensory properties of the cheeses, low‐fat Domiati cheese made with 1% (w⁄w) CMC recorded the highest scores for sensory attributes.
Increased risk of severe maternal morbidity (near‐miss) among immigrant women in Sweden: a population register‐based study
Authors: Wahlberg Å , Rööst M , Haglund B , Högberg U , Essén B
Published: June 2013

Objective

To determine if immigrant women from low‐, middle‐ and high‐income countries have an increased risk of severe maternal morbidity (near‐miss) when they deliver in Sweden.

Design

Population register‐based study.

Setting

Nationwide study including all singleton deliveries (≥28 weeks of gestation) between 1998 and 2007.

Population

Women with a near‐miss event; all women with a singleton delivery ≥28 weeks of gestation during the same period acted as reference group.

Methods

Near‐miss was defined by a combined clinical and management approach with use of International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision codes for severe maternal morbidity. A woman's country of origin was designated as low‐, middle‐ or high‐income according to the World Bank Classification of 2009. Unconditional logistic regression models were used in the analysis.

Main outcome measures

Maternal near‐miss frequencies per 1000 deliveries and odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

There were 914 474 deliveries during the study period and 2655 near‐misses (2.9 per 1000 deliveries). In comparison to Swedish‐born women, those from low‐income countries had an increased risk of near‐miss (odds ratio 2.3, 95% confidence interval 1.9–2.8) that was significant in all morbidity groups except for cardiovascular diseases and sepsis. Women from middle‐ and high‐income countries showed no increased risk of near‐miss.

Conclusions

Women from low‐income countries have an increased risk of maternal near‐miss morbidity compared with women born in Sweden. Although the rate is low it should alert healthcare providers.
Postcode‐Level House Price Models for Banking and Insurance Applications
Authors: Hanewald Katja , Sherris Michael
Published: June 2013

This article develops and compares residential property price models required for banking and insurance applications including pricing, risk management and portfolio management. Our study is based on postcode‐level house prices for Sydney over the period 01–1979 to 03–2011. The estimation results of single‐factor panel data models show that the market‐wide house price index explains between 42 per cent and 44 per cent of the longitudinal and cross‐sectional variation in postcode‐level house price growth rates. Macroeconomic and financial variables, as well as geographic and sociodemographic postcode characteristics are confirmed as important factors for pricing and risk management of products exposed to house price risk.
Explaining variation in coalition agreements: The electoral and policy motivations for drafting agreements
Authors: Eichorst Jason
Published: June 2013

This article explores the question of why coalition partners negotiate and publish coalition agreements before entering into a cabinet and why the content of these agreements varies so widely. Some scholars suggest that coalition partners draft agreements for electoral purposes, while others suggest that coalition agreements can be used to commit to policy negotiations. Although both sides of the debate have uncovered supportive evidence, the literature remains in disagreement. This article provides new organisation of previous work on agreements and develops two alternative theoretical arguments about the crafting of coalition agreements. It is argued here that coalition partners consider both electoral and policy motivations during the drafting of agreements and that the dominance of one of these motivations is conditional on the degree of issue saliency and division between partners. Empirical support is found for the theoretical argument that coalition partners include low saliency issues in the coalition agreement on policy dimensions on which they are less divided, and that coalition partners include high saliency issues in the coalition agreement on policy dimensions on which they are more divided.
Labour market risks and political preferences: The case of temporary employment
Authors: Marx Paul
Published: June 2013

The political economy literature has gathered compelling evidence that labour market risks shape political preferences. Accordingly, insecurity fuels support for redistribution and left parties. This article analyses this argument for temporary workers, a so far neglected risk category which has increased dramatically in the past two decades. Temporary workers also have been in the focus of recent insider‐outsider debates. Some authors in this line of research have argued that temporary work leads to political disenchantment – for example, non‐instrumental responses such as vote abstention or protest voting. This contradicts risk‐based explanations of political preferences. The article discusses both theoretical perspectives and derives conflicting hypotheses for the empirical analysis of temporary workers' policy and party preferences. The review reveals considerable ambiguity regarding the questions which parties temporary workers can be expected to support and what the underlying motives for party choice are. Synthesising arguments from both perspectives, the article proposes an alternative argument according to which temporary workers are expected to support the ‘new’ left – that is, green and other left‐libertarian parties. It is argued that this party family combines redistributive policies with outsider‐friendly policy design. Using individual‐level data from the European Social Survey for 15 European countries, the article supports this argument by showing that temporary, compared to permanent, workers exhibit higher demand for redistribution and stronger support for the new left. Neither the risk‐based nor the insider‐outsider explanations receive full support. In particular, no signs of political disenchantment of temporary workers can be found. Thus, the findings challenge central claims of the insider‐outsider literature.
Recovery from TNBS‐induced colitis leads to the resistance to recurrent colitis and an increased ratio of FOXP3 to CD3 mRNA
Authors: Chen Da Fan , Lu Lun Gen , Tao Kai Zhong , Lu Zhan Jun , Yuan Yao Zong
Published: June 2013

Objective

The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of the recovery from acute colitis on recurrent colitis with 2,4,6‐trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)‐induced colitis in mice.

Methods

Acute colitis was induced via an intrarectal injection of TNBS. For recurrent colitis, mice were intrarectally treated with a repeated TNBS 14 days after the first TNBS administration. And another two groups (control and recovery groups) were added to the analysis. Disease activity index (DAI), macroscopic and histological assessments, mRNA expression of interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), IL‐10, forkhead box P3 (FOXP3) and the ratio of FOXP3 to CD3 in the colonic tissues were evaluated.

Results

Mice developed colitis after treated with TNBS. After the last TNBS administration, DAI in the recurrent colitis group was lower than that in the acute colitis group. In the recurrent colitis group, the mice exhibited longer colon length, reduced histological damage and lower IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF, IL‐10 mRNA expression in the colon compared with the acute colitis group. The ratio of FOXP3 to CD3 mRNA expression in the colon of recurrent colitis was higher than that in the acute colitis. There was a significant negative correlation between the ratio of FOXP3 to CD3 mRNA expression and DAI in the acute and recurrent colitis groups (r = −0.808, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Mice that recovered from TNBS‐induced acute colitis with intestinal epithelial disruption are resistant to recurrent colitis, which is associated with an increased ratio of FOXP3 to CD3 mRNA expression.
Effect of bolus injection of 20 ml saline with arm elevation on the onset time of vecuronium administered via a peripheral vein: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Nitahara K. , Sugi Y. , Shigematsu K. , Kusumoto G. , Abe S. , Higa K.
Published: June 2013

We investigated whether a bolus injection of 20 ml saline with arm elevation might shorten the onset time of vecuronium administered via a dorsal hand vein. Thirty patients were randomly allocated to the bolus saline group or control group. General anaesthesia was induced and maintained with remifentanil and propofol. Vecuronium 0.1 mg.kg−1 was administered to all patients, followed in the treatment group by bolus injection of 20 ml saline and arm elevation. Response to train‐of‐four stimulation was measured by acceleromyography at the adductor pollicis muscle. The mean (SD) lag time was 47.2 (14.5) s in the bolus saline group and 67.9 (12.2) s in the control group (p = 0.0002). The time to 95% block of T1 was 104.6 (29.9) s in the bolus saline group and 128.3 (15.8) s in the control group (p = 0.011). Bolus saline injection results in shortened lag time and onset time of neuromuscular block with vecuronium.
Ecosystem services provided by waterbirds
Authors: Green Andy J. , Elmberg Johan
Published: June 2013

Ecosystem services are ecosystem processes that directly or indirectly benefit human well‐being. There has been much recent literature identifying different services and the communities and species that provide them. This is a vital first step towards management and maintenance of these services. In this review, we specifically address the waterbirds, which play key functional roles in many aquatic ecosystems, including as predators, herbivores and vectors of seeds, invertebrates and nutrients, although these roles have often been overlooked. Waterbirds can maintain the diversity of other organisms, control pests, be effective bioindicators of ecological conditions, and act as sentinels of potential disease outbreaks. They also provide important provisioning (meat, feathers, eggs, etc.) and cultural services to both indigenous and westernized societies. We identify key gaps in the understanding of ecosystem services provided by waterbirds and areas for future research required to clarify their functional role in ecosystems and the services they provide. We consider how the economic value of these services could be calculated, giving some examples. Such valuation will provide powerful arguments for waterbird conservation.
Defective CD8+CD28− regulatory T cell suppressor function in rheumatoid arthritis is restored by tumour necrosis factor inhibitor therapy
Authors: Ceeraz S , Hall C , Choy E H , Spencer J , Corrigall V M
Published: June 2013

Balanced immunoregulatory networks are essential for maintenance of systemic tolerance. Disturbances in the homeostatic equilibrium between inflammatory mediators, immune regulators and immune effector cells are implicated directly in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In this study we characterize the peripheral blood CD8+CD28− regulatory T cells (Treg) contribution to the immunoregulatory network in health and in RA. In health, CD8+CD28− Treg are suppressive but, unlike CD4+Treg, they function predominantly through the action of soluble mediators such as interleukin (IL)-10 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β. Neutralization of TGF-β consistently reduced CD8+CD28− Treg suppressor function in vitro. RA, CD8+CD28− Treg are increased numerically, but have reduced expression of inducible co-stimulator (ICOS) and programmed death 1 (PD-1) compared to healthy or disease controls. They produce more IL-10 but autologous T cells express less IL-10R. This expression was found to be restored following in-vitro addition of a tumour necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi). Deficiencies in both the CD8+CD28− Treg population and reduced sensitivity of the T responder cells impact upon their regulatory function in RA. TNFi therapy partially restores CD8+CD28− Treg ability in vivo and in vitro, despite the defects in expression of functionally relevant molecules by RA CD8+CD28− Treg compared to healthy controls. This study places CD8+CD28− Treg cells in the scheme of immune regulation alongside CD4+ Treg cells, and highlights the importance of understanding impaired responsiveness to regulation that is common to these suppressor subsets and their restored function in response to TNFi therapy.
Split hand/foot malformation with long‐bone deficiency and BHLHA9 duplication: report of 13 new families
Authors: Petit F. , Jourdain A.‐S. , Andrieux J. , Baujat G. , Baumann C. , Beneteau C. , David A. , Faivre L. , Gaillard D. , Gilbert‐Dussardier B. , Jouk P.‐S. , Le Caignec C. , Loget P. , Pasquier L. , Porchet N. , Holder‐Espinasse M. , Manouvrier‐Hanu S. , Escande F.
Published: June 2013

Split hand/foot malformation (SHFM) with long‐bone deficiency (SHFLD, MIM#119100) is a rare condition characterized by SHFM associated with long‐bone malformation usually involving the tibia. Previous published data reported several unrelated patients with 17p13.3 duplication and SHFLD. Recently, the minimal critical region had been reduced, suggesting that BHLHA9 copy number gains are associated with this limb defect. Here, we report on 13 new families presenting with ectrodactyly and harboring a BHLHA9 duplication.
Reversal of cardiomyopathy with tocilizumab in a case of HIV‐negative Castleman's disease
Authors: Man Louise , Goudar Ranjit K.
Published: June 2013

The association between Castleman's disease (CD) and cardiomyopathy has been rarely reported and the optimal therapeutic approach remains unknown. We report a previously healthy 20‐year‐old African American female who presented with fever, dyspnea, anasarca, and generalized lymphadenopathy. Diagnostic workup, including an axillary lymph node biopsy, revealed that she had human immunodeficiency virus‐negative and human herpes virus‐8‐negative multicentric CD. She had a non‐anaphylactoid infusion reaction during her fourth rituximab infusion. A few weeks later, she developed new‐onset severe cardiomyopathy requiring inotropic therapy, warranting consideration for left ventricular assist device. Several clinical clues indicated her new‐onset heart failure was a manifestation of her CD. Interestingly, a trial of tocilizumab (an anti‐interleukin‐6 receptor monoclonal antibody) resulted in complete resolution of her cardiomyopathy and other manifestations of CD. Tocilizumab received orphan drug approval for the treatment of CD in Japan, but is not yet approved for this indication in the United States. Clinicians should be aware of its potential clinical utility in CD.
Herbarium specimens reveal the footprint of climate change on flowering trends across north‐central North America
Authors: Calinger Kellen M. , Queenborough Simon , Curtis Peter S.
Published: June 2013

Shifting flowering phenology with rising temperatures is occurring worldwide, but the rarity of co‐occurring long‐term observational and temperature records has hindered the evaluation of phenological responsiveness in many species and across large spatial scales. We used herbarium specimens combined with historic temperature data to examine the impact of climate change on flowering trends in 141 species collected across 116,000 km2 in north‐central North America. On average, date of maximum flowering advanced 2.4 days °C−1, although species‐specific responses varied from − 13.5 to + 7.3 days °C−1. Plant functional types exhibited distinct patterns of phenological responsiveness with significant differences between native and introduced species, among flowering seasons, and between wind‐ and biotically pollinated species. This study is the first to assess large‐scale patterns of phenological responsiveness with broad species representation and is an important step towards understanding current and future impacts of climate change on species performance and biodiversity.
Suspected venous air embolism during urinary tract endoscopy in a standing horse
Authors: Romagnoli N. , Rinnovati R. , Lukacs R. M. , Spadari A. , Dondi F.
Published: June 2013

During cystoscopy, performed with air insufflation in a standing Argentinian gelding, the horse showed ataxia and fell to the ground with generalised muscular twitching and horizontal nystagmus, tachypnoea and tachyarrhythmia. General anaesthesia was induced. Arterial blood gas‐analysis before induction of anaesthesia revealed an increased pH, decreased partial pressure of carbon dioxide and decreased partial pressure of oxygen. Venous air embolism was suspected.
Role of propolis in dentistry: review of the literature
Authors: Sardana Divesh , InduShekar KR , Manchanda Sheetal , Saraf Bhavna Gupta , Sheoran Neha
Published: June 2013

Background

Propolis (also called bee glue) is a resinous substance derived from bees. It has long been used in medicine for its beneficial properties, including antimicrobial, anti‐inflammatory, antidiabetic and local anaesthetic effects. In dentistry, propolis has been used for the prevention of dental caries and periodontal diseases, as an interim transport medium for avulsed teeth, and in endodontics, orthodontics and periodontics.

Objective

To highlight the role of propolis in dentistry.

Methods

A PubMed search was made using the keywords propolis, beeglue, antimicrobial, dental and herbs without any limits on the date of publication. No specific inclusion or exclusion criteria were applied as the purpose of the review was to make it as comprehensive as possible.

Discussion

The role of propolis is discussed in various branches of dentistry, including: preventive dentistry, dental traumatology, endodontics, periodontology, orthodontics and oral oncology.

Conclusion

Although most research published in the dental literature on propolis is based on in‐vitro studies or animal studies, extrapolating the results of these present studies to clinical practice may be too early as these results may not be necessarily replicated in human trials. In future, propolis may find a definitive role in one or more applications in dentistry; however, clinical trials are necessary to isolate the individual components responsible for its beneficial effects and to study them.
The integration of oral health care into day‐to‐day care in nursing homes: a qualitative study
Authors: De Visschere Luc , de Baat Cees , De Meyer Lize , van der Putten Gert‐Jan , Peeters Bart , Söderfelt Bjorn , Vanobbergen Jacques
Published: June 2013

Objective

This qualitative study explored barriers and enabling factors to the implementation of an oral hygiene protocol in nursing homes.

Background

Oral health care in nursing homes in Flanders (Belgium) is inadequate.

Materials and methods

Qualitative data were obtained from nurses employed in 13 nursing homes involved in two randomised controlled trials in Flanders‐Belgium. Data were collected by focus group and face‐to‐face interviews during April 2005 and December 2009. All transcripts were analysed with support of NVivo 8 (Version 2008). Transcripts were intuitively analysed in a two‐step method.

Results

Most revealed barriers were consistent with previous findings in the literature. Newly reported barriers were respect for residents’ self‐determination, experience based oral health care by nurses, residents’ oral health status and nurses’ inability to notice residents’ oral health status. Demand‐driven oral health care was found to be a strong enabling factor.

Conclusion

The integration of oral health care into day‐to‐day care seems to be a major problem due to a multitude of barriers. In future implementation innovations in oral health care an a priori assessment of influencing factors is recommended.
PTEN deletions are related to disease progression and unfavourable prognosis in early bladder cancer
Authors: Cordes Inga , Kluth Martina , Zygis Dominika , Rink Michael , Chun Felix , Eichelberg Christian , Dahlem Roland , Fisch Margit , Höppner Wolfgang , Wagner Walter , Doh Ousman , Terracciano Luigi , Simon Ronald , Wilczak Waldemar , Sauter Guido , Minner Sarah
Published: June 2013

Aims

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and clinical significance of deletions of the tumour suppressor gene PTEN in bladder cancer.

Methods and results

A tissue microarray with 686 bladder cancers was analysed for PTEN deletions by fluorescence in‐situ hybridization. PTEN mutations were analysed in nine tumours with heterozygous PTEN deletion. Heterozygous PTEN deletions were present in 16.5% of tumours and were associated with grade (P = 0.0024) and p53 status (P = 0.0141), but not linked to stage (P = 0.0965). PTEN deletions were seen in 5.8% of pTaG1, 10.9% of pTaG2, 29.0% of pTaG3, 16.7% of pT1G2, 22.2% of pT1G3, 17.7% of pT2–4G2 and 20.9% of pT2–4G3 tumours (P = 0.0235). PTEN deletions were associated significantly with recurrences in pTa tumours (P = 0.0173), progression in pT1 tumours (P = 0.0016), but not with overall or cancer‐specific survival in pT2 tumours. Multivariate analyses including grade and PTEN deletions revealed that PTEN deletions but not grade were associated independently with recurrence in pTa tumours (P = 0.0377) and progression in pT1 tumours (P = 0.0030). No inactivating PTEN mutations were found.

Conclusions

PTEN is linked to aggressive tumour phenotype and to unfavourable outcome in early bladder cancer. Heterozygous PTEN loss, i.e. reduced PTEN gene dosage, might be sufficient to cause aggressive tumour behaviour in bladder cancer cells.
Grasshopper assemblage response to surface rockiness in Afro‐montane grasslands
Authors: Crous Casparus J. , Samways Michael J. , Pryke James S.
Published: June 2013

Grasshoppers are often an important functional component of ecosystems, and many species show high levels of endemism.

Evidence exists that percentage surface rock cover within a landscape can predict diversity of grasshopper species. Nevertheless, the reason why grasshopper species are responding to rocky landscapes has not been established.

Here, we explore whether grasshoppers are responding to physical rockiness per se, or rather to specific correlates of higher surface rock exposure within a landscape. We also determine if this response varies between grasshopper taxonomic groups.

We sampled grasshoppers in Afro‐montane grasslands in KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa, and recorded 10 environmental variables. We explored the influence of these variables on grasshopper community composition and grasshopper family composition. We also determined the vegetation characteristics, which significantly correlate with percentage surface rock cover in this landscape (geophyte richness, perennial grass richness and vegetation density), and then measured the similarity of species composition across these correlates.

Overall, grasshopper assemblage composition, as well as familial composition, responded strongly to an elevation gradient, and not to the correlates of surface rock cover. In turn, the higher species richness in such areas is more likely a function of the significant vegetation correlates of higher surface rock cover.

Across taxonomic groups, there are specialist species within each group which are associated with environmental conditions related to surface rockiness through its underlying correlates. Rock exposure across this grassland landscape is therefore an important contributor to grasshopper dispersion patterns, and has important implications for conservation planning for this taxon.
Investigating the effects of metabolic dysregulation on hair follicles: a comparison of HIV‐infected women with and without central lipohypertrophy
Authors: Mirmirani Paradi , Maurer Toby , Cohen Mardge , D'Souza Gypsymber , Karim Roksana , Plankey Michael , Robison Esther , Sharma Anjali , Tien Phyllis C. , Hessol Nancy A.
Published: June 2013

Background

Normal lipid metabolism and functioning of the peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPAR‐gamma) in the sebaceous gland is critical to maintaining a normal hair follicle. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection affects lipid metabolism; some have hypothesized a link between PPAR‐gamma function and lipodystrophy in HIV infection. Our objective was to determine whether lipodystrophy is associated with altered hair characteristics in HIV‐infected women from the Women's Interagency HIV Study.

Methods

Hair characteristics and scalp inflammation were assessed by an interviewer‐administered questionnaire. Central lipohypertrophy and peripheral lipoatrophy were defined by self‐report of moderate to severe fat gain in central body sites and fat loss in peripheral body sites, respectively confirmed by clinical examination. Additional covariates considered in the analyses included demographics, behavioral characteristics, medical history, and HIV‐related factors.

Results

There were 1037 women with data on all study variables; 76 women reported central lipohypertrophy, while only four women reported lipoatrophy. Women with central lipohypertrophy were more likely to be older, had a self‐reported history of injection drug use, statin medication use, diabetes, elevated cholesterol, and have self‐reported less hair and shorter eyelashes. After adjustment for age, central lipohypertrophy was associated with shorter eyelashes (OR 2.3; 95% CI 1.4–3.8).

Conclusions

Central lipohypertrophy was not associated with change in scalp hair texture or scalp inflammation in this cohort. Rather, we found an association between central lipohypertrophy and shorter eyelash length. This finding may be explained by an influence of prostaglandin E2 mediators on eyelash follicles.
Fluoridated salt for caries prevention and control – a 2‐year field study in a disadvantaged community
Authors: Wennhall Inger , Hajem Samara , Ilros Susanna , Ridell Karin , Ekstrand Kim R. , Twetman Svante
Published: June 2013

Background

Salt fluoridation is considered a cost‐effective community strategy for reducing caries.

Aim

To evaluate the effect of school‐based and domestic distribution of F‐salt to schoolchildren residing in a disadvantaged community.

Design

Seven hundred and thirty‐three schoolchildren (12–14 years), attending two public schools, were enrolled; one was assigned to intervention (IS), whereas the other served as reference (RS). Subjects in IS were given access to F‐salt (250 ppm F) in marked jars at school lunch and through free supply for domestic use. The 2‐year caries increment and progression rate, assessed from bitewing radiographs, was scored. Information on diet, oral hygiene, and fluoride exposure was collected through a baseline questionnaire.

Results

The dropout rate was high (IS 27%; RS 18%). At baseline, the IS children displayed more unfavourable risk factors and a higher caries experience than RS children. There were no significant differences in total caries increment or proximal progression rate between the two schools. A negative correlation (r = −0.29; P < 0.05) between the amount of delivered salt and the caries progression rate was, however, noted. No side effects were reported.

Conclusions

F‐salt was not effective in this setting. Still, the findings indicate that salt may be a beneficial source of fluoride in schoolchildren provided that compliance can be secured.
Sensitivity and specificity of self‐reported acne in 18‐year‐old adolescent males
Authors: de Almeida Hiram , Cecconi Josayres , Duquia Rodrigo P. , Souza Paulo R. , Breunig Juliano
Published: June 2013

Background  Self‐reporting is widely used in medical research. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the specificity and sensitivity of self‐reported lesions of acne (scars and active lesions) obtained by an interview with the examination carried out by a dermatologist.

Methods  A questionnaire was applied to male adolescents who registered for obligatory military service. After that, skin examination was carried out.

Results  Of the 2,191 adolescents examined, 474 (21.60%) showed acne scars, and 625 (28.51%) admitted to having scars. The sensitivity of self‐reported scars was 50.84%, and the specificity was 77.65%. The prevalence of active acne obtained by the dermatological examination was 85.76% and from self‐reported acne was 76.12%, with a sensitivity of 80.95% and a specificity of 52.88%. Neither schooling nor social class made any difference to sensitivity or specificity.

Conclusions  Our findings showed that sensitivity and specificity of self‐reported acne was very low, pointing out that, in a sample of adolescents, self‐reporting of acne shows itself as an inadequate instrument for epidemiological studies.
Pharmacogenetics in dermatology: a patient‐centered update
Authors: Comfere Nneka I. , Ikediobi Ogechi N. , Peters Margot S. , el‐Azhary Rokea A. , Gibson Lawrence E.
Published: June 2013

Background

The term pharmacogenetics is used to describe an evolving field that aims to understand the relationship between individual variations in genetic sequence and differences in the therapeutic and toxic response to medications. The promise of pharmacogenetics is empowerment of clinicians with information that will enable them to personalize drug therapy – to prescribe the right medication at the right dose for each patient, while minimizing adverse effects. Despite dramatic advances, wide application of pharmacogenetics to clinical practice has been slow for a number of reasons, including lack of evidence‐based therapeutic guidelines as well as ethical concerns and cost.

Methods

To illustrate applications to dermatology practice, we present three clinical scenarios that serve as a springboard for discussion of the principles of pharmacogenetics and how they can be used to guide treatment with azathioprine, 5‐fluorouracil, and trastuzumab.

Conclusion

The therapeutic and toxic effects of a given medication ultimately depend on its combined pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and pharmacogenetic properties in a given individual. Pharmacodynamic properties of individual medications must be correlated with single nucleotide polymorphisms. Test recommendations and standardization of therapy for specific disorders can then be established.
Is narrowband ultraviolet B monotherapy effective in the treatment of pityriasis lichenoides?
Authors: Park Jung‐Min , Jwa Seung‐Wook , Song Margaret , Kim Hoon‐Soo , Chin Hyun‐Woo , Ko Hyun‐Chang , Kim Moon‐Bum , Kim Byung‐Soo
Published: June 2013

Background

Pityriasis lichenoides (PL) is a self‐limiting papulosquamous disease that may persist for years and is associated with a high relapse rate. To date, few comparative studies have investigated the efficacy of narrowband ultraviolet B (NB‐UVB) phototherapy and other therapies in the treatment of PL.

Objectives

The present study retrospectively compared the clinical efficacies of NB‐UVB phototherapy, systemic therapy, and a combination of NB‐UVB and systemic medication in the treatment of PL.

Methods

Seventy patients diagnosed with PL were enrolled in this study. They were divided into three subgroups: the NB‐UVB treatment group; the systemic treatment group; and the combination treatment group. Therapeutic efficacy was evaluated according to whether the subjects demonstrated a complete response (> 90% improvement in skin lesions), partial response (50–90% improvement), or no response (< 50% improvement) to treatment.

Results

A 91.9% complete response rate was achieved in the NB‐UVB group, whereas only 69.2 and 80.0% of patients achieved a complete response in the systemic and combination treatment groups, respectively; these differences were not statistically significant. The mean treatment periods were 8.3, 5.3, and 7.9 weeks in the NB‐UVB, systemic, and combination treatment groups, respectively; these differences were also not significant.

Conclusions

Monotherapy using NB‐UVB is effective in achieving a complete response in the treatment of PL and thus eliminates the need for concurrent systemic medication.
Epithelial keratin and filaggrin expression in seborrheic keratosis: evaluation based on histopathological classification
Authors: Yoshimi Nobuko , Imai Yasutomo , Kakuno Ayako , Tsubura Airo , Yamanishi Kiyofumi , Kurokawa Ichiro
Published: June 2013

Objectives

Seborrheic keratosis (SK) is classified into six types: hyperkeratotic; acanthotic; irritated; clonal; reticulated; and adenoid. However, the origins of the respective types of SK remain unclear.

Methods

To clarify the histogenetic origins of SK, we performed immunohistochemical studies of keratin (K) and filaggrin expression, taking into account the histopathological classifications of SK.

Results

Hyperkeratotic SK mainly expressed K1, K10, and filaggrin. Acanthotic SK mainly expressed K14 with some K15. Irritated SK mainly expressed K14 and K17 in squamous eddies. Clonal SK, reticulated SK, and adenoid SK mainly expressed K14. The results show that hyperkeratotic SK differentiated towards squamoid terminal keratinization, whereas acanthotic, irritated, clonal, reticulated, and adenoid SK mainly differentiated towards basaloid undifferentiated cells. In addition, acanthotic SK differentiated towards the hair bulge, and irritated SK differentiated towards the follicular infrainfundibulum.

Conclusions

Based on the patterns of keratin and filaggrin expression demonstrated by the histopathological types, SK demonstrated diverse differentiation towards epidermal keratinization, basaloid cells, the infrainfundibulum and hair follicle bulges, which suggests that SK is in an undifferentiated and hyperproliferative state with heterogeneous differentiation. The immunohistochemical method of investigating patterns of keratin expression is useful in the differential diagnosis of cutaneous epithelial tumors.
A New Primary Wound Dressing Made of Polyethylene Oxide Gel
Authors: MANDY STEPHEN H.
Published: June 2013

Abstract Vigilon® is a new primary wound dressing consisting of 96% water and polyethylene oxide. This moisture‐containing, occlusive dressing absorbs its own weight in wound exudate and allows free transfer of oxygen. It is non‐adherent and appears to promote better wound healing than that reported by other occlusive dressings, making it an ideal dressing for a wide variety of dermatologic surgery.
Change of Direction of Hair Growth
Authors: NORDSTRÖM ROLF E. A.
Published: June 2013

Abstract Scalp lifts and flaps occasionally produce unnatural and disturbing “parts” of the hair growth along certain suture lines. The athor shows one way of correcting them.
A Comparison of Instrument Methods of Monitoring Freezing in Cryosurgery
Authors: GAGE ANDREW A. , CARUANA JOSEPH A. , GARAMY GEORGE
Published: June 2013

Abstract. The measurement of tissue temperature by thermocouples and the measurement of change in electrical characteristics of tissue are methods of monitoring tissue freezing during cryosurgery. Both techniques are subject to some error, thermocouples less than electrodes, so clinical judgment concerning progress of therapy remains an important factor.