bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Timing of Implant Placement Affect Implant Therapy Outcome in the Aesthetic Zone? A Clinical, Radiological, Aesthetic, and Patient‐Based Evaluation
Authors: Hof Markus , Pommer Bernhard , Ambros Harald , Jesch Philip , Vogl Susanne , Zechner Werner
Published: February 2014

Purpose

To compare five different implant treatment protocols in the anterior maxilla, including immediate, early, and delayed implant placement, as well as implant placement in conjunction with simultaneous guided bone regeneration and implant placement 3 months following horizontal autologous bone block grafting.

Material and Methods

Aesthetic indices used included the Pink Esthetic Score (PES), Papilla Index (PI), Subjective Esthetic Score (SES), and White Esthetic Score (WES). Subjective evaluation of implant aesthetics was performed using a visual analogue scale (VAS). The VAS consisted of a 10 cm–long line representing the degree of discontent (0%) or satisfaction (100%).

Results

A total of 153 implants in 153 patients (80 women, 73 men) were evaluated after a mean follow‐up of 4.5 ± 2.9 years. Mean peri‐implant bone loss was 1.6 ± 0.9 mm and not affected by treatment protocol, time after implant placement, or crown length. Papilla presence, by contrast, differed significantly between the protocols: Papilla formation was more pronounced following delayed and immediate implant placement. No statistical significance was found among treatment modalities with regard to PES, SES, or WES. Longer crowns were associated with lower PES and PI ratings and correlated with greater midfacial recession. SES was also influenced by time after implant placement and keratinized mucosa. Patient satisfaction differed significantly among treatment protocols, favoring immediate implant placement. Agreement between objective and subjective aesthetic ratings was low.

Conclusion

The present study suggests that comparable clinical, radiological, and aesthetic results can be achieved with all treatment protocols. Gingival recession, however, seems to occur in the long term irrespective of the technique used.
Proximal contact loss between implant‐supported prostheses and adjacent natural teeth: a retrospective study
Authors: Wong Anita T. Y. , Wat Peter Y. P. , Pow Edmond H. N. , Leung Katherine C. M.
Published: February 2014

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of proximal contact loss between posterior implant‐supported prostheses and the adjacent anterior natural tooth and to identify potential contributing factors.

Materials and methods

Forty‐five consecutive patients, who had received either implant‐supported fixed partial denture (FPD) or implant‐supported single crown (SC) in the posterior region and were under regular review, were recruited. Interproximal space was assessed by the number of matrix bands that could be placed, and tooth mobility was assessed by Periotest®. A self‐reported questionnaire was administered. Effects of various patient and prosthesis parameters on interproximal space were analyzed by Kruskal–Wallis test or Mann–Whitney U test. Correlations were tested by Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. Differences were considered significant if P < 0.05.

Results

Forty‐three of 66 (65%) prostheses showed proximal contact loss. Frequent food packing was reported in 40% of the prostheses. The mean interproximal space was 167 (SD = 125) μm, and it was positively correlated with patients' age (P = 0.031) and time since prostheses delivery (P = 0.002). The interproximal space in the FPD group was significantly larger than the SC group (P = 0.008).

Conclusion

Proximal contact loss is not uncommon in posterior implant‐supported prostheses. In this study, age of the patient, prosthesis type and time since delivery of prosthesis were found to be contributing factors.
Risk Assessment of Deep‐Vein Thrombosis After Acute Stroke: a Prospective Study Using Clinical Factors
Authors: Liu Li‐Ping , Zheng Hua‐Guang , Wang David. Z. , Wang Yi‐Long , Hussain Mohammed , Sun Hai‐Xin , Wang An‐Xin , Zhao Xing‐Quan , Dong Ke‐Hui , Wang Chun‐Xue , He Wen , Ning Bin , Wang Yong‐Jun
Published: February 2014

Aims

Deep‐vein thrombosis (DVT) represents a serious complication in acute stroke patients with pulmonary embolus (PE) as a potential outcome. Prediction of DVT may help with formulating a proper prevention strategy. To assess of the risk of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in acute stroke patients, we developed and validated a clinical score in a cohort study.

Methods

Incidence of Deep Venous Thrombosis after Acute Stroke in China (INVENT‐China) is a multicenter prospective cohort study. The potential predictive variables for DVT at baseline were collected, and the presence of DVT was evaluated using ultrasonography on the 14 ± 3 days. Data were randomly assigned to either a training data set or a test data set. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to develop risk scores to predict DVT in the training data set and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve to validate the score in the test data set.

Results

From 2006–2007, 862 hospital‐based acute stroke patients were enrolled in China. The overall incidence of DVT after acute stroke within two weeks was 12.4% (95%CI 10.3–14.7%). A seven‐point score derived in the training data set (age [≥65 years = 1], sex [female gender = 1]), obesity [BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 = 1], active cancer [yes = 2], stroke subtype [cerebral hemorraghe = 1], muscle weakness [≥2 on Lower limb NIHSS score = 1] was highly predictive of 14‐day risk of DVT(c statistic = 0.70, 95% CI, 0.64–0.76, P < 0.001), in the overall study population(c statistic = 0.65, 95% CI 0.59–0.70, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

This clinical score may help identify acute stroke patients with high risk of DVT. In addition, it also serves as a platform to develop further models of DVT prediction in stroke patients based on clinical factors.
Lift weights to fight overweight
Authors: Paoli Antonio , Moro Tatiana , Bianco Antonino
Published: February 2014

Although resistance training (RT) has long been accepted as a means for developing and maintaining muscular strength, endurance, power and muscle mass, its beneficial relationship with health factors and chronic disease has only recently been recognized in the scientific literature. Prior to 1990, resistance training was not a part of the recommended guidelines for exercise training and rehabilitation for either the American Heart Association or the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). In 1990, the ACSM recognized resistance training as a significant component of a comprehensive fitness programme for healthy adults of all ages, a position subsequently confirmed few years after. At present, even though interest in clinical applications of RT is increasing, there are still some concerns, among physicians, about the use of this exercise methodology in weight control programmes. This review aims to explore the metabolic effects of RT and its efficacy and feasibility in overweight subjects.
Developmental dissociation in the neural responses to simple multiplication and subtraction problems
Authors: Prado Jérôme , Mutreja Rachna , Booth James R.
Published: February 2014

Mastering single‐digit arithmetic during school years is commonly thought to depend upon an increasing reliance on verbally memorized facts. An alternative model, however, posits that fluency in single‐digit arithmetic might also be achieved via the increasing use of efficient calculation procedures. To test between these hypotheses, we used a cross‐sectional design to measure the neural activity associated with single‐digit subtraction and multiplication in 34 children from 2nd to 7th grade. The neural correlates of language and numerical processing were also identified in each child via localizer scans. Although multiplication and subtraction were undistinguishable in terms of behavior, we found a striking developmental dissociation in their neural correlates. First, we observed grade‐related increases of activity for multiplication, but not for subtraction, in a language‐related region of the left temporal cortex. Second, we found grade‐related increases of activity for subtraction, but not for multiplication, in a region of the right parietal cortex involved in the procedural manipulation of numerical quantities. The present results suggest that fluency in simple arithmetic in children may be achieved by both increasing reliance on verbal retrieval and by greater use of efficient quantity‐based procedures, depending on the operation.
Cognitive components of a mathematical processing network in 9‐year‐old children
Authors: Szűcs Dénes , Devine Amy , Soltesz Fruzsina , Nobes Alison , Gabriel Florence
Published: February 2014

We determined how various cognitive abilities, including several measures of a proposed domain‐specific number sense, relate to mathematical competence in nearly 100 9‐year‐old children with normal reading skill. Results are consistent with an extended number processing network and suggest that important processing nodes of this network are phonological processing, verbal knowledge, visuo‐spatial short‐term and working memory, spatial ability and general executive functioning. The model was highly specific to predicting arithmetic performance. There were no strong relations between mathematical achievement and verbal short‐term and working memory, sustained attention, response inhibition, finger knowledge and symbolic number comparison performance. Non‐verbal intelligence measures were also non‐significant predictors when added to our model. Number sense variables were non‐significant predictors in the model and they were also non‐significant predictors when entered into regression analysis with only a single visuo‐spatial WM measure. Number sense variables were predicted by sustained attention. Results support a network theory of mathematical competence in primary school children and falsify the importance of a proposed modular ‘number sense’. We suggest an ‘executive memory function centric’ model of mathematical processing. Mapping a complex processing network requires that studies consider the complex predictor space of mathematics rather than just focusing on a single or a few explanatory factors.
Metapopulation dynamics of a beetle species confined to burned forest sites in a managed forest region
Authors: Ranius Thomas , Bohman Petter , Hedgren Olof , Wikars Lars‐Ove , Caruso Alexandro
Published: February 2014

Despite increasing awareness of the theoretical importance of habitat dynamics on metapopulations, only a few empirical studies have been conducted. We aimed to increase our understanding of how patch size, dynamics and connectivity affect colonization–extinction dynamics and the occurrence patterns of a beetle (Stephanopachys linearis), which breeds only in burned trees, existing as dynamic habitat patches that have become rare in managed forest landscapes. We assessed species’ presence/absence twice in all known habitat patches (i.e. > 1 ha sites where forest fires had occurred during the previous 2–15 yr) in a 200 × 150 km region of central Sweden, dominated by managed boreal forest.

Evaluated over six years, the colonization rate was 47% and the local extinction risk was 65%. Probability of colonization increased with patch size (number of suitable trees in a site) and connectivity to occupied patches within 30 km, and decreased with increasing time since fire. Local extinction risk decreased with habitat patch size but increased, unexpectedly, with connectivity. Occurrence increased with patch size and decreased with increasing time since fire. At a regional scale, S. linearis tracks the fire dynamics by colonising sites with burned trees and by becoming extinct at rates which make the species rare at sites where burnt trees are more than eight years old. In managed boreal forest landscapes, a large proportion of sites may be created by prescribed burning (in our study area: 82%), and consequently human decisions strongly affect the future amount of habitat for fire‐dependent species and its spatial distribution. Stephanopachys linearis uses burned sites more often if more trees are retained and, to some extent, if sites are concentrated in those parts of a region that already support high population densities of the species.
Revisiting the Great American Biotic Interchange through analyses of amphitropical bees
Authors: Wilson Joseph S. , Carril Olivia Messinger , Sipes Sedonia D.
Published: February 2014

The Great American Biotic Interchange (GABI) is zoogeographic event characterized by the exchange of taxa between North and South America, typically associated with the rise of the Isthmus of Panama in the late Pliocene. Recent geologic evidence suggests the connections between North and South America may be much older, and that the interchange of organisms between the two continents could have therefore happened much earlier than 3 Ma. Most of the research investigating the GABI has come from tropical vertebrate taxa; little work has been done on invertebrates or on non‐tropical species. To investigate how the GABI shaped the distribution of arid‐adapted species, particularly those with amphitropical distributions (i.e. taxa found in South and North American xeric regions yet absent from the tropics), we examine the historical biogeography of the bee genus Diadasia using a hypothesis of Diadasia phylogenetic relationships. Nuclear and mitochondrial genetic loci are used to reconstruct a phylogeny of Diadasia, which is then used to estimate divergence dates and reconstruct ancestral area relationships. Our analyses suggest the divergence between North and South American Diadasia species occurred between 20.5 and 15 Ma, long before the formation of the Isthmus of Panama. This study is the first to show a Miocene connection for an amphitropically‐distributed insect group. It suggests that the biotic connection between continents is more complicated than previously thought and may have initiated long before the late Pliocene.
Genetic evolution of equine influenza strains isolated in France from 2005 to 2010
Authors: Legrand L. J. , Pitel P.‐H. Y. , Cullinane A. A. , Fortier G. D. , Pronost S. L.
Published: February 2014

Reason for performing this study

Equine influenza virus (EIV) is considered the most economically important equine respiratory pathogen worldwide. The H3N8 subtype, responsible for all outbreaks of equine influenza globally, evolves perpetually. Mutations in the genome of these viruses have the potential to modify their antigenic properties and recognition by pre‐existing antibodies.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the genetic evolution of EIV strains in France and to compare it with the evolution of strains isolated globally. Analysis of the sequence data was performed to investigate any possible links between the outbreaks.

Study design

Retrospective genetic analysis study of archived material.

Methods

Analyses were performed on the HA1 domain of haemagglutinin H3 of EIV isolated in a previous study carried out from November 2005 to October 2010. The nucleic acid sequence of 41 strains was analysed and translated. The French viruses were compared with 59 Clade 1 strains and 83 Clade 2 strains. Strains were aligned chronologically and on the basis of their geographical origin.

Results

The 16 Clade 1 strains are all derived from the outbreak that started in the Grosbois training yard in 2009. The virus genome appears to have been stable during the outbreak. The 25 Clade 2 strains were isolated over the 5‐year period during which several mutations had emerged. Some strains incorporate a sporadic mutation, and others a mutation that may occur several times but does not persist. However, all strains are gradually moving towards definitive mutations.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that EIVs have evolved in France during this period in a similar manner to EIVs globally. The data lend support to the current World Animal Health Organisation recommendation that the vaccines contain a representative of both Clade 1 and Clade 2 of the Florida sublineage.

The Summary is available in Chinese – see Supporting information.
Cathepsin S, a new pruritus biomarker in clinical dandruff/seborrhoeic dermatitis evaluation
Authors: Viodé Cécile , Lejeune Ophélie , Turlier Virginie , Rouquier Amandine , Casas Christiane , Mengeaud Valérie , Redoulès Daniel , Schmitt Anne‐Marie
Published: February 2014

Dandruff/seborrhoeic dermatitis (D/SD) is characterized by Malassezia colonization, impaired barrier function with subsequent inflammation, resulting in dandruff and itching. Histamine is one of the biomarkers of pruritus now widely used in treatment efficacy trials. The exact mechanism leading to histamine release and pruritus is not yet clear. However, it could involve cathepsin S, an activator of proteinase‐activated receptor 2 (PAR2). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the levels of cathepsin S, PAR2 and histamine in patients with D/SD compared with healthy subjects through non‐invasive sampling of the scalp and to correlate those markers with D/SD clinical parameters. A significant increase in the three biological markers was observed in the D/SD group versus healthy subjects, and those markers were correlated with clinical parameters. In conclusion, cathepsin S could be a potential marker of pruritus in D/SD and could help assessing the effect of treatments.
BifunctionalADP‐dependent phosphofructokinase/glucokinase activity in the orderMethanococcales– biochemical characterization of the mesophilic enzyme fromMethanococcus maripaludis
Authors: Castro‐Fernandez Victor , Bravo‐Moraga Felipe , Herrera‐Morande Alejandra , Guixe Victoria
Published: February 2014

In some archaea, the phosphorylation of glucose and fructose 6‐phosphate (fructose 6P) is carried out by enzymes that are specific for either substrate and that useADPas phosphoryl donor. In the hyperthermophilic archaeonMethanocaldococcus jannaschii, a bifunctional enzyme able to phosphorylate glucose and fructose 6Phas been described. To determine whether the ability to phosphorylate both glucose and fructose 6Pis a common feature for all enzymes of the orderMethanococcales, we expressed, purified and characterized the unique homologous protein of the mesophilic archaeaMethanococcus maripaludis. Assay of the enzyme activity with different sugars, metals and nucleotides allows us to conclude that the enzyme is able to phosphorylate both fructose 6Pand glucose in the presence ofADPand a divalent metal cation. Kinetic characterization of the enzyme revealed complex regulation by the free Mg2+concentration andAMP, with the latter appearing to be a key metabolite. To determine whether this enzyme could have a role in gluconeogenesis, we evaluated the reversibility of both reactions and found that glucokinase activity is reversible, whereas phosphofructokinase activity is not. To determine the important residues for glucose and fructose 6Pbinding, we modeled the bifunctional phosphofructokinase/glucokinase enzyme fromM. maripaludisand its interactions with both sugar substrates using protein–ligand docking. Comparison of the active site of the phosphofructokinase/glucokinase enzyme fromM. maripaludiswith the structural models constructed for all the homology sequences present in the orderMethanococcalesshows that all of theADP‐dependent kinases from this order would be able to phosphorylate glucose and fructose 6P, which rules out the current annotation of these enzymes as specific phosphofructokinases.

Database

Model data are available in the Protein Model Data Base under accession numbersPM0079106,PM0079107,PM0079108,PM0079109,PM0079110,PM0079111,PM0079112,PM0079113,PM0079114,PM0079115andPM0079116
Sterol binding by methyl‐β‐cyclodextrin and nystatin – comparative analysis of biochemical and physiological consequences for plants
Authors: Valitova Julia , Sulkarnayeva Albina , Kotlova Ekaterina , Ponomareva Anastasia , Mukhitova Fakhima K. , Murtazina Lyaisan , Ryzhkina Irina , Beckett Richard , Minibayeva Farida
Published: February 2014

The dependence of membrane function on its sterol component has been intensively studied with model lipids and isolated animal membranes, but to a much lesser extent with plant membranes. Depleting membrane sterols could be predicted to have a strong effect on membrane activity and have harmful physiological consequences. In this study, we characterized membrane lipid composition, membrane permeability for ions, some physiological parameters, such as H2O2 accumulation, formation of autophagosomal vacuoles, and expression of peroxidase and autophagic genes, and cell viability in the roots of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seedlings in the presence of two agents that specifically bind to endogenous sterols. The polyene antibiotic nystatin binds to endogenous sterols, forming so‐called ‘nystatin pores’ or ‘channels’ in the membrane, and methyl‐β‐cyclodextrin has the capacity to sequester sterols in its hydrophobic core. Unexpectedly, although application of both methyl‐β‐cyclodextrin and nystatin reduced the sterol content, their effects on membrane permeability, oxidative status and autophagosome formation in roots differed dramatically. For comparison, we also tested the effects of the antibiotic gramicidin S, which does not bind to sterols but forms nonspecific channels in the membrane. Gramicidin S considerably increased membrane permeability, caused oxidative stress, and reduced cell viability. Our results suggest that a decrease in the sterol content is, in itself, not sufficient to have deleterious effects on a cell. The disturbance of membrane integrity, rather than the decrease in the sterol content, is responsible for the toxicity of sterol‐binding compounds.
Flotillins bind to the dileucine sorting motif of β‐site amyloid precursor protein‐cleaving enzyme 1 and influence its endosomal sorting
Authors: John Bincy A. , Meister Melanie , Banning Antje , Tikkanen Ritva
Published: February 2014

The β‐site amyloid precursor protein‐cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) is a protease that participates in the amyloidogenic cleavage of the Alzheimer amyloid precursor protein. Trafficking of BACE1 has been shown to be largely mediated by an acidic cluster dileucine motif in its cytoplasmic tail. This sorting signal functions both in endocytosis and endosomal sorting/recycling of BACE1 by providing a binding site for various sorting factors, such as the Golgi‐localizing γ‐ear containing ADP ribosylation factor binding (GGA) proteins that mediate BACE1 sorting within endosomes. Because flotillin‐1 has been suggested to bind to BACE1 cytoplasmic tail, we analyzed the role of flotillins in BACE1 sorting. We show that flotillin‐1 directly binds to the dileucine motif in the cytoplasmic tail of BACE1, whereas flotillin‐2 binding is mainly mediated by its interaction with flotillin‐1. Depletion of flotillins results in altered subcellular localization of BACE1 in endosomes and stabilization of BACE1 protein. Furthermore, amyloidogenic processing of Alzheimer amyloid precursor protein is increased. Flotillins compete with GGA proteins for binding to the dileucine motif in the BACE1 tail, suggesting that they play an important role in endosomal sorting of BACE1. The present study shows for the first time that flotillins are involved in endosomal sorting of BACE1. Because the endosomal localization of BACE1 affects its function as the β‐secretase by increasing amyloidogenic processing of the amyloid precursor protein, flotillins may play a novel role in Alzheimer's disease. The present study is the first to show that flotillins bind to a canonical sorting signal and influence the binding of endosomal sorting factors onto cargo tails.

Structured digital abstract

• BACE1 and flotillin-2 physically interact by proximity ligation assay (View interaction)

• BACE1 and flotillin-1 physically interact by proximity ligation assay (View interaction)

• BACE1 binds to flotillin-1 by pull down (View interaction)

flotillin-2 physically interacts with BACE1 by anti bait coimmunoprecipitation (View interaction)
Experimental investigation on low cycle fatigue and fracture behaviour of a notched Ni‐based superalloy at elevated temperature
Authors: Yuan S. H. , Wang Y. R. , Wei D. S.
Published: February 2014

In order to investigate the effects of stress concentration on low cycle fatigue properties and fracture behaviour of a nickel‐based powder metallurgy superalloy, FGH97, at elevated temperature, the low cycle fatigue tests have been conducted with semi‐circular and semi‐elliptical single‐edge notched plate specimens at 550 and 700 °C. The results show that the fatigue life of the notched specimen decreases with the increase of stress concentration factor and the fatigue crack initiation life evidently decreases because of the defect located in the stress concentration zone. Moreover, the plastic deformation induced by notch stress concentration affects the initial crack occurrence zone. The angle α of the crack occurrence zone is within ±10° of notch bisector for semi‐circular notched specimens and ±20° for semi‐elliptical notched specimens. The crack propagation rate decreases to a minimum at a certain length, D, and then increases with the growth of the crack. The crack propagation rate of the semi‐elliptical notched specimen decelerates at a faster rate than that of the semi‐circular notched specimen because of the increase of the notch plasticity gradient. The crack length, D, is affected by both the applied load and the notch plasticity gradient. In addition, the fracture mechanism is shown to transition from transgranular to intergranular as temperature increases from 550 to 700 °C, which would accelerate crack propagation and reduce the fatigue life.
Liquidity, Technological Opportunities, and the Stage Distribution of Venture Capital Investments
Authors: Lahr Henry , Mina Andrea
Published: February 2014

This paper explores the determinants of the stage distribution of European venture capital investments from 1990 to 2011. Consistent with liquidity risk theory, we find that the likelihood of investing in earlier stages increases relative to all private equity investments during liquidity crisis years. While liquidity is the main driver of acquisition investments and, to some extent, of expansion financings, technological opportunities are overall the main driver of early and late stage venture capital investments. In contrast to the dotcom crash, the recent financial crisis negatively affected the relative likelihood of expansion investments, but not of early and late stage investments.
A novel model for cyanobacteria bloom formation: the critical role of anoxia and ferrous iron
Authors: Molot L. A. , Watson S. B. , Creed I. F. , Trick C. G. , McCabe S. K. , Verschoor M. J. , Sorichetti R. J. , Powe C. , Venkiteswaran J. J. , Schiff S. L.
Published: February 2014

A novel conceptual model linking anoxia, phosphorus (P), nitrogen (N), iron (Fe) and sulphate to the formation of noxious filamentous and colonial cyanobacteria blooms is presented that reconciles seemingly contradictory ideas about the roles of P, N and Fe in bloom formation.

The model has several critical concepts: (i) P regulates biomass and productivity in fresh waters until excessive loading renders a system N‐limited or light‐limited, but it is the availability of ferrous ions (Fe2+) that regulates the ability of cyanobacteria to compete with its eukaryotic competitors; (ii) Fe2+ diffusing from anoxic sediments is a major Fe source for cyanobacteria, which acquire it by migrating downwards into Fe2+‐rich anoxic waters from oxygenated waters; and (iii) subsequent cyanobacterial siderophore production provides a supply of Fe3+ for reduction at cyanobacteria cell membranes that leads to very low Fe3+ concentrations in the mixing zone.

When light and temperature are physiologically suitable for cyanobacteria growth, bloom onset is regulated by the onset of internal Fe2+ loading which in turn is controlled by anoxia, reducible Fe content of surface sediments and sulphate reduction rate.

This conceptual model provides the basis for improving the success of approaches to eutrophication management because of its far‐reaching explanatory power over the wide range of conditions where noxious cyanobacteria blooms have been observed.
An evolutionary perspective on the resistance of Daphnia to the epizoic rotifer Brachionus rubens
Authors: Pauwels Kevin , De Meester Luc , Michels Helen , Jeppesen Erik , Decaestecker Ellen
Published: February 2014

In considering the evolutionary dynamics of host–parasite interactions, it is usually assumed that host populations are able to evolve rapidly under selection from various parasitic pressures. This has been shown for endoparasites, but for ectoparasites and/or epibionts, in general, less strong effects are expected on their hosts.

We show that the exposure of Daphnia magna clones (of a different origin) to lake sediment from the Danish Lake Ring, containing dormant eggs of the epizoic rotifer Brachionus rubens, results in infections that are associated with increased mortality in Daphnia.

Using a resurrection ecology approach, we reconstructed evolutionary change in the Lake Ring D. magna population in response to B. rubens infections. We observed interclonal variation in resistance to B. rubens in this Daphnia population, as well as changes over time in resistance to rotifers.

Both sediment exposure and time period from which Lake Ring clones were isolated affected important life‐history parameters, suggesting that evolution (upon exposure to Brachionus) not only affected resistance to Brachionus, but also other traits in Lake Ring Daphnia.

Additionally, there were complex effects of a joint exposure of D. magna to rotifers and the indirect effect of fish predation: exposure to fish kairomones resulted in an increased allocation of energy to early reproduction and Daphnia performance. Further, fish kairomones apparently increased B. rubens infectivity.
Different types of nitrogen deposition show variable effects on the soil carbon cycle process of temperate forests
Authors: Du Yuhan , Guo Peng , Liu Jianqiu , Wang Chunyu , Yang Ning , Jiao Zhenxia
Published: February 2014

Nitrogen (N) deposition significantly affects the soil carbon (C) cycle process of forests. However, the influence of different types of N on it still remained unclear. In this work, ammonium nitrate was selected as an inorganic N (IN) source, while urea and glycine were chosen as organic N (ON) sources. Different ratios of IN to ON (1 : 4, 2 : 3, 3 : 2, 4 : 1, and 5 : 0) were mixed with equal total amounts and then used to fertilize temperate forest soils for 2 years. Results showed that IN deposition inhibited soil C cycle processes, such as soil respiration, soil organic C decomposition, and enzymatic activities, and induced the accumulation of recalcitrant organic C. By contrast, ON deposition promoted these processes. Addition of ON also resulted in accelerated transformation of recalcitrant compounds into labile compounds and increased CO2 efflux. Meanwhile, greater ON deposition may convert C sequestration in forest soils into C source. These results indicated the importance of the IN to ON ratio in controlling the soil C cycle, which can consequently change the ecological effect of N deposition.
Diagnosis of inherited von Willebrand disease: comparison of two methodologies and analysis of the discrepancies
Authors: Costa‐Pinto J. , Pérez‐Rodríguez A. , Goméz‐del‐Castillo M. del C. , Lourés E. , Rodríguez‐Trillo Á. , Batlle J. , López‐Fernández M. F.
Published: February 2014

Diagnostics of von Willebrand disease (VWD) includes assessment of factor VIII (FVIII) coagulant activity, von Willebrand factor (VWF) antigen (VWF:Ag) and VWF ristocetin cofactor activity (VWF:RCo), and more specific tests as multimeric and genetic analyses are necessary for the correct VWD classification. The ACL AcuStar™ analyzer introduces chemiluminescence (CL) technology in detection of VWD with automated VWF:Ag and VWF:RCo assays. Compare VWF:Ag‐ELISA and VWF:RCo by aggregometry conventional assays with new CL VWF:Ag‐IL and VWF:RCo‐IL assays, investigate the ability to make accurate VWD diagnosis and concordance with multimeric and genetic analyses. 146 patients with congenital VWD (51 Type 1; 34 Type2A; 16 Type 2B; 31 Type 2M; 5 Type 2N; 9 Type 3) and 30 healthy normal subjects were included. A comparison was made between CL and conventional methods. Diagnostic evaluation included: VWF:RCo/VWF:Ag ratio, multimeric distribution (sodium dodecyl sulfate [SDS]‐agarose gel) of VWF and genetic analysis in 110 of 146 patients. CL and conventional methods revealed good correlation. Kappa test agreement diagnosis was >0.8. CL diagnostic sensitivity was 100% and specificity 97%. Multimeric and genetic analysis were of help in clarifying 13 discrepancies of diagnosis between methods, of which six discrepancies were explained by lack of conventional methods′ sensibility. CL methodology can detect VWD and discriminate between type 1, 3 and variant forms and offers an automated, faster, sensitive and less cumbersome method when compared to conventional assays, in particular VWF:RCo by aggregometry. In some cases, even with all phenotype and genetic analyses, discrepancies exist in the classification of VWD.
Gender, low Kt/V, and mortality in Japanese hemodialysis patients: Opportunities for improvement through modifiable practices
Authors: Kimata Naoki , Karaboyas Angelo , Bieber Brian A. , Pisoni Ronald L. , Morgenstern Hal , Gillespie Brenda W. , Saito Akira , Akizawa Tadao , Fukuhara Shunichi , Robinson Bruce M. , Port Friedrich K. , Akiba Takashi
Published: February 2014

Guidelines have recommended single pool Kt/V > 1.2 as the minimum dose for chronic hemodialysis (HD) patients on thrice weekly HD. The Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study (DOPPS) has shown that “low Kt/V” (<1.2) is more prevalent in Japan than many other countries, though survival is longer in Japan. We examined trends in low Kt/V, dialysis practices associated with low Kt/V, and associations between Kt/V and mortality overall and by gender in Japanese dialysis patients. We analyzed 5784 HD patients from Japan DOPPS (1999–2011), restricted to patients dialyzing for >1 year and receiving thrice weekly dialysis. Logistic regression models estimated the relationships of patient characteristics with Kt/V. Logistic models also were used to estimate the proportion of low Kt/V cases attributable to various treatment practices. Multivariable Cox regression was used to estimate the associations of low Kt/V, blood flow rate (BFR), and treatment time (TT), with all‐cause mortality. From 1999 to 2009, the prevalence of low Kt/V declined in men (37–27%) and women (15–10%). BFR <200 mL/min, TT <240 minutes, and dialyzate flow rate (DFR) < 500 mL/min were common (35, 13, and 19% of patients, respectively) and strongly associated with low Kt/V. Fifteen percent of low Kt/V cases were attributable to BFR <200 and 13% to TT <240, compared to only 3% for DFR <500. Lower Kt/V was associated with elevated mortality, more so among women (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.13 per 0.1 lower Kt/V, 95% CI: 1.07–1.20) than among men (HR = 1.06 per 0.1 lower Kt/V, 95% CI: 1.00–1.12). The relatively large proportion of low Kt/V cases in Japanese facilities may potentially be reduced 30% by increasing BFR to 200 mL/min and TT to 4 hours thrice weekly in HD patients. Associations of low Kt/V with elevated mortality suggest that modification of these practices may further improve survival for Japanese HD patients.
Higher Education in Ethiopia: Expansion, Quality Assurance and Institutional Autonomy
Authors: Akalu Girmaw Abebe
Published: February 2014

This article chronicles the key challenges facing Ethiopia as it embarks on an ambitious, ideologically‐driven and aggressive expansion of its higher education system in an effort to address its national goals of economic growth and poverty reduction. It is argued that the urge for higher education expansion has placed undue pressures particularly on the state of quality enhancement and autonomy of universities. As government pressures for more expansion mounted, universities struggled with dwindling per student budgetary allocations, shortage of qualified staff, inadequate supply of much needed inputs and the erosion of their autonomy. It is suggested that while higher education expansion remains an important goal for Ethiopia for many years to come, a reasonable balance should be struck between the ideological aspects of expansion and the practical realities of limited resources, heightened concerns about the quality of student learning and the autonomy of universities.
Investigation of chemical changes in sealers during application of the warm vertical compaction technique
Authors: Viapiana R. , Baluci C. A. , Tanomaru‐Filho M. , Camilleri J.
Published: February 2014

Aim

To assess (i) heat generated by pluggers during warm vertical compaction of gutta‐percha and investigation of temperature changes on the external root surface during canal filling, and (ii) the chemical changes of root canal sealers induced by heat.

Methodology

Four sealers, namelyAHPlus,MTAPlus and two other experimental sealers based on tricalcium silicate, were characterised. External temperatures generated on the root surface during warm vertical compaction of gutta‐percha with different sealers inside the root canal were monitored using an infrared thermography camera. Chemical changes induced by heating the sealers were assessed by Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy.

Results

MTAPlus and the experimental sealers were composed of a cement and radiopacifier, with epoxy resin or a water‐soluble polymer as dispersant, whilstAHPlus was epoxy resin‐based. The heat generated at the tips of the continuous wave pluggers was found to be lower than the temperature set and indicated on the deviceLCDdisplay. The sealers reduced the heat generated on the external root surfaces during the heating phase.AHPlus sustained changes to its chemical structure after exposure to heat, whilst the other sealers were unaffected.

Conclusions

The temperatures recorded at the tips of continuous wave pluggers varied with their taper and were lower than the temperature set on the System BLCDdisplay. Root canal sealers reduced the dissipation of heat generated during warm vertical compaction, with the temperature at the external root surface maintained at 37–41 °C, a temperature below that is necessary to cause irreversible damage to bone and periodontium. The use ofAHPlus sealer during warm vertical compaction techniques results in chemical changes in the sealer. The effect on sealer properties needs to be further investigated.
Herpes simplex virus inoculation in murine rete testis results in irreversible testicular damage
Authors: Malolina Ekaterina A. , Kulibin Andrey Y. , Naumenko Victor A. , Gushchina Elena A. , Zavalishina Larisa E. , Kushch Alla A.
Published: February 2014

This study aimed to establish the influence of herpes simplex virus (HSV) on testis morphology and germ cell development using a model of ascending urogenital HSV infection in mice. Adult C57BL/6J mice were inoculated with 100 plaque‐forming units of HSV1 in rete testis. Viral proteins and HSV DNA were detected from 3 days postinoculation (DPI), while capsids and virions could be visualized at 6 DPI. Infectious activity of HSV was revealed by rapid culture method in testes from 3 to 14 DPI, and virus DNA by PCR – from 3 to 100 DPI. Germ and Sertoli cells were infected during the early stages of the infection, whereas interstitial cells only occasionally contained the virus at 21 and 45 DPI. Microscopic analysis revealed severe degeneration of the germinal epithelium in the infected testes. By 21 DPI, testes became atrophic and most Sertoli cells were destroyed. No testicular regeneration and no spermatozoa in the epididymis were observed at 45 and 100 DPI. From 3 DPI, inflammatory cells accumulated in the interstitium between damaged tubules; a significant increase in the number of CD4+, CD8+ T lymphocytes and F4/80+ cells was observed in the infected testes. This study shows that in the case of HSV retrograde ascent into seminiferous tubules, the acute viral infection results in irreversible atrophy of the germinal epithelium, orchitis and infertility. These results may be used to further study viral orchitis and the influence of HSV on spermatogenesis and male fertility.
Pharmacy practice-based research networks: do pharmacists need them?
Authors: Koshy Samuel
Published: February 2014

Objectives

The aim of this article is to highlight the need for the development of pharmacy practice-based research networks (PBRNs).

Key findings

Large multicenter research projects that provide evidence for the provision of patient care services by pharmacists are required, which can be facilitated by pharmacy PBRNs.

Conclusions

There is a growing need for pharmacy PBRNs, and the time is appropriate for pharmacists around the world to engage in the development of pharmacy PBRNs.
Second‐Generation “Return” to Greece: New Dynamics of Transnationalism and Integration
Authors: King Russell , Christou Anastasia
Published: February 2014

Based on in‐depth narrative interviews with 64 second‐generation Greek‐Germans and Greek‐Americans who have “returned” to Greece, this article explores intersections between return, transnationalism and integration. Having grown up with a strong Greek identity in the diaspora, second‐generation “returnees” move to Greece mainly for idealistic, lifestyle and life‐stage reasons. However, most find living in Greece long‐term a challenging experience: they remark on the corruption and chaos of Greek life, and are surprised at the high level of xenophobia in Greek society, not only towards foreign immigrants but also towards themselves as “hyphenated Greeks”. The “return” to Greece provokes new “reverse” transnational links back to their birth country, where they still need to keep in touch with relatives and friends, including caring obligations towards parents who remain abroad. Some contemplate another “return”, back to the US or Germany.

Policy Implications

Policymakers responsible for integration should not assume that the second generation has no connections with its parents' country of origin.

In the diasporic home country (in this case Greece), more effort should be made to facilitate the reintegration of the second generation returning ‘home’ and to break down discrimination towards hyphenated Greeks.

Greek policymakers should pay heed to homecoming second‐generation Greeks in order to benefit from their bicultural insights into how Greek society can be improved, especially as regards efficient public services, transparent employment opportunities, better environment management, gender equality, and the elimination of racism and discrimination.
Productive Verbs Facilitate Action Prediction in Toddlers
Authors: Gampe Anja , Daum Moritz M.
Published: February 2014

Children can represent events in our everyday life in both non‐linguistic and linguistic formats. We aimed to investigate whether non‐linguistic representations are changed once children acquire their linguistic counterparts. In the present study, we explored whether and how language changes the perception of simple means‐end actions using an eye‐tracking paradigm. Children between 12 and 24 months of age heard a sentence containing a verb and subsequently watched an action video. Results show an interfering influence of language on action perception at 12 months and a facilitating influence at 24 months. However, this was only the case for verbs that are already in the toddlers' productive vocabulary but not for those that are acquired later. Taken together, the results suggest that a communication between non‐linguistic and linguistic representations starts early and develops in the second year of life. The successful facilitatory influence depends on the productive repertoire of the language in question.
The influenza pandemic of 1918–1919 in Sri Lanka: its demographic cost, timing, and propagation
Authors: Chandra Siddharth , Sarathchandra Dilshani
Published: February 2014

Background

As an island and a former British colony, Sri Lanka is a case of special interest for the study of 1918–1919 influenza pandemic because of its potential for isolation from as well as integration into the world epidemiologic system.

Objectives

To estimate population loss attributable to the influenza pandemic and weekly district‐level excess mortality from the pandemic to analyze its spread across the island.

Methods

To measure population loss, we estimated a population growth model using a panel of 100 district‐level observations on population for five consecutive censuses from 1891 to 1931, allowing for a one‐time drop in population in 1918–1919. To estimate weekly excess mortality from the pandemic, we estimated a seasonally adjusted weekly time series of district‐specific mortality estimates from vital registration records, ranked them, and plotted the ranks on weekly maps to create a picture of the geographic pattern of propagation across Sri Lanka.

Results

Total loss of population from the influenza pandemic was 307 000 or approximately 6·7% of the population. The pandemic peaked in two discrete (northern and southern) regions in early October of 1918 and in a third (central) region in early March 1919.

Conclusions

The population loss estimate is significantly higher than earlier estimates of mortality from the pandemic in Sri Lanka, suggesting underreporting of influenza‐attributable deaths and a role for influenza‐related fertility declines. The spatial pattern of peak mortality indicates the presence of two distinct entry points and three distinct epidemiologic regions, defined by population density and ethnicity, in colonial Sri Lanka.
Randomised clinical trial to compare total contact casts, healing sandals and a shear‐reducing removable boot to heal diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Lavery Lawrence A , Higgins Kevin R , La Fontaine Javier , Zamorano Ruben G , Constantinides George P , Kim Paul J
Published: February 2014

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of three off‐loading techniques to heal diabetic foot wounds: total contact casts (TCCs), healing sandals (HSs) and a removable boot with a shear‐reducing foot bed (SRB). This was a 12‐week, single‐blinded randomised clinical trial with three parallel treatment groups of adults with diabetes and a foot ulcer (n = 73). Ulcer healing was defined as full reepithelialisation with no drainage. Diabetic patients with grade UT1A or UT2A forefoot ulcers on the sole of the foot were enrolled. Patients with malignancy, immune‐compromising diseases, severe peripheral vascular disease (ankle‐brachial index < 0·60 or transcutaneous oxygen < 25 mm/Hg), alcohol or substance abuse within 6 months, untreated osteomyelitis or Charcot arthropathy with residual deformity that would not fit the HS or boot were excluded. In the intent‐to‐treat analysis, significantly higher proportion of patients were healed in the TCC group (69·6%) compared to those treated with the SRB (22·2%, P < 0·05). There was no difference in the rate of healed ulcers in the HS (44·5%) and TCC groups. Ulcers in the TCC group healed faster than those in the HS group (5·4 ± 2·9 versus 8·9 ± 3·5 weeks, P < 0·02). However, there was no difference in the time to healing in the TCC and SRB groups (6·7 ± 4·3 weeks, P = 0·28). Patients who used HS were significantly more active (4022 ± 4652 steps per day, P < 0·05) than those treated with TCCs (1447 ± 1310) or SRB (1404 ± 1234). It is concluded that patients treated with TCCs had the highest proportion of healed wounds and fastest healing time. The novel shear‐reducing walker had the lowest healing and highest rate of attrition during the study.