bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solitary pulmonary metastasis from malignant melanoma of the bulbar conjunctiva presenting as a pulmonary ground glass nodule: Report of a case
Authors: Mizuuchi Hiroshi , Suda Kenichi , Kitahara Hirokazu , Shimamatsu Shinichiro , Kohno Mikihiro , Okamoto Tatsuro , Maehara Yoshihiko
Published: April 2014

We herein report a case of solitary pulmonary metastasis from malignant melanoma that presented as a pulmonary ground glass nodule. A 57‐year‐old man who had undergone resection of a malignant melanoma of the right bulbar conjunctiva at the age of 51 was referred to our hospital for management of ground glass opacity in his left lung. Because radiological examination suggested the nodule was an adenocarcinoma in situ, computed tomography (CT) follow‐up was planned. CT examination performed nine months later showed that the nodule had grown from 6 mm to 8 mm. Moreover, CT performed one and a half years after first detection revealed that the nodule had grown up to 10 mm. The patient, therefore, underwent partial resection of the lung for diagnosis and treatment. Pathological examination of the resected specimen revealed atypical cells with melanin granules proliferating in a lepidic‐like fashion. The cells were positive on S‐100 staining, indicating a pulmonary metastasis from malignant melanoma. Thus, metastatic tumors from malignant melanoma can present as ground glass opacities.
Prognostic factors for survival of patients with ampullary carcinoma after local resection
Authors: Zhao Xiangqian , Dong Jiahong , Huang Xiaoqiang , Zhang Wenzhi , Jiang Kai
Published: April 2014

Background

Local resection (LR) is a potentially effective alternative to pancreaticoduodenectomy for treatment of ampullary cancer, but the prognostic factors remain undefined. The purpose of this study was to identify the prognostic factors for ampullary cancer patients who had undergone LR.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical, pathological data and surgical approach of 34 ampullary cancer patients who had undergone LR during 1996–2009 at People's Liberation Army General Hospital. Prognostic factors for survival and recurrence were analysed.

Results

The 1‐, 3‐ and 5‐year survival rates of the patients were 97.1, 69.5 and 53.7%, respectively. The gender, age, preoperative bilirubin levels, CA19‐9 levels and preoperative biopsy did not correlate with the survival rates. The survival rates of patient with T1 and T2 tumours were superior to that of patients with T3 tumours (P = 0.000). Tumour size, surgical margin status and the extent of differentiation had no effect on survival rates (P = 0.464, P = 0.601 and P = 0.121, respectively). The survival rate of patients who had extraduodenal LR (12 cases) was superior to that of patients who had transduodenal LR (22 cases) (P = 0.026). Tumour recurrence occurred in 14 (41.2%) patients. Tumour infiltration (P = 0.014) correlated with the recurrence.

Conclusion

The degree of tumour infiltration is the pathological factor that most affects the survival of ampullary cancer patients who undergo LR. Extraduodenal LR is a promising surgical procedure, the efficacy of which is superior to that of transduodenal LR. The depth of tumour invasion correlated with the recurrence.
Usefulness of Succinate dehydrogenase B (SDHB) immunohistochemistry in guiding mutational screening among patients with pheochromocytoma‐paraganglioma syndromes
Authors: Pai Rekha , Manipadam Marie Therese , Singh Pradyumn , Ebenazer Andrew , Samuel Prasanna , Rajaratnam Simon
Published: April 2014

Genetic testing of pheochromocytomas (PCC) and paragangliomas (PGL), although expensive, is gradually becoming a part of the routine laboratory investigation for patients with PCC‐PGL syndrome. Recently, Succinate dehydrogenase B (SDHB) immunochemistry has been shown to be an excellent indicator of germline mutations in the SDH genes and could help significantly reduce cost. This study assesses the utility of SDHB immunohistochemical analysis when used to guide genetic analysis, with emphasis on cost benefits it could provide in a resource‐limited setting. Forty‐four cases of PCC/PGL characterized by genetic analysis were included to determine their SDHB expression pattern by immunohistochemistry. SDHB antibody expression was negative among three cases each, with SDHB and SDHD mutations. Immunohistochemistry results were positive for all three cases of RET, a single case of neurofibromatosis and for two cases with Von Hippel‐Lindau (VHL) mutations while the remaining two cases with VHL mutations showed a diffuse ‘cytoplasmic blush’. Thirty of the remaining 31 samples demonstrated positive staining and were negative for mutations, while a lone sample that was negative for staining and mutation was not included in the final analysis as the internal control for the sample was not adequately stained. Cost analysis in our settings showed that triaging with SDHB immunohistochemistry could potentially reduce costs by USD 320–500 per patient. SDHB immunohistochemistry, when used as a guide to genetic testing, can significantly reduce the effort, time and costs of testing among patients with PCC‐PGL, a huge benefit in resource limited settings.
Autophagy mediates neutrophil responses to bacterial infection
Authors: Chargui Abderrahman , El May Michèle Véronique
Published: April 2014

Neutrophils constitute the first line of cellular defense against pathogens and autophagy is a fundamental cellular homeostasis pathway that operates with the intracellular degradation/recycling system. Induction of the autophagic process in neutrophils, in response to invading pathogens, constitutes a crucial mechanism in innate immunity. Exploration of autophagy has greatly progressed and diverse strategies have been reported for studying this molecular process in different biological systems; especially in infectious and inflammatory diseases. Furthermore, the role of autophagy in neutrophils, during pathogenic infection, continues to be of interest, due to the role of the cell in immunity function, its recruitment to the site of infection and its implication in inflammatory diseases. This review focuses on the known role of autophagy in neutrophils defence against pathogenic infections. A more detailed discussion will concern the recent findings highlighting the role of autophagy in inflammation and cell death in infected neutrophils.
Colorectal resection in nonagenarians: Effectiveness of laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Soma Toshiya , Sugano Motoki , Kawasaki Chihiro , Tsuji Masae , Fukui Izumi
Published: April 2014

Introduction

The number and proportion of elderly persons in the general population have been increasing. Inevitably, the incidence of colorectal carcinoma has also increased. Although substantial evidence indicates that surgery is well tolerated in patients 80 years or older, studies in nonagenarians are not well documented.

Methods

Consecutive nonagenarians and octogenarians who underwent elective laparoscopic‐assisted colectomy (LAC) from September 2009 through October 2011 were studied. Data on medical history, ASA score, details of operations, and postoperative events were collected.

Results

LAC was performed in nine nonagenarians and seven octogenarians. There were no complications related to laparoscopy. No patient required conversion from LAC to an open procedure or died postoperatively. Peristalsis was confirmed and oral intake was initiated on postoperative days 2.6 and 2.7, respectively.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic surgery is considered an extremely useful treatment for very old patients because it has a low risk of postoperative complications, even in the presence of pre‐existing diseases. We conclude that LAC may be indicated in nonagenarians.
Beliefs in moral luck: When and why blame hinges on luck
Authors: Lench Heather C. , Domsky Darren , Smallman Rachel , Darbor Kathleen E.
Published: April 2014

Belief in moral luck is represented in judgements that offenders should be held accountable for intent to cause harm as well as whether or not harm occurred. Scores on a measure of moral luck beliefs predicted judgements of offenders who varied in intent and the outcomes of their actions, although judgements overall were not consistent with abstract beliefs in moral luck. Prompting participants to consider alternative outcomes, particularly worse outcomes, reduced moral luck beliefs. Findings suggest that some people believe that offenders should be punished based on the outcome of their actions. Furthermore, prompting counterfactuals decreased judgements consistent with moral luck beliefs. The results have implications for theories of moral judgement as well as legal decision making.
Genotypes and phenotypes of congenital goitre and hypothyroidism caused by mutations in dual oxidase 2 genes
Authors: Wang Fang , Lu Kunna , Yang Zhifeng , Zhang Shasha , Lu Wei , Zhang Liqin , Liu Shiguo , Yan Shengli
Published: April 2014

Objective

The aim of this study was to screen for DUOX2, TPO and TG mutations in Chinese patients with congenital hypothyroidism (CH) and goitre and to define the relationships between DUOX2 genotypes and clinical phenotypes.

Methods

Blood samples were collected from 67 patients with CH and goitre in Shandong Province, China. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood leucocytes. PCR and direct sequencing were used to analyse all exons of DUOX2, TPO and TG. Detailed medical records were then collected, and the relationship between DUOX2 genotype and the clinical phenotype of CH and goitre caused by DUOX2 mutations was investigated.

Results

Analysis of DUOX2 revealed nine mutations, including one novel nonsense mutation (p.W734X), six novel missense mutations (p.N100D, p.S660L, p.A1131S, p.W1181G, p.A1206T and p.R1267W) and two recurrent mutations (p.R701X and p.R1110Q) in 10 patients from 10 unrelated families. Monoallelic and compound heterozygous mutations in DUOX2 were associated with permanent or transient CH. No mutation was found after screening all exons of TPO and TG.

Conclusion

Our study identified DUOX2 mutations in 14·9% of Chinese patients investigated with CH and goitre. Because the relationships between DUOX2 genotypes and clinical phenotypes are extremely complex, however, further studies are needed to identify more mutations in known genes which are involved in CH and goitre.
Vestibular disorders in euthyroid patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis: role of thyroid autoimmunity
Authors: Chiarella Giuseppe , Tognini Sara , Nacci Andrea , Sieli Roberta , Costante Giuseppe , Petrolo Claudio , Mancini Valentina , Guzzi Pietro Hiram , Pasqualetti Giuseppe , Cassandro Ettore , Fattori Bruno , Russo Diego , Monzani Fabio
Published: April 2014

Introduction

A relationship between vestibular disorders and thyroid autoimmunity independently from thyroid function has been postulated.

Aim

To shed more light on the actual relationship between vestibular lesions and Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) regardless of thyroid function.

Methods

Forty‐seven patients with HT (89·4% F; aged 48·3 ± 12·7 years), 21 with multinodular goitre (MNG; 57·1% F; 54·1 ± 9·8 years) and 30 healthy volunteers (56·7% F; 50·7 ± 13·9 years) were enrolled. Inclusion criteria were the presence of normal thyroid function tests and no clinical history of vestibular dysfunction. Each subject was submitted to complete vestibular evaluation [Caloric Test, Vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs), Head Shaking Test (HST)].

Results

52·2% of HT patients showed an alteration of VEMPs and 44·7% of caloric test (P < 0·0001 for both). None of the MNG patients showed any vestibular alteration, while one healthy control showed an altered caloric test. A correlation was found between vestibular alterations of HT patients and the degree of serum TPOAb level, not affected by age and serum TSH value. By logistic regression analysis, the absence of thyroid autoimmunity significantly reduced the risk of vestibular alterations: HR 0.19 (95%CI: 0·003–0.25, P = 0·0004) for caloric test; HR 0·07 (95%CI: 0·02–0·425, P < 0·0001) for VEMPs; and HR 0·22 (95%CI: 0·06–0·7, P = 0·01) for HST.

Conclusion

In euthyroid HT patients, a significant relationship between subclinical vestibular damage and the degree of TPOAb titre was documented. This finding suggests that circulating antithyroid autoantibodies may represent a risk factor for developing vestibular dysfunction. An accurate vestibular evaluation of HT patients with or without symptoms is therefore warranted.
Effect of cleansing of biofilm formed on titanium discs
Authors: Charalampakis Georgios , Ramberg Per , Dahlén Gunnar , Berglundh Tord , Abrahamsson Ingemar
Published: April 2014

Objectives

To study the combined effect of mechanical and chemical cleansing on a 4‐day biofilm grown intra‐orally on titanium discs with different surface characteristics.

Material and methods

Twenty subjects used a splint with two metal plates in the upper jaw. Each plate was placed in the premolar–molar region and carried four titanium discs with four different surface characteristics (OsseoSpeed™, TiOblast™, experimental and turned surface). After 4 days of biofilm growth, the discs were cleaned mechanically and chemically with saline or chlorhexidine. Following cleansing, microbial samples were obtained and analysed by culture. The titanium discs were processed for scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis. The experiment was repeated 3 days later using delmopinol or a mixture of essential oils during cleansing.

Results

The combination of mechanical and chemical cleansing was ineffective in complete biofilm removal from all four titanium discs. The microbiological analysis did not reveal any statistically significant differences between surface types or between cleaning agents regarding logarithmic mean counts of CFU for specific bacteria, aerobes, anaerobes or the TVC. Aerobes were more numerous than anaerobes on all surface types. The SEM analysis disclosed that the remaining biofilm on moderately rough surfaces (OsseoSpeed™, TiOblast™ and experimental) was complex and firmly attached, while the biofilm on turned surface had a pattern of spread bacteria forming less clusters.

Conclusions

Cleansing may call for prolonged time of chemomechanical debridement and/or more effective disinfectants to suppress biofilms on dental implant surfaces.
Rheological studies of mixed printing pastes from sodium alginate and modified xanthan and their application in the reactive printing of cotton
Authors: Wang Lili , Liu Baojiang , Yang Qun , Lu Danian
Published: April 2014

The rheology of printing pastes using sodium alginate and modified xanthan as mixed thickeners has been measured by steady shear tests and dynamic strain sweep tests. The rheological results showed that, with a small addition of modified xanthan to sodium alginate, the flowability of the mixed printing pastes was better than that with sodium alginate alone. Subsequently, as the addition of modified xanthan increased, the apparent viscosity at low shear rates increased gradually, and the mixed printing pastes gained increasingly pronounced shear‐thinning features. In addition, the mixed printing pastes with more sodium alginate exhibited mainly viscous behaviour under strain, and the liquid‐like features became increasingly weak with the addition of modified xanthan. On the other hand, the mixed printing pastes with more modified xanthan exhibited mainly elastic behaviour within the linear viscoelastic region, and the solid‐like features became increasingly marked with the addition of modified xanthan. Mixtures of sodium alginate and modified xanthan can be used as thickeners in the reactive printing of cotton, producing a good colour yield, levelness, and outline sharpness. In particular, for large patterns, the mixed printing paste performed best when the ratio of sodium alginate to modified xanthan was 80:20; for fine patterns, it performed best when the ratio of sodium alginate to modified xanthan was 20:80.
Inhibition enhancer of zeste homologue 2 promotes senescence and apoptosis induced by doxorubicin in p53 mutant gastric cancer cells
Authors: Bai J. , Ma M. , Cai M. , Xu F. , Chen J. , Wang G. , Shuai X. , Tao K.
Published: April 2014

Objectives

Enhancer of zeste homologue 2 (EZH2) is crucially involved in epigenetic silencing by acting as a histone methyltransferase. Although EZH2 is overexpressed in many cancers and is involved in malignant cell proliferation and invasion, the role of EZH2 in senescence induced by DNA damage has up to now remained largely unknown. In this study, we sought to explore the outcome of EZH2 depletion along with exposure of doxorubicin (DOX), and related mechanisms, in gastric cancer cells.

Materials and methods

Here, senescence induced by DNA damage was achieved in gastric cancer cells by DOX treatment. EZH2 was downregulated by transfection with siRNA or treated with (‐)‐epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate, a targeted inhibitor. Senescence‐associated β galactosidase (SA‐β‐gal) and formation of senescence‐associated heterochromatin foci were used to identify cell senescence. To investigate effects of EZH2 depletion on the cell cycle, apoptosis and proliferation, flow cytometry and MTT analysis were employed. Changes in p53–p21 axis activation were detected by Western blotting.

Results

We found that cell proliferative arrest caused by DOX could be promoted by EZH2 depletion. Mechanistically, EZH2 depletion not only worked in coordination with DNA damage during the progression of cell senescence but also promoted apoptosis in p53 mutant cells. However, it had no cooperative relationship with DOX in p53 wild‐type cells.

Conclusions

These data help unravel a crucial role for EZH2 in senescence and apoptosis in gastric cancer cells and that p53 genomic status was associated with different cell responses to EZH2 silencing.
Renal function preservation with the mTOR inhibitor, Everolimus, after lung transplant
Authors: Schneer Sonia , Kramer Mordechai R. , Fox Benjamin , Rusanov Viktoria , Fruchter Oren , Rosengarten Dror , Bakal Ilana , Medalion Benjamin , Raviv Yael
Published: April 2014

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common complication of calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) in solid organ transplantation. Previous data suggest that the use of everolimus as an immunosuppressant drug leads to improvement in renal function. The aim of our study was to establish the effect of everolimus in combination with lower doses of CNIs on renal function among lung transplant recipients. Data regarding renal function and pulmonary function were collected from 41 lung transplanted patients in whom treatment was converted to a combination of everolimus with lower doses of CNIs. Patients transferred to everolimus and low dose CNIs showed an improvement in renal function. Patients who continued treatment with everolimus showed improvement in renal function, as opposed to patients who discontinued the treatment. Subjects without proteinuria at baseline showed a better improvement compared with subjects with proteinuria. The incidence of graft rejection did not increase. We concluded that a protocol that includes everolimus and lower doses of CNIs is effective for preserving renal function in lung transplant recipients with CKD. We also believe that an early implementation of everolimus, before proteinuria occurs or creatinine clearance is reduced, could lead to better outcomes.
Regulatory system for the G1‐arrest during neuronal development in Drosophila
Authors: Tsuda Leo , Lim Young‐Mi
Published: April 2014

Neuronal network consists of many types of neuron and glial cells. This diversity is guaranteed by the constant cell proliferation of neuronal stem cells following stop cell cycle re‐entry, which leads to differentiation during development. Neuronal differentiation occurs mainly at the specific cell cycle phase, the G1 phase. Therefore, cell cycle exit at the G1 phase is quite an important issue in understanding the process of neuronal cell development. Recent studies have revealed that aberrant S phase re‐entry from the G1 phase often links cellular survival. In this review we discuss the different types of G1 arrest on the process of neuronal development in Drosophila. We also describe the issue that aberrant S phase entry often causes apoptosis, and the same mechanism might contribute to sensory organ defects, such as deafness.
Brood ball size but not egg size correlates with maternal size in a dung beetle, Onthophagus atripennis
Authors: KISHI SHIGEKI
Published: April 2014

Contrary to the theoretical prediction that the optimal investment per offspring should be independent of maternal size, maternal size and investment per offspring are often positively correlated. However, some previous studies have reported a weak correlation or no correlation. Thus, it remains unclear why a positive correlation between maternal size and the investment per offspring persists in some organisms contrary to the theoretical prediction.

In species in which the parents provide food for their offspring, the main components of parental investment are egg size and provisioning mass. Dung beetle (Onthophagus atripennis Waterhouse) parents produce dung brood balls, each of which is the whole provisioning mass for one offspring to grow to adulthood.

Parental body size, egg size, and brood ball size were measured in O. atripennis. No correlation was found between maternal size and egg size, but a positive correlation was found between maternal size and brood ball size. Thus, the effect of maternal size differed between egg size and brood ball size.

The positive correlation between maternal size and brood ball size may be a by‐product of the brood ball construction process, because the egg maturation period determines brood ball size. Thus, the brood ball construction process may prevent the beetles from investing their resources optimally. It may often however be an advantage for the beetles because it allows the female to adjust the brood ball size according to variable dung quality.
Envy‐Motivated Merger Waves
Authors: Doukas John A. , Zhang Wenjia
Published: April 2014

This study examines whether top managerial executive envy plays an important role in merger waves. Since managerial benefits, especially compensation, always increase with firm size, the envy hypothesis conjectures that top executive officers rush into acquisitions due to their envious psychology once other executives initiate them. Six empirical predictions of the envy hypothesis concerning – bidder (target) size, transaction size, value creation for bidders, compensation increases for top managers, likelihood of bidding, as well as total gains (synergies) from mergers – are tested in the context of the banking industry and find that merger waves are motivated by envy‐pay.
Potential of legume‐based grassland–livestock systems in Europe: a review
Authors: Lüscher A. , Mueller‐Harvey I. , Soussana J. F. , Rees R. M. , Peyraud J. L.
Published: April 2014

European grassland‐based livestock production systems face the challenge of producing more meat and milk to meet increasing world demands and to achieve this using fewer resources. Legumes offer great potential for achieving these objectives. They have numerous features that can act together at different stages in the soil–plant–animal–atmosphere system, and these are most effective in mixed swards with a legume proportion of 30–50%. The resulting benefits include reduced dependence on fossil energy and industrial N‐fertilizer, lower quantities of harmful emissions to the environment (greenhouse gases and nitrate), lower production costs, higher productivity and increased protein self‐sufficiency. Some legume species offer opportunities for improving animal health with less medication, due to the presence of bioactive secondary metabolites. In addition, legumes may offer an adaptation option to rising atmosphericCO2concentrations and climate change. Legumes generate these benefits at the level of the managed land‐area unit and also at the level of the final product unit. However, legumes suffer from some limitations, and suggestions are made for future research to exploit more fully the opportunities that legumes can offer. In conclusion, the development of legume‐based grassland–livestock systems undoubtedly constitutes one of the pillars for more sustainable and competitive ruminant production systems, and it can be expected that forage legumes will become more important in the future.
High tricellulin expression is associated with better survival in human hepatoblastoma
Authors: Schlachter Krisztina , Gyugos Mónika , Halász Judit , Lendvai Gábor , Baghy Kornélia , Garami Miklós , Gyöngyösi Benedek , Schaff Zsuzsa , Kiss András
Published: April 2014

Aims

The more differentiated fetal component of hepatoblastoma (HB) is characterized by increased expression of tight junction (TJ) proteins claudin‐1 and ‐2 when compared with embryonal component. Expression patterns of the recently identified TJ protein tricellulin and the epigenetic regulator enzyme EZH2 were investigated in epithelial subtypes of HB and related to survival.

Methods and results

Twenty‐one cases of epithelial HBs subtyped as pure fetal (n = 12) and embryonal/fetal (n = 9), along with 16 non‐tumorous samples from surrounding liver, were analysed by immunohistochemistry for tricellulin, β‐catenin and EZH2 expression. No significant differences were revealed in overall survival between fetal and embryonal/fetal types of HBs. The fetal component, however, showed considerably increased tricellulin expression while the embryonal component displayed significantly increased nuclear EZH2 positivity, in comparison to other epithelial subtypes and non‐tumorous surrounding hepatocytes. Strong nuclear β‐catenin staining was notably more frequent in embryonal than in fetal types. High tricellulin expression was associated with significantly increased overall survival (P = 0.03), while elevated EZH2 expression was linked to the presence of distant metastases (P = 0.013).

Conclusions

Our data indicate that patients with treated HBs showing high expression of tricellulin have significantly better overall survival, independent of histological subtype. Increased nuclear expression of EZH2 was associated with the presence of distant metastases.
Effect of several thermoplastic canal filling techniques on surface temperature rise on roots with simulated internal resorption cavities: an infrared thermographic analysis
Authors: Ulusoy Ö. İ. , Yılmazoğlu M. Z. , Görgül G.
Published: April 2014

Aim

To evaluate the surface temperature rise using an infrared thermal imaging camera on roots with and without simulated internal resorption cavities, during canal filling with injectable (Obtura II), carrier‐based (Soft‐Core) gutta‐percha and continuous wave of condensation (System B) techniques.

Methodology

Root canals of 60 mandibular premolar teeth were instrumented to an apical size of 40. Circular artificial internal resorption cavities with a diameter of 2.40 mm were prepared on the root canal walls of 30 teeth. All teeth were divided into six groups of 10 specimen and root filled as follows: group 1 (teeth with internal resorption): thermoplasticized injectable gutta‐percha (Obtura II), group 2 (teeth without internal resorption): thermoplasticized injectable gutta‐percha (Obtura II), group 3 (teeth with internal resorption): carrier‐based gutta‐percha (Soft‐Core), group 4 (teeth without internal resorption): carrier‐based gutta‐percha (Soft‐Core), group 5 (teeth with internal resorption): continuous wave of condensation (System B) and group 6 (teeth without internal resorption): continuous wave of condensation (System B). The surface temperature changes during filling of canals were measured with an infrared thermal imaging camera. The thermograms were recorded at 2‐s intervals over a period of 40 s to determine the maximum temperature rise at the apical, middle and cervical thirds of the root surface. The data were statistically analysed with one‐way anova and Tukey HSD post hoc or Kruskal–Wallis and Bonferroni‐adjusted Mann–Whitney U‐tests if appropriate.

Results

The temperature rise on the surface of roots with artificial resorptive defects was significantly higher compared with the ones without defects in the Obtura II and System B groups (P < 0.001). The System B group with internal resorption was associated with the maximum temperature rise in the apical (4.3 ± 2.1) and middle (19.5 ± 8.9) thirds amongst the groups (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Use of System B and Obtura II for filling canals with internal resorptive cavities resulted in surface temperature rise over the critical threshold. However, Soft‐Core root filling did not increase the temperature over 10 °C.
Ethics in global health outreach: three key considerations for pharmacists
Authors: Romo Matthew L , DeCamp Matthew
Published: April 2014

Objective

The objective of this article is to explore three key ethical tenets that pharmacists should consider prior to participating in global health outreach.

Key findings

There are increasing opportunities for pharmacists to be involved in global health outreach; however, little attention has been given to the ethical issues that participation may raise for pharmacists. Pharmacists' widely accepted and basic ethical obligations at home lay the foundation for effective management of these ethical challenges abroad. At home, pharmacists have an ethical obligation to provide the best possible quality of care to the patients for whom they serve. During global health outreach, this involves identifying and mitigating the potential for harm, as well as understanding and respecting cultural differences. Furthermore, pharmacists have an ethical obligation to not only meet individual patient needs, but also community and societal needs, when applicable. In global health outreach, this involves tailoring interventions to the needs of the population served.

Conclusions

Because of their unique skillset, pharmacists have the potential to make significant contributions to global health. Applying ethical principles, such as providing the best possible care, respecting cultural differences and meeting societal needs, provides the foundation for successful global health outreach by pharmacists.
THERMI ON LESBOS: A CASE STUDY OF CHANGING TRADE PATTERNS
Authors: BEGEMANN F. , PERNICKA E. , SCHMITT‐STRECKER S.
Published: April 2014

Summary Provenance studies on archaeological metal objects rely on their trace element abundance pattern and lead isotopic composition. A comparison of these features in artifacts from different archaeological sites often requires a comparison of results reported by different laboratories. In this case reasonable conclusions can only be expected if it is assured that the respective laboratories produce compatible results. A comparison of some twenty copper‐based artifacts from Thermi I and II shows this compatibility still to be less than perfect between Oxford and Heidelberg — Mainz. We find the lead isotopic compositions reported by the two laboratories to agree within the stated uncertainties of the abundance ratios of 0.1 percent. The same is also true, to within 50 percent or better, for the contents of As, Sb, Ag, Au and possibly Ni. Serious discrepancies exist, however, for Co, Pb and Zn that we argue to be due to analytical problems at Oxford.

Discriminant analysis of the data from all metal‐bearing occupational levels at Thermi reveals a remarkably good correspondence between trace element signature and occupational level which suggests that at the beginning of the third millennium BC intercourse between Lesbians and Aegean metal traders was rare. Lead isotope data show that the change in metal, at least that upon the transition from Towns I + II to Towns III–IV, was indeed due to a change in source region of the metal and not one caused by a change in technology.
The ILO and the right to strike
Authors: BELLACE Janice R.
Published: April 2014

The author argues that the June 2012 challenge by the ILO Employers' group to the hitherto generally accepted view regarding the right to strike under the Freedom of Association Convention, No. 87, is at odds with the historical understanding of the framework in which the Convention is embedded. She demonstrates how the ILO constituents have consistently recognized that there is a positive right to strike, which is inextricably linked to – and an inevitable corollary of – the right to freedom of association. The article also analyses the relative roles of the ILO supervisory bodies in this regard.
Organizing migrant care workers in Israel: Industrial citizenship and the trade union option
Authors: MUNDLAK Guy , SHAMIR Hila
Published: April 2014

The authors examine the feasibility of trade unionism for migrant care workers, based on a recent organizing drive in Israel. Distinguishing between trade unions and other civil society organizations, they re‐examine the concept of workers' collective action, looking at what constitutes a trade union and to what extent unions can address the specific concerns of migrant care workers. They conclude that, despite the numerous problems involved in organizing migrant care workers, and the vulnerabilities intrinsic to migration processes, gendered work and the occupation of care, trade unions play an important role in establishing industrial citizenship and forming political agency.
The emergent relevance of care staff decision‐making and situation awareness to mobility care in nursing homes: an ethnographic study
Authors: Taylor Janice , Sims Jane , Haines Terry P.
Published: April 2014

Aim

To explore mobility care as provided by care staff in nursing homes.

Background

Care staff regularly assist residents with their mobility. Nurses are increasingly reliant on such staff to provide safe and quality mobility care. However, the nature of care staff decision‐making when providing assistance has not been fully addressed in the literature.

Design

A focused ethnography.

Method

The study was conducted in four nursing homes in Melbourne, Australia. Non‐participant observations of residents and staff in 2011. Focus groups with 18 nurses, care and lifestyle staff were conducted at three facilities in 2012. Thematic analysis was employed for focus groups and content analysis for observation data. Cognitive Continuum Theory and the notion of ‘situation awareness’ assisted data interpretation.

Findings

Decision‐making during mobility care emerged as a major theme. Using Cognitive Continuum Theory as a guide, nursing home staff's decision‐making was described as ranging from system‐aided, through resident‐ and peer‐aided, to reflective and intuitive. Staff seemed aware of the need for resident‐aided decision‐making consistent with person‐centred care. Habitual mobility care based on shared mental models occurred. It was noted that levels of situation awareness may vary among staff.

Conclusion

Care staff may benefit from support via collaborative and reflective practice to develop decision‐making skills, situation awareness and person‐centred mobility care. Further research is required to explore the connection between staff's skills in mobility care and their decision‐making competence as well as how these factors link to quality mobility care.
Effect of Chlorthalidone, Amlodipine, and Lisinopril on Visit‐to‐Visit Variability of Blood Pressure: Results From the Antihypertensive and Lipid‐Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial
Authors: Muntner Paul , Levitan Emily B. , Lynch Amy I. , Simpson Lara M. , Whittle Jeffrey , Davis Barry R. , Kostis John B. , Whelton Paul K. , Oparil Suzanne
Published: April 2014

Few randomized trials have compared visit‐to‐visit variability (VVV) of systolic blood pressure (SBP) across drug classes. The authors compared VVV of SBP among 24,004 participants randomized to chlorthalidone, amlodipine, or lisinopril in the Antihypertensive and Lipid‐Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial (ALLHAT). VVV of SBP was calculated across 5 to 7 visits occurring 6 to 28 months following randomization. The standard deviation (SD) of SBP was 10.6 (SD=5.0), 10.5 (SD=4.9), and 12.2 (SD=5.8) for participants randomized to chlorthalidone, amlodipine, and lisinopril, respectively. After multivariable adjustment including mean SBP across visits and compared with participants randomized to chlorthalidone, participants randomized to amlodipine had a 0.36 (standard error [SE]: 0.07) lower SD of SBP and participants randomized to lisinopril had a 0.77 (SE=0.08) higher SD of SBP. Results were consistent using other VVV of SBP metrics. These data suggest chlorthalidone and amlodipine are associated with lower VVV of SBP than lisinopril.
Mandibular reconstruction using a calcium phosphate/polyethylene glycol hydrogel carrier with BMP‐2
Authors: Gruber Rudolf M. , Krohn Sebastian , Mauth Corinna , Dard Michel , Molenberg Aart , Lange Katharina , Perske Christina , Schliephake Henning
Published: April 2014

Aim

To test the hypothesis that a synthetic hydroxyapatite/β‐tricalcium phosphate (HA/TCP) construct combined with polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogel including recombinant human bone morphogenetic proteins‐2 (rhBMP‐2) enhances new bone formation compared with bone morphogenetic proteins‐2 (BMP‐2) delivered using the HA/TCP construct alone.

Material and Methods

Bilateral mandibular partial thickness 20 × 8 × 8 mm (L × W × H) alveolar defects were surgically created in the edentulated posterior mandible in 18 female minipigs. Randomized into two groups of nine animals each, the alveolar defects either received HA/TCP or HA/TCP/PEG with or without BMP‐2 (105 μg/defect) in contra‐lateral sites using a split‐mouth design. Primary outcome, bone density (%) within four regions of interest, was evaluated following a 4‐week healing interval when the animals were killed for histometric analysis.

Results

Bone morphogenetic proteins‐2 loaded onto HA/TCP constructs significantly enhanced new bone formation compared with HA/TCP controls. Adding PEG apparently obstructed BMP‐2 induced bone formation.

Conclusion

Polyethylene glycol compromises the osteogenic effect of BMP‐2.
Increase in child behavior problems among urban Brazilian 4‐year olds: 1993 and 2004 Pelotas birth cohorts
Authors: Matijasevich Alicia , Murray Elizabeth , Stein Alan , Anselmi Luciana , Menezes Ana M. , Santos Iná S. , Barros Aluísio J.D. , Gigante Denise P. , Barros Fernando C. , Victora Cesar G.
Published: April 2014

Background

There are an increasing number of reports on time trends in child and adolescent psychological problems but none from low‐ and middle‐income countries, and very few covering the preschool period. The aim was to investigate changes in preschool behavioral/emotional problems in two birth cohorts from a middle‐income country born 11 years apart.

Methods

We analyzed data from the 1993 and 2004 Pelotas birth cohort studies from Brazil. A subsample of 4‐year olds from the 1993 cohort (634) and all 4‐year olds from the 2004 cohort (3750) were assessed for behavioral/emotional problems through maternal report using the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Response rates in these two population‐based cohorts were above 90%.

Results

We found a significant increase in CBCL total problems, internalizing and externalizing mean scores over the 11‐year period. For 1993 and 2004 Pelotas cohorts, respectively, CBCL mean values (SE) total problems scores were 27.9 (0.8) and 34.7 (0.3); for internalizing scores, 5.7 (0.2) and 6.3 (0.1) and for externalizing scores, 12.4 (0.4) and 15.5 (0.1). After adjusting for confounding variables, the largest increase from 1993 to 2004 was identified in the aggressive behavior syndrome score (Cohen's d = .50), followed by the externalizing problem score (Cohen's d = .40) and CBCL total problem score (Cohen's d = .36), respectively. The rise in child psychological problems was more marked in children from families with fewer assets and with less educated mothers.

Conclusions

Our findings provide evidence for a substantial increase in preschool behavioral problems among children in Brazil over an 11‐year period.
Island Waste Management Systems
Authors: Eckelman Matthew J. , Ashton Weslynne , Arakaki Yuji , Hanaki Keisuke , Nagashima Shunsuke , Malone‐Lee Lai Choo
Published: April 2014

Island waste management professionals are faced with limited land resources, high energy costs, large seasonal fluctuations in waste volumes, and complex social and political dynamics that stem from their often closely knit societies. These and other factors can discourage typical waste management practices, but they also provide opportunities for island governments and businesses to explore alternative technologies and policies that suit their particular circumstances and that might be environmentally preferable. This critical review discusses the waste management literature on islands to date, including several industrial ecology (IE) studies. Common advantages and disadvantages faced by island waste management challenges are presented from the perspectives of business and municipal management. Waste generation data are presented from more than 40 islands around the world and tested for correlation with economic and geographic parameters and using cluster analysis, with the aim of identifying trends among island types. Poor data quality and comparability are ongoing challenges that underscore the potential benefits of a consistent program of island waste management data collection. Finally, the review explores opportunities for applying IE research to generate useful insights and policies in the areas of material flow analysis, industrial symbiosis, life cycle assessment, and social ecology.
Possibilities and Challenges of Multimodal Literacy Practices in Teaching and Learning English as an Additional Language
Authors: Yi Youngjoo
Published: April 2014

I review a decade of empirical research specifically addressing possibilities and challenges of multimodal literacy practices in learning and teaching English as an additional language, particularly for adolescent multilingual English language learners (ELLs). Given the lack of empirical research and discussions about multimodal literacy practices of ELLs, this review focuses on the issues of multimodal literacy practices of ELLs and their teachers. Thus, I look mainly at the promise and potential of engaging ELLs in multimodal literacy practices and potential tensions of implementing multimodal literacies into classroom practices. Findings of this review suggest more empirical research related to how ELLs consume, interpret, and produce multimodal texts as well as some implications for pedagogy.
An overview of nursing in Europe: a SWOT analysis
Authors: Manzano‐García Guadalupe , Ayala‐Calvo Juan‐Carlos
Published: April 2014

This article sets out a global analysis of the weaknesses, threats, strengths and opportunities that define the current situation of nursing in Europe. The nursing profession in Europe is suffering from a crisis of self‐efficacy with the syndrome of burnout being one of its consequences. Other weaknesses include shortage of staff, job insecurity, devalued nursing image in society and the lack of recognition of emotional and psychological dimensions of care. The threats to this profession are linked to the lack of prestige and social recognition and to the current economic crisis in Europe. The European economic crisis favours staff shortages and increased European migration flow. The strength of the group lies in the art of caring, which is its defining feature. Primary Care Nursing and Hospital Liaison Nursing demonstrate the great professional adaptability in meeting the needs of the ever‐changing society. The European Higher Education Area and the strengthening of the specialties provide opportunities for the nursing profession. Both represent an important progress towards solid professionalism that will give nursing greater visibility. Moreover, nursing must implement strategies to disseminate its activity and emerge from anonymity. Nursing must show society the image it wants to project.
Expression profiling reveals functionally redundant multiple‐copy genes related to zinc, iron and cadmium responses in Brassica rapa
Authors: Li Jimeng , Liu Bo , Cheng Feng , Wang Xiaowu , Aarts Mark G. M. , Wu Jian
Published: April 2014

Genes underlying environmental adaptability tend to be over‐retained in polyploid plant species. Zinc deficiency (ZnD) and iron deficiency (FeD), excess Zn (ZnE) and cadmium exposure (CdE) are major environmental problems for crop cultivation, but little is known about the differential expression of duplicated genes upon these stress conditions.

Applying Tag‐Seq technology to leaves of Brassica rapa grown under FeD, ZnD, ZnE or CdE conditions, with normal conditions as a control, we examined global gene expression changes and compared the expression patterns of multiple paralogs.

We identified 812, 543, 331 and 447 differentially expressed genes under FeD, ZnD, ZnE and CdE conditions, respectively, in B. rapa leaves. Genes involved in regulatory networks centered on the transcription factors bHLH038 or bHLH100 were differentially expressed under (ZnE‐induced) FeD. Further analysis revealed that genes associated with Zn, Fe and Cd responses tended to be over‐retained in the B. rapa genome. Most of these multiple‐copy genes showed the same direction of expression change under stress conditions.

We conclude that the duplicated genes involved in trace element responses in B. rapa are functionally redundant, making the regulatory network more complex in B. rapa than in Arabidopsis thaliana.
Immunoregulatory mechanisms of vitamin D relevant to respiratory health and asthma
Authors: Mann Elizabeth H. , Chambers Emma S. , Pfeffer Paul E. , Hawrylowicz Catherine M.
Published: April 2014

Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent among people with various immune‐mediated conditions, including autoimmune diseases and asthma. Serum 25(OH)D levels inversely correlate with asthma severity, glucocorticoid responsiveness/dosage, and markers of pathogenesis, such as airway remodeling, IgE, and eosinophilia. Trials involving supplementation with active vitamin D or a precursor are beginning to emerge with variable results that, in part, reflect differences in study design. This review looks at the mechanisms by which vitamin D may protect against asthma, including increasing glucocorticoid responsiveness, skewing immune cells towards a regulatory phenotype, reducing the incidence of infections, airway remodeling, eosinophilia, and lowering the levels of IgE. Also discussed is the therapeutic potential for vitamin D, which is likely to be applicable to immune‐mediated conditions beyond simply asthma.
Sexually dimorphic actions of glucocorticoids: beyond chromosomes and sex hormones
Authors: Quinn Matthew , Ramamoorthy Sivapriya , Cidlowski John A.
Published: April 2014

Sexual dimorphism is a well‐documented phenomenon that is observed at all levels of the animal kingdom. Historically, sex hormones (testosterone and estrogen) have been implicated as key players in a wide array of pathologies displaying sexual dimorphism in their etiology and progression. While these hormones clearly contribute to sexually dimorphic diseases, other factors may be involved in this phenomenon as well. In particular, the stress hormone cortisol exerts differential effects in both males and females. The underlying molecular basis for the sexually dimorphic actions of glucocorticoids is unknown but clearly important to understand, since synthetic glucocorticoids are the most widely prescribed medication for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases and hematological cancers in humans.