bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Diagnosis and localization of impacted maxillary canines: comparison of methods
Authors: Sajnani Anand K. , King Nigel M. 
Published: December 2012

AbstractObjectivesNumerous clinical signs may be indicative of a canine impaction; however, studies determining the efficiency of visual inspection and digital palpation in localizing an impacted maxillary canine are sparse. Of the radiographic techniques, no studies have compared the accuracy of the horizontal and the vertical parallax techniques to determine the location of an impacted canine. Hence, the objectives of this study were to evaluate the efficiency of visual inspection and digital palpation, and to compare the accuracy of the horizontal and vertical parallax techniques in determining the location of an impacted maxillary canine.MethodsThe study sample comprised the records of 522 patients who had attended a dental hospital. The location of an impacted maxillary canine was determined radiographically using the vertical and the horizontal parallax principles. The findings were then confirmed from the surgical records in those cases that had undergone surgical intervention of the impacted canine.ResultsThe position of the impacted canine was determined successfully by visual inspection and digital palpation in 85.3 and 85.2% of the cases respectively.ConclusionsThe vertical parallax technique demonstrated a higher degree of accuracy (97.7%) and a greater degree of diagnostic capability (98.2%) when compared with the horizontal parallax technique (92.6 and 78.0% respectively).
Do National Economic Shocks Influence European Central Bank Interest Rate Decisions? The Impact of the Financial and Sovereign Debt Crises
Authors: Bouvet Florence , King Sharmila 
Published: December 2012

AbstractThis article examines the relevance of national economic conditions for European Central Bank (ECB) interest rate setting and whether the financial and sovereign debt crises have made national divergences more relevant. Officially, the ECB sets policy for the eurozone and considers only eurozone data. However, economic shocks in one or more countries may warrant a deviation from this rule. Using real‐time, forecast data, the authors estimate a modified Taylor rule incorporating two macroeconomic ‘national influence’ measures: first the difference between the median and the eurozone measures of inflation and real gross domestic product (GDP) growth, and then deviations of the measures of inflation and real GDP growth for the ‘core’ and ‘periphery’ countries from eurozone averages. Using rolling‐window analysis to test the stability of parameter estimates, evidence is found that divergences in national data – notably developments in the periphery – from eurozone averages play an increasingly important role during the financial and sovereign debt crises.
European Demoicracy and Its Crisis
Authors: Nicolaïdis Kalypso 
Published: December 2012

AbstractThis article offers an overview and reconsideration of the idea of European demoicracy in the context of the current crisis. It defines ‘demoicracy’ as ‘a Union of peoples, understood both as states and as citizens, who govern together but not as one’, and argues that the concept is best understood as a third way, distinct from both national and supranational versions of single demos polities. The concept of ‘demoicracy’ can serve both as an analytical lens for the European Union‐as‐is and as a normative benchmark, but one which cannot simply be inferred from its praxis. Instead, the article deploys a ‘normative‐inductive’ approach according to which the EU's normative core – transnational non‐domination and transnational mutual recognition – is grounded on what the EU still seeks to escape. Such norms need to be protected and perfected if the EU is to live up to its demoicratic nature. The article suggests ten tentative guiding principles for the EU to continue turning these norms into practice.
Loss of DJ‐1 protein stability and cytoprotective function by Parkinson's disease‐associated proline‐158 deletion
Authors: Rannikko Emmy H. , Vesterager Louise Buur , Shaik Jafar H. A. , Weber Stephanie S. , Cornejo Castro Elena M. , Fog Karina , Jensen Poul H. , Kahle Philipp J. 
Published: December 2012

AbstractDJ‐1 is a ubiquitous protein regulating cellular viability. Recessive mutations in the PARK7/DJ‐1 gene are linked to Parkinson's disease (PD). Although the most dramatic L166P point mutation practically eliminates DJ‐1 protein and function, the effects of other PD‐linked mutations are subtler. Here, we investigated two recently described PD‐associated DJ‐1 point mutations, the A179T substitution and the P158Δ in‐frame deletion. [A179T]DJ‐1 protein was as stable as wild‐type [wt]DJ‐1, but the P158Δ mutant protein was less stable. In accord with the notion that dimer formation is essential for DJ‐1 protein stability, [P158Δ]DJ‐1 was impaired in dimer formation. Similar to our previous findings for [M26I]DJ‐1, [P158Δ]DJ‐1 bound aberrantly to apoptosis signal‐regulating kinase 1. Thus, the PD‐associated P158Δ mutation destabilizes DJ‐1 protein and function. As there is also evidence for an involvement of DJ‐1 in multiple system atrophy, a PD‐related α‐synucleinopathy characterized by oligodendroglial cytoplasmic inclusions, we studied an oligodendroglial cell line stably expressing α‐synuclein. α‐Synuclein aggregate dependent microtubule retraction upon co‐transfection with tubulin polymerization‐promoting protein p25α was ameliorated by [wt]DJ‐1. In contrast, DJ‐1 mutants including P158Δ failed to protect in this system, where we found evidence of apoptosis signal‐regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) involvement. In conclusion, the P158Δ point mutation may contribute to neurodegeneration by protein destabilization and hence loss of DJ‐1 function.
Using behavioural activation in the treatment of depression: a control theory perspective
Authors: McEvoy P. , Law A. , Bates R. , Hylton K. , Mansell W. 
Published: December 2012

Accessible summary

Control theory focuses upon the problems that can arise when we find ourselves being pulled in opposite directions by incompatible goals.

The effective implementation of behavioural activation may depend upon clients with depression being able to retain or regain the sense of control that they value.

A control theory may offer a useful alternative to the more established behavioural and cognitive approaches towards behavioural activation.
AbstractBehavioural activation is an intervention that can be used to counteract the typical patterns of withdrawal, avoidance and inactivity that characterize depression. This paper examines the processes of change that may occur during behavioural activation from the perspective of control theory. Some of the key concepts that are associated with control theory are introduced and the process of change that may occur during behavioural activation is illustrated using two case studies. The case studies provide anecdotal evidence which supports the hypothesis that the effective implementation of behavioural activation may depend upon clients being able to retain or regain the sense of control that they value. The differences between a control‐theory‐based approach and more orthodox behavioural and cognitive approaches are highlighted and the implications of these differences are discussed. Flexible approaches that are informed by control theory, may offer a useful alternative to the more established behavioural and cognitive approaches towards behavioural activation.
Willingness to pay for lipid‐based nutrient supplements for young children in four urban sites of Ethiopia
Authors: Segrè Joel , Winnard Kim , Abrha Teweldebrhan Hailu , Abebe Yewelsew , Shilane David , Lapping Karin 
Published: December 2012

AbstractMalnutrition in children under 5 years of age is pervasive in Ethiopia across all wealth quintiles. The objective of this study was to determine the willingness to pay (WTP) for a week's supply of Nutributter® (a lipid‐based nutrient supplement, or LNS) through typical urban Ethiopian retail channels. In February, 2012, 128 respondents from 108 households with 6–24‐month‐old children had the opportunity to sample Nutributter® for 2 days in their homes as a complementary food. Respondents were asked directly and indirectly what they were willing to pay for the product, and then participated in market simulation where they could demonstrate their WTP through an exchange of real money for real product. Nearly all (96%) of the respondents had a positive WTP, and 25% were willing to pay the equivalent of at least $1.05, which we calculated as the likely minimum, unsubsidised Ethiopian retail price of Nutributter® for 1 week for one child. Respondents willing to pay at least $1.05 included urban men and women with children 6–24 months old from low‐, middle‐ and high‐wealth groups from four study sites across three cities. Additionally, we estimated the initial annual market size for Nutributter® in the cities where the study took place to be around $500 000. The study has important implications for retail distribution of LNS in Ethiopia, showing who the most likely customers could be, and also suggesting why the initial market may be too small to be of interest to food manufacturers seeking profit maximisation.
The Fit for Delivery study: rationale for the recommendations and test‐retest reliability of a dietary score measuring adherence to 10 specific recommendations for prevention of excessive weight gain during pregnancy
Authors: Øverby Nina C. , Hillesund Elisabet R. , Sagedal Linda R. , Vistad Ingvild , Bere Elling 
Published: December 2012

AbstractAiming at preventing excessive weight gain during pregnancy, 10 specific dietary recommendations are given to pregnant women in the intervention arm of the Norwegian Fit for Delivery (FFD) study. This paper presents the rationale and test‐retest reliability of the food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and a dietary score measuring adherence to the recommendations. The study is part of the ongoing FFD study, a randomised, controlled, intervention study in nulliparous pregnant women. A 43‐item FFQ was developed for the FFD study. A dietary score was constructed from 10 subscales corresponding to the 10 dietary recommendations. Adding the subscales yielded a score from 0 to 10 with increasing score indicating healthier dietary behaviour. The score was divided into tertiles, grouping participants into low, medium and high adherence to the dietary recommendations. Pregnant women attending ultrasound screening at about week 19 of pregnancy were asked to complete the FFQ twice, 2 weeks apart. Of 154 pregnant women completing the first questionnaire, 106 (69%) completed the form on both occasions and was included in the study. The test‐retest correlations of the score and subscales were r = 0.68 and r = 0.56–0.84, respectively (both P ≤ 0.001). There was 68% test‐retest correct classification of the score and 70–87% of the subscales. In conclusion, acceptable test‐retest reliability of the FFQ and the dietary score was found. The score will be used in the FFD study to measure adherence to the dietary recommendations throughout pregnancy and in the following year post‐partum.
A novel F420‐dependent anti‐oxidant mechanism protects Mycobacterium tuberculosis against oxidative stress and bactericidal agents
Authors: Gurumurthy Meera , Rao Martin , Mukherjee Tathagata , Rao Srinivasa P. S. , Boshoff Helena I. , Dick Thomas , Barry Clifton E. , Manjunatha Ujjini H. 
Published: December 2012

SummaryMycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is an aerobic bacterium that persists intracellularly in host macrophages and has evolved diverse mechanisms to combat and survive oxidative stress. Here we show a novel F420‐dependent anti‐oxidant mechanism that protects Mtb against oxidative stress. Inactivation of the fbiC gene in Mtb results in a cofactor F420‐deficient mutant that is hypersensitive to oxidative stress and exhibits a reduction in NADH/NAD+ ratios upon treatment with menadione. In agreement with the recent hypothesis on oxidative stress being an important component of the pathway resulting in cell death by bactericidal agents, F420− mutants are hypersensitive to mycobactericidal agents such as isoniazid, moxifloxacin and clofazimine that elevate oxidative stress. The Mtb deazaflavin‐dependent nitroreductase (Ddn) and its two homologues Rv1261c and Rv1558 encode for an F420H2‐dependent quinone reductase (Fqr) function leading to dihydroquinones. We hypothesize that Fqr proteins catalyse an F420H2‐specific obligate two‐electron reduction of endogenous quinones, thereby competing with the one‐electron reduction pathway and preventing the formation of harmful cytotoxic semiquinones, thus protecting mycobacteria against oxidative stress and bactericidal agents. These findings open up an avenue for the inhibition of the F420 biosynthesis pathway or Fqr‐class proteins as a mechanism to potentiate the action of bactericidal agents.
Visualizing renal primary cilia
Authors: Deane James A , Verghese Elizabeth , Martelotto Luciano G , Cain Jason E , Galtseva Alya , Rosenblum Norman D , Watkins D Neil , Ricardo Sharon D 
Published: December 2012

AbstractRenal primary cilia are microscopic sensory organelles found on the apical surface of epithelial cells of the nephron and collecting duct. They are based upon a microtubular cytoskeleton, bounded by a specialized membrane, and contain an array of proteins that facilitate their assembly, maintenance and function. Cilium‐based signalling is important for the control of epithelial differentiation and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various cystic kidney diseases and in renal repair. As such, visualizing renal primary cilia and understanding their composition has become an essential component of many studies of inherited kidney disease and mechanisms of epithelial regeneration. Primary cilia were initially identified in the kidney using electron microscopy and this remains a useful technique for the high resolution examination of these organelles. New reagents and techniques now also allow the structure and composition of primary cilia to be analysed in detail using fluorescence microscopy. Primary cilia can be imaged in situ in sections of kidney, and many renal‐derived cell lines produce primary cilia in culture providing a simplified and accessible system in which to investigate these organelles. Here we outline microscopy‐based techniques commonly used for studying renal primary cilia.
Effects of genistein and estrogen on the genioglossus in rats exposed to chronic intermittent hypoxia may be HIF‐1α dependent
Authors: Zhou J , Liu Y 
Published: December 2012

ObjectivesChronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) is a frequent feature of OSAHS. The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of genistein and estrogen on genioglossus contractile and regeneration properties in CIH rats and investigate the involvement of HIF‐1α.MethodsOvariectomized female rats were exposed to CIH for 5 weeks. Genistein and estrogen were administered by intraperitoneal injection. The genioglossus myoblasts of rat were also isolated and cultured in vitro, and the HIF‐1α shRNA lentivirus was used.ResultsMuscle fatigue resistance and myogenic regeneration were significantly decreased after CIH but were partially reversed by estrogen and genistein treatment. The effect of estrogen was more powerful than that of genistein. Compared with control group, RT‐PCR and western blotting showed higher levels of HIF‐1α mRNA and protein in the CIH group, but estrogen and genistein treatment reduced the levels of HIF‐1α mRNA and protein in rats exposed to CIH. In genioglossus myoblasts, the expression of HIF‐1α was up‐regulated under hypoxia rather than normoxia and decreased over time under both hypoxia and normoxia during myogenic differentiation. HIF‐1α knockdown relieved myogenesis inhibition under hypoxia.ConclusionWe concluded that genistein and estrogen may inhibit the overexpression of HIF‐1α induced by CIH and improve the endurance and regeneration of the genioglossus muscle.
Pain and Natural Disaster
Authors: Guetti Cristiana , Angeletti Chiara , Paladini Antonella , Varrassi Giustino , Marinangeli Franco 
Published: December 2012

AbstractThe treatment for pain in emergency medicine is a matter of increasing interest. Available data indicate that in both normal conditions and during major‐emergencies, the majority of healthcare providers are culturally and professionally unprepared to adequately treat acute pain conditions. In case of natural disasters, opioid drugs are often unavailable. Moreover, no guidelines or validated protocols provide adequate indications for the treatment for pain in case of massive emergencies. Training of the medical and nursing staff, in both formal and continuing, or on‐the‐job education is needed to adequately face a devastating emergency. Unfortunately, there is an inadequate level of training among healthcare professionals, even in highly seismic areas, and the source of aid is frequently limited, especially in the immediate aftermath of a disaster to those already present at the scene. Pain inadequately treated may modify the characteristics of the pain itself. Pain is no longer considered just a symptom, but itself becomes an autonomous pathology heavily influencing the social life and psycho‐social aspects of a person. In the disastrous situation following an earthquake, an inadequate treatment of pain was the major violation of the psycho‐physical integrity of individuals and a severe violation of their rights, as human beings and patients.
Effect of a pleural checklist on patient safety in the ultrasound era
Authors: See Kay Choong , Jamil Khalizah , Chua Ai Ping , Phua Jason , Khoo Kay Leong , Lim Tow Keang 
Published: December 2012

AbstractBackground and objectiveBedside ultrasound allows direct visualization of pleural collections for thoracentesis and tube thoracostomy. However, there is little information on patient safety improvement methods with this approach. The effect of a checklist on patient safety for bedside ultrasound‐guided pleural procedures was evaluated.MethodsA prospective study of ultrasound‐guided pleural procedures from September 2007 to June 2010 was performed. Ultrasound guidance was routine practice for all patients under the institution's care and the freehand method was used. All operators took a half‐day training session on basic thoracic ultrasound and were supervised by more experienced operators. A 14‐item checklist was introduced in June 2009. It included systematic thoracic scanning and a safety audit. Clinical and safety data are described before (Phase I) and after (Phase II) the introduction of the checklist.ResultsThere were 121 patients in Phase I (58.7 ± 18.9 years) and 134 patients in Phase II (60.2 ± 19.6 years). Complications occurred for 10 patients (8.3%) in Phase I (six dry taps, three pneumothoraces, one haemothorax) and for 2 patients (1.5%) in Phase II (one significant bleed, one malposition of chest tube) (P = 0.015). There were no procedure‐related deaths. The use of the checklist alone was associated with fewer procedure‐related complications. This was independent of thoracostomy rate, pleural effusion size and pleural fluid ultrasound appearance.ConclusionsA pleural checklist with systematic scanning and close supervision may further enhance safety of ultrasound‐guided procedures. This may also help promote safety while trainees are learning to perform these procedures.
Investigating the inheritance of prolapsed nictitating membrane glands in a large canine pedigree
Authors: Edelmann Michele L. , Miyadera Keiko , Iwabe Simone , Komáromy András M. 
Published: December 2012

AbstractObjectiveTo investigate the inheritance of prolapsed nictitating membrane glands (PNMG) in a large pedigree of purpose‐bred mongrel dogs.Animals studiedTwo lines of purpose‐bred mongrel dogs kept at a research facility with controlled environment were analyzed for frequent occurrences ofPNMG. The first line (GSline) consisted of 201 dogs, derived from oneGerman shorthaired pointer and seven mongrel dogs. The second line (Mline) was established from one mongrel dog and three miniature longhaired dachshund (MLHD) dogs followed by closed breeding practice (n = 50). The two canine lines were connected by a female dog, which contributed genetically to both lines.ProceduresMedical records of all dogs were reviewed retrospectively for signalment, parental data, and the presence ofPNMG. Pedigrees were constructed to facilitate assessment of inheritance.ResultsThe overall prevalence ofPNMGin theGSline was 4.0% (8/201) over a 12‐year period. The prevalence in theMline was 10.0% (5/50) over 6 years, which increased to 23.1% (3/13) when only dogs aged 2 years or older were considered. Analysis of the pedigrees ruled out simple modes ofMendelian inheritance in both canine lines.ConclusionThe high prevalence ofPNMGin two canine lines bred and maintained under a strictly controlled environment supported the involvement of genetic risk factors. The mode of inheritance remains to be determined, but it appears to be complex and potentially multigenic.
Numerical simulation of oil spill for the Three Gorges Reservoir in China
Authors: Bi Haipu , Si Hu 
Published: December 2012

AbstractThe water body is just like a quasi‐static fluid after the impoundment of the Three Gorges Reservoir in China to 175 m water level in late 2010. In this paper, fluid dynamic model and numerical method were presented to analyse its dynamic characteristic. Then, based on an oil spill model coupled with the hydrodynamic model, the oil fractions evolvement with time as well as the recovery process with emergency actions under oil spills were numerically simulated and illustrated in the Three Gorges Reservoir. Emergency actions were accordingly analysed based on the simulated pollution area and density, by which a decay parameter was additionally brought into the simulation to understand the recovery of polluted area. The simulated results could be an aid for better emergency response strategy in case of oil spill accidents in the Three Gorges Reservoir in China.