bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cluster Belly: A Variant of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Robbins Matthew S.
Published: July 2014

Cluster headache (CH) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are pain disorders that possess relationships with circadian rhythms. However, they have not been compared to assess similarities that could yield pathophysiologic insights. A young male adult with periodic episodes of abdominal pain highly reminiscent of CH is described. Since childhood, he experienced severe attacks featuring excruciating, abdominal pain accompanied by prominent restlessness, lasting 30‐120 minutes, occurring in the evening and in discrete 2‐ to 8‐week periods, interspersed with remissions where typical triggers did not lead to attacks. Although all of the patient's symptoms fell within the spectrum of IBS, the semiology was highly evocative of CH, based on the attack duration, restlessness, periodicity, and selective vulnerability to particular triggers only during attack periods. A subset of patients thought to have IBS may feature similar attack profiles and could suggest the importance of the hypothalamus in its pathophysiology, akin to CH.
Regulating Fertility and Clarifying Moral Language
Authors: Selling Joseph A.
Published: July 2014

When it comes to dealing with population growth, there are a number of misconceptions about the position of the Catholic Church. Official teaching during the twentieth century gradually moved toward the acceptance of limiting family size and endorsed the concept of responsible parenthood during the Second Vatican Council. One cannot, therefore, justifiably claim that the church is against birth control. It is an entirely different matter, however, when it comes to the practical question about how a couple might go about regulating fertility. Since the publication of Pope Paul VI's 1968 encyclical, an intense controversy has taken place within the church about the use of artificial contraception. Behind that controversy lies an important methodological issue. For, the traditional teaching to which Paul VI returned in his letter was based upon the presumption that it is possible to morally judge a physical, material act without any consideration of the persons who performed that act, the circumstances within which it took place, or the reasons why the act was chosen. This behavioural approach to morality stands in some contrast to the way that other moral questions are dealt with. Inflicting pain or even taking a person's life, for instance, can be justified for a good reason when one acts in a virtuous manner to instil discipline or safeguard justice. Until this methodological controversy is addressed, the problem of using artificial means to regulate fertility will not be resolved. A helpful key for solving the methodological ambiguities is to use moral language in a consistent and understandable manner.
Effect of addition of protein concentrates from natural and yeast fermented rice bran on the rheological and technological properties of wheat bread
Authors: Chinma Chiemela E. , Ilowefah Muna , Shammugasamy Balakrishnan , Mohammed Makeri , Muhammad Kharidah
Published: July 2014

The effect of substituting wheat flour with 0%, 5%, 10% and 15% protein concentrates from natural and yeast fermented rice bran on the rheological properties of their dough and bread properties was studied. Rheological properties of wheat dough were influenced by addition of rice bran protein concentrates. Overall acceptability score and specific loaf volume of 100% wheat bread were not significantly different from composite bread up to 10% rice bran protein substitution, and therefore, the optimised level of substitution was established. The optimised composite bread contained higher total amino acid content, radical scavenging activity and ferric reducing ability power (43.04–48.87 g/100 g, 182.77–201.65 mmol TEAC/100 g and 613.29–637.81 mmol TE/100 g) than control (33.86 g/100 g, 109.43 mmol TEAC/100 g and 540.13 mmol TE/100 g). Springiness, cohesiveness and resilience values of wheat bread were not significantly different from composite bread. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that composite bread had surfaces with embedded granules like protein deposits with small spores.
Should DWI MRI Be the Primary Screening Test for Stroke?
Authors: Leker Ronen R. , Keigler Galina , Eichel Roni , Hur Tamir Ben , Gomori John M. , Cohen Jose E.
Published: July 2014

Patients presenting with focal neurological symptoms may suffer from ischemic stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, or stroke mimics. Such patients are usually screened with a noncontrast-enhanced computed tomography to rule out hemorrhage and to detect early signs of ischemia. However, the sensitivity of noncontrast-enhanced computed tomography for acute stroke is far inferior to that of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging and the latter is also very sensitive for identifying acute intracerebral hemorrhage. Most centers perform a magnetic resonance imaging stroke protocol that takes long to accomplish and may therefore delay therapy. Herein, we propose that a short diffusionweighted imaging-only magnetic resonance imaging protocol can effectively differentiate ischemic stroke from intracerebral hemorrhage and stroke mimics and could therefore be used as the first line screening test for stroke. Adopting such a screening strategy will result in increased diagnostic accuracy and avoidance of unnecessary treatment of stroke mimics with thrombolysis but may come at the increased cost of performing a magnetic resonance imaging at the emergency department. Whether such a strategy will be cost effective or not remains to be tested in future studies.
Randomized Controlled Trial of a Multipronged Intervention to Improve Blood Pressure Control among Stroke Survivors in Nigeria
Authors: Owolabi Mayowa O. , Akinyemi Rufus O. , Gebregziabher Mulugeta , Olaniyan Olanrewaju , Salako Babatunde L. , Arulogun Oyedunni , Ovbiagele Bruce
Published: July 2014

Rationale

Stroke is the second-leading cause of death in low- and middle-income countries, but use of evidence-based therapies for stroke prevention in such countries, especially those in Africa, is extremely poor. This study is designed to enhance the implementation and sustainability of secondary stroke-preventive services following hospital discharge.

Aim/Hypothesis

The primary study aim is to test whether a Chronic Care Model-based initiative entitled the Tailored Hospital-based Risk reduction to Impede Vascular Events after Stroke (THRIVES) significantly improves blood pressure control after stroke.

Design

This prospective triple-blind randomized controlled trial will include a cohort of 400 patients with a recent stroke discharged from four medical care facilities in Nigeria. The culturally sensitive, system-appropriate intervention comprises patient report cards, phone text messaging, an educational video, and coordination of posthospitalization care.

Study Outcomes

The primary outcome is improvement of blood pressure control. Secondary endpoints include control of other stroke risk factors, medication adherence, functional status, and quality of life. We will also perform a cost analysis of THRIVES from the viewpoint of government policy-makers. Discussion We anticipate that a successful intervention will serve as a scalable model of effective postdischarge chronic blood pressure management for stroke in sub-Saharan Africa and possibly for other symptomatic cardiovascular disease entities in the region.
Employee participation in non‐mandatory professional development – the role of core proactive motivation processes
Authors: Sankey Kim S. , Machin M. Anthony
Published: July 2014

With a focus on the self‐initiated efforts of employees, this study examined a model of core proactive motivation processes for participation in non‐mandatory professional development (PD) within a proactive motivation framework using the Self‐Determination Theory perspective. A multi‐group SEM analysis conducted across 439 academic and general employees of an Australian regional University provided initial support for the model. Results indicated that when employees are autonomously motivated to participate in non‐mandatory PD, intrinsic benefits are the most salient aspiration that also mediate the influence of autonomous motivation on transfer implementation intentions. Extrinsic benefits are likely to be a secondary outcome which does not directly relate to transfer implementation intentions. Further research should replicate and extend this core model in other organizational settings where participation in non‐mandatory PD is a critical factor in the effectiveness of the organization.
TMPRSS2 Met160Val polymorphism: Significant association with sporadic prostate cancer, but not with latent prostate cancer in Japanese men
Authors: Maekawa Shigekatsu , Suzuki Motofumi , Arai Tomio , Suzuki Makoto , Kato Moriaki , Morikawa Teppei , Kasuya Yutaka , Kume Haruki , Kitamura Tadaichi , Homma Yukio
Published: July 2014

Objectives

To investigate the association between the TMPRSS2 Met160Val polymorphism and the risk of prostate cancer in Japanese men.

Methods

Genomic DNA samples from 518 Japanese sporadic prostate cancer patients, 433 controls and 154 Japanese men who were diagnosed as having latent prostate cancer based on autopsy results were genotyped for the TMPRSS2 Met160Val polymorphism using a TaqMan assay. Logistic regression analyses were carried out to estimate the odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. The relationship between the presence of the polymorphism, and clinicopathology and survival was also examined.

Results

The T allele frequency of the control group was 0.372, of the sporadic prostate cancer group was 0.435 and of the latent prostate cancer group was 0.370. The CT and TT genotypes were significantly associated with risk for sporadic prostate cancer; age‐adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) were 1.418 (1.027–1.960) for CT, 1.907 (1.224–2.990) for TT and 1.524 (1.123–2.072) for CT/TT genotypes. There was no significant association observed between the TMPRSS2 Met160Val polymorphism and the risk for latent prostate cancer. The TMPRSS2 Met160Val polymorphism was not significantly associated with any clinicopathological features or prognosis.

Conclusions

The TMPRSS2 Met160Val polymorphism is a genetic risk factor for sporadic prostate cancer in a Japanese population.
Intranasal peptide‐induced tolerance and linked suppression: consequences of complement deficiency
Authors: Fossati‐Jimack Liliane , Ling Guang Sheng , Baudino Lucie , Szajna Marta , Manivannan Kiruthika , Zhao Jade Chen , Midgley Robert , Chai Jian‐Guo , Simpson Elizabeth , Botto Marina , Scott Diane
Published: July 2014

A role for complement, particularly the classical pathway, in the regulation of immune responses is well documented. Deficiencies in C1q or C4 predispose to autoimmunity, while deficiency in C3 affects the suppression of contact sensitization and generation of oral tolerance. Complement components including C3 have been shown to be required for both B‐cell and T‐cell priming. The mechanisms whereby complement can mediate these diverse regulatory effects are poorly understood. Our previous work, using the mouse minor histocompatibility (HY) model of skin graft rejection, showed that both C1q and C3 were required for the induction of tolerance following intranasal peptide administration. By comparing tolerance induction in wild‐type C57BL/6 and C1q‐, C3‐, C4‐ and C5‐deficient C57BL/6 female mice, we show here that the classical pathway components including C3 are required for tolerance induction, whereas C5 plays no role. C3‐deficient mice failed to generate a functional regulatory T (Treg) –dendritic cell (DC) tolerogenic loop required for tolerance induction. This was related to the inability of C3‐deficient DC to up‐regulate the arginine‐consuming enzyme, inducible nitric oxide synthase (Nos‐2), in the presence of antigen‐specific Treg cells and peptide, leading to reduced Treg cell generation. Our findings demonstrate that the classical pathway and C3 play a critical role in the peptide‐mediated induction of tolerance to HY by modulating DC function.
Skin sensitization induced Langerhans’ cell mobilization: variable requirements for tumour necrosis factor‐α
Authors: Eaton Laura H. , Roberts Ruth A. , Kimber Ian , Dearman Rebecca J. , Metryka Aleksandra
Published: July 2014

Upon antigen/allergen recognition, epidermal Langerhans’ cells (LC) are mobilized and migrate to the local lymph node where they play a major role in initiating or regulating immune responses. It had been proposed that all chemical allergens induce LC migration via common cytokine signals delivered by TNF‐α and IL‐1β. Here the dependence of LC migration on TNF‐α following treatment of mice with various chemical allergens has been investigated. It was found that under standard conditions the allergens oxazolone, paraphenylene diamine, and trimellitic anhydride, in addition to the skin irritant sodium lauryl sulfate, were unable to trigger LC mobilization in the absence of TNF‐α signalling. In contrast, two members of the dinitrohalobenezene family (2,4‐dinitrochlorobenzene [DNCB] and 2,4‐dinitrofluorobenzene [DNFB]) promoted LC migration independently of TNF‐R2 (the sole TNF‐α receptor expressed by LC) and TNF‐α although the presence of IL‐1β was still required. However, increasing doses of oxazolone overcame the requirement of TNF‐α for LC mobilization, whereas lower doses of DNCB were still able to induce LC migration in a TNF‐α‐independent manner. These novel findings demonstrate unexpected heterogeneity among chemical allergens and furthermore that LC can be induced to migrate from the epidermis via different mechanisms that are either dependent or independent of TNF‐α. Although the exact mechanisms with regard to the signals that activate LC have yet to be elucidated, these differences may translate into functional speciation that will likely impact on the extent and quality of allergic sensitization.
Expressing concern and writing it down: an experimental study investigating transfer of information at nursing handover
Authors: Lee Henrietta , Cumin David , Devcich Daniel A. , Boyd Matt
Published: July 2014

Aims

To examine the effects of two factors on the transmission of clinical information at nursing handover. These factors were: (i) an affective statement expressing concern about the information; and (ii) verbal reference to a written summary of the information.

Background

Quality of communication at patient handover is inconsistent, compromising patient safety. Little is known about the nuances of communication that lead to effective handovers. Furthermore, effective information transmission during handovers is seldom evaluated using experimental research designs.

Design

A randomized, single‐blind, controlled experiment.

Methods

Postanaesthesia care unit or surgical ward nurses and final‐year nursing students were randomly assigned to watch one of four versions of a video‐recorded handover. In each version, one piece of information was presented as either a simple statement (control), with an affective qualifier, with a written summary of the information, or with both an affective qualifier and a written summary. Primary outcome was assessed by questionnaire following a task directing attention away from the handover. Data were collected July–October, 2013 and analysed using 2 × 2 anova.

Results

A total of 157 nurses participated. Successful transmission of the clinical information did not significantly differ across the experimental conditions. Subgroup analysis revealed significantly higher transmission success among more experienced nurses when the affective statement was present compared to when it was absent (Kruskal–Wallis P = 0·002).

Conclusions

Expressing concern about information or directing attention to written notes may not improve information transfer at handover. However, affective qualifiers may have differential receiver‐specific influences on information retention.
Governance Issues in the EU's e‐Procurement Framework
Authors: Khorana Sangeeta , Ferguson‐Boucher Kirsten , Kerr William A.
Published: July 2014

Government procurement accounts for a considerable proportion of economic activity in the European Union (EU) yet resists integration and harmonization. The European Commission believes that the solution to integrating government procurement into the single market lies in e‐procurement. While technology has the potential to improve the efficacy of procurement processes among EU Member States, its use raises governance issues that must be addressed as a co‐requisite to adopting the technological solution. This article outlines the Commission's e‐procurement policy, develops an analytical structure for assessing the framework and highlights governance issues that need addressing if e‐procurement is to deliver on its promise.
Optimization of Enzymatic Hydrolysis for Preparation of Shrimp Flavor Precursor Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Guo Xiaoxun , Han Xiaoxiang , He Yanfei , Du Huan , Tan Zhongqin
Published: July 2014

Response surface methodology was successfully applied to optimize the process parameters for flavor precursor – enzymolysis liquor by enzymolysis technology using Penaeus chinensis waste as raw material. The parameters, namely, enzyme concentration, reaction temperature and initial pH, on the degree of hydrolysis (DH) were optimized using central composite rotatable design. The obtained optimum conditions were: initial pH value of 6.5, Dispase concentration 2.0 wt %, reaction temperature 57C and hydrolysis time 3 h with material : water ratio 1:10. Under the optimized conditions, the DH reached 57.65%. In the hydrolyzate, the content of free amino acids and essential amino acids was 29.67 and 11.30 mg/mL, respectively. This product exhibited strong delicious flavor, so it was suitable for flavor seasoning.

Practical Applications

The present work was taken up to establish the optimum conditions for extraction of the flavor precursor from hydrolyzing Penaeus chinensis waste by Dispase and obtain enzymolysis liquid that is rich in amino acids and polypeptide, which could improve the value of shrimp waste.
Effects of Home‐Based Primary Care on Medicare Costs in High‐Risk Elders
Authors: Eric De Jonge K. , Jamshed Namirah , Gilden Daniel , Kubisiak Joanna , Bruce Stephanie R. , Taler George
Published: July 2014

Objectives

To determine the effect of home‐based primary care (HBPC) on Medicare costs and mortality in frail elders.

Design

Case–control concurrent study using Medicare administrative data.

Setting

HBPC practice in Washington, District of Columbia.

Participants

HBPC cases (n = 722) and controls (n = 2,161) matched for sex, age bands, race, Medicare buy‐in status (whether Medicaid covers Part B premiums), long‐term nursing home status, cognitive impairment, and frailty. Cases were eligible if enrolled in MedStar Washington Hospital Center's HBPC program during 2004 to 2008. Controls were selected from Washington, District of Columbia, and urban counties in Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania.

Intervention

HBPC clinical service.

Measurements

Medicare costs, utilization events, mortality.

Results

Mean age was 83.7 for cases and 82.0 for controls (P < .001). A majority of both groups was female (77%) and African American (90%). During a mean 2‐year follow‐up, in univariate analysis, cases had lower Medicare ($44,455 vs $50,977, P = .01), hospital ($17,805 vs $22,096, P = .003), and skilled nursing facility care ($4,821 vs $6,098, P = .001) costs, and higher home health ($6,579 vs $4,169; P < .001) and hospice ($3,144 vs. $1,505; P = .005) costs. Cases had 23% fewer subspecialist visits (P = .001) and 105% more generalist visits (P < .001). In a multivariate model, cases had 17% lower Medicare costs, averaging $8,477 less per beneficiary (P = .003) over 2 years of follow‐up. There was no difference between cases and controls in mortality (40% vs 36%, hazard ratio = 1.06, P = .44) or in average time to death (16.2 vs 16.8 months, P = .30).

Conclusion

HBPC reduces Medicare costs for ill elders, with similar survival outcomes in cases and controls.
Brain serotonin synthesis in MDMA (ecstasy) polydrug users: an alpha‐[11C]methyl‐l‐tryptophan study
Authors: Booij Linda , Soucy Jean‐Paul , Young Simon N. , Regoli Martine , Gravel Paul , Diksic Mirko , Leyton Marco , Pihl Robert O. , Benkelfat Chawki
Published: July 2014

3,4‐Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) use may have long‐term neurotoxic effects. In this study, positron emission tomography with the tracer alpha‐[11C]methyl‐l‐tryptophan (11C‐AMT) was used to compare human brain serotonin (5‐HT) synthesis capacity in 17 currently drug‐free MDMA polydrug users with that in 18 healthy matched controls. Gender differences and associations between regional 11C‐AMT trapping and characteristics of MDMA use were also examined. MDMA polydrug users exhibited lower normalized 11C‐AMT trapping in pre‐frontal, orbitofrontal, and parietal regions, relative to controls. These differences were more widespread in males than in females. Increased normalized 11C‐AMT trapping in MDMA users was also observed, mainly in the brainstem and in frontal and temporal areas. Normalized 11C‐AMT trapping in the brainstem and pre‐frontal regions correlated positively and negatively, respectively, with greater lifetime accumulated MDMA use, longer durations of MDMA use, and shorter time elapsed since the last MDMA use. Although the possibility of pre‐existing 5‐HT alterations pre‐disposing people to use MDMA cannot be ruled out, regionally decreased 5‐HT synthesis capacity in the forebrain could be interpreted as neurotoxicity of MDMA on distal (frontal) brain regions. On the other hand, increased 5‐HT synthesis capacity in the raphe and adjacent areas could be due to compensatory mechanisms.

image

Animal studies showed that MDMA (3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine, ecstasy) exposure alters brain serotonin neurotransmission. Whether these effects are permanent is unknown. The present human study found that, compared to controls, young adult MDMA users had lower serotonin synthesis in parts of the frontal cortex, and greater serotonin synthesis in other regions, including the brainstem. The strength of these effects correlated with severity of use. The findings may indicate that MDMA can be neurotoxic but the brain may also have the capacity to regenerate, depending on the specific brain region. Longitudinal studies are needed to test the clinical relevance of these findings.
Alpha and Performance Measurement: The Effects of Investor Disagreement and Heterogeneity
Authors: FERSON WAYNE , LIN JERCHERN
Published: July 2014

The literature has not established that a positive alpha, as traditionally measured, means that an investor would want to buy a fund. When alpha is defined using the client's utility function, a positive alpha generally means the client would want to buy. When markets are incomplete, investors will disagree about the attractiveness of a fund. We provide bounds on the expected disagreement with a traditional alpha and study the cross‐sectional relation of disagreement and investor heterogeneity with the flow response to past fund alphas. The effects are both economically and statistically significant.
Proteomics profiling of keratocystic odontogenic tumours reveals AIDA as novel biomarker candidate
Authors: Ivanišević Malčić Ana , Breen Lucas , Josić Djuro , Jukić Krmek Silvana , Džombeta Tihana , Matijević Jurica , Grgurević Lovro , Pavelić Krešimir , Krušlin Božo , Kraljević Pavelić Sandra
Published: July 2014

Background

Keratocystic odontogenic tumour (KCOT) is a benign, yet aggressive odontogenic tumour. Herein, proteome analysis of KCOT lesions in comparison with control patient‐matched tissue unaffected by the disease and with inflammatory odontogenic cysts, namely radicular cysts is presented.

Methods

For the proteomics profiling, two complementary proteomics techniques MALDI‐MS/MS and LC‐ESI‐MS/MS were employed. Potential candidate biomarkers were validated by immunohistochemistry.

Results

More than 43 proteins were found to be differentially expressed or up‐regulated in KCOT lesions in comparison with patient‐matched unaffected oral mucosa. These proteins bear important biological functions and are involved in cell proliferation, cytoskeletal re‐organization, transcription, cellular motility and apoptosis. In particular, a number of differentially expressed proteins participate in autocrine regulation and signalization within JNK and p38 MAPK signalling pathways.

Conclusions

Immunohistochemical validation of chosen putative biomarkers revealed axin interaction partner and dorsalization‐antagonist (AIDA), known as a protein that blocks activation of JNK signalling pathway, as a differential biomarker for KCOT lesions on an independent cohort of KCOT tissue samples in comparison with most prevalent intra‐oseal lesions inflammatory odontogenic cysts.
Barriers to weight‐related health behaviours: a qualitative comparison of the socioecological conditions between pregnant and post‐partum low‐income women
Authors: Graham Meredith , Uesugi Keriann , Olson Christine
Published: July 2014

The association between socioecological factors and poor health outcomes for low‐income women and their children has been the focus of disparities research for several decades. This research compares the socioecological conditions among low‐income women from pregnancy to post‐partum and highlights the factors that make weight management increasingly difficult after delivery. As part of the formative research for an online health intervention, group and individual interviews were conducted with low‐income pregnant and post‐partum women. Five pregnancy group interviews (n = 15 women), five post‐partum group interviews (n = 23 women) and seven individual interviews with a total of 45 participants were conducted in Rochester, New York. All interviews were audio‐recorded. The constant comparative method was used to code interview notes and identify emergent themes. Subjects faced many challenges that affected their attitudes, beliefs and their ability to maintain or improve healthy weight behaviours. These included unemployment, relationship issues, minimal social support, lack of education, limited health care access, pre‐existing medical conditions and neighbourhood disadvantage. Compared with pregnant women, post‐partum women faced additional difficulties, such as child illnesses and custody issues. The most striking differences between pregnancy and post‐partum related to the family's medical problems and greater environmental constraints. Many factors detracted from women's capacity to engage in healthy weight behaviours post‐partum, including challenges present prior to delivery, challenges present prior to delivery that worsen after delivery, and new challenges that begin after delivery. These additional post‐partum challenges need to be considered in designing programmes, policies and interventions that promote healthy weight.
Off‐Tonic Culmination in Rachmaninoff's Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini
Authors: Johnston Blair
Published: July 2014

This article considers the implications that Sergei Rachmaninoff's concept of the ‘culminating point’ has for the analysis of his music, using the off‐tonic climax in his Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43, as exemplar and case study. In the first part of the essay I position Rachmaninoff's idea in relation to Schoenberg's and Schenker's contemporaneous views of musical coherence and goal orientation, and in relation to recent hermeneutic approaches to music from Rachmaninoff's era (especially those derived from Hepokoski's work), showing how Rachmaninoff's idea, although it shares a nineteenth‐century heritage with those theorists' ideas, has its own analytical and hermeneutic entailments. In the second part of the essay, drawing on metaphors used by Rachmaninoff and on theoretical work by Candace Brower, I outline a model for understanding a culminating point as a moment where contextually determined rhetorical‐structural features map in striking, potentially ‘extraordinary’ ways onto physically oriented ‘image schemas’. I demonstrate the model in brief analyses of four Rachmaninoff works and then treat the Rhapsody at length, showing how image schemas involved at the culminating point interact with the work's generic‐ formal features and large‐scale tonal plan.
New wind in the sails: improving the agronomic value of crop plants through RNAi‐mediated gene silencing
Authors: Koch Aline , Kogel Karl‐Heinz
Published: July 2014

RNA interference (RNAi) has emerged as a powerful genetic tool for scientific research over the past several years. It has been utilized not only in fundamental research for the assessment of gene function, but also in various fields of applied research, such as human and veterinary medicine and agriculture. In plants, RNAi strategies have the potential to allow manipulation of various aspects of food quality and nutritional content. In addition, the demonstration that agricultural pests, such as insects and nematodes, can be killed by exogenously supplied RNAi targeting their essential genes has raised the possibility that plant predation can be controlled by lethal RNAi signals generated in planta. Indeed, recent evidence argues that this strategy, called host‐induced gene silencing (HIGS), is effective against sucking insects and nematodes; it also has been shown to compromise the growth and development of pathogenic fungi, as well as bacteria and viruses, on their plant hosts. Here, we review recent studies that reveal the enormous potential RNAi strategies hold not only for improving the nutritive value and safety of the food supply, but also for providing an environmentally friendly mechanism for plant protection.
Automated Integrative Complexity: Current Challenges and Future Directions
Authors: Houck Shannon C. , Conway Lucian Gideon , Gornick Laura Janelle
Published: July 2014

Automating integrative complexity is fraught with many challenges. To address these challenges, we discuss the tension between a specificity approach and a more flexible multiple‐pass approach, the multifaceted nature of the complexity construct, the gold standard for complexity measurement, the difficulty of human scoring and its consequences for automation, and some ways forward for creating the best complexity measurements. In so doing, we present new data demonstrating (1) initial evidence for the validity of a new automated system for measuring two different forms of complexity (elaborative and dialectical), (2) the danger of constructing measurements in a purely ad hoc fashion that ignores prospective testing, (3) human‐to‐computer correspondence is in part a function of human‐to‐human correspondence, (4) human‐to‐computer correspondence increases systematically as one uses tests with larger units of analysis, and (5) the lack of correspondence of different systems (both human and automated) may occur in part because they were designed for different units of analysis.
Candidate Character Traits in the 2012 Presidential Election
Authors: Holian David B. , Prysby Charles
Published: July 2014

This article examines the effect of perceptions of the character traits of the presidential candidate on the vote in 2012. Barack Obama was perceived more favorably than Mitt Romney on empathy, integrity, and competence, and just as favorably on leadership. The more favorable perceptions of Obama were due to very unfavorable perceptions of Romney; perceptions of Obama were mixed and were less favorable than they were in 2008. Trait perceptions had a significant effect on the vote. Independents were most strongly affected, and they were particularly affected by perceptions of leadership and empathy. Democrats were influenced more by perceptions of empathy and competence, and Republicans were influenced more by leadership and integrity.
Seedling Ecology and Restoration of Blackbrush (Coleogyne ramosissima) in the Mojave Desert, United States
Authors: Jones Lisa C. , Schwinning Susanne , Esque Todd C.
Published: July 2014

Increases in fire frequency are disrupting many ecological communities not historically subjected to fire. In the southwestern United States, the blackbrush (Coleogyne ramosissima) community is among the most threatened, often replaced by invasive annual grasses after fire. This long‐lived shrub is vulnerable because it recruits sporadically, partially due to mast seeding and the absence of a seed bank. The goal of this study was to evaluate if shrub restoration can be enhanced by identifying and ameliorating recruitment limitations. Specifically, we tested the effect of encapsulating seeds in predation‐deterring “seed balls.” We also tested the effects of nurse plants and mammalian exclusion cages on seedling emergence, growth, and survivorship. These experiments were conducted in a full‐factorial design across three sites differing in elevation. Over 2 years, 13% of all planted seeds emerged and the effect of seed balls was overwhelmingly negative because of low emergence. Nurse plants had overall positive effects at Low Elevation, but negative effects at Mid‐ and High Elevation. Emergence and survival were highest in caged plots everywhere, and effect sizes increased with elevation. Interactions between the cage and the nurse plant treatments indicated that nurse plants tended to attract mammalian predators, lowering emergence and seedling survivorship, particularly at higher elevations. Findings conform to the stress‐gradient hypothesis in that interactions among seedlings and mature plants shifted from facilitation to competition as environmental stress decreased with increasing elevation, suggesting that they are transferable to ecologically similar communities elsewhere. Knowledge of site‐specific recruitment limitations can help minimize ineffective restoration efforts.
An Effective Method for Collecting and Storing Seeds from Zostera marina (Eelgrass) in the Yellow Sea, China
Authors: Pan Jinhua , Jiang Xin , Li Xiaojie , Han Houwei , Zhang Zhuangzhi , Li Zhiling , Yu Shenhui , Song Shaofeng , Wu Ruina , Jiang Yongxin , Zhao Nan , Yang Guanpin
Published: July 2014

The coast of the Yellow Sea in China, like many other temperate coastal zones, has been experiencing a dramatic decline in the abundance of seagrass. Intensive efforts have been made to restore seagrass communities along the coast to restore the function of the coastal ecosystem. Transplanting adult Zostera marina shoots is labor‐intensive, time‐consuming, expensive, and detrimental to donor beds; thus, restoring seagrass communities through the use of seeds is highly valued in current, large‐scale restoration trials. In this study, an effective method for collecting, processing, and storing Z. marina seeds was developed. From 2009 to 2013, respectively, 122,000, 421,000, 364,000, 1,041,000, and 1,091,000 seeds were successfully collected. Two‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed the interaction between salinity and temperature significantly affected the cumulative germination rate (CGR) (p < 0.01) during the storage period and the viability (p < 0.01) of seeds after storage. The germination rate after storage was significantly affected by salinity and temperature (p < 0.01). The highest viability (89.8 ± 1.0%) and germination rate (75.6 ± 4.5%) were found among seeds stored at 4°C and a salinity of 44.5 psu for 7 months. The cost for planting 1 ha of sea bottom with Z. marina seeds ranged from $2,613 to $80,900 depending on the seeding density and seed loss during storage. The average cost per Z. marina seed in this study was $0.00586.
Dental care and oral health in Aagenaes syndrome/lymphedema cholestasis syndrome 1
Authors: Bågesund Mats , Shafiee Zahra , Drivdal Monica , Berdén Jan , Storhaug Kari
Published: July 2014

Aagenaes syndrome/lymphedema cholestasis syndrome 1 (LCS1) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by neonatal cholestasis and lymphedema. The aim was to assess dental care and oral health in adults with LCS1. Fifteen (9M, 6F) individuals diagnosed with LCS1, aged 19–59 years participated. The study evaluated salivary secretion rate, dental radiographs, intraoral photos and included a questionnaire. Eight (53%) had regular dental checkups. Three had received subsidized dental care. Seven (47%) had two or more subjective symptoms of xerostomia. Three (20%) had a decreased stimulated salivary secretion rate below 0.7 mL/minute. Seven (47%) had dentin caries. Marginal periodontitis was found in all six patients above 35 years of age, but not before that age. Thirteen (87%) had tooth discoloration, which was extensive in three (20%).

Conclusion. Several patients with LCS1 have problems with periodontitis and tooth discoloration. Frequent dental checkups are therefore recommended.
LetCausatives and (A)symmetricdat‐nomConstructions
Authors: Wood Jim , Sigurðsson Halldór Ármann
Published: July 2014

The verbláta‘let/make’ in Icelandic provides a unique opportunity to understand the behavior of symmetric versus asymmetricdat‐nomconstructions, as well as the nature of nominative‐accusative case alternations. In this paper, we take a close look atlátaand examine a set of cases wheredat‐nomverbs are embedded underláta, resulting in the otherwise nominative object becoming accusative in some cases and remaining nominative in others. We propose that phase extension of an Appl head underlies both the availability of accusative in an embeddeddat‐nomverb and the possibility of A‐moving a nominative object past the dative to the subject position. We further hypothesize that the base‐generated position of the verbal root in the syntax underlies the lexical difference between symmetric and asymmetricdat‐nomverbs.
Development and characterization of an equine skin‐equivalent model
Authors: Cerrato Santiago , Ramió‐Lluch Laura , Brazís Pilar , Rabanal Rosa Maria , Fondevila Dolors , Puigdemont Anna
Published: July 2014

Background

There is increasing interest in the biological and pathological study of equine skin owing to the high prevalence of cutaneous diseases in horses. However, knowledge of equine skin cell biology and cultures is limited by the low number ofin vitrostudies in the literature.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The objective of the study was to develop and characterize anin vitroequine skin equivalent.

Methods

Cultures of pure equine keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts were obtained by enzymatic digestion of skin biopsies. Fibroblasts were embedded into type I collagen matrices to obtain dermal scaffolds, the surface of which was seeded with keratinocytes. The three‐dimensional cultures were exposed to the air–liquid interface to enable epidermal stratification.

Results

After 14 days in air‐exposed conditions, histological analysis showed that keratinocytes underwent differentiation into a multilayered epidermis. Immunohistochemical studies revealed the expression of epidermal cytokeratin in keratinocytes, whereas vimentin was expressed in dermal fibroblasts, as expected in equine skin. Immunostaining of Ki67 showed proliferative keratinocytes in the stratum basale. A continuous basement membrane at the dermo‐epidermal junction was also detected immunohistochemically through the expression of its major components (typeIVcollagen and laminin 5). Ultrastructural analysis by electron microscopy showed desmosomes located among keratinocytes in all layers and hemidesmosomes among the basal keratinocytes and lamina densa.

Conclusions and clinical importance

This study reports, for the first time, the development of anin vitroequine skin‐equivalent model that resembles equine skin morphologically, immunohistochemically and ultrastructurally.
Internet‐based survey on current practice for evaluation, prevention, and treatment of scars, hypertrophic scars, and keloids
Authors: Lumenta David B. , Siepmann Eva , Kamolz Lars‐Peter
Published: July 2014

No universally accepted standard for evaluation, prevention, and treatment of scars, hypertrophic scars, and keloids exists. Following development of a questionnaire, we performed a closed Web‐based survey among burn centers. Server‐based data collection was performed over 4 weeks and closed thereafter.

The poll revealed emerging new treatment schemes, but the majority of participants adhered to evaluation (Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale, Matching Assessment of Scars and Photographs, Vancouver Scar Scale, two‐dimensional photography) and prevention (silicone gel sheets and compression garments) strategies that were in line with the currently available recommendations from the literature. We noted a low penetration for the use of objective evaluation tools in our poll and detected differences in surgical approaches to keloids.

Based on the results of our survey and the power of currently available clinical recommendations, we expect future guidelines to gain more evidence‐based power, especially when more high‐quality clinical trials with objective evaluation support, clearly defined disease entities, and therapeutic outcome factors have become available.
The effect of ankle range of motion on venous ulcer healing rates
Authors: Yim Elizabeth , Richmond Nicholas A. , Baquerizo Katherine , Van Driessche Freya , Slade Herbert B. , Pieper Barbara , Kirsner Robert S.
Published: July 2014

Limitation of ankle movement may contribute to calf muscle pump failure, which is thought to contribute to venous leg ulcer formation, which affects nearly 1 million Americans. We therefore wished to study ankle movement in patients with venous leg ulcers and its effect on healing. Using goniometry, we measured baseline ankle range of motion in venous leg ulcer patients from a Phase 2 dose‐finding study of an allogeneic living cell bioformulation. Two hundred twenty‐seven patients were enrolled in four active treatment groups and one standard‐care control group, all receiving compression therapy. Goniometry data from a control group of 49 patients without venous disease, from a previous study, was used for comparison. We found patients with active venous leg ulcers had significantly reduced ankle range of motion compared with the control group (p = 0.001). After 12 weeks of therapy, baseline ankle range of motion was not associated with healing, as there was no significant difference between healed and nonhealed groups, suggesting that ankle range of motion is not important in venous leg ulcer healing or, more likely, is overcome by compression. However, patients with venous ulcers located on the leg (as opposed to the ankle) had significantly higher ankle range of motion for plantar flexion and inversion (p = 0.021 and p = 0.034, respectively) and improved healing with both cell bioformulation and standard care (p = 0.011), suggesting that wound location is an important variable for ankle range of motion as well as for healing outcomes.
Efficacy of intralesional recombinant human epidermal growth factor in diabetic foot ulcers in Mexican patients: A randomized double‐blinded controlled trial
Authors: Gomez‐Villa Ramiro , Aguilar‐Rebolledo Francisco , Lozano‐Platonoff Adriana , Teran‐Soto Juan Miguel , Fabian‐Victoriano Maria Rosy , Kresch‐Tronik Nicole Stephanie , Garrido‐Espíndola Ximena , Garcia‐Solis Adriana , Bondani‐Guasti Augusto , Bierzwinsky‐Sneider Guillermo , Contreras‐Ruiz José
Published: July 2014

The healing process in diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is hindered by factors such as chronic inflammation, defects in fibroblast function, poor angiogenesis, and lack of cell migration. Recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) has been shown to enhance extracellular matrix formation, cellular proliferation, and angiogenesis. Therefore, intralesional application of rhEGF in DFU could accelerate wound healing. Our objective was to determine the efficacy and safety of rhEGF in patients with DFU. A randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled study was conducted comparing a thrice‐per‐week intralesional application of rhEGF (75 μg) or placebo in patients with DFU for 8 weeks. The number of completely healed ulcers, size, and wound bed characteristics were evaluated to determine the efficacy of rhEGF. Adverse events were recorded and analyzed to establish its safety. A total of 34 patients were recruited for the study. After three dropouts, we were able to follow and analyze 16 patients in the placebo group and 15 patients in the rhEGF study to the end of the trial. Baseline testing showed that both groups were similar. Compared to the placebo group, more ulcers achieved complete healing in the rhEGF group (rhEGF, n = 4; placebo, n = 0; p = 0.033); ulcers in the rhEGF group decreased in area size (12.5 cm2 [rhEGF] vs. 5.2 cm2 [placebo]; p = 0.049); and more epithelial islands in the wound bed were present (28% vs. 3%; p = 0.025). Mild transitory dizziness was the only side effect that was more frequently noted in the rhEGF group. Our results showed that in patients with DFU who received standard care, intralesional rhEGF application resulted in complete healing in more patients, promoted the epithelialization of the wound bed, and significantly reduced the area of the DFU treated. Therefore, rhEGF resulted in better outcomes for patients suffering from DFU.
Costs of burn care: A systematic review
Authors: Hop M. Jenda , Polinder Suzanne , van der Vlies Cornelis H. , Middelkoop Esther , van Baar Margriet E.
Published: July 2014

Burn care is traditionally considered expensive care. However, detailed information about the costs of burn care is scarce despite the increased need for this information and the enhanced focus on healthcare cost control. In this study, economic literature on burn care was systematically reviewed to examine the problem of burn‐related costs. Cost or economic evaluation studies on burn care that had been published in international peer‐reviewed journals from 1950 to 2012 were identified. The methodology of these articles was critically appraised by two reviewers, and cost results were extracted. A total of 156 studies met the inclusion criteria. Nearly all of the studies were cost studies (n = 153) with a healthcare perspective (n = 139) from high‐income countries (n = 127). Hospital charges were often used as a proxy for costs (n = 44). Three studies were cost‐effectiveness analyses. The mean total healthcare cost per burn patient in high‐income countries was $88,218 (range $704–$717,306; median $44,024). A wide variety of methodological approaches and cost prices was found. We recommend that cost studies and economic evaluations employ a standard approach to improve the quality and harmonization of economic evaluation studies, optimize comparability, and improve insight into burn care costs and efficiency.