bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exclusionary Reactions to Foreign Cultures: Effects of Simultaneous Exposure to Cultures in Globalized Space
Authors: Torelli Carlos J. , Chiu Chi‐Yue , Tam Kim‐pong , Au Al K. C. , Keh Hean Tat
Published: December 2011

In globalized economies, people often encounter symbols of dissimilar cultures simultaneously. Research on the psychological effects of simultaneous exposure to dissimilar cultures is therefore strategically located at the intersection of globalization, culture, and psychology. In seven experiments, we showed that exposure to a commercial product that embodies symbols of two dissimilar cultures can enhance perceptibility of cultural differences (Experiments 2, 5, and 6) and perceptions of cultural incompatibility (Experiment 1). Furthermore, following simultaneous exposure to two dissimilar cultures, individuals may display defensive responses to “cultural contamination” of an iconic cultural brand when mortality concerns are salient (Experiments 3, 4, and 7). Finally, although we obtained a robust bicultural exposure effect across experiments, thoughtful elaboration about cultural complexities can attenuate this effect and its attendant defensive responses to “cultural contamination” (Experiments 5–7).
Tattoo Removal: Three Snapshots
Authors: Phillips Susan A.
Published: December 2011

These snapshot essays are based on fieldwork conducted at an East L.A. tattoo removal clinic serving a population of former prisoners, ex‐gang members, and recovering drug addicts. The snapshots explore gendered lifeways surrounding these categories and are based on ethnographic accounts of women who seek bodily and social transformation.
RoundTrip: Filming a Return Home
Authors: Torresan Angela
Published: December 2011

Visual anthropologists are aware that we can effectively use cameras (photo or video) as methodological devices. We can document events, create relationships, and present our findings in visual format. But few of us have discussed the conceptual capacity of the images we create in ethnographic research. Taking MacDougall's argument that images produce a different kind of knowledge, I use the example of a film I made about a Brazilian immigrant in Lisbon to explore how the process of filming has helped me to conceptualize some of my ethnography. I contend that the double potential of images (as indexes and icons) can result in a specific mode of analytical approach. In the case I highlight here, filming Eugenia's first visit back home has made us both realize the transformative nature of this event to her perception and practice of homemaking.
A Child's Right to Participation: Photovoice as Methodology for Documenting the Experiences of Children Living in Kenyan Orphanages
Authors: Johnson Ginger A.
Published: December 2011

Through ethnographic research, including participatory photography or “photovoice,” this research project explored the changing landscape of childhood faced by children living in orphanages in Kenya amidst ongoing political violence and disease epidemics. In particular, the research focused on documenting children's perceptions and experiences in two orphanages: the urban Kayole Rehabilitation Centre, a governmental agency in Nairobi; and Flying Kites Kenya, a rural nonprofit organization in Njabini. Each child was given a reusable 35 mm camera and instruction about photography. Children were asked to take pictures of daily experiences and people of importance to them. Participatory photography projects with orphaned children in both locales revealed a new conception of “family.” Ethical considerations when using visual methodologies with children are also discussed.
A Facile Hydrothermal Conversion of Rice Husk Ash to ZSM‐5 Zeolite Powders
Authors: Naskar Milan K. , Kundu Debtosh , Chatterjee Minati
Published: December 2011

The ZSM‐5 zeolite powders were prepared through in situ extraction (extraction and conversion in single step process) of silica from rice husk ash in the presence of other aqueous‐based precursors (sodium aluminate and tetrapropyl ammonium hydroxide) following a simple hydrothermal condition at 130°C–170°C. The powders were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetry analysis (TGA), differential thermal analysis (DTA), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, N2 physisorption measurements, and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Crystallizations of ZSM‐5 were noticed at 130°C/96 h, 150°C/24 h, and 170°C/12 h. The exothermic peak at 422°C in DTA curve indicated the removal of tetrapropyl ammonium ions (TPA+) used as structure directing agent (SDA). The vibration bands at around 550 and 1221 cm−1 indicated the presence of double 5‐ring in ZSM‐5. The 150°C–170°C‐treated samples exhibited higher BET surface area and pore volume compared to those of 130°C‐treated powders. The FESEM images showed coffin‐shaped morphology of the powders, and their sizes increased with increase in both reaction temperature and time.
Platelet‐derived growth factor receptor‐α cells in mouse urinary bladder: a new class of interstitial cells
Authors: Koh Byoung H. , Roy Rishiparna , Hollywood Mark A. , Thornbury Keith D. , McHale Noel G. , Sergeant Gerard P. , Hatton William J. , Ward Sean M. , Sanders Kenton M. , Koh Sang Don
Published: December 2011

Specific classes of interstitial cells exist in visceral organs and have been implicated in several physiological functions including pacemaking and mediators in neurotransmission. In the bladder, Kit+ interstitial cells have been reported to exist and have been suggested to be neuromodulators. More recently a second interstitial cell, which is identified using antibodies against platelet‐derived growth factor receptor‐α (PDGFR‐α) has been described in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and has been implicated in enteric motor neurotransmission. In this study, we examined the distribution of PDGFR‐α+ cells in the murine urinary bladder and the relation that these cells may have with nerve fibres and smooth muscle cells. Platelet‐derived growth factor receptor‐α+ cells had a spindle shape or stellate morphology and often possessed multiple processes that contacted one another forming a loose network. These cells were distributed throughout the bladder wall, being present in the lamina propria as well as throughout the muscularis of the detrusor. These cells surrounded and were located between smooth muscle bundles and often came into close morphological association with intramural nerve fibres. These data describe a new class of interstitial cells that express a specific receptor within the bladder wall and provide morphological evidence for a possible neuromodulatory role in bladder function.
Immunogenicity of allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Schu Sabine , Nosov Mikhail , O'Flynn Lisa , Shaw Georgina , Treacy Oliver , Barry Frank , Murphy Mary , O'Brien Timothy , Ritter Thomas
Published: December 2011

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) inhibit proliferation of allogeneic T cells and express low levels of major histocompatibility complex class I (MHCI), MHCII and vascular adhesion molecule‐1 (VCAM‐1). We investigated whether their immunosuppressive properties and low immunophenotype protect allogeneic rat MSCs against cytotoxic lysis in vitro and result in a reduced immune response in vivo. Rat MSCs were partially protected against alloantigen‐specific cytotoxic T cells in vitro. However, after treatment with IFN‐γ and IL‐1β, MSCs upregulated MHCI, MHCII and VCAM‐1, and cytotoxic lysis was significantly increased. In vivo, allogeneic T cells but not allogeneic MSCs induced upregulation of the activation markers CD25 and CD71 as well as downregulation of CD62L on CD4+ T cells from recipient rats. However, intravenous injection of allo‐MSCs in rats led to the formation of alloantibodies with the capacity to facilitate complement‐mediated lysis, although IgM levels were markedly decreased compared with animals that received T cells. The allo‐MSC induced immune response was sufficient to lead to significantly reduced survival of subsequently injected allo‐MSCs. Interestingly, no increased immunogenicity of IFN‐γ stimulated allo‐MSCs was observed in vivo. Both the loss of protection against cytotoxic lysis under inflammatory conditions and the induction of complement‐activating antibodies will likely impact the utility of allogeneic MSCs for therapeutic applications.
A systematic review on the association between genetic predisposition and dental implant biological complications
Authors: Dereka Xanthippi , Mardas Nikos , Chin Sarah , Petrie Aviva , Donos Nikolaos
Published: December 2011

Objectives

The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the relationship between genetic polymorphisms and dental implant biological complications.

Material and methods

All prospective, cross‐sectional and retrospective studies reporting on dental implant loss/peri‐implantitis/peri‐implant marginal bone loss after loading in association with genetic polymorphism were considered for inclusion. A thorough search of electronic databases, supplemented by checking bibliographies of review articles was performed by two independent reviewers. Quality assessment of the included studies was conducted independently and in duplicate by two reviewers as part of the data extraction process.

Results

The search provided 344 related articles. Twenty‐two publications were identified for possible inclusion and finally, seven articles met the defined inclusion criteria. Four studies which investigated the potential relationship between early implant loss and IL‐1, IL‐2, IL‐6, TNF‐α or TGF‐β1 genotype revealed no evidence to support this association. In two of the three studies which evaluated peri‐implantitis in relation to IL‐1 genotype, the findings indicate that IL‐1RN (intron 2), IL‐1A (–899), IL‐1B (+3954) gene polymorphisms were correlated to increased peri‐implant tissue infection and destruction.

Conclusions

Methodological and study design issues restricted the possibility to draw robust conclusions. Within the limits of this review, it might be concluded that there is no obvious association between specific genetic polymorphism and dental implant failure in terms of biological complications, although a tendency should be underlined showing the potential link between IL‐1 genotype and peri‐implantitis. Well designed and adequately powered prospective cohort studies are needed to provide further information.
A comparative study to evaluate the effect of two different abutment designs on soft tissue healing and stability of mucosal margins
Authors: Patil Ratnadeep , van Brakel Ralph , Iyer Kavita , Huddleston Slater James , de Putter Cornelis , Cune Marco
Published: December 2011

Aim

To evaluate the effect of two different abutment designs on soft tissue healing and the stability of the mucosal margin in vivo.

Materials and methods

Twenty‐nine subjects received two, non‐adjacent endosseous implants in the esthetic zone. Subsequently, conventional (control) and curved abutments (experimental) were placed in combination with a temporary restoration (left–right randomization). Plaster models of the healed sites were made to assess the stability of the soft tissues at baseline and after 6 weeks. To measure deseating force, a dontrix gauge was used while removing the abutments after 6 weeks.

Results

Although visually, differences in the transmucosal area were observed, the differences in marginal recession and in deseating force between abutments from the experimental and the control group never reached a statistically significant level. In general, some gain in soft tissue height was seen in both groups. Angled abutments elicited recession at all buccal sites (P = 0.003–0.02).

Conclusion

Abutments with a circumferential groove do not lead to a different response of the mucosal margin compared with a regular abutment, and are no more resistant upon removal than regular abutments after 6 weeks of function.
A 6‐month histological analysis on maxillary sinus augmentation with and without use of collagen membranes over the osteotomy window: randomized clinical trial
Authors: Barone A. , Ricci M. , Grassi R. F. , Nannmark U. , Quaranta A. , Covani U.
Published: December 2011

Introduction

Over the years, several modifications have been made to the sinus augmentation technique and to the materials used. However, there is still controversy about the need for using a barrier concurrently with a graft in sinus augmentation procedures. On this basis, the aim of this randomized clinical study was to investigate the effect of resorbable collagen membrane over the osteotomy window on maxillary sinus augmentation healing.

Materials and methods

Patients who required maxillary sinus augmentation were evaluated and selected to enter the study. After maxillary sinus grafting, each patient was randomly assigned to control (membrane over the osteotomy window) or test (no membrane) group. After 6 months, one bone biopsy was harvested from the lateral window and sent to the histology laboratory. The Mann–Whitney nonparametric test was used for comparing the two groups. P‐value was set at 5%.

Results

Eighteen patients entered the study and were randomly allocated in control (nine patients) or test group (nine patients). The histomorphometric measurements revealed that newly formed bone was 30.7% ± 15.5% of the total volume from the membrane group (control). The average percentage of connective tissue was 50.6% ± 18.7% and residual graft percentage was 18.4% ± 20.3%. On the other hand, data regarding the nonmembrane group (test) showed that the percentage of newly formed bone was 28.1% ± 19.4%. The mean percentage of connective tissues was 59.3% ± 15.4% and 12.6% ± 12.4% for the residual graft particles. No significant difference was detected in the histomorphometrical evaluation between the two groups.

Discussion

Our results showed that, compared with sites not covered, the use of the membrane did not substantially increase the amount of vital bone over a period of 6 months. On the other hand, the use of membrane seems to reduce the proliferation of the connective tissue and the graft re‐absorption rate. It is plausible that blood supply of maxillary sinus can play a role in such a result. Further studies are needed to explore whether the use of membrane could really be advantageous for the sinus augmentation procedure and to evaluate what influence this method can have on the amount and quality of reconstructed bone.
Osteotome technique with injectable tissue‐engineered bone and simultaneous implant placement by cell therapy
Authors: Yamada Yoichi , Nakamura Sayaka , Ueda Minoru , Ito Kenji
Published: December 2011

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of tissue‐engineered bone (TEB) on osteotome technique with simultaneous implant placement that is applied to the severe bone resorption in the maxilla for earlier bone regeneration and minimal invasive operation.

Material and methods

We applied injectable TEB, which was composed of bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) as stem cell source and platelet‐rich plasma as an autologous scaffold and signal molecules, with osteotome technique for 23 cases. After dental implants were pre‐prepared with pilot drills and/or using the Summers Osteotome Kits, TEB was injected and followed by dental implants insertion. The outcomes were evaluated by radiographs. Statistical evaluation was performed by Friedman test and Wilcoxon signed‐rank test (P ≤ 0.05).

Results

The grafted BMMSCs possessed a phenotype of mesenchymal stem cells. The lift‐up bone height by TEB using BMMSCs showed the increase of 6.1 ± 1.5 mm. Moreover, the mean regenerated bone height was 8.2 ± 1.6 mm and 8.0 ± 1.4 mm, and the average alveolar bone height was 15.6 ± 1.2 mm and 15.1 ± 1.4 mm, at 3 and 6 months, respectively. There were significant differences between pre‐operative values and post‐operative ones (at 3, 6 months). No perforations of the Schneider membrane were found and the inserted implants were successful after 1 year.

Conclusions

This novel application using osteotome technique with injectable TEB would stably predict the success of bone formation and dental implants, and provide minimally invasive cell therapy.
Perceived behavioural control and coping planning predict dental brushing behaviour among Iranian adolescents
Authors: Pakpour Amir H. , Sniehotta Falko F.
Published: December 2011

Background and Aim

The aim of this prospective study was to test the role of the direct predictors in the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), perceived behavioural control (PBC) and intention as well as action planning and coping planning as predictors of changes in dental brushing behaviour among Iranian adolescents.

Materials and Methods

One thousand students were selected from 57 high schools in Qazvin, IR Iran. N = 983 participants completed an initial questionnaire at Time 1 and they were asked to complete a follow‐up questionnaire 1 month later (Time 2). At Time 1, PBC, behavioural intention, action planning and coping planning were assessed. Dental brushing behaviour was assessed both at Time 1 and 4 weeks later at Time 2. A hierarchical regression analysis was conducted to examine the predictive validity of PBC, intention, action planning and coping planning both, as main effects and as interactions on dental brushing behaviour.

Results

Past behaviour, gender and age explained 46.5% of the variance in dental brushing at Time 2 in step 1. Adding intention to brush, PBC, action planning and coping planning in the second and third step explained an additional 24.9% of the variance in dental brushing at Time 2. Adding the interactions terms for action planning × coping planning, action planning × PBC and coping planning × PBC further increased the predictive validity of the model by 6.00% over and above the main effects.

Conclusion

Intentions, PBC, action planning and coping planning are predictive variables for oral self‐care behaviour. This finding suggests that an intervention simultaneously targeting PBC, action planning and coping planning might be particularly promising to promote oral self‐care in adolescence.
Successful implementation of cooperative handling eliminates the need for restraint in a complex non‐human primate disease model
Authors: Graham Melanie L. , Rieke Eric F. , Mutch Lucas A. , Zolondek Elizabeth K. , Faig Aaron W. , DuFour Theresa A. , Munson James W. , Kittredge Jessica A. , Schuurman Henk‐Jan
Published: December 2011

Background  Streptozotocin‐induced diabetic non‐human primates are used to study efficacy and safety of innovative immunosuppression after islet transplantation. We implemented a training program for medical management of a chronic disease state.

Methods  Cooperation with hand feeding and drinking, shifting, and limb presentation were trained utilizing predominately positive but also negative reinforcement in 52 animals compared with 28 macaques subjected to conventional physical and/or chemical restraint. The success and timing of behavior acquisition was evaluated in a representative subset of 14 animals.

Results  Over 90% of animals were successful in behavior acquisition. Programmatically this resulted in complete elimination of chair restraint and negligible requirement for sedation. About half of the trained animals had no‐to‐moderate thymic involution, indicative of a substantial reduction in stress.

Conclusion  Cooperative handling enhances animal well‐being. This contributes to validity of scientific results and eliminates model‐induced confounding that can obstruct interpretation of safety and efficacy data.
Dental follicle cells and cementoblasts induce apoptosis of ameloblast‐lineage and Hertwig’s epithelial root sheath/epithelial rests of Malassez cells through the Fas–Fas ligand pathway
Authors: Lee Ji‐Hyun , Lee Dong‐Seol , Nam Hyun , Lee Gene , Seo Byoung‐Moo , Cho Young‐Sik , Bae Hyun‐Sook , Park Joo‐Cheol
Published: December 2011

Lee J‐H, Lee D‐S, Nam H, Lee G, Seo B‐M, Cho Y‐S, Bae H‐S, Park J‐C. Dental follicle cells and cementoblasts induce apoptosis of ameloblast‐lineage and Hertwig’s epithelial root sheath/epithelial rests of Malassez cells through the Fas–Fas ligand pathway.
 
Eur J Oral Sci 2012; 120: 29–37. © 2011 Eur J Oral Sci

Hertwig’s epithelial root sheath (HERS), epithelial rests of Malassez (ERM) cells, and reduced ameloblasts undergo apoptosis during tooth development. This study examined the effects of dental follicle cells and cementoblasts on the apoptosis of ameloblast‐lineage and HERS/ERM cells derived from the enamel organ. We also elucidated the induction pathways and identified the apoptotic pathway involved in this process. Here, we showed terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated biotin–dUTP nick‐end labeling (TUNEL)‐positive HERS cells and reduced ameloblasts near dental follicle cells during tooth development. Co‐culturing ameloblast‐lineage cell line (ALC) ameloblasts and HERS/ERM cells with either dental follicle cells or OCCM‐30 cementoblasts markedly enhanced the apoptosis of ameloblasts and HERS/ERM cells compared with cells cultured alone. However, dental follicle cells and cementoblasts did not modulate the apoptotic responses of co‐cultured non‐odontogenic MCF10A or KB cells. When ameloblasts + HERS and cementoblasts + dental follicle cells were co‐cultured, the expression of Fas ligand (FasL) increased in cementoblasts + dental follicle cells, while the expression of Fas increased in ameloblasts + HERS. Interestingly, recombinant FasL induced ameloblast apoptosis while the cementoblast‐induced ameloblast apoptosis was suppressed by the Fas/FasL antagonist Kp7‐6. These results suggest that during tooth development, dental follicle cells and cementoblasts induce apoptosis of ameloblast‐lineage and HERS/ERM cells through the Fas–FasL pathway, but do not induce the apoptosis of non‐odontogenic epithelial cells.
Wnt/β‐catenin pathway regulates bone morphogenetic protein (BMP2)‐mediated differentiation of dental follicle cells
Authors: Silvério K. G. , Davidson K. C. , James R. G. , Adams A. M. , Foster B. L. , Nociti F. H. , Somerman M. J. , Moon R. T.
Published: December 2011

Silvério KG, Davidson KC, James RG, Adams AM, Foster BL, Nociti FH Jr, Somerman MJ, Moon RT. Wnt/β‐catenin pathway regulates bone morphogenetic protein (BMP2)‐mediated differentiation of dental follicle cells. J Periodont Res 2012; 47: 309–319. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Background and Objective:  Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2)‐induced osteogenic differentiation has been shown to occur through the canonical Wnt/βcatenin pathway, whereas factors promoting canonical Wnt signaling in cementoblasts inhibit cell differentiation and promote cell proliferation in vitro. The aim of this study was to investigate whether putative precursor cells of cementoblasts, dental follicle cells (murine SVF4 cells), when stimulated with BMP2, would exhibit changes in genes/proteins associated with the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway.

Material and Methods:  SVF4 cells were stimulated with BMP2, and the following assays were carried out: (i) Wnt/β‐catenin pathway activation assessed by western blotting, β‐catenin/transcription factor (TCF) reporter assays and expression of the lymphoid enhancer‐binding factor‐1 (Lef1), transcription factor 7 (Tcf 7), Wnt inhibitor factor 1 (Wif1) and Axin2 (Axin2) genes; and (ii) cementoblast/osteoblast differentiation assessed by mineralization in vitro, and by the mRNA levels of runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), osterix (Osx), alkaline phosphatase (Alp), osteocalcin (Ocn) and bone sialoprotein (Bsp), determined by quantitative PCR after treatment with wingless‐type MMTV integration site family, member 3A (WNT3A) and knockdown of β‐catenin.

Results:  WNT3A induced β‐catenin nuclear translocation and up‐regulated the transcriptional activity of a canonical Wnt‐responsive reporter, suggesting that the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway functions in SVF4 cells. Activation of Wnt signaling with WNT3A suppressed BMP2‐mediated induction of cementoblast/osteoblast maturation of SVF4 cells. However, β‐catenin knockdown showed that the BMP2‐induced expression of cementoblast/osteoblast differentiation markers requires endogenous β‐catenin. WNT3A down‐regulated transcripts for Runx2, Alp and Ocn in SVF4 cells compared with untreated cells. In contrast, BMP2 induction of Bsp transcripts occurred independently of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling.

Conclusion:  These data suggest that stabilization of β‐catenin by WNT3A inhibits BMP2‐mediated induction of cementoblast/osteoblast differentiation in SVF4 cells, although BMP2 requires endogenous Wnt/β‐catenin signaling to promote cell maturation.
Is religiosity related to periodontal health among the adult Jewish population in Jerusalem?
Authors: Zini A. , Sgan‐Cohen H. D. , Marcenes W.
Published: December 2011

Zini A, Sgan‐Cohen H D, Marcenes W. Is religiosity related to periodontal health among the adult Jewish population in Jerusalem? J Periodont Res 2012; 47: 418–425. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Background and Objective:  Religiosity may be a relevant protective factor for periodontitis, as it is for other chronic systemic diseases. The objective of the present study was to assess the relationship between periodontitis and religiosity, and whether oral health‐related behaviours, spirituality and social support are included in the potential pathways that explain the association between religiosity and periodontitis.

Material and Methods:  Cross‐sectional data were part of a retrospective study. The stratified random‐sampling technique was limited to the Jerusalem Jewish population. Conceptual hierarchical data analysis modelling was adopted, assuming that socio‐economic position was the most distal determinant, age and gender were confounders, and social support, spirituality and oral health behaviours were mediators in the relationship between religiosity and periodontitis.

Results:  Kappa intra‐examiner values (0.89) were satisfactory. Response rate was 88.0%. The final sample included 123 men and 125 women. The mean age was 38.6 years (SD 3.25 years), with 33.9% declared to be ‘orthodox’, 33.1%‘religious’ and 33.1%‘secular’. Higher levels of religiosity (p = 0.01), support of internal life through spirituality (p = 0.03), higher family social support (p = 0.02) and low levels of plaque (p = 0.05) were related to lower levels of periodontitis. Religiosity led to higher family social support and support of internal life through spirituality, which was related to plaque level and periodontitis.

Conclusion:  Religiosity had a protective effect against periodontitis through extrinsic and intrinsic pathways. This should be considered as part of aetiology and prognosis, in potential prevention and care of periodontitis.
SENSITIVITY AND SPECIFICITY OF RADIOGRAPHY FOR DETECTION OF ELBOW INCONGRUITY IN CLINICAL PATIENTS
Authors: Samoy Yves , Gielen Ingrid , Saunders Jimmy , van Bree Henri , Van Ryssen Bernadette
Published: December 2011

Elbow incongruity is an important factor regarding the treatment and prognosis of elbow dysplasia. Our purpose was to determine the sensitivity and specificity for radiographic detection of elbow incongruity in clinical patients, to establish inter‐ and intraobserver variation for different parameters, and to evaluate the possibility of radiographic grading of incongruity. Standard radiographic projections were acquired from 29 incongruent and nine congruent elbows of dogs of various ages and breeds. Computed tomography (CT) was used to diagnose and grade the incongruity. All radiographs were evaluated by four observers for detection and grading of elbow incongruity. Sensitivity, specificity, inter‐ and intraobserver variability were calculated. The mean sensitivity for detection of incongruity was very good (88.8%) with a mean specificity of 91.7%. Correct grading of incongruity was difficult. The radioulnar step and the widening of the humeroulnar and humeroradial joint space were seen most frequently. Intraobserver and interobserver variability were fair to excellent (Kappa = 0.372–0.809), depending on the investigated parameters. Radiography is valuable to screen for elbow incongruity. In over 91% of the patients, a clear distinction could be made between a congruent and an incongruent joint grading was not possible.
Using Clinical Pathways to Aid in the Diagnosis of Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections Synthesis of Evidence
Authors: Schuster Lynn , Nuñez Diane E.
Published: December 2011

Background: Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) are rare, rapidly spreading infections that occur in the soft tissue compartments. The mortality rate is high and has been found to decrease if patients are treated early and aggressively with surgical debridement and broad‐spectrum antibiotics. Unfortunately these infections present similarly to other types of skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) making diagnosis difficult.

Aims: This paper reviews the evidence surrounding the early diagnosis of NSTIs. This was used to develop a clinical practice guideline (CPG) for implementation in the emergency department (ED) setting to assist the provider in distinguishing NSTIs from SSTIs to potentially decrease the time from presentation to diagnosis.

Methods: A review of the literature was performed. Studies were identified and critiqued by two reviewers independently for clinical relevance, study design, and statistical analysis.

Results: Signs and symptoms, or “hard signs,” associated with NSTIs include: pain out of proportion to the exam, rapidly spreading infection, presence of bullae, skin ecchymosis or sloughing, gas in the tissues, skin anesthesia, edema extending beyond the erythema, and symptoms of sepsis. Unfortunately only 43% of the patients with an NSTI will present with these signs. Studies have found an association between laboratory values and NSTIs with the most commonly associated findings being leukocytosis, azotemia, and hyponatremia. Using these complimentary clinical and laboratory values, the Laboratory Risk Indicator for NECrotizing fasciitis (LRINEC) score is an emerging tool that providers can use to determine the risk of an NSTI. A clinical pathway was developed and implemented in the ED for all patients presenting with an SSTI to assist providers in confirming or negating the presence of an NSTI.

Implication for Practice: Educating ED providers about the signs, symptoms, and laboratory findings associated with NSTIs will lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment and decreased morbidity and mortality.
Therapeutic and Toxicologic Evaluation of Anti‐Lipogenic Agents in Cancer Cells Compared with Non‐Neoplastic Cells
Authors: Deepa Perinkulam Ravi , Vandhana Suryanarayanan , Jayanthi Udayakumar , Krishnakumar Subramanian
Published: December 2011

Abstract:  Fatty acid synthase (FASN), a multi‐enzyme complex, is involved in lipid biosynthesis. FASN is over‐expressed in different types of cancers and is being widely investigated for its role in cancer progression, diagnosis and therapy. Here, three inhibitors targeting different domains of FASN – cerulenin, triclosan and orlistat – were evaluated for their anti‐proliferative efficacy in ocular cancer, retinoblastoma (RB) cells and their toxicity (if any) in normal cells. FASN inhibitors were tested in cultured retinoblastoma Y79 cells, normal fibroblast (3T3) and Müller glial (MIOM1) cells. Cell viability was determined by MTT‐based assay, and IC50 (50% inhibitory concentration) of the FASN inhibitors was calculated in neoplastic and non‐neoplastic cells. The IC50 after 48 and 96 hr of incubation with the three anti‐FASN agents showed that cerulenin, triclosan and orlistat inhibited retinoblastoma cell proliferation in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. The cancer cells exhibited differential dose‐ and time‐dependent response/sensitivities to cerulenin, triclosan and orlistat. The 48‐hr neoplastic IC50 dosages were, however, not toxic to the normal cells. These findings were confirmed by phase‐contrast microscopic assessment of cell morphology. Therapeutic index (TI) was calculated as a ratio of the IC50 normal cells, to the IC50 neoplastic cells. Relative to normal MIOM1 cells, TI was 9.18 for cerulenin, while 5.32 for triclosan and 1.72 for orlistat. The TI computed relative to 3T3 cells was 28.64, 7.10 and 2.58 for cerulenin, triclosan and orlistat, respectively. DNA fragmentation analysis suggests that FASN inhibitors induced apoptotic DNA damage in retinoblastoma cells. Thus, FASN inhibition can be an effective strategy in retinoblastoma therapy.
Cloning and sequencing of Indian Water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) interleukin‐3 cDNA
Authors: Thennarasu S. , Harishankar M. , Dhinakar Raj G.
Published: December 2011

Full‐length cDNA (435 bp) of the interleukin‐3(IL‐3) gene of the Indian water buffalo was amplified by reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction and sequenced. This sequence had 96% nucleotide identity and 92% amino acid identity with bovine IL‐3. There are 10 amino acid substitutions in buffalo compared with that of bovine. The amino acid sequence of buffalo IL‐3 also showed very high identity with that of other ruminants, indicating functional cross‐reactivity. Structural homology modelling of buffalo IL‐3 protein with human IL‐3 showed the presence of five helical structures.
PROPIONIBACTERIUM FREUDENREICHII STRAINS AS ANTIBACTERIAL AGENTS AT NEUTRAL PH AND THEIR PRODUCTION ON FOOD‐GRADE MEDIA FERMENTED BY SOME LACTOBACILLI
Authors: DANILOVA IRINA V. , LEE HAO , TOUROVA TATYANA P. , RYZHKOVA EUGENIA P. , NETRUSOV ALEXANDER I.
Published: December 2011

Propionibacteria are food‐grade microorganisms that can suppress undesirable microbes in food. Profitability of their application depends on their effectiveness against food‐spoiling bacteria and on the accessibility of the protective product. In this study, the ability of Propionibacterium freudenreichii Pr4 to retard the growth of Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas putida and Escherichia coli at neutral pH was proven. The efficiency of P. freudenreichii culture broth against all these bacteria, except E. coli, was similar to that of the chemical propionate, taken in the same amounts. Consequent cultivation with certain lactic acid bacteria was found to be a convenient way to achieve active growth of P. freudenreichii on food‐grade media. The pregrowth of Lactobacillus acidophilus 146 in skim milk and milk whey stimulated considerably the growth of P. freudenreichii Pr2 and the production of propionate. The final amount of P. freudenreichii Pr2 and L. acidophilus 146 viable cells in this case was 1.5 and 2 times more than when the bacteria grew separately. Other three Lactobacillus species tested did not provide stimulating effects. Sequential fermentation with Lactobacillus delbrueckii B‐3887 allowed to provide the growth of P. freudenreichii Pr4 in wheat flour medium and to get preparation that contains enough propionate for antirope bread protection.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Now we suggest a solid basis for the use of investigated strains of Propionibacterium freudenreichii in food bioprotection; first of all (directly due to our results) in bread manufacturing practice. They can be used as growth inhibitors of Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli and some Pseudomonas species not only in acidic but also in pH‐neutral conditions. The two‐stage cultivation of specially selected pairs of lactobacilli and propionibacteria is an approach for obtaining the propionibacteria‐containing preparations in economic and convenient way. The preparations can be applied for antibacterial protection of some other foods: dairy products, surfaces of cheeses, butter, sausages, etc.
EVALUATION OF PLANT ESSENTIAL OILS FOR CONTROL OF POSTHARVEST BROWN AND GRAY MOLD ROTS ON APRICOT
Authors: HASSANI ABBAS , FATHI ZOHREH , GHOSTA YOUBERT , ABDOLLAHI ALI , MESHKATALSADAT MOHAMMAD HADI , MARANDI RASUL JALILI
Published: December 2011

In this study, antifungal activities of Thymus vulgaris L., Eugenia caryophyllata L., Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume and Carum copticum L. essential oils against Monilinia fructicola and Botrytis cinerea, two important postharvest pathogens of stone fruit, were investigated under in vivo studies. Results showed that the essential oil treatments, especially T. vulgaris and E. caryophyllata oils, had a good antifungal activity in reduction of both disease incidence and disease severity of brown and gray mold rots caused by M. fructicola and B. cinerea on apricots, respectively. Gas chromatography (GC) and GC/mass spectrometry analysis of tested essential oils showed that thymol (37.55%), eugenol (48.76%), cinnamaldehyde (90.33%) and thymol (50.88%) were the main components of T. vulgaris, E. caryophyllata, C. zeylanicum, C. copticum oils, respectively. Application of C. copticum and E. caryophyllata oils on apricot fruit showed a significant effect on fruit quality retention as evaluated with weight loss (%), fruit firmness, total soluble solids, titratable acidity and maturity index in sensory parameters. These results revealed that T. vulgaris and E. caryophyllata oils could be natural alternatives to fungicides in the control of M. fructicola and B. cinerea infections.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Because of problems related to synthetic fungicide application, calls for research into new potential safe strategies for control of postharvest decay in crops. Plant products, especially essential oils, are one of the most promising groups of natural compounds for development of indigenous nature, nonmammalian toxicity and antimicrobial agents and their employment for the control of different postharvest pathogens is also well documented. The results of in vivo (cold storage of fruits) experiments, in this study, showed that essential oil treatment had significant effects on fungal growth. The number of infected fruits and disease severity were reduced in oil‐treated fruit and with increase of essential oil concentration the fungal growth decreased. Therefore, these compounds could be an alternative to chemical fungicides for the control of postharvest fungal diseases on apricot fruits. In addition, the application of plant essential oils could be named as new safe method for control of agricultural products.
Mixed‐species exhibition ofNeotropical primates: analysis of species combination success
Authors: Buchanan‐Smith H. M.
Published: December 2011

Many zoos worldwide exhibitNewWorld monkeys in mixed‐species exhibits, with monkeys, reptiles, birds or other mammals. Many of these exhibits are very successful, providing a more dynamic environment for the inhabitants and a more interesting and informative display for visitors. Analysis of previously published literature on the success and failure of species combinations reveals a higher success ratio for naturally associating species, but that sympatry alone does not predict the likelihood of success. Nonetheless, careful consideration of choice of species and an enclosure purpose‐designed or modified with features for the chosen species can increase success. Environmental enrichment can be designed to promote positive and natural interactions between naturally associating species. There are some precautions to be taken during the introduction of the species to increase the likelihood of compatibility, and continued monitoring of the exhibit with enclosure modification if necessary will increase the chances of longer‐term stability.
Evaluation of lateral flow devices for identification of infected poultry by testing swab and feather specimens during H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks in Vietnam
Authors: Slomka Marek J. , To Thanh L. , Tong Hien H. , Coward Vivien J. , Mawhinney Ian C. , Banks Jill , Brown Ian H.
Published: December 2011

Please cite this paper as: Slomka et al. (2012) Evaluation of lateral flow devices for identification of infected poultry by testing swab and feather specimens during H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks in Vietnam. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 6(5), 318–327.

Background  Evaluation of two commercial lateral flow devices (LFDs) for avian influenza (AI) detection in H5N1 highly pathogenic AI infected poultry in Vietnam.

Objectives  Determine sensitivity and specificity of the LFDs relative to a validated highly sensitive H5 RRT PCR.

Methods  Swabs (cloacal and tracheal) and feathers were collected from 46 chickens and 48 ducks (282 clinical specimens) and tested by both LFDs and H5 RRT PCR. A subset of 59 chicken and 34 duck specimens was also tested by virus isolation (VI), the ‘gold standard’.

Results  Twenty‐six chickens and 15 ducks were shown to be infected by at least one RRT PCR positive clinical specimen per bird. Bird‐level sensitivity for the Anigen LFD was 84·6% for chickens and 53·3% for ducks, and for the Quickvue LFD 65·4% for chickens and 33·3% for ducks. Comparison of the three clinical specimens revealed that chicken feathers were the most sensitive with 84% and 56% sensitivities for Anigen and Quickvue respectively. All 21 RRT PCR positive swabs from ducks were negative by both LFDs. However, duck feather testing gave sensitivities of 53·3% and 33·3% for Anigen and Quickvue respectively. Specificity was 100% for both LFDs in all investigations.

Conclusions  Although LFDs were less sensitive than AI RRT PCR and VI, high titre viral shedding in H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) infected and diseased chickens is sufficient for a proportion of birds to be identified as AI infected by LFDs. Feathers were the optimal specimen for LFD testing in such diseased HPAI scenarios, particularly for ducks where swab testing by LFDs failed to identify any infected birds. However, specimens should be forwarded to the laboratory for confirmation by more sensitive diagnostic techniques.
Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy as a Strategy to Arrest Enamel Demineralization: A Short‐Term Study on Incipient Caries in a Rat Model†
Authors: Baptista Alessandra , Kato Ilka T. , Prates Renato A. , Suzuki Luis C. , Raele Marcus P. , Freitas Anderson Z. , Ribeiro Martha S.
Published: December 2011

In this study we developed a rat model of incipient caries to investigate the short‐term effects of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) on oral microbiota regulation and demineralization arrestment. Twenty‐nine male rats were submitted to caries induction. Early carious lesion was confirmed by optical coherence tomography (OCT) 5 days after experiment beginning in five animals. The remaining animals (n = 24) were randomly divided into two groups: control (n = 12), animals were untreated; and aPDT (n = 12), animals were treated with 100 μM of methylene blue for 5 min and irradiated by a light emitting diode at λ = 645 ± 30 nm, fluence rate of 480 mW cm−2 and exposure time of 3 min. Bacterial burden was evaluated before, immediately after, 3, 7 and 10 days following treatment, and total number of microaerophilic bacteria was counted. OCT was also used to quantify teeth demineralization. A significant bacterial decrease of about 1.6 log was observed immediately after aPDT. Besides, bacterial load in aPDT group remained lower than control until 10 days post‐treatment (P < 0.05) and variation of optical attenuation coefficient before and after aPDT was 15%, corroborating to caries arrestment. Put together, these findings suggest that aPDT was competent to reduce cariogenic bacteria and to avoid further mineral loss.
Expert opinion and key recommendations for the physical therapy and rehabilitation of patients with ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: OZGOCMEN Salih , AKGUL Ozgur , ALTAY Zuhal , ALTINDAG Ozlem , BAYSAL Ozlem , CALIS Mustafa , CAPKIN Erhan , CEVIK Remzi , DURMUS Bekir , GUR Ali , KAMANLI Ayhan , KARKUCAK Murat , MADENCI Ercan , MELIKOGLU Meltem A. , NAS Kemal , SENEL Kazim , UGUR Mahir
Published: December 2011

Aim:  Physiotherapy is an integral part of the management of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and there is a need for recommendations which focus on the rehabilitation of patients with AS. We aimed to develop recommendations for the physical therapy and rehabilitation of patients with AS based on the evidence and expertise.

Methods:  The Anatolian Group for the Assessment in Rheumatic Diseases (ANGARD) is a scientific group of Turkish academicians (physiatrists and rheumatologists) who are experts in the rehabilitation of patients with AS. A systematic literature search summarizing the current available physiotherapy and rehabilitation trials in AS were presented to the experts before a special 2‐day meeting. Experts attending this meeting first defined a framework based on the main principles and thereafter collectively constructed six major recommendations on physiotherapy and rehabilitation in AS. After the meeting an email survey was conducted to rate the strength of the recommendations.

Results:  Six key recommendations which cover the general principles of rehabilitation in AS in terms of early intervention, initial and follow‐up assessments and monitoring, contraindications and precautions, key advice for physiotherapy methods and exercise were constructed.

Conclusion:  These recommendations were developed using evidence‐based data and expert opinion. The implementation of these recommendations should encourage a more comprehensive and methodical approach in the rehabilitation of patients with AS. Regular lifelong exercise is the mainstay of rehabilitation and there is a considerable need for well‐designed studies which will enlighten the role of physical therapy in the management of AS.
Mindfulness and its Role in Physical and Psychological Health
Authors: Prazak Michael , Critelli Joseph , Martin Luci , Miranda Vanessa , Purdum Michael , Powers Catherine
Published: December 2011

This study examined the relationships of mindfulness, a form of focused self‐awareness, with physical and psychological health. Mindfulness was measured in terms of four stable forms of awareness: Observe, an awareness of internal and external stimuli; Describe, an ability to verbally express thoughts clearly and easily; Act with Awareness, the tendency to focus on present tasks with undivided attention; and Accept without Judgment, the tendency to take a nonjudgmental attitude toward one's own thoughts and emotions. These aspects of mindfulness were explored in relation to both physical health, which consisted of heart rate variability, a measure of overall cardiovascular health, and psychological health, which consisted of flourishing, existential well‐being, negative affect, and social well‐being in a sample of 506 undergraduate students. Individuals high in mindfulness showed better cardiovascular health and psychological health.
The temporal dynamics of bacterial communities across human anterior nares
Authors: Camarinha‐Silva Amélia , Jáuregui Ruy , Pieper Dietmar H. , Wos‐Oxley Melissa L.
Published: December 2011

The anterior nares (nostrils), are an important niche for bacterial colonization by both commensals and opportunistic pathogens. Here the temporal dynamics and variation of the global nasal bacterial community across 25 healthy volunteers was evaluated over 15 months. Overall, there was a global seasonal shift in bacterial community structure. Such a temporal shift was also strongly evident in the abundances of species such as Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis. However, such species dynamics over time was also inter‐individual‐dependent, and both individuals with highly stable communities and those with highly flexible communities could be defined. Even though the bacterial community of individual volunteers was thus generally variable over time and permanent carriage of a given species was seldomly observed, various species previously defined as constituting the core bacterial community could be identified as persistent in a subset of the volunteers suggesting that these same species also constitute to a ‘temporal’ core community.