bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Introduction: understanding mechanisms of the actions of rifaximin in selected gastrointestinal diseases
Authors: DuPont H. L. 
Published: November 2015

SummaryBackgroundHistorically, the beneficial effects of the nonsystemic oral agent rifaximin on various gastrointestinal (GI) disorders have been attributed to direct antibiotic activity on gut microbiota. However, data are accumulating to suggest that other nonantibacterial effects may be involved in rifaximin efficacy.AimTo explore the mechanisms of action of rifaximin that may underlie its clinical benefits in travellers’ diarrhoea, hepatic encephalopathy and other cirrhosis complications, inflammatory bowel diseases, and irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhoea.MethodsGastroenterology experts convened a round‐table discussion to address clinical and pre‐clinical rifaximin data pertaining to select GI diseases and the potential mechanisms of action that underlie rifaximin efficacy profiles. As preparation, the literature was searched for publications related to rifaximin, its mechanisms of action, and its efficacy in travellers’ diarrhoea, hepatic encephalopathy and other cirrhosis‐related complications, inflammatory bowel diseases and irritable bowel syndrome.ResultsGut microbiota dysbiosis and proinflammatory activities are thought to significantly contribute to disease pathophysiology of these conditions. Rifaximin may resolve gut microbiota dysbiosis by promoting GI colonisation of beneficial bacterial species without drastic alterations in overall diversity. Rifaximin‐induced changes in the production and metabolism of bacteria‐produced agents (e.g. deoxycholic acid, lipopolysaccharides) also may help preserve normal gut microbiota. Rifaximin may suppress local and systemic inflammatory processes by preserving epithelial function (e.g. limiting bacterial translocation), modulating bacterial virulence and reducing proinflammatory cytokine production.ConclusionThe commonality of pathological mechanisms underlying multiple GI diseases and the ability of rifaximin to modulate the gut microenvironment (i.e. gut microenvironment modulator) may explain its diverse efficacy profile.
Mediation Analysis for Survival Data Using Semiparametric Probit Models
Authors: Huang Yen-Tsung , Cai Tianxi 
Published: November 2015

SummaryCausal mediation modeling has become a popular approach for studying the effect of an exposure on an outcome through mediators. Currently, the literature on mediation analyses with survival outcomes largely focused on settings with a single mediator and quantified the mediation effects on the hazard, log hazard and log survival time (Lange and Hansen 2011; VanderWeele 2011). In this article, we propose a multi-mediator model for survival data by employing a flexible semiparametric probit model. We characterize path-specific effects (PSEs) of the exposure on the outcome mediated through specific mediators. We derive closed form expressions for PSEs on a transformed survival time and the survival probabilities. Statistical inference on the PSEs is developed using a nonparametric maximum likelihood estimator under the semiparametric probit model and the functional Delta method. Results from simulation studies suggest that our proposed methods perform well in finite sample. We illustrate the utility of our method in a genomic study of glioblastoma multiforme survival.
Large‐scale margin collapse during Messinian early sea‐level drawdown: theSWValencia trough,NWMediterranean
Authors: Cameselle Alejandra L. , Urgeles Roger 
Published: November 2015

AbstractIn this study, detailed mapping of the ‘Messinian markers’ and examination of their geometrical relationships in theSWValencia trough (Western Mediterranean) have revealed the style and depositional processes associated with emersion of continental margins during the Messinian Salinity Crisis (MSC). Based on multichannel seismic profiles and well data, this article evidences the existence of two Messinian depositional units in intermediate basins (Complex Unit and Upper Unit) and four main Messinian erosional surfaces (Margin Erosion Surface, Bottom Surface, Top (Erosion) Surface and Intermediate Surface). Results show that (1) initial rapid sea‐level drawdown and exposure of the shelf and upper slope of the Valencia margin induced large‐scale destabilization of the continental slope and deposition of large detrital bodies at the base‐of‐slope in the form of major mass‐transport deposits (MTD); (2) as sea level continued to drop, the development of the Margin Erosion Surface attained full development on the margins and eroded the clastic units (MTDs) deposited during initial drawdown. At the same time, a submarine drainage network formed in the deepwater Valencia trough; (3) persistent lowstand and restrictive conditions in the area resulted in deposition of the evaporites that form the Upper Unit in theSWValencia trough.
Antimüllerian hormone, antral follicle count and ovarian volume predict menstrual cycle length in healthy women
Authors: Zhu Ruoyan , Lee Bao Hui , Huang Zhongwei , Indran Inthrani Raja , Li Jun , Shen Liang , Kramer Michael S. , Yong Eu‐Leong 
Published: November 2015

SummaryObjectiveAlthough menstrual cycle length is one of the main concerns of women and may have important health consequences, little is known about its predictors. The aim of this study was to identify predictors of menstrual cycle length variability in healthy women.DesignProspective cross‐sectional study.PatientsTwo hundred healthy women aged 21–45.MeasurementsA questionnaire was administered to determine lifestyle factors. Ovarian parameters, metabolic parameters, pituitary hormones, sex steroids and antimüllerian hormone (AMH) were measured.ResultsWomen with long (≥35 days) and normal (25–34 days) menstrual cycles had >5‐fold and >2‐fold higher serumAMHlevels, respectively, compared to those with short cycles (<25 days). Menstrual cycle length was associated with age but not lifestyle factors. Only one factor group (AMH, antral follicle count [AFC], ovarian volume, testosterone andLH) was significantly associated with menstrual cycle length. Within this factor group, only the ovarian parameters (AMH,AFC, ovarian volume) predicted menstrual cycle length. EachSDincrease inAMH(32·9 pmol/l) and ovarian volume (2·29 cm3) was associated with 2·80‐fold (95%CI: 1·67–4·69) and 1·62‐fold (95%CI: 1·08–2·43) increased risks, respectively, for longer menstrual cycles.ConclusionsAMH,AFCand ovarian volume are positively associated with menstrual cycle length in healthy women. Our identification ofAMHas an independent predictor of menstrual cycle length puts forth a new notion of utilizing menstrual cycle length to predict possibleAMH‐dependent/‐associated outcomes. In addition, this novel relationship may facilitate the interpretation ofAMHlevels and its clinico‐pathological significance across different centres.
Static craniofacial measurements and dynamic airway collapse patterns associated with severe obstructive sleep apnoea: a sleep MRI study
Authors: Liu Stanley Yung‐Chuan , Huon Leh‐Kiong , Lo Men‐Tzung , Chang Yi‐Chung , Capasso Robson , Chen Yunn‐Jy , Shih Tiffany Ting‐Fang , Wang Pa‐Chun 
Published: November 2015

ObjectivesUsing sleep MRI, we aimed to identify static craniofacial measurements and dynamic upper airway collapse patterns associated with severe obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) during natural sleep in age and BMI‐matched patients.DesignNested case–control study.SettingSleep MRI images (3.0 Tesla scanner) and synchronised acoustic recording were used to observe patterns of dynamic airway collapse in subjects with mild and severe OSA. Midsagittal images were also used for static craniofacial measurements.ParticipantsFifteen male subjects with severe OSA (mean AHI 70.3 ± 23 events/h) were matched by age and BMI to 15 subjects with mild OSA (mean AHI 7.8 ± 1.4 events/h). Subjects were selected from a consecutive sleep MRI study cohort.Main outcome measuresStatic craniofacial measurements selected a priori included measurements that represent maxillomandibular relationships and airway morphology. Axial, sagittal and coronal views of the airway were rated for dynamic collapse at retropalatal, retroglossal and lateral pharyngeal wall regions by blinded reviewers. Bivariate analysis was used to correlate measures associated with severity of OSA using AHI. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.01.ResultsLateral pharyngeal wall collapse from dynamic sleep MRI (β = 51.8, P < 0.001) and upper airway length from static MRI images (β = 27.2, P < 0.001) positively correlated with severity of OSA.ConclusionsLateral pharyngeal wall collapse and upper airway length are significantly associated with severe OSA based on sleep MRI. Assessment of these markers can be readily translated to routine clinical practice, and their identification may direct targeted surgical treatment.
The Media and Firm Reputation Roles in Corporate Governance Improvements: Lessons from European Dual Class Share Unifications
Authors: Lauterbach Beni , Pajuste Anete 
Published: November 2015

AbstractManuscript TypeEmpiricalResearch Questions/IssuesDo media pressure and firm reputational concerns propel corporate governance improvements? Specifically, can they encourage unifications of dual class shares into a single “one share one vote” class?Research Findings/InsightsMedia criticism increases the likelihood of voluntary dual class share unifications. Firms more sensitive to public image are more likely to unify their dual class shares.Theoretical/Academic ImplicationsMedia plays an important role in corporate governance promotion. Firm reputation is a valuable asset, sensitive to public opinion and media criticism. Some real firm decisions can be influenced by firm image and reputation considerations.Practitioner/Policy ImplicationsFirm image, reputation, and public relations activity are valuable. Media is a powerful and flexible tool that in some cases can substitute regulation in effectively restraining firms and their controlling shareholders.
Altered self‐identity and autobiographical memory in epilepsy
Authors: Allebone James , Rayner Genevieve , Siveges Benjamin , Wilson Sarah J. 
Published: November 2015

SummaryObjectiveResearch suggests that individuals with chronic epilepsy display differences in their self‐identity. The mechanisms by which self‐identity is altered, however, are not well understood. Neural networks supporting autobiographical memory retrieval in the mesial temporal (MT) lobe are thought to be fundamental to self‐identity processes. Thus, we examined differences in self‐identity and autobiographical memory in patients with either MT or non–mesial temporal (NMT) foci with early or late age of habitual seizure onset.MethodsParticipants included 102 adults: 51 healthy individuals and 51 patients with drug‐resistant focal seizures (19 MT, 32 NMT). We used the Ego Identity Process Questionnaire to profile the identity development of participants, and examined how this related to memory function assessed using the Autobiographical Memory Test.ResultsPatients and controls had strikingly different self‐identity profiles, with early onset MT patients showing the least identity development compared to controls and other patient groups. In contrast, late‐onset NMT patients showed the highest level of identity development of the patient groups and closely resembled healthy controls (p < 0.05 for all comparisons). For all MT patients, poor autobiographical memory retrieval was correlated with altered self‐identity (p < 0.001). No associations between autobiographical memory and self‐identity were evident in the NMT group.SignificanceSelf‐identity in epilepsy may be modulated by the extent to which seizure foci impinge on the autobiographical memory network and the timing of seizure onset. Early disruption to MT regions of the autobiographical memory network may constitute a neurocognitive mechanism by which self‐identity is altered in chronic focal epilepsy.
Can carbon emissions from tropical deforestation drop by 50% in 5 years?
Authors: Zarin Daniel J. , Harris Nancy L. , Baccini Alessandro , Aksenov Dmitry , Hansen Matthew C. , Azevedo‐Ramos Claudia , Azevedo Tasso , Margono Belinda A. , Alencar Ane C. , Gabris Chris , Allegretti Adrienne , Potapov Peter , Farina Mary , Walker Wayne S. , Shevade Varada S. , Loboda Tatiana V. , Turubanova Svetlana , Tyukavina Alexandra 
Published: November 2015

AbstractHalving carbon emissions from tropical deforestation by 2020 could help bring the international community closer to the agreed goal of <2 degree increase in global average temperature change and is consistent with a target set last year by the governments, corporations, indigenous peoples' organizations and non‐governmental organizations that signed the New York Declaration on Forests (NYDF). We assemble and refine a robust dataset to establish a 2001–2013 benchmark for average annual carbon emissions from gross tropical deforestation at 2.270 Gt CO2 yr−1. Brazil did not sign the NYDF, yet from 2001 to 2013, Brazil ranks first for both carbon emissions from gross tropical deforestation and reductions in those emissions – its share of the total declined from a peak of 69% in 2003 to a low of 20% in 2012. Indonesia, an NYDF signatory, is the second highest emitter, peaking in 2012 at 0.362 Gt CO2 yr−1 before declining to 0.205 Gt CO2 yr−1 in 2013. The other 14 NYDF tropical country signatories were responsible for a combined average of 0.317 Gt CO2 yr−1, while the other 86 tropical country non‐signatories were responsible for a combined average of 0.688 Gt CO2 yr−1. We outline two scenarios for achieving the 50% emission reduction target by 2020, both emphasizing the critical role of Brazil and the need to reverse the trends of increasing carbon emissions from gross tropical deforestation in many other tropical countries that, from 2001 to 2013, have largely offset Brazil's reductions. Achieving the target will therefore be challenging, even though it is in the self‐interest of the international community. Conserving rather than cutting down tropical forests requires shifting economic development away from a dependence on natural resource depletion toward recognition of the dependence of human societies on the natural capital that tropical forests represent and the goods and services they provide.
Demographics and adult activity of Hemiphlebia mirabilis: a short‐lived species with a huge population size (Odonata: Hemiphlebiidae)
Authors: Cordero‐Rivera Adolfo 
Published: November 2015

Abstract

Rare species are expected to be more susceptible to extinction, particularly if rarity can be used to describe several characteristics for a particular species. Hemiphlebia mirabilis, an endemic damselfly known from a few sites in the South of Australia and Tasmania, has been considered at risk of imminent global extinction, given its small population size, its localised distribution, and the fact that it is a ‘living fossil’, described as the oldest extant damselfly.

One population found in a protected wetland in Victoria, was studied by behavioural observations of marked animals, during Nov‐Dec 2013. Results indicate that H. mirabilis is a short‐lived species, with a mature lifespan of about 1 week in males and 4 days in females.

Population size estimates and field observations indicate that this population is huge, likely over one million individuals per generation. Adults show little mobility and fly for short distances, being inactive most of the time, particularly at temperatures below 17 °C or over 35 °C.

The low mobility and cryptic coloration, and the inaccessibility of its preferred habitat might explain why huge populations like the one studied here have remained unnoticed until recently. Nevertheless, both sexes show frequent abdominal flicking displays, and fast rotations over the perching support, both behaviours apparently unique to this species, making them highly conspicuous to human observers. It is concluded that H. mirabilis should not be regarded as critically endangered.
Senior Smiles: preliminary results for a new model of oral health care utilizing the dental hygienist in residential aged care facilities
Authors: Wallace JP , Mohammadi J , Wallace LG , Taylor JA 
Published: November 2015

AbstractObjectivesThe aim of this study was to determine whether a qualified dental hygienist could improve oral health outcomes for residents living in residential aged care facilities on the Central Coast of New South Wales, Australia.MethodsA qualified dental hygienist undertook a 24‐week oral hygiene intervention in five residential aged care facilities to test the Senior Smiles, oral health model of care. The facilities were invited to take part in the research, which was funded by a grant from NSW Medicare Local, Erina. Residents were asked to consent to having oral health risk assessments, oral healthcare plans and to receiving referrals for treatment where needed. Pre‐ and post‐intervention plaque scores were recorded for residents and P values calculated using a paired t‐test. In addition, the number of residents examined, treated and referred for more complex dental care was recorded.ResultsThe statistical analysis program, SPSS, was used to conduct a paired t‐test to compare pre‐ and post‐intervention plaque scores on residents from the 5 RACFs. A statistically significant result of P < 0.0001 showed the intervention of the dental hygienist was effective in reducing plaque scores in residents across the 5 RACFs.ConclusionThe Senior Smiles model of care provided residents with preventive oral hygiene care, referral pathways for complex dental treatment needs and established a formal management programme for ongoing oral health care within the RACFs. The Senior Smiles model of care is successful and transportable.
Bioactivity of MTA Plus, Biodentine and an experimental calcium silicate‐based cement on human osteoblast‐like cells
Authors: Gomes‐Cornélio A. L. , Rodrigues E. M. , Salles L. P. , Mestieri L. B. , Faria G. , Guerreiro‐Tanomaru J. M. , Tanomaru‐Filho M. 
Published: November 2015

AbstractAimTo compare the bioactivity of Biodentine (BIO, Septodont), MTA Plus (MTA P, Avalon) and calcium silicate experimental cement (CSC) with resin (CSCR) associated with zirconium (CSCR ZrO2) or niobium (CSCR Nb2O5) oxide as radiopacifiers.MethodologyAccording to the relevance of osteoblastic cell response for mineralized tissue repair, human osteoblastic cells (Saos‐2) were exposed to test materials and assessed for viability (MTT), cell proliferation, gene expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) osteogenic marker by real‐time PCR (RT‐qPCR), ALP activity assay and alizarin red staining (ARS) to detect mineralization nodule deposition in osteogenic medium. Unexposed cells acted as the control group (C). Statistical analysis was carried out using ANOVA and the Bonferroni post‐test (P < 0.05).ResultsAll tested cements showed dose‐dependent responses in cell viability (MTT). Exposed cells revealed good viability (80–130% compared to the control group) in the highest dilutions of all types of cement. MTA P, BIO and CSCR ZrO2 significantly increased the velocity of cell proliferation after three days of cell exposure in the wound‐healing assay (P < 0.05), which corroborated MTT data. On day 3, the ALP transcript level increased, especially to CSCR Nb2O5 (P < 0.05). All cements exhibited suitable ALP enzyme activity, highlighting the 7‐day period of cell exposure. ARS, CSCR Nb2O5, revealed a significant potential to induce mineralization in vitro.ConclusionsAll materials had suitable biocompatibility and bioactivity. The MTA P, BIO and CSCR ZrO2 groups had the highest viability rates and velocity of proliferation whilst the CSCR Nb2O5 group produced more mineralized nodules.
Information Asymmetry and Corporate Cash Holdings
Authors: Chung Kee H. , Kim Jang‐Chul , Kim Young Sang , Zhang Hao 
Published: November 2015

AbstractThis study analyzes the effect of information asymmetry on corporate cash holdings. Using various measures of information asymmetry, this study shows that companies that operate in environments with higher information asymmetry have smaller cash holdings. This study continues to find a negative relationship between information asymmetry and corporate cash holdings from a battery of sensitivity analyses, including the tests using different regression methods and the difference‐in‐difference tests employing brokerage‐firm merger and closure events. On the whole, the results support the monitoring cost hypothesis of cash holdings over the investment opportunities hypothesis.
Another Theory is Possible: Dissident Voices in Theorising Europe
Authors: Manners Ian , Whitman Richard 
Published: November 2015

AbstractThe article argues that dissident voices which attempt to theorise Europe differently and advocate another European trajectory have been largely excluded and left unheard in mainstream discussions over the past decade of scholarship and analysis. Dissident voices in European Union studies are those that seek to actively challenge the mainstream of the study of Europe. The article briefly examines the discipline of mainstreaming, then surveys the extent of polyphonic engagement in EU studies, before setting out how the special issue contributors move beyond the mainstream. The article will argue the merits of more polyphonic engagement with dissident voices and differing disciplinary approaches for the health and vitality of EU studies and the EU policy field itself. It summarises the special issue's argument that by allowing for dissident voices in theorising Europe, another Europe, and another theory, is possible – indeed, probable.
Risk factors for the progression of periodontal disease in a Greek adult population
Authors: Chrysanthakopoulos Nikolaos A. 
Published: November 2015

AbstractAimThe purpose of the present study was to investigate the progression risk factors of periodontal disease by individual characteristics at baseline in a Greek adult population.MethodsThe study sample consisted of 854 individuals. All participants were clinically examined and answered questions regarding sex, smoking status, socioeconomic status, low educational level, frequency of dental follow up, and oral hygiene habits. Serum levels of disease markers were investigated, and attachment levels were clinically recorded. For the assessment of periodontal disease progression, additional clinical attachment loss (CAL) was used if one or more sites showed a 3 mm or more increase in probing attachment level over a 2‐year period. Statistical analysis was performed by using a modified multiple Poisson's analysis model.ResultsA total of 74% of the participants exhibited additional CAL over a 2‐year period. Significant associations were observed between additional CAL and smoking (relative risk [RR] = 0.78, 95% confidence level [CI] = 0.65–0.92), attachment level of 5 mm or more at baseline (RR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.75–1.05), educational level (RR = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.76–1.07), socioeconomic status (RR = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.59–1.14), and irregular dental follow up (RR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.04–1.45).ConclusionsSmoking, baseline attachment level of 5 mm or more, low educational level, low socioeconomic status, and irregular dental follow up could be considered risk factors for further CAL.