bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender-based differences in understanding the purchasing patterns of eco-friendly cosmetics and beauty care products in Mauritius: a study of female customers
Authors: Pudaruth Sharmila , Juwaheer Thanika Devi , Seewoo Yogini Devi
Published: February 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to explore the factors influencing the purchasing patterns of eco-friendly cosmetics and beauty care products among female customers in Mauritius. It also investigates upon the relative significance of these factors in predicting the preference to buy and recommend eco-friendly cosmetics and beauty care products to others.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper applies the data reduction technique by using exploratory factor analysis on a sample of 150 female consumers and condenses a set of 35 attributes into a list of eight comprehensible factors influencing the purchasing patterns of eco-friendly and beauty care products among females in Mauritius. Multiple regression analysis was also conducted to investigate upon the importance of the eight dimensions in influencing the behavioural intentions of females to purchase eco-friendly products and their likeliness to engage in referral for eco-friendly products.

Findings

– The factor analysis identified that the purchasing patterns for eco-friendly cosmetics and beauty care products is influenced by a combination of eight factors namely: “women lifestyles, self-image health and economic considerations”, “ethical consumerism among females”, “pharmacological essence of green cosmetics and beauty care products”, “visual appeal and physical cues in cosmetic stores”, “price-conscious decisions and effective promotion”, “belief on ethical claims in green messages”, “brand image and usage experience” and “sales representatives and social influences”. The results of the regression analysis have also suggested that the behavioural intention and referral of female customers is primarily derived from one predictor factor related to “women lifestyles, self-image, health and economic conditions”.

Practical implications

– In terms of marketing strategies, cosmetic and beauty care organisations should promote greater ethical concerns among female customers through effective green advertising messages. Greater emphasis should be placed on the pharmacological essence of green advertising. Cosmetic executives should also focus on health-related benefits while marketing cosmetics and beauty care products.

Originality/value

– The paper aims to fill up the significant gap in the literature on purchasing patterns for eco-friendly cosmetics and beauty care products among female customers. This study remains one of few research work designed to address different factors influencing the purchasing patterns for green cosmetics and beauty care products in the context of developing countries such as Mauritius. Yet, it would serve as a roadmap for cosmetics and beauty care companies to understand the factors impacting on purchasing patterns of eco-friendly cosmetics and beauty care products in similar contexts.
Organizations’ commitment to and communication of CSR activities: insights from Ghana
Authors: Abugre James B. , Nyuur Richard B.
Published: February 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine organizations’ commitment and communication of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in a developing country’s context.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study employed an empirical quantitative approach by surveying 193 managers from multiple organizations in Ghana, and used independent sample t-test as well as descriptive statistics to examine the phenomenon.

Findings

– The study established that firms operating in Ghana know about CSR and are committed to it. But the level of understanding of the concept as evidenced by their practices is limited to philanthropic activities. The study further revealed that firms operating in Ghana communicate their CSR activities to stakeholders in many forms. Additionally, organizations employ equally varied channels in communicating their CSR initiatives.

Practical implications

– The study contributes the Ghanaian perspective of CSR to the Sub-Sahara African literature, and by that it enhances our present understanding of the commitment and communication channels of CSR activities by companies operating in Ghana.

Originality/value

– Empirical Literature on CSR communication in developing countries is limited. The paucity of academic enquiry on the issue has stimulated this research, based on the perceptions of managers of firms operating in Ghana about their principles of CSR, their way to disclose these activities and the kind of CSR activities done. Further research directions are also articulated.
FORUM: Ecologists need robust survey designs, sampling and analytical methods
Authors: Hayward Matt W. , Boitani Luigi , Burrows Neil D. , Funston Paul J. , Karanth K. Ullas , MacKenzie Darryl I. , Pollock Ken H. , Yarnell Richard W.
Published: February 2015

Research that yields conflicting results rightly causes controversy. Where methodological weaknesses are apparent, there is ready opportunity for discord within the scientific community, which may undermine the entire study.

We use the debate about the role of dingoesCanis dingoin conservation inAustralia as a case study for a phenomenon that is relevant to all applied ecologists, where conflicting results have been published in high‐quality journals and yet the problems with the methods used in these studies have led to significant controversy.

To alleviate such controversies, scientists need to use robust methods to ensure that their results are repeatable and defendable. To date, this has not occurred inAustralia's dingo debate due to the use of unvalidated indices that rely on unsupported assumptions.

We highlight the problems that poor methods have caused in this debate. We also reiterate our recommendations for practitioners, statisticians and researchers to work together to develop long‐term, multi‐site experimental research programmes using robust methods to understand the impacts of dingoes on mesopredators.

Synthesis and applications. Incorporating robust methods and appropriate experimental designs is needed to ensure that conservation actions are appropriately focused and are supported with robust results. Such actions will go a long way towards resolving the debate about the role of dingoes in conservation inAustralia, and other, ecological debates.
Populist Leaders and Coterie Charisma
Authors: McDonnell Duncan
Published: February 2015

Is the relationship between populist leaders and those in their parties always charismatic? Although many scholars of populism assume this, the attribution of ‘charisma’ is invariably based on how leaders present themselves rather than how purported followers within parties perceive them. In line with the literature on charisma, this article takes the latter approach, using interviews conducted between 2009 and 2011 with 111 elected representatives and grassroots members (i.e. ‘the coterie’) to examine how three European populist leaders regularly termed ‘charismatic’ – Silvio Berlusconi, Christoph Blocher and Umberto Bossi – were viewed within their parties. The article finds evidence of three different leadership types, with Bossi very clearly satisfying the conditions for coterie charisma, Berlusconi largely (but not entirely) fulfilling them, and Blocher only partially doing so. Finally, it presents new data showing the very damaging effects of Bossi’s subsequent downfall on his party’s organisation.
Toxicological Findings in Fatal Motor Vehicle Collisions in Ontario, Canada: A One‐Year Study
Authors: Woodall Karen L. , Chow Betty L.C. , Lauwers Albert , Cass Dan
Published: February 2015

Drug‐impaired driving is a complex area of forensic toxicology due in part to limited data concerning the type of drugs involved and the concentrations detected. This study analyzed toxicological findings in drivers from fatal motor vehicle collisions (FMVCs) in Ontario, Canada, over a one‐year period using a standardized protocol. Of the 229 cases included in the study, 56% were positive for alcohol and/or drugs. After alcohol, cannabis was the most frequently encountered substance (27%), followed by benzodiazepines (17%) and antidepressants (17%). There were differences in drugs detected by age but no marked difference in drugs detected between single and multiple FMVC's. Not all drugs detected were considered impairing either due to drug type, concentration or case history. The findings indicate the importance of comprehensive drug testing in FMVCs and highlight the need to consider a variety of factors, in addition to drug type and concentration, when assessing the role of drugs in driving impairment.
Statistical analysis of the individual variability of 1D protein profiles as a tool in ecology: an application to parasitoid venom
Authors: Mathé‐Hubert H. , Gatti J.‐L. , Colinet D. , Poirié M. , Malausa T.
Published: February 2015

Understanding the forces that shape eco‐evolutionary patterns often requires linking phenotypes to genotypes, allowing characterization of these patterns at the molecular level. DNA‐based markers are less informative in this aim compared to markers associated with gene expression and, more specifically, with protein quantities. The characterization of eco‐evolutionary patterns also usually requires the analysis of large sample sizes to accurately estimate interindividual variability. However, the methods used to characterize and compare protein samples are generally expensive and time‐consuming, which constrains the size of the produced data sets to few individuals. We present here a method that estimates the interindividual variability of protein quantities based on a global, semi‐automatic analysis of 1D electrophoretic profiles, opening the way to rapid analysis and comparison of hundreds of individuals. The main original features of the method are the in silico normalization of sample protein quantities using pictures of electrophoresis gels at different staining levels, as well as a new method of analysis of electrophoretic profiles based on a median profile. We demonstrate that this method can accurately discriminate between species and between geographically distant or close populations, based on interindividual variation in venom protein profiles from three endoparasitoid wasps of two different genera (Psyttalia concolor, Psyttalia lounsburyi and Leptopilina boulardi). Finally, we discuss the experimental designs that would benefit from the use of this method.
Legislative Veto Players and the Effects of International Human Rights Agreements
Authors: Lupu Yonatan
Published: February 2015

Do national legislatures constitute a mechanism by which commitments to international human rights treaties can be made credible? Treaty ratification can activate domestic mechanisms that make repression more costly, and the legislative opposition can enhance these mechanisms. Legislative veto players raise the cost of formalistic repressive strategies by declining to consent to legislation. Executives can still choose to rely on more costly, extralegal strategies, but these could result in severe penalties for the leader and require the leader to expend resources to hide. Especially in treaty member‐states, legislatures can use other powers to also increase the cost of extralegal violations, which can further reduce repression. By using an empirical strategy that attempts to address the selection effects in treaty commitment decisions, I show that positive effects of human rights treaties increase when there are more legislative veto players.
Thalamic Kv7 channels: pharmacological properties and activity control during noxious signal processing
Authors: Cerina Manuela , Szkudlarek Hanna J , Coulon Philippe , Meuth Patrick , Kanyshkova Tatyana , Nguyen Xuan Vinh , Göbel Kerstin , Seidenbecher Thomas , Meuth Sven G , Pape Hans‐Christian , Budde Thomas
Published: February 2015

Background and Purpose

The existence of functional Kv7 channels in thalamocortical (TC) relay neurons and the effects of the K+‐current termed M‐current (IM) on thalamic signal processing have long been debated. Immunocytochemical evidence suggests their presence in this brain region. Therefore, we aimed to verify their existence, pharmacological properties and function in regulating activity in neurons of the ventrobasal thalamus (VB).

Experimental Approach

Characterization of Kv7 channels was performed by combining in vitro, in vivo and in silico techniques with a pharmacological approach. Retigabine (30 μM) and XE991 (20 μM), a specific Kv7 channel enhancer and blocker, respectively, were applied in acute brain slices during electrophysiological recordings. The effects of intrathalamic injection of retigabine (3 mM, 300 nL) and/or XE991 (2 mM, 300 nL) were investigated in freely moving animals during hot‐plate tests by recording behaviour and neuronal activity.

Key Results

Kv7.2 and Kv7.3 subunits were found to be abundantly expressed in TC neurons of mouse VB. A slow K+‐current with properties of IM was activated by retigabine and inhibited by XE991. Kv7 channel activation evoked membrane hyperpolarization, a reduction in tonic action potential firing, and increased burst firing in vitro and in computational models. Single‐unit recordings and pharmacological intervention demonstrated a specific burst‐firing increase upon IM activation in vivo. A Kv7 channel‐mediated increase in pain threshold was associated with fewer VB units responding to noxious stimuli, and increased burst firing in responsive neurons.

Conclusions and Implications

Kv7 channel enhancement alters somatosensory activity and may reflect an anti‐nociceptive mechanism during acute pain processing.
The Stability of Invertebrate Communities in Bromeliad Phytotelmata in a Rain Forest Subject to Hurricanes
Authors: Richardson Michael J. , Richardson Barbara A. , Srivastava Diane S.
Published: February 2015

Communities of invertebrate animals in lower canopy and saxicolous tank bromeliads, originally studied in 1993–1997, were resampled along an elevational gradient in tabonuco, palo colorado, and dwarf or cloud forest in Puerto Rico in 2010. These Puerto Rican montane rain forests were impacted strongly by hurricanes in 1989 and 1998, so the surveys in the 1990s represented 4–8 yr of post‐hurricane recovery, whereas our recent survey represents 12 yr of post‐hurricane recovery. At most elevations, species diversity, both within individual bromeliads and at the forest scale, declined between the 1990s and 2010. This decline in diversity between decades is associated with reductions in bromeliad density as the canopy progressively closed during recovery from hurricane damage. The observed decline in alpha and gamma diversity appears to have involved the loss of rarer species, as might be expected from standard metapopulation theory. By contrast, the most common species were remarkably stable in abundance, composition, and frequency of occurrence over the two decades. In the lowermost tabonuco forest, two endemic bromeliad specialists, restricted to bromeliads for their entire life cycle, were not found on resampling. This study also demonstrates that, at least in Puerto Rico, sets of ten plants from each forest were sufficient to monitor bromeliad invertebrate populations and their diversity over time.
Endocrine care of transpeople part II. A review of cross‐sex hormonal treatments, outcomes and adverse effects in transwomen
Authors: Meriggiola Maria Cristina , Gava Giulia
Published: February 2015

The treatment of transwomen relies on the combined administration of anti‐androgens or GnRH analogues to suppress androgen production and thereby reduce male phenotypic characteristics together with oestrogens to develop female characteristics. In transwomen, synthetic oestrogens such as ethinyl oestradiol, as well as conjugated equine oestrogens (CEE), should be avoided to minimize thromboembolic risks especially in older transwomen and in those with risk factors. Currently, available short‐ and long‐term safety studies suggest that cross‐sex hormonal therapy (CHT) can be considered safe in transwomen improving the well‐being and quality of life of these individuals. Long‐term monitoring should aim to decrease cardiovascular risks and should include prostate and breast cancer screenings.
Combined endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation and phacoemulsification versus phacoemulsification alone in the treatment of mild to moderate glaucoma
Authors: Siegel Michael J , Boling Whitney S , Faridi Omar S , Gupta Chirag K , Kim Chaesik , Boling Richard C , Citron Matthew E , Siegel Marc J , Siegel Les I
Published: February 2015

Background

To evaluate the long‐term effects of combined endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation and phacoemulsification (phaco) versus phacoemulsification alone on intraocular pressure control and medication reliance in the treatment of mild to moderate glaucoma.

Design

Retrospective chart review in private practice setting by glaucoma fellowship trained surgeons.

Participants

A total of 261 eyes in the combined phaco‐endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation group with 52 eyes in the phaco‐alone group.

Methods

Comparison of phaco‐endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation with phaco alone over 36 months.

Main Outcome Measures

Full and qualified success cumulative survival, intraocular pressure and medication reliance 6–36 months compared with baseline. Full success was defined as minimum 20% intraocular pressure reduction with a decrease of at least one ocular hypertensive medication. Qualified success was defined as intraocular pressure no higher than baseline with a decrease of at least one ocular hypertensive medication.

Results

At 36 months, mean intraocular pressure in the combined phaco‐endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation group was 14.6 mmHg, whereas the phaco‐alone group was 15.5 mmHg (P = 0.34). Mean medication reliance in the combined phaco‐endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation group was 0.2 medications, whereas the phaco‐alone group was 1.2 (P < 0.001). Full success in the phaco‐endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation group was 61.4%; the phaco‐alone group was 23.3% (P < 0.001). Qualified success survival was 72.6% in the phaco‐endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation group and 23.3% in the phaco‐alone group (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Combined phaco‐endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation effectively lowers or maintains intraocular pressure and results in ocular hypertensive medication reduction up to 36 months when compared with phaco alone. Therefore, phaco‐endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation may help to increase medication compliance and reduce glaucoma progression in mild to moderate glaucoma.
Phenotype analysis impacts testing strategy in patients with Currarino syndrome
Authors: Cuturilo G. , Hodge J.C. , Runke C.K. , Thorland E.C. , Al‐Owain M.A. , Ellison J.W. , Babovic‐Vuksanovic D.
Published: February 2015

Currarino syndrome (OMIM 175450) presents with sacral, anorectal, and intraspinal anomalies and presacral meningocele or teratoma. Autosomal dominant loss‐of‐function mutations in the MNX1 gene cause nearly all familial and 30% of sporadic cases. Less frequently, a complex phenotype of Currarino syndrome can be caused by microdeletions of 7q containing MNX1. Here, we report one familial and three sporadic cases of Currarino syndrome. To determine the most efficient genetic testing approach for these patients, we have compared results from MNX1 sequencing, chromosomal microarray, and performed a literature search with analysis of genotype–phenotype correlation. Based on the relationship between the type of mutation (intragenic MNX1 mutations vs 7q microdeletion) and the presence of intellectual disability, growth retardation, facial dysmorphism, and associated malformations, we propose a testing algorithm. Patients with the classic Currarino triad of malformations but normal growth, intellect, and facial appearance should have MNX1 sequencing first, and only in the event of a normal result should the clinician proceed with chromosomal microarray testing. In contrast, if growth delay and/or facial dysmorphy and/or intellectual disability are present, chromosomal microarray should be the first method of choice for genetic testing.
Legacies of Place and Power: From Military Base to Freeport Zone
Authors: Reyes Victoria
Published: February 2015

This article examines the place–making of global borderlands—semiautonomous, foreign–controlled geographical locations geared toward international exchange. I use the case study of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ), Philippines, as an example of a global borderland that resides within a space formerly occupied by a colonial power. I show how elite Filipinos adapted and transformed the spatial boundaries the U.S. military initially erected. The earlier boundaries differentiating Americans from Filipinos and military personnel from civilians helped the native elite to perpetuate familiar patterns of inequality based on nationality, class, and skin color. This differentiation occurs through: (1) the indirect and direct exclusion of the poor vis–à–vis the SBFZ's sociospatial organization and (2) the maintenance of cultural practices (litter, traffic) and moral discourses (of what is “good” and “bad”) formerly associated with the base, so that the SBFZ remains distinct from the surrounding city of Olongapo. Places of power have legacies, structural and spatial residues that continue to influence cultural practices and discourses even after the original uses of a place are transformed.
One‐year follow‐up of titanium/zirconium alloy X commercially pure titanium narrow‐diameter implants placed in the molar region of the mandible: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tolentino L. , Sukekava F. , Garcez‐Filho J. , Tormena M. , Lima L. A. , Araújo M. G.
Published: February 2015

Objective

To analyze marginal bone loss (MBL) and clinical parameters around narrow‐diameter implants (NDIs – 3.3 mm) made of titanium/zirconium alloy (TiZr) in comparison with commercially pure titanium (cpTi) installed in the molar region of the mandible after 1 year in function.

Materials and methods

Ten patients participated in the study. A TiZr and a cpTi NDI were randomly installed in contralateral molar sites of the mandible of each patient in a split‐mouth design. Eight weeks after healing, all metal–ceramic single crowns were adapted to the implants and patients were enrolled in a plaque control program. MBL at the mesial and distal aspects of the implants were evaluated by comparing periapical radiographs taken immediately after prosthesis installation (T1) and 1 year after loading (T2). Clinical probing depth, bleeding on probing, suppuration, visible plaque and implant mobility were evaluated to determine implant success and survival rates.

Results

Mean MBL at the interproximal aspects of TiZr implant sites was 0.32 ± 0.27 mm, while at cpTi implant sites mean MBL was 0.35 ± 0.24 mm (P = 0.60). Both TiZr and cpTi NDIs presented 100% implant survival and success rates, with no significant differences in the clinical parameters studied (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

TiZr and cpTi NDIs presented similar outcomes after 1 year in function in the molar region of the mandible. The results suggest that TiZr and cpTi NDIs may be equally used to support single crowns in the posterior area of the mouth. However, further studies with longer follow‐up periods are necessary to confirm these findings.
Digital versus conventional implant impressions for edentulous patients: accuracy outcomes
Authors: Papaspyridakos Panos , Gallucci German O. , Chen Chun‐Jung , Hanssen Stijn , Naert Ignace , Vandenberghe Bart
Published: February 2015

Purpose

To compare the accuracy of digital and conventional impression techniques for completely edentulous patients and to determine the effect of different variables on the accuracy outcomes.

Materials and methods

A stone cast of an edentulous mandible with five implants was fabricated to serve as master cast (control) for both implant‐ and abutment‐level impressions. Digital impressions (n = 10) were taken with an intraoral optical scanner (TRIOS, 3shape, Denmark) after connecting polymer scan bodies. For the conventional polyether impressions of the master cast, a splinted and a non‐splinted technique were used for implant‐level and abutment‐level impressions (4 cast groups, n = 10 each). Master casts and conventional impression casts were digitized with an extraoral high‐resolution scanner (IScan D103i, Imetric, Courgenay, Switzerland) to obtain digital volumes. Standard tessellation language (STL) datasets from the five groups of digital and conventional impressions were superimposed with the STL dataset from the master cast to assess the 3D (global) deviations. To compare the master cast with digital and conventional impressions at the implant level, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Scheffe's post hoc test was used, while Wilcoxon's rank‐sum test was used for testing the difference between abutment‐level conventional impressions.

Results

Significant 3D deviations (P < 0.001) were found between Group II (non‐splinted, implant level) and control. No significant differences were found between Groups I (splinted, implant level), III (digital, implant level), IV (splinted, abutment level), and V (non‐splinted, abutment level) compared with the control. Implant angulation up to 15° did not affect the 3D accuracy of implant impressions (P > 0.001).

Conclusion

Digital implant impressions are as accurate as conventional implant impressions. The splinted, implant‐level impression technique is more accurate than the non‐splinted one for completely edentulous patients, whereas there was no difference in the accuracy at the abutment level. The implant angulation up to 15° did not affect the accuracy of implant impressions.
Bone regenerative efficacy of biphasic calcium phosphate collagen composite as a carrier of rhBMP‐2
Authors: Lee Eun‐Ung , Lim Hyun‐Chang , Hong Ji‐Youn , Lee Jung‐Seok , Jung Ui‐Won , Choi Seong‐Ho
Published: February 2015

Objectives

This study compared the bone regenerative effects of a recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 (rhBMP‐2)‐loaded collagen‐based biphasic calcium phosphate composite (BCPC) and rhBMP‐2‐loaded biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP).

Material and methods

The in vitro release profiles of rhBMP‐2‐loaded BCP and BCPC were measured. The animal surgery was performed on ten rabbits. Four 8‐mm‐diameter circular calvarial defects were made and filled with BCP, BCPC, rhBMP‐2‐loaded BCP (BMP + BCP) and rhBMP‐2‐loaded BCPC (BMP + BCPC). The animals were euthanized either 2 or 8 weeks after surgery.

Results

The initial burst release of rhBMP‐2 was greater for BCP than for BCPC, and both presented a slow release pattern thereafter. In rabbit calvarial defects, the space maintaining capability and graft resorption of all experimental groups did not show statistical differences at 2 and 8 weeks. New bone formation in the rhBMP‐2‐loaded groups was greater than in the non‐loaded groups at both weeks, but the amount of new bone was comparable between both rhBMP‐2‐loaded groups at both weeks. There was a distinct histologic difference between the BMP + BCP and BMP + BCPC groups at 2 weeks; the new bone formation occurred more in the intergranular spaces and the BCP‐to‐bone contact was greater in the BMP + BCPC group, but these differences were no longer discernible at 8 weeks.

Conclusions

BCP‐ and BCPC‐loaded rhBMP‐2 significantly improved bone regeneration and BCPC led to a dense network of new bone and bone particles during the early healing period. BCPC can therefore be considered as a promising candidate for carrying rhBMP‐2.
Clinical features and treatment outcomes of dental implant‐related paranasal sinusitis: A 2‐year prospective observational study
Authors: Kim So Jeong , Park Jee Soo , Kim Hee Tae , Lee Cha Hee , Park Yun Hwi , Bae Jung Ho
Published: February 2015

Objectives

As dental implant‐related paranasal sinusitis has different pathophysiology and clinical features from primarily rhinogenic paranasal sinusitis, the standard treatment protocol for dental implant‐related paranasal sinusitis has not yet been established. The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical characteristics and treatment results of dental implant‐related paranasal sinusitis.

Material and methods

We conducted a prospective single‐center study of 19 patients who were treated for odontogenic sinusitis developing in relation to dental implant from September 2008 through May 2012. The age of the patients ranged from 33 to 78 years, with the mean age of 54.5 years. Foul odor and postnasal dripping were the two most common complaints. All patients underwent nasal endoscopic examination and paranasal sinus CT before treatment, and initial conservative treatment for 1 week. Patients unresponsive to medical treatment underwent endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). All patients were classified into the conservative and surgical groups for analysis and followed up for 2 years after initial diagnosis.

Results

Four patients (21%) were successfully treated conservatively, while 15 patients (79%) underwent surgical treatment. One of these 15 patients required revision surgery. After 2 years, all patients were successfully treated, so there were no more clinical signs of recurrent sinusitis in any patients. The survival rate of implants was 100%. Compared to those of the conservative group, symptom duration, the Lund–MacKay CT score, status of the ostiomeatal unit (OMU), and the condition of the maxillary sinus floor were significantly more severe in the surgical group.

Conclusion

In our study, the majority of patients who once developed paranasal sinusitis associated with dental implants required surgical treatment. Findings of paranasal sinus CT may be important in determining treatment option.
The accuracy of circulating microRNA‐21 in the diagnosis of colorectal cancer: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Xu F. , Xu L. , Wang M. , An G. , Feng G.
Published: February 2015

Aim

The accuracy and clinical value of circulating microRNA‐21 (miR‐21) were assessed as a novel diagnostic biomarker of colorectal cancer (CRC).

Method

Medline/PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library databases and grey literature (Google scholar; British Library) were searched up to 29 September 2014 for eligible studies of the association between blood‐based miR‐21 and a diagnosis of CRC. Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS) was employed to assess the quality of the included studies by two investigators. Stata12.0 and Meta‐DiSc1.4 software were applied to test the heterogeneity using Cochran's Q test and I2 statistics and to perform the meta‐analysis.

Results

Seven studies with 676 CRC patients and 417 controls were included in the meta‐analysis. All were of high quality (QUADAS scores 12 or 13). For miR‐21, the pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio and diagnostic odds ratio to predict CRC were 75% [95% confidence interval (CI) 63–83%], 84% (95% CI 79–87%), 4.61 (95% CI 3.38–6.29), 0.30 (95% CI 0.20–0.46) and 16.89 (95% CI 7.56–37.73) after using a random‐effects model analysis. The area under the summary receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.86 (95% CI 0.83–0.89).

Conclusion

The results suggest that circulating miR‐21 is a biomarker with moderate sensitivity and specificity for CRC.
Cytomorphology of neuroendocrine tumours of the gallbladder
Authors: Yadav R. , Jain D. , Mathur S. R. , Iyer V. K.
Published: February 2015

Objective

Gallbladder neuroendocrine tumours (GB‐NETs) are rare and account for 0.5% of all NETs. GB‐NETs have an aggressive behaviour, which depends on the tumour grade. The cytomorphological spectrum of these tumours has never been described in detail. The present study evaluates the cytological features of GB‐NETs and grades them according to the World Health Organization (WHO) classification. Furthermore, the expression of thyroid transcription factor‐1 (TTF‐1) has not been investigated previously in GB‐NETs, although found in a subset of extrapulmonary NETs.

Methods

Twenty cases of GB‐NET among 875 gallbladder carcinomas diagnosed by ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) over a period of nearly 4 years were studied. The following parameters were evaluated: architectural pattern, nuclear chromatin, nucleoli, mitoses, necrosis, moulding, apoptosis and smudge cells. Cases were categorized into well‐differentiated (grades 1 and 2), small cell carcinoma (SCC) (grade 3) and mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma. Nuclear positivity for TTF‐1 was considered as positive.

Results

Morphologically, tumour cells were mainly arranged in rosettes in the well‐differentiated category; sudden anisonucleosis and rare nuclear moulding with or without mitotic figures were other features. Eleven cases of SCC showed prominent nuclear moulding with frequent smudge cells, mitoses, apoptosis and necrosis. Three mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinomas showed papillary fragments and an acinar arrangement of tumour cells. Four of the nine SCCs in which TTF‐1 was evaluated on de‐stained smears showed nuclear positivity. Histopathology was available in two SCCs and showed morphology similar to FNAC.

Conclusion

Cytology plays an important role in the diagnosis of GB‐NETs for appropriate subtype characterization, which is necessary for the prognostication of these tumours. TTF‐1 may not be used for the differentiation of gallbladder SCCs from pulmonary SCCs.
Cognitive strategies for locomotor navigation in normal development and cerebral palsy
Authors: Belmonti Vittorio , Fiori Simona , Guzzetta Andrea , Cioni Giovanni , Berthoz Alain
Published: February 2015

Visual–spatial impairment is a fundamental disorder in cerebral palsy (CP). However, current spatial testing is restricted to reaching space, whereas navigational space is seldom assessed. The Magic Carpet test, derived from the Corsi Block‐tapping Task (CBT) for visual–spatial memory, is a new developmental test for navigation. The performances of the Magic Carpet test and CBT were assessed in 17 children with unilateral and bilateral spastic CP. The results were compared with an equal number of typically developing children, matched for age and sex. Magnetic resonance imaging scans of children with CP were scored according to a newly validated semi‐quantitative classification. CBT span was significantly lower in CP, especially in bilateral forms, than in the comparison group, whereas the Magic Carpet test span did not significantly differ between the groups. CBT span, but not the Magic Carpet span, was related to gestational age at birth and to basic visual function. Both the CBT span and the Magic Carpet test were related to overall right‐hemispheric impairment. In addition, CBT correlated with right periventricular impairment. In CP, navigation is differently impaired than visual spatial memory, and less tightly related to preterm birth, basic visual function, and deep white matter injury. The exploration of navigational space could prove useful in enhancing spatial representation and reference‐frame manipulation in CP.
Visual–perceptual impairment in children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review
Authors: Ego Anne , Lidzba Karen , Brovedani Paola , Belmonti Vittorio , Gonzalez‐Monge Sibylle , Boudia Baya , Ritz Annie , Cans Christine
Published: February 2015

Aim

Visual perception is one of the cognitive functions often impaired in children with cerebral palsy (CP). The aim of this systematic literature review was to assess the frequency of visual–perceptual impairment (VPI) and its relationship with patient characteristics.

Method

Eligible studies were relevant papers assessing visual perception with five common standardized assessment instruments in children with CP published from January 1990 to August 2011.

Results

Of the 84 studies selected, 15 were retained. In children with CP, the proportion of VPI ranged from 40% to 50% and the mean visual perception quotient from 70 to 90. None of the studies reported a significant influence of CP subtype, IQ level, side of motor impairment, neuro‐ophthalmological outcomes, or seizures. The severity of neuroradiological lesions seemed associated with VPI. The influence of prematurity was controversial, but a lower gestational age was more often associated with lower visual motor skills than with decreased visual–perceptual abilities.

Interpretation

The impairment of visual perception in children with CP should be considered a core disorder within the CP syndrome. Further research, including a more systematic approach to neuropsychological testing, is needed to explore the specific impact of CP subgroups and of neuroradiological features on visual–perceptual development.
Brain representation of action observation in human infants
Authors: Burzi Valentina , Marchi Viviana , Boyd Roslyn N , Mazziotti Raffaele , Moscarelli Michele , Sgherri Giada , Tealdi Gessica , Cioni Giovanni , Guzzetta Andrea
Published: February 2015

Imitative learning has long been established as extremely important for early development. However, neural mechanisms involved in early imitative behaviours are still areas of active research. Neurophysiological and brain‐imaging studies have been recently performed that provide initial evidence of brain activation associated with action observation in the first months of life. In this review we examine all studies exploring the effects of action observation on brain function assessed by means of non‐invasive brain‐mapping techniques. Seventeen papers were selected as a result of our literature search. The strongest evidence for a neural signature of action observation comes from studies exploring the desynchronization of the μ‐rhythm, which was reported for both occluded and visible goal‐directed grasp, and was correlated with the totality of the infant's own action experience. The effects of action observation were reported on event‐related potentials (ERPs) or near infrared spectroscopy. Taken together, these studies suggest that, in early infancy, a direct visual–motor matching process is already detectable as early as 6 months, suggesting a matching between action perception and execution already in infancy. If confirmed by future studies, these findings will shed light on the mechanisms of early motor development and imitation, and will be key to informing novel rehabilitation strategies in infants with congenital brain damage.
Delayed school entry and academic performance: a natural experiment
Authors: Jaekel Julia , Strauss Vicky Yu‐Chun , Johnson Samantha , Gilmore Camilla , Wolke Dieter
Published: February 2015

Aim

Recent reports suggest that delayed school entry (DSE) may be beneficial for children with developmental delays. However, studies of the effects of DSE are inconclusive. This study investigated the effects of DSE versus age‐appropriate school entry (ASE) on children's academic achievement and attention in middle childhood.

Method

In total, 999 children (492 females, 507 males; 472 born preterm) were studied as part of a prospective population‐based longitudinal study in Germany. Using a natural experimental design, propensity score matching was applied to create two matched groups who differed only in terms of DSE versus ASE. Teacher ratings of achievement in mathematics, reading, writing, and attention were obtained in Year 1, and standardized tests were administered at 8 years of age.

Results

There was no evidence of a difference in the odds of DSE versus ASE children being rated as above average by teachers in Year 1. In contrast, the standardized mean test scores for DSE children were lower than ASE children's mean scores in all domains (mathematics: B=−0.28 [−0.51 to −0.06)], reading: B=−0.39 [−0.65 to −0.14], writing: B=−0.90 [−1.07 to −0.74], and attention: B=−0.58 [−0.79 to −0.36]).

Interpretation

DSE did not affect teacher‐rated academic performance. However, missing 1 year of learning opportunities was associated with poorer average performance in standardized tests at 8 years of age. Future research is needed to determine the long‐term effect of DSE on academic achievement.
Neural correlates of childhood language disorder: a systematic review
Authors: Mayes Angela K , Reilly Sheena , Morgan Angela T
Published: February 2015

Aim

The neurobiological contributions of childhood language disorder are not well understood. Yet there is increasing evidence that language disorder is associated with differences in brain structure and/or function in core language regions. A key hypothesis has been that children with language disorder do not show the same degree of leftward asymmetry of these regions as observed in typically developing children. We aimed to systematically review structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies to examine brain commonalities and differences between children with language disorder and typically developing controls; and differences in leftward asymmetry between these groups.

Method

A systematic review was conducted using MeSH terms synonymous with childhood language disorder and brain MRI methods. The search identified 1443 papers, and 18 articles met the criteria and were appraised for level and quality of evidence.

Results

Atypical brain structure and function was reported within traditionally recognized language regions across studies, including the inferior frontal gyrus, posterior superior temporal gyrus, and caudate nucleus. The direction of difference (e.g. increased/decreased) was variable, however, likely because of differences in language disorder groups examined and magnetic resonance data acquisition and analysis approaches. As regards asymmetry, there was some evidence of reduction of the anticipated structural and functional leftward asymmetry in frontal language regions in language disorder groups.

Interpretation

Mounting evidence suggests that children with language disorder have atypical brain structure and function within neural regions integral to language. There is limited support for the hypothesis that children with language disorder show a reduction of leftward structural and/or functional asymmetry in frontal language regions. Interpretation is limited, however, by a high degree of variability in language disorder assessment and phenotype, and in magnetic resonance methodologies. A large‐scale magnetic resonance study of brain structure and function is required in a well‐defined language disorder population cohort, with replication, to provide confirmatory data on the neural correlates of childhood language disorder.
Long‐term risk of seizures and epilepsy in patients with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome
Authors: Datar Sudhir , Singh Tarun , Rabinstein Alejandro A. , Fugate Jennifer E. , Hocker Sara
Published: February 2015

Objective

Seizures are common in patients with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES), which is reported in up to 70% of cases, and antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are commonly prescribed. There is a paucity of data regarding the risk of subsequent seizures following resolution of PRES, and therefore the optimal duration of treatment with AEDs is currently unknown. The objective of this study was to identify the frequency of recurrent seizures and epilepsy following recovery from PRES.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of consecutive adults diagnosed with PRES between 2000 and 2010.

Results

One hundred twenty‐seven patients, median age 53 years (interquartile range [IQR] 37–64), were included in the analysis. The most common causes of PRES were hypertension (72%) and immunosuppression (20%). Renal failure was present in 47%. Eighty‐four patients (66%) had seizures at presentation (39 focal, 45 generalized), and 13 (15%) of them presented with status epilepticus. Median duration of follow‐up was 3.2 years (IQR 4 months to 6.9 years). Patients with seizures were treated with AEDs for a median of 3 months (IQR 2–7). Fifteen patients (12%) had provoked seizures during the follow‐up period; in eight (53%) patients seizures were caused by recurrent PRES. Only three patients had subsequent unprovoked seizures, one of whom was considered to have developed epilepsy.

Significance

We conclude that unprovoked seizures and epilepsy are uncommon in patients who have recovered from PRES. Discontinuation of AEDs following resolution of PRES should be considered, provided there is adequate control of risk factors, and absence of factors that could substantially lower the seizure threshold.
More than One Way to Get There: Pathways of Change in Coparenting Conflict after a Preventive Intervention
Authors: Epstein Kenneth , Pruett Marsha Kline , Cowan Philip , Cowan Carolyn , Pradhan Lisa , Mah Elisabeth , Pruett Kyle
Published: February 2015

This study explored pathways of change in the levels of conflict couples experienced after Supporting Father Involvement, an evidence‐based, prevention‐oriented couples and parenting intervention that included a diverse low‐income and working class group of participants. Pathways of change were examined for couples with baseline conflict scores that were initially low, medium, and high. The growth mixture model analysis found that the best‐fitting model for change in couples' conflict was represented by three distinctly different change patterns. The intervention was most successful for High‐Conflict couples. This finding contributes to a growing literature examining variations in how relationships change over time and the process of change, especially for couples in distress. This study supports further investigation into the impact and costs associated with universal interventions versus those that target specific groups of higher risk families.
Microstructural stability of ODS steels in cyclic loading
Authors: Kuběna I. , Polák J. , Plocinski T. P. , Hébert C. , Škorík V. , Kruml T.
Published: February 2015

The remarkable microstructural stability of high chromium steels prepared by powder metallurgy and strengthened by dispersion of nanometric yttrium oxides in cyclic loading at high temperatures is reported. Contrary to the continuous cyclic softening and profound changes in the microstructure during fatigue of common high chromium steels, the addition of 0.3 wt% Y2O3 stabilizes the microstructure and significantly reduces cyclic softening of investigated steels. The evolution of microstructure as a result of fatigue loading at room temperature, 650 and 750 °C, was examined by means of transmission electron microscopy. Only minor changes in the microstructure were detected. The stability of oxide particles after high‐temperature exposure was confirmed by energy dispersion spectroscopy chemical analysis. The microstructural features are discussed in relation to the cyclic behaviour of the oxide dispersion strengthened steels. The analysis of the hysteresis loop indicates that oxide nanoclusters are intersected and dissolved in slip bands of ODS Eurofer steel. This process contributes to cyclic softening.
Why Professionalize? Economic Modernization and Military Professionalism1
Authors: Toronto Nathan W.
Published: February 2015

Why do states professionalize the military? Professionalizing the military represents a strategic commitment to a particular set of ideas about the role of the military, and the timing and strength of this commitment to military professionalism have varied widely between countries, especially non-European ones. Understanding this process is important in an era of defense austerity, when the choice of how to spend defense resources has deeper political consequences than it used to. Despite the importance of this question, there have been almost no large-n studies of military professionalization. Analyzing new data on more than 150 countries from 1800 to 2005, this study finds that states with greater levels of human capital, urbanization, and economic wealth are more likely to professionalize. What is more, these indicators of economic modernization have a substantially stronger correlation with measures of military professionalism than regime type and international security concerns. These findings should inform security assistance operations by emphasizing the development of human capital in recipient officer corps and drawing links between economic development and security assistance programs.