bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lesion locations influencing baseline severity and early recovery in ischaemic stroke
Authors: Bentley P. , Kumar G. , Rinne P. , Buddha S. , Kallingal J. , Hookway C. , Sharma P. , Mehta A. , Beckmann C.
Published: May 2014

Background and purpose

Strokes caused by lesions to certain brain areas are associated with poor outcome, which is important both prognostically and to understand the neural basis for recovery. However, lesion anatomy associations with outcome may occur because of effects on baseline severity rather than because of effects on recovery per se. Here, all common stroke locations were surveyed to determine the strongest lesion anatomy associations separately for baseline functional severity and proportional recovery. Since most recovery occurs early, the focus here is on functional changes over the first week.

Method

Global functional scores (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale) at baseline and proportional recovery over 1 week were derived from the records of 550 ischaemic stroke patients and related to magnetic resonance imaging lesion location using voxel‐lesion mapping. The effects of lesions extending over more than one location were also considered. Cross‐validation estimated the percentage of recovery rate variance (r2) accountable by lesion location information.

Results

High baseline severity was associated with lesions to the left capsule, striatum and thalamocortical white matter, whereas high recovery rate was associated with lesions to more superficial left fronto‐temporal areas. Low recovery rates were associated with lesions to bilateral parietal, right insula, medial frontal, capsule and brainstem. Inclusion of these regions into a multivariate model of proportional recovery rate increased r2 from 8% to 45%.

Conclusion

The strongest stroke lesion location associations with 1‐week recovery were identified, and it was shown that anatomical information accounts for a sizeable proportion of early recovery variability.
Pulmonary artery compression in a Thoroughbred colt due to a mediastinal abscess
Authors: Sleeper M. M. , Barton‐Lamb A. , Doyle P. S.
Published: May 2014

In the case presented, a young horse was referred for further evaluation based on a presumptive diagnosis of pulmonic valve endocarditis, bronchopneumonia and a cranial mediastinal abscess based on thoracic ultrasound, echocardiography and clinical signs. However, further echocardiographic evaluation revealed that the abscess was compressing the right ventricular outflow track causing outflow obstruction, a murmur associated with right ventricular outflow tract obstruction (acquired pulmonic stenosis) and right ventricular hypertrophy. Vegetative endocarditis was not present. Medical management was unsuccessful, but surgical drainage and long‐term antimicrobial therapy were effective and the horse returned to a successful racing career.
Life cycle analysis of biochemical cellulosic ethanol under multiple scenarios
Authors: Murphy Colin W. , Kendall Alissa
Published: May 2014

Cellulosic ethanol is widely believed to offer substantial environmental advantages over petroleum fuels and grain‐based ethanol, particularly in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transportation. The environmental impacts of biofuels are largely caused by precombustion activities, feedstock production and conversion facility operations. Life cycle analysis (LCA) is required to understand these impacts. This article describes a field‐to‐blending terminal LCA of cellulosic ethanol produced by biochemical conversion (hydrolysis and fermentation) using corn stover or switchgrass as feedstock. This LCA develops unique models for most elements of the biofuel production process and assigns environmental impact to different phases of production. More than 30 scenarios are evaluated, reflecting a range of feedstock, technology and scale options for near‐term and future facilities. Cellulosic ethanol, as modeled here, has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to petroleum‐based liquid transportation fuels, though substantial uncertainty exists. Most of the conservative scenarios estimate GHG emissions of approximately 45–60 g carbon dioxide equivalent per MJ of delivered fuel (g CO2e MJ−1) without credit for coproducts, and 20–30 g CO2e MJ−1 when coproducts are considered. Under most scenarios, feedstock production, grinding and transport dominate the total GHG footprint. The most optimistic scenarios include sequestration of carbon in soil and have GHG emissions below zero g CO2e MJ−1, while the most pessimistic have life‐cycle GHG emissions higher than petroleum gasoline. Soil carbon changes are the greatest source of uncertainty, dominating all other sources of GHG emissions at the upper bound of their uncertainty. Many LCAs of biofuels are narrowly constrained to GHG emissions and energy; however, these narrow assessments may miss important environmental impacts. To ensure a more holistic assessment of environmental performance, a complete life cycle inventory, with over 1100 tracked material and energy flows for each scenario is provided in the online supplementary material for this article.
Potential associations between perihepatic lymph node enlargement and liver fibrosis, hepatocellular injury or hepatocarcinogenesis in chronic hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Sato Masaya , Hikita Hiromi , Hagiwara Shu , Sato Mamiko , Soroida Yoko , Suzuki Atsushi , Gotoh Hiroaki , Iwai Tomomi , Kojima Soichi , Matsuura Tomokazu , Yotsuyanagi Hiroshi , Koike Kazuhiko , Yatomi Yutaka , Ikeda Hitoshi
Published: May 2014

Aim

Although perihepatic lymph node enlargement (PLNE) is frequently observed in chronic liver disease, little is known about PLNE in chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. We aimed to evaluate this issue.

Methods

We originally enrolled a consecutive 502 patients with chronic HBV infection. Among them, 288 patients without history of interferon‐based or nucleoside analog treatment and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were primarily analyzed.

Results

PLNE was detected in 27 of 288 (9.4%) patients, which was fewer than that in chronic hepatitis C patients but more than that in subjects undertaking a general health examination as previously reported. The presence of PLNE was significantly associated with a higher probability of having an aspartate aminotransferase (AST) platelet ratio index of more than 1.5 (11.1% vs 1.5%, P = 0.01), a higher AST level (38.0 vs 26.8 U/L, P = 0.001), a higher alanine aminotransferase level (50.1 vs 28.0 U/L, P < 0.0001), and a lower platelet count (18.6 vs 20.6 × 104/μL, P = 0.048) after adjustment for sex and age. However, in our original sample (n = 502), PLNE was observed in 1.4% of the patients with HCC and/or its history whereas 9.2% of the patients without HCC, and the proportion was significantly lower in patients with HCC and/or its history (P = 0.03).

Conclusion

PLNE was associated with liver fibrosis and hepatocellular injury, but was negatively associated with HCC in chronic HBV infection.
A novel integrated Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease model predicts short‐term prognosis of hepatitis B virus‐related acute‐on‐chronic liver failure patients
Authors: Yan Huadong , Wu Wei , Yang Ying , Wu Yihua , Yang Qiao , Shi Yu
Published: May 2014

Aim

A considerable proportion of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) or hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related cirrhotic patients develop acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) with high short‐term mortality. It remains difficult to accurately predict short‐term prognosis in ACLF patients. The aim of the study is to develop a new prognostic model by assessing new objective variables.

Methods

A total of 432 HBV‐ACLF patients were recruited into a retrospective observational cohort study including one training and validation cohort. Cox proportional hazard analysis was performed in the training cohort to develop the prognostic model. The performance of the new model was tested in the validation cohort by a receiver–operator curve (ROC).

Results

During follow up, 241 deaths were reported, with a high 3‐month mortality of 48.4%. On multivariate analysis, age, hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score were found to be significantly associated with 3‐month mortality. The integrated MELD (iMELD) model had a higher area under the ROC than the original MELD, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA), Chronic Liver Failure–SOFA and Child–Turcotte–Pugh score (0.853 vs 0.743 vs 0.726 vs 0.764 vs 0.592) in predicting 3‐month mortality. In the validation sample of 212 patients, iMELD remained better than the other models.

Conclusion

HBV‐ACLF patients are characterized by high short‐term mortality, but steady long‐term survival. A modified MELD model by incorporating age and HE score has better predictive value of 3‐month mortality than other conventional models.
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma in a worker at an offset color proof‐printing company: An autopsy case report
Authors: Tomimaru Yoshito , Kobayashi Shogo , Wada Hiroshi , Hama Naoki , Kawamoto Koichi , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Kira Toshihiko , Morii Eiichi , Doki Yuichiro , Mori Masaki , Nagano Hiroaki
Published: May 2014

A 40‐year‐old Japanese man visited our hospital after test results indicated elevated hepatobiliary enzymes. He had worked at a printing plant for 8 years and been exposed to organic solvents, including 1,2‐dichloropropane (1,2‐DCP) and dichloromethane (DCM). Abdominal computed tomography (CT) showed an intrahepatic tumor with dilation of the intrahepatic bile duct. He was diagnosed with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. He had no known risk factors for cholangiocarcinoma. Extended left hepatectomy with lymph node dissection was performed and the tumor was histologically diagnosed as well‐differentiated adenocarcinoma. A histological examination also showed biliary intraepithelial preneoplastic lesions in non‐cancerous liver areas. Two years after surgery, the patient developed jaundice, esophageal varices and ascites. A CT examination showed liver cirrhosis without recurrence of the cholangiocarcinoma. Although a liver transplantation was planned as a therapeutic option for his liver cirrhosis, his liver failure progressed rapidly and he died before transplantation could be performed. At autopsy, fibrosis was found in the whole liver, especially in the wall of the bile duct and periductal area suggesting chronic bile duct injury due to exposure to organic solvents. Taken together, the current case may suggest that exposure to organic solvents, including 1,2‐DCP and DCM, is a risk factor for cholangiocarcinoma. Identifying risk factors for cholangiocarcinoma will help identify the mechanism and help prevent development of the disease.
Evaluation of pH‐treated fish sarcoplasmic proteins on rheological properties of fish myofibrillar protein mediated by microbial transglutaminase
Authors: Hemung Bung‐Orn , Chin Koo B.
Published: May 2014

Fish sarcoplasmic protein (SP) could be exploited in the water‐holding agent for fish protein gels, except that the gel strength is reduced. The adjustment of pH could modify protein interactions to overcome the inferior effect. Fish SP solutions were adjusted to pH 3 or 12, neutralised to pH 7 and lyophilised to be pH‐treated SPs. These SPs along with lyophilised untreated SP (Normal SP) were incorporated into fish myofibrillar protein (MP) with microbial transglutaminase (MTG). The denaturation temperature (Td) of MP mixed with normal SP was 66 °C with the lowest shear stress value. The denaturation of MP mixed with pH‐treated SP reduced to be 57 °C, resulting in increased shear stress. The cooking loss of MP gel was reduced by adding pH‐treated SPs, while the breaking forces were similar to control. The result indicated that pH‐treated SPs could be used to reduce cooking loss of MTG‐mediated MP gels without affecting the gelling properties.
A high‐throughput shotgun mutagenesis approach to mapping B‐cell antibody epitopes
Authors: Davidson Edgar , Doranz Benjamin J.
Published: May 2014

Characterizing the binding sites of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) on protein targets, their ‘epitopes’, can aid in the discovery and development of new therapeutics, diagnostics and vaccines. However, the speed of epitope mapping techniques has not kept pace with the increasingly large numbers of mAbs being isolated. Obtaining detailed epitope maps for functionally relevant antibodies can be challenging, particularly for conformational epitopes on structurally complex proteins. To enable rapid epitope mapping, we developed a high‐throughput strategy, shotgun mutagenesis, that enables the identification of both linear and conformational epitopes in a fraction of the time required by conventional approaches. Shotgun mutagenesis epitope mapping is based on large‐scale mutagenesis and rapid cellular testing of natively folded proteins. Hundreds of mutant plasmids are individually cloned, arrayed in 384‐well microplates, expressed within human cells, and tested for mAb reactivity. Residues are identified as a component of a mAb epitope if their mutation (e.g. to alanine) does not support candidate mAb binding but does support that of other conformational mAbs or allows full protein function. Shotgun mutagenesis is particularly suited for studying structurally complex proteins because targets are expressed in their native form directly within human cells. Shotgun mutagenesis has been used to delineate hundreds of epitopes on a variety of proteins, including G protein‐coupled receptor and viral envelope proteins. The epitopes mapped on dengue virus prM/E represent one of the largest collections of epitope information for any viral protein, and results are being used to design better vaccines and drugs.
Thermal Reaction of Cristobalite in Nano‐SiO2/α‐Al2O3 Powder Systems for Mullite Synthesis
Authors: Yu Pei‐Ching , Tsai Yung‐Wei , Yen Fu‐Su , Huang Cheng‐Liang
Published: May 2014

Nanoscaled cristobalite and α‐Al2O3 powders were used as the starting materials for synthesizing mullite by solid‐state reaction. The thermal reaction of the cristobalite with α‐Al2O3 during the thermal treatment was examined. Cristobalite powder with a D50 value of 430 nm was adopted to mix with α‐Al2O3 powders with a D50 values of 230, 310, and 400 nm in a stoichiometric composition of 3Al2O3∙2SiO2 (71.8 wt% α‐Al2O3 and 28.2 wt% SiO2). Samples for thermal reaction were prepared using uniaxial pressed from the three mixtures that showed various particle number ratios of SiO2/Al2O3 due to the different particle sizes of α‐Al2O3. Examinations were performed by differential thermal analysis, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy techniques. The results showed that cristobalite particles amorphized during the thermal treatment, and then reacted with the α‐Al2O3 particle to form mullite via nucleation and growth. The amorphization temperature can be reduced by using finer‐sized α‐Al2O3 powders, thus leading to a lower temperature for mullite formation. Mullite crystals with a multidomain structure were observed in the α‐Al2O3 particle matrixes. The crystal orientation of the mullite was controlled by the α‐Al2O3 matrix, that is, [001] α‐Al2O3 → [001] mullite. These results indicate that the amorphization of cristobalite may trigger the reaction of SiO2 with α‐Al2O3, initiating the nucleation of mullite. The α‐Al2O3 particles act as the hosts for mullite formation and determine the size of the mullite particles.
Mobile learning vs. traditional classroom lessons: a comparative study
Authors: Furió D. , Juan M.‐C. , Seguí I. , Vivó R.
Published: May 2014

Different methods can be used for learning, and they can be compared in several aspects, especially those related to learning outcomes. In this paper, we present a study in order to compare the learning effectiveness and satisfaction of children using an iPhone game for learning the water cycle vs. the traditional classroom lesson. The iPhone game includes multiple interaction forms and combined augmented reality (AR) mini‐games with non‐AR mini‐games. The traditional classroom lesson had the same learning content as the iPhone game. Thirty‐eight children participated in the study. The analyses showed that the children made significant learning gains about the water cycle, regardless of the method used. Even though the results showed that the iPhone method achieved higher knowledge results than the traditional classroom lesson, no statistically significant differences were found between the iPhone and the classroom lesson. When analysing the motivational outcomes, the results showed that the children found the iPhone game to be more satisfying than the classroom lessons. Since the iPhone game achieved similar learning results and a higher motivational effect than the classroom lesson, this suggests that games of this kind could be used as a tool in primary schools to reinforce students' lessons.
Openness to Globalization and Regional Growth Patterns inCEECountries: From theEUAccession to the Economic Crisis
Authors: Capello Roberta , Perucca Giovanni
Published: May 2014

In the last decades a deep process of institutional reforms and economic reorganization took place in central and easternEUcountries (CEE). These changes occurred in a context of general economic integration. On the one hand, theEuropeanUnion enlargement programme was launched and allCEEcountries applied to becomeEUmember between 1994 and 1996. On the other hand, the globalization of the world economy characterized this historical phase. This article explores to what extent openness to global markets mediated the impact ofEUintegration on the economic performance ofCEEregions in different periods. The periods examined are defined by the main institutional changes that occurred on the road towardsEUintegration. Results show that globally open regions performed better than the others, at least in the first two periods analyzed.
Decreased serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities in patients with rosacea
Authors: Takci Z. , Bilgili S.G. , Karadag A.S. , Kucukoglu M.E. , Selek S. , Aslan M.
Published: May 2014

Background

Recent evidence suggests that oxidative stress may be an important phenomenon in the pathophysiology of rosacea. Paraoxonase‐1 (PON1) is an antioxidant enzyme with three activities: paraoxonase, arylesterase and dyazoxonase. In this study, we evaluated serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities, and serum lipid hydroperoxide (LOOH) levels in patients with rosacea in comparison to healthy controls.

Material and method

The study included 39 rosacea patients and healthy controls, consisting of 40 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy volunteers. Serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities were measured using paraoxon and phenylacetate substrates. Serum LOOH levels were measured with the ferrous ion oxidation‐xylenol orange assay.

Results

In rosacea group mean serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities were 74.54 ± 38.30 U L−1 and 141.29 ± 22.27 kU L−1 respectively, which were significantly lower than controls (P = 0.010, 0.005; respectively). Mean serum LOOH level of rosacea group was 8.17 ± 1.91 μmol L−1 which was significantly higher than controls (P = 0.009). There were no statistically significant differences between the clinical subtypes of the disease, menopause situation or ocular involvement with the respect to the serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities and LOOH levels (all; P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Serum PON1 enzyme activities have decreased significantly in rosacea. These findings support that decreased PON1 activity and increased oxidative stress may play a role in the pathogenesis of rosacea. Further studies are needed to elucidate the role of PON1 activity in the pathophysiology of rosacea.
Adult sex ratio variation: implications for breeding system evolution
Authors: Székely T. , Weissing F. J. , Komdeur J.
Published: May 2014

Adult sex ratio (ASR) exhibits immense variation in nature, although neither the causes nor the implications of this variation are fully understood. According to theory, theASRis expected to influence sex roles and breeding systems, as the rarer sex in the population has more potential partners to mate with than the more common sex. Changes in mate choice, mating systems and parental care suggest that theASRdoes influence breeding behaviour, although there is a need for more tests, especially experimental ones. In the context of breeding system evolution, the focus is currently on operational sex ratios (OSRs). We argue that theASRplays a role of similar importance and urge researchers to study theASRand theOSRside by side. Finally, we plead for a dynamic view of breeding system evolution with feedbacks between mating, parenting,OSRandASRon both ecological and evolutionary time scales.
Hospital‐acquired pressure ulcers and risk of hospital mortality in intensive care patients on mechanical ventilation
Authors: Manzano Francisco , Pérez‐Pérez Ana M. , Martínez‐Ruiz Susana , Garrido‐Colmenero Cristina , Roldan Delphine , Jiménez‐Quintana María del Mar , Sánchez‐Cantalejo Emilio , Colmenero Manuel
Published: May 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

Pressure ulcers (PUs) are a common and serious complication in critically ill patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the development of a PU and hospital mortality in patients requiring mechanical ventilation (MV) in an intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods

A prospective cohort study was performed over two years in patients requiring MV for ≥ 24 hours in a medical‐surgical ICU. Primary outcome measure was hospital mortality and main independent variable was the development of a PU grade ≥ II. Hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated using a Cox model with time‐dependent covariates.

Results

Out of 563 patients in the study, 110 (19.5%) developed a PU. Overall hospital mortality was 48.7%. In the adjusted multivariate model, PU onset was a significant independent predictor of mortality (adjusted HR, 1.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.003–1.65; P = 0.047). The model also included the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score, total Sequential Organ Failure Assessment on day 3, hepatic cirrhosis and medical admission.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of a single‐centre approach, PU development appears to be associated with an increase in mortality among patients requiring MV for 24 hours or longer.
Does evidence drive pharmacist over‐the‐counter product recommendations?
Authors: Rutter Paul , Wadesango Edna
Published: May 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

To explore how community pharmacists use evidence to inform their practice when recommending or selling over‐the‐counter medicines.

Methods

Semi‐structured face‐to‐face interviews were conducted during February 2013 and analysed using the principles of content analysis.

Results

Sixteen pharmacists were interviewed. Pharmacists were aware of evidence‐based medicine and practice but relied on personal judgement augmented with patient feedback to make product recommendations. This was primarily due to the acknowledgement that many non‐prescription medicines either had no or little evidence of efficacy. Pharmacists did and would use evidence to inform product selection if available, but acknowledged that ineffective products were sold, especially when consumers asked for a named product. This was tempered by their attempts to inform the consumer of the products' effectiveness, or lack of, or in the knowledge that it would cause them no harm.

Conclusions

Pharmacists took a pragmatic approach to product recommendation in light of the lack of clinical evidence to support their efficacy.
Validity and reliability of instruments aimed at measuring Evidence‐Based Practice in Physical Therapy: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Fernández‐Domínguez Juan Carlos , Sesé‐Abad Albert , Morales‐Asencio Jose Miguel , Oliva‐Pascual‐Vaca Angel , Salinas‐Bueno Iosune , de Pedro‐Gómez Joan Ernest
Published: May 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

Our goal is to compile and analyse the characteristics – especially validity and reliability – of all the existing international tools that have been used to measure evidence‐based clinical practice in physiotherapy.

Methods

A systematic review conducted with data from exclusively quantitative‐type studies synthesized in narrative format. An in‐depth search of the literature was conducted in two phases: initial, structured, electronic search of databases and also journals with summarized evidence; followed by a residual‐directed search in the bibliographical references of the main articles found in the primary search procedure. The studies included were assigned to members of the research team who acted as peer reviewers. Relevant information was extracted from each of the selected articles using a template that included the general characteristics of the instrument as well as an analysis of the quality of the validation processes carried out, by following the criteria of Terwee.

Results

Twenty‐four instruments were found to comply with the review screening criteria; however, in all cases, they were found to be limited as regards the ‘constructs’ included. Besides, they can all be seen to be lacking as regards comprehensiveness associated to the validation process of the psychometric tests used.

Conclusion

It seems that what constitutes a rigorously developed assessment instrument for EBP in physical therapy continues to be a challenge.
Treatment patterns among colorectal cancer patients in South Australia: a demonstration of the utility of population‐based data linkage
Authors: Beckmann Kerri R. , Bennett Alice , Young Graeme P. , Roder David M.
Published: May 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

Population level data on colorectal cancer (CRC) management in Australia are lacking. This study assessed broad level patterns of care and concordance with guidelines for CRC management at the population level using linked administrative data from both the private and public health sectors across South Australia. Disparities in CRC treatment were also explored.

Method

Linking information from the South Australian Cancer Registry, hospital separations, radiotherapy services and hospital‐based cancer registry systems provided data on the socio‐demographic, clinical and treatment characteristics for 4641 CRC patients, aged 50–79 years, diagnosed from 2003 to 2008. Factors associated with receiving site/stage‐specific treatments (surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy) and overall concordance with treatment guidelines were identified using Poisson regression analysis.

Results

About 83% of colon and 56% of rectal cancer patients received recommended treatment. Provision of neo‐adjuvant/adjuvant therapies may be less than optimal. Radiotherapy was less likely among older patients (prevalence ratio 0.7, 95% confidence interval 0.5–0.8). Chemotherapy was less likely among older patients (0.7, 0.6–0.8), those with severe or multiple co‐morbidities (0.8, 0.7–0.9), and those from rural areas (0.9, 0.8–1.0). Overall discordance with treatment guidelines was more likely among rectal cancer patients (3.0, 2.7–3.3), older patients (1.6, 1.4–1.8), those with multiple co‐morbid conditions (1.3, 1.1–1.4), and those living in rural areas (1.2, 1.0–1.3).

Conclusions

Greater emphasis should be given to ensure CRC patients who may benefit from neo‐adjuvant/adjuvant therapies have access to these treatments.
Efficacy of triphala mouth rinse (aqueous extracts) on dental plaque and gingivitis in children
Authors: Bhattacharjee Ritesh , Nekkanti Sridhar , Kumar Nikesh G. , Kapuria Ketan , Acharya Shashidhar , Pentapati Kalyana C.
Published: May 2014

Aim

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of triphala mouth rinse (aqueous) in the reduction of plaque and gingivitis among children.

Methods

The study was a randomized, double‐blinded, controlled trial, with a total of 60 school children (n = 30 in each group; triphala and chlorhexidine groups). Plaque and gingival indices were used to evaluate baseline and follow‐up plaque and gingivitis.

Results

A total of 57 children completed the study. Both chlorhexidine and triphala groups showed significantly lower mean gingival and plaque index scores at follow up than baseline (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the percentage change in the mean gingival index between the two groups (P = 0.826). The percentage change in the mean plaque index was significantly higher in the chlorhexidine group compared to the triphala group (P = 0.048).

Conclusion

The effectiveness of triphala in the reduction of plaque and gingivitis was comparable to chlorhexidine, and can be used for short‐term purposes without potential side‐effects. It is a cost‐effective alternative in reducing plaque and gingivitis.
Post‐antifungal effect and adhesion to buccal epithelial cells of oral Candida dubliniensis isolates subsequent to limited exposure to amphotericin B, ketoconazole and fluconazole
Authors: Ellepola Arjuna N. B. , Chandy Rachel , Khan Zia U.
Published: May 2014

Aim

The post‐antifungal effect (PAFE) of Candida and its adherence to oral mucosal surfaces are important determinants of candidal pathogenicity. Candida dubliniensis is allied with recurrent oral candidosis. Oral candidosis can be treated with amphotericin B, ketoconazole and fluconazole. There is no information on the PAFE and its impact on adhesion to oral buccal epithelial cells (BEC) of oral C. dubliniensis isolates. Therefore, the main objective was to reconnoiter the PAFE and adhesion to BEC of 20 C. dubliniensis isolates following brief exposure to aforementioned antimycotics.

Methods

After determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), C. dubliniensis isolates were exposed to sub‐lethal concentrations of these drugs for 1 h. Following subsequent drug removal, the PAFE and adhesion to BEC, was determined by a turbidometric method, and an adhesion assay, respectively.

Results

Minimum inhibitory concentration (μg/mL) to amphotericin B, ketoconazole and fluconazole, ranged from 0.002 to 0.125, 0.002 to 0.012 and 0.016 to 0.38, respectively. Amphotericin B and ketoconazole induced mean PAFE (hours) were 2.21 and 0.6, respectively. Fluconazole failed to produce a detectable PAFE. Compared to controls, amphotericin B, ketoconazole and fluconazole suppressed the ability to adhere to BEC with a mean percentage reduction of 74.31%, 49.80% (P < 0.0001) and 29.36% (P < 0.05), respectively.

Conclusions

Brief exposure to sub‐lethal concentrations of aforementioned drugs would exert an antifungal effect by modifying the growth and adhesion of C. dubliniensis isolates.
Destabilization of survival factor MEF2D mRNA by neurotoxin in models of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Wang Bao , Cai Zhibiao , Lu Fangfang , Li Chen , Zhu Xiaofei , Su Linna , Gao Guodong , Yang Qian
Published: May 2014

Progressive loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the substantial nigra pars compacta (SNc) is an important pathological feature in Parkinson's disease (PD). Loss of transcription factor myocyte enhancer factor 2D (MEF2D), a key neuronal survival factor, has been shown to underlie the loss of DA neurons in SNc and the pathogenic process of PD. It is known that PD‐associated neurotoxins reduce the level of MEF2D protein to trigger neuronal death. Although neurotoxins clearly destabilize MEF2D by post‐translational mechanisms, it is not known whether regulation of MEF2D mRNA contributes to neurotoxin‐induced decrease in MEF2D protein. In this work, we showed that MPP+, the toxic metabolite of MPTP, caused a significant decrease in the half‐life and total level of MEF2D mRNA in a DA neuronal cell line, SN4741 cells. Quantitative PCR analysis of the SNc DA neurons captured by immune‐laser capture microdissection showed that exposure to MPTP led to a marked reduction in the level of MEF2D mRNA in SNc DA neurons compared to controls. Down‐regulation of MEF2D mRNA alone reduced the viability of SN4741 cells and sensitized the cells to MPP+‐induced toxicity. These results suggest that destabilization and reduction in MEF2D mRNA is in part responsible for neurotoxin‐induced decrease in MEF2D protein and neuronal viability.

image

Myocyte enhancer factor 2D (MEF2D) plays an important role in neuronal survival. How MEF2D mRNA is deregulated under toxic stress is unclear. We found that PD‐associated neurotoxins destabilize MEF2D mRNA and reduce its level in vitro and in vivo. Reduction in MEF2D mRNA is sufficient to sensitize model cells to neurotoxin‐induced toxicity, suggesting that destabilization of MEF2D mRNA is part of the mechanism by which neurotoxins trigger deregulation of neuronal survival.
A vesicular sequestration to oxidative deamination shift in myocardial sympathetic nerves in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Goldstein David S. , Sullivan Patricia , Holmes Courtney , Miller Gary W. , Sharabi Yehonatan , Kopin Irwin J.
Published: May 2014

In Parkinson's disease (PD), profound putamen dopamine (DA) depletion reflects denervation and a shift from vesicular sequestration to oxidative deamination of cytoplasmic DA in residual terminals. PD also involves cardiac sympathetic denervation. Whether PD entails myocardial norepinephrine (NE) depletion and a sequestration–deamination shift have been unknown. We measured apical myocardial tissue concentrations of NE, DA, and their neuronal metabolites 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylglycol (DHPG), and 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) from 23 PD patients and 23 controls and ascertained the extent of myocardial NE depletion in PD. We devised, validated in VMAT2‐Lo mice, and applied 5 neurochemical indices of the sequestration–deamination shift—concentration ratios of DOPAC:DA, DA:NE, DHPG:NE, DOPAC:NE, and DHPG:DOPAC—and used a kinetic model to estimate the extent of the vesicular storage defect. The PD group had decreased myocardial NE content (p < 0.0001). The majority of patients (70%) had severe NE depletion (mean 2% of control), and in this subgroup all five indices of a sequestration–deamination shift were increased compared to controls (p < 0.001 for each). Vesicular storage in residual nerves was estimated to be decreased by 84–91% in this subgroup. We conclude that most PD patients have severe myocardial NE depletion, because of both sympathetic denervation and decreased vesicular storage in residual nerves.

image

We found that the majority (70%) of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients have profound (98%) myocardial norepinephrine depletion, because of both cardiac sympathetic denervation and a shift from vesicular sequestration to oxidative deamination of cytoplasmic catecholamines in the residual nerves. This shift may be part of a final common pathogenetic pathway in the loss of catecholaminergic neurons that characterizes PD.
The high‐affinity D2/D3 agonist D512 protects PC12 cells from 6‐OHDA‐induced apoptotic cell death and rescues dopaminergic neurons in the MPTP mouse model of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Shah Mrudang , Rajagopalan Subramanian , Xu Liping , Voshavar Chandrashekhar , Shurubor Yevgeniya , Beal Flint , Andersen Julie K. , Dutta Aloke K.
Published: May 2014

In this study, in vitro and in vivo experiments were carried out with the high‐affinity multifunctional D2/D3 agonist D‐512 to explore its potential neuroprotective effects in models of Parkinson's disease and the potential mechanism(s) underlying such properties. Pre‐treatment with D‐512 in vitro was found to rescue rat adrenal Pheochromocytoma PC12 cells from toxicity induced by 6‐hydroxydopamine administration in a dose‐dependent manner. Neuroprotection was found to coincide with reductions in intracellular reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, and DNA damage. In vivo, pre‐treatment with 0.5 mg/kg D‐512 was protective against neurodegenerative phenotypes associated with systemic administration of MPTP, including losses in striatal dopamine, reductions in numbers of DAergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN), and locomotor dysfunction. These observations strongly suggest that the multifunctional drug D‐512 may constitute a novel viable therapy for Parkinson's disease.

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Neuroprotective properties of dopamine D2/D3 agonist D‐512 was evaluated both in vitro and in vivo models of Parkinson's disease (PD). D‐512 rescued PC12 cells from toxicity induced by 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA). D‐512 reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation as well as protection of DNA damage from toxicity of 6‐OHDA. D‐512 was protective against neurodegenerative phenotypes induced by MPTP in mouse. Our studies strongly suggest that D‐512 with its multifunctional property may constitute a novel viable therapy for Parkinson's disease.
Anthropological Idiolects and Minoritizing Translation in Galician Ethnography
Authors: Roseman Sharon R.
Published: May 2014

The challenge of translation has been an important area for discussion and debate in anthropology since the emergence of the centrality of fieldwork conducted in a myriad of languages. This article explores what I learned about writing and translation through the process of producing the 2008 Galician‐language book O rexurdimento dunha base rural no concello de Zas: O Santiaguiño de Carreira. I explore the significance of anthropological idiolects and argue that ethnographers writing in any language can benefit from explicitly employing techniques that parallel the translation theorist Lawrence Venuti's idea of “minoritizing translation.”
Linguistic Relativity and Dialectical Idiomatization: Language Ideologies and Second Language Acquisition in theIrish Language Revival ofNorthernIreland
Authors: Zenker Olaf
Published: May 2014

A considerable number ofIrishCatholics inWestBelfast, originally nativeEnglish speakers, have started learning theIrish language throughout theNorthernIrish conflict in order to feel moreIrish. Many of these have developed a strong conviction that theIrish language contains a different worldview from the one embodied inEnglish. However, rather than constituting a plausible representation of relevant differences embodied in the languages themselves, this article puts forward the hypothesis that such a neo‐Whorfian endorsement of linguistic relativity might rather be the product of dialectical idiomatization, following from the interplay of prevailing language ideologies and effects of second language acquisition.
Overview and quality assurance for the oral health component of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 2009‐2010
Authors: Dye Bruce A. , Li Xianfen , Lewis Brenda G. , Iafolla Tim , Beltran‐Aguilar Eugenio D. , Eke Paul I.
Published: May 2014

Objective

In 2009‐2010, the oral health component for the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) focused on adult periodontal health and included a full mouth periodontal examination as well as a series of questions adminis during the home interview. During this period, intraoral assessments were conducted by dental hygienists.

Methods

This report provides oral health content information and results of dental examiner reliability for data collected during NHANES 2009‐2010 on 7,189 persons aged 3‐19 years and 30 years and older representing the US civilian, noninstitutionalized population in these age groups.

Results

For caries and dental sealant assessments, Kappa statistics ranged from 0.71 to 1.00. Kappa scores for moderate and severe periodontitis using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/American Academy of Periodontology case definition guidelines was 0.70, but were lower for other periodontal status definitions. When defining moderate or severe periodontitis based on the NHANES 2003‐2004 study, protocols using data from only three facial periodontal sites, the Kappa scores were 0.64 and 0.55. Interclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for mean attachment loss were 0.80 or higher for both examiners. Site‐specific mean attachment loss ICCs were generally higher for interproximal measurements compared with mid‐facial and mid‐lingual measurements.

Conclusion

Overall, the data reliability analyses conducted for 2009‐2010 indicate an acceptable level of data quality and that examiner (dental hygienist) performance in this data collection cycle is similar to prior survey periods since the NHANES continuous survey began in 1999.
Lipopolysaccharide‐regulated production of bone sialoprotein and interleukin‐8 in human periodontal ligament fibroblasts: the role of toll‐like receptors 2 and 4 and the MAPK pathway
Authors: Zhang Y. , Li X.
Published: May 2014

Background and Objective

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on the cell wall of periodontal pathogens is a major mediator of the inflammatory response and can enhance alveolar bone resorption in periodontitis. Bone sialoprotein is an early marker of osteoblast differentiation. The proinflammatory cytokine, interleukin‐8 (IL‐8), induces osteoclast differentiation, maturation and maintenance of bone resorption activity. However, the effects of LPS from periodontal pathogens on the expression of bone sialoprotein and IL‐8 in human osteoblasts and the mechanism of periodontal bone metabolism regulation are rather unclear. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of Porphyromonas gingivalis LPS on the production of bone sialoprotein and IL‐8 in human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (hPDLFs), and to investigate whether toll‐like receptor (TLR) 2, TLR4 and MAPKs pathways are involved in the regulation of production of bone sialoprotein and IL‐8 by P. gingivalis LPS.

Material and Methods

The third‐generation of hPDLFs were cultured with mineralization‐inducing culture medium. After hPDLFs were treated with P. gingivalis LPS, bone sialoprotein and IL‐8 mRNA expression were detected using Real time PCR. Then hPDLFs were transiently transfected with siTLR2 or siTLR4 (20 nm) or inhibited by MAPK signaling pathways inhibitors, and then bone sialoprotein and IL‐8 mRNA and protein expression were also detected using Real time PCR and western blotting.

Results

Treatments with 0.01 and 0.1 mg/L of P. gingivalis LPS for 8 h up‐regulated bone sialoprotein mRNA expression, whereas 10 and 100 mg/L of P. gingivalis LPS induced a significant decrease in the expression of bone sialoprotein mRNA. In contrast, IL8 mRNA levels were increased significantly by 10 mg/L of P. gingivalis LPS. Interestingly, small interfering RNA (siRNA) knock down of the TLR2 and ERK1/2 inhibitor, PD98059, abolished the effects of P. gingivalis LPS on the bone sialoprotein mRNA level, whereas siRNA knock down of the TLR2 and p38 MAPK inhibitor, SB203580, blocked the effect of P. gingivalis LPS on IL‐8 in hPDLFs.

Conclusion

This study suggests that in hPDLFs, P. gingivalis LPS suppresses bone sialoprotein and enhances IL‐8 gene and protein expression via TLR2 and ERK1/2 or the p38 MAPK signaling pathway, respectively.
International Trade Regulatory Challenges in Brazil: Some Lessons from the Promotion of Ethanol
Authors: Sanchez Badin Michelle Ratton , Godoy Daniela Helena O.
Published: May 2014

This article seeks to contribute to understanding trade as a development tool in Brazil. The nation seeks a unique development model as it faces regulatory challenges at both internal and international levels. The article highlights the case of ethanol as a prime example of this model.
El Pueblo Negro: Identity Politics in Mexico
Authors: Dill LaKai , Amador Louise Greathouse
Published: May 2014

A growing conundrum facing Mexico is the underdevelopment of communities inhabited by Black nationals. The political consequences of marginalization, evident in present‐day conditions of poverty, stem from the historical and linguistic negation of the African presence in Mexico and its relevance in the country's overall social and political evolution. In national politics, the problem has seldom been engaged because the disparity in wealth distribution is considered a result of the exclusion of the Indian. When Blacks are considered, there is a popular refocusing on Latin American Afro‐descendants that “folklorizes” the “other” under a fictitious celebratory veil of multiculturalism. This article addresses the socioeconomic dynamics in Black Mexican communities, focusing attention on the burgeoning social movement in the Costa Chica that is addressing issues of invisibility and recognition of el Pueblo Negro in Mexico. By detailing a Diasporan account of Black identity, the authors argue that los Negros can strategically employ a vindication of Blackness in Mexico in their fight for social justice, ultimately uniting citizens in the quest.
Impact of repetitive thermal anomalies on survival and development of mass reef‐building corals in theMaldives
Authors: Tkachenko Konstantin S.
Published: May 2014

The distribution of dominant coral genera and their response to the recent sea temperature anomalies in the last three decades are analyzed across reefs of the Maldivian Archipelago, which spans 860 × 120 km in the central Indian Ocean. The Maldives suffered one of the worst coral mortality rates in the Indian Ocean in the 1998 warming event and experienced two sub‐lethal thermal anomalies in 2003 and 2010. The results showed that theAcroporaproved an important driver of post‐1998 recovery and has become a major dominant genus in most Maldivian reefs at present. The average coral cover and proportion of acroporids have decreased from south to north and represent correspondently 70.6/59% for the southern atoll, 62/53% for the central atoll and 33/10.3% for the northernmost atoll.Stylophora,Seriatoporaand the hydrocoralMilleporawere not found and are considered candidates for local extirpation from the Maldives. Higher thermal variability and frequency of thermal stress might lead to the decrease in the abundance of susceptible taxa in the northernmost atoll. No phase‐shift to algae‐dominated reefs was observed in any of the three locations. Factors contributing to coral recovery and acclimatization are discussed.
Emerging coral diseases: a temperature‐driven process?
Authors: Miller Aaron W. , Richardson Laurie L.
Published: May 2014

In the last few decades there has been a surge in research focusing on coral disease. While climate change, specifically rising sea surface temperature, has been proposed as a major and growing driver of the emergence of marine diseases, to date a solid connection between disease epizootics and elevated sea surface temperature has not been established. However, a wealth of data now exists, compiled from many different perspectives, that may support such a connection. In this work we provide a comprehensive review targeting one coral disease, black band disease, that spans the infection process, pathobiology, and epizootiology, and links specific mechanisms of the disease process to increasing temperatures. This temperature‐driven pattern of infection can be expanded to include similar processes associated with other temperature‐related coral diseases. The conclusions presented here are based upon the results of many studies using a diverse suite of approaches that have been synthesized to argue that the emergence and continuing spread of black band disease is linked to warming sea surface temperatures. In summary, as global ocean temperatures increase seasonally and over decades, the environment shifts to become more favorable for the growth of potentially pathogenic microorganisms endemic to the immediate environment of the reef. The increase in the relative number of potential pathogens in the microbial community produces microenvironments conducive to the growth of other potential pathogens, leading to infection by a polymicrobial consortium. This consortium is easily perturbed by a (seasonal) temperature decrease, but remains associated with the coral host and can be reactivated with a subsequent seasonal increase in temperature, resulting in a cycle of temperature‐dependent disease emergence.