bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
In Vivo Regenerative Properties of Coralline‐Derived (Biocoral) Scaffold Grafts in Human Maxillary Defects: Demonstrative and Comparative Study with Beta‐Tricalcium Phosphate and Biphasic Calcium Phosphate by Synchrotron Radiation X‐Ray Microtomography
Authors: Giuliani Alessandra , Manescu Adrian , Larsson Emanuel , Tromba Giuliana , Luongo Giuseppe , Piattelli Adriano , Mangano Francesco , Iezzi Giovanna , Mangano Carlo 
Published: January 2013

AbstractBackgroundIn recent years, there has been interest on the fabrication of systems using particulates or block‐based approach for bone tissue engineering (TE) scaffolds, possessing porous interconnected structures. In fact, these particular morphologies greatly increase the surface area for more chemical and biological reactions to take place.PurposeThis study was designed to demonstrate the unique capability of the synchrotron radiation x‐ray microtomography (micro‐CT) in offering an advanced characterization of coralline‐derived (Biocoral) biomaterials placed in human maxillary defects as it allows, in a nondestructive way, a complete, precise, and high‐resolution three‐dimensional analysis of their microstructural parameters. Moreover, the comparison between Biocoral and other biomaterials was explored to understand the mechanism of their biological behavior as bone substitute.Materials and MethodsImplant survival, bone regeneration, graft resorption, neovascularization, and morphometric parameters (including anisotropy and connectivity index of the structures) were evaluated by micro‐CT in Biocoral and the other biomaterials after 6 to 7 months from implantation in human maxillary bone defects.ResultsAfter the in vivo tests, a huge amount of bone was detected in the retrieved Biocoral‐based samples, coupled with a good rate of biomaterial resorption and the formation of a homogeneous and rich net of new vessels. The morphometric parameters were comparable to those obtained in the biphasic calcium phosphate‐based control, with the exception of the connectivity index for which this control exhibited the most well‐connected structure. This last result, together with those referred to the poor performances of the β‐tricalcium phosphate block‐based sample, suggests that the particular scaffold morphology may play a role in the hunt the optimal scaffold structure to be implanted.ConclusionIn this limited study, implant success rate seems not strictly dependent on the biomaterial that is used, but on the scaffold morphology. Micro‐CT technique was demonstrated to play a fundamental role in advanced characterization of bone TE constructs.
Colonic electrical stimulation: potential use for treatment of delayed colonic transit
Authors: Sallam H. S. , Chen J. D. Z. 
Published: January 2013

AbstractAimRecently there has been an increased interest in using electrical stimulation to regulate gut motility generally and particularly for the treatment of slow‐transit constipation. In this preliminary canine study, we aimed to study the effects of colonic electrical stimulation (CES) on colonic motility and transit.MethodNine dogs, each equipped with a pair of serosal colon electrodes and a proximal colon cannula were randomized to receive: (i) sham‐CES, (ii) long pulse CES (20 cpm, 300 ms, 6 mA) or (iii) pulse train CES (40 Hz, 6 ms, 6 mA). Animals underwent assessment of colonic contractions via manometry, and of colonic transit by inserting 24 radiopaque markers via the colonic cannula and radiographically monitoring the markers at 2, 4 and 6 h following their insertion. The colonic transit was assessed by the geometric centre.ResultsWe found that, compared with sham‐CES, pulse train CES, but not long pulse CES, significantly increased the overall colonic motility index twofold and accelerated the colonic transit by 104% at 2 h, by 60% at 4 h and by 31% at 6 h (P = 0.01, P = 0.02 and P = 0.03 vs sham‐CES at 2, 4 and 6 h, respectively). The accelerating effect of pulse train CES was found to be mediated via both cholinergic and nitrergic pathways.ConclusionCES with pulse trains has prokinetic effects on colonic contractions and transit in healthy dogs, mediated via the cholinergic and nitrergic pathways. Further clinical studies are warranted to explore the therapeutic potential of CES for slow colonic transit constipation.
Epidemiology of epilepsy in ruralBenin: Prevalence, incidence, mortality, and follow‐up
Authors: Houinato Dismand , Yemadje Luce‐Perrine , Glitho Ghislaine , Adjien Constant , Avode Gilbert , Druet‐Cabanac Michel , Preux Pierre‐Marie 
Published: January 2013

SummaryPurposeEpilepsy is a major clinical and social issue inAfrica. This study was conducted to estimate the prevalence, incidence, mortality, and therapeutic outcome in ruralDjidja inBenin.MethodsThis was a two‐phase study with a cross‐sectional phase and 18 months of follow‐up. In the first phase, information was obtained using door‐to‐door surveys, reports from key informants, and medical sources. People were interviewed using a validated screening questionnaire for epilepsy in tropical regions. The diagnosis of epilepsy was confirmed by a neurologist. We used a capture–recapture method to estimate the number of people with epilepsy (PWE).PWEwere followed every month for 18 months after the cross‐sectional survey. We asked the health services, the general population, and village leaders in the study area to identify suspected cases of epilepsy occurring during the follow‐up. New cases were updated every month after confirmation. Antiepileptic drugs were prescribed toPWE.Key FindingsWe surveyed 11,668 subjects (male‐to‐female ratio 0.9) and identified 123PWE, yielding a prevalence of 10.5 per 1,000 (95% confidence interval (CI) 8.8–12.6/1,000). Combining the three sources, we found 148PWEand a prevalence of 12.7 per 1,000 (95%CI10.7–14.9/1,000). After application of the capture–recapture method, the prevalence was estimated to be as high as 38.4 per 1,000 (95%CI34.9–41.9/1,000). The cumulative incidence was 104.2 per 100,000 and the mean annual incidence was 69.4 per 100,000. The mean annual mortality was 20.8 per 1,000. After treatment, 45% ofPWEhad total seizure remission and 35% had a decrease in the number of seizures.SignificanceThis study shows that door‐to‐door survey findings could be improved by using information from other sources. The follow‐up suggests that epilepsy could be controlled. Continuous drug delivery and regular follow‐up are key.
Decorin induces rapid secretion of thrombospondin‐1 in basal breast carcinoma cells via inhibition of Ras homolog gene family, member A/Rho‐associated coiled‐coil containing protein kinase 1
Authors: Neill Thomas , Jones Holly R. , Crane‐Smith Zoe , Owens Rick T. , Schaefer Liliana , Iozzo Renato V. 
Published: January 2013

Pathological neovascularization relies on an imbalance between potent proangiogenic agents and equally effective antiangiogenic cues. Collectively, these factors contribute to an angiogenic niche within the tumor microenvironment. Oncogenic events and hypoxia contribute to augmented levels of angiokines, and thereby activate the so‐called angiogenic switch to promote aggressive tumorigenic and metastatic growth. Soluble decorin functions as a paracrine pan‐inhibitor of receptor tyrosine kinases, such as Met and epidermal growth factor receptor, and thus is capable of suppressing angiogenesis under normoxia. This leads to noncanonical repression of hypoxia‐inducible factor 1‐alpha and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), and concurrent induction of thrombospondin‐1. The substantial induction of endogenous tumor cell‐derived thrombospondin‐1, a potent antiangiogenic effector, led us to the discovery of an unexpected secretory phenotype occurring very rapidly (within 5 min) after decorin treatment of the triple‐negative basal breast carcinoma cell line MDA‐MB‐231. Surprisingly, the effect was not mediated by Met receptor antagonism, as initially hypothesized, but required epidermal growth factor receptor signaling to achieve swift and robust thrombospondin‐1 release. Furthermore, this effect was ultimately dependent on the prompt degradation of Ras homolog gene family member A, via the 26S proteasome, leading to direct inactivation of Rho‐associated coiled‐coil containing protein kinase 1. The latter led to derepression of thrombospondin‐1 secretion. Collectively, these data provide a novel mechanistic role for Rho‐associated coiled‐coil containing protein kinase 1, in addition to providing the first conclusive evidence of decorin exclusively targeting a receptor tyrosine kinase to achieve a specific effect. The overall effects of soluble decorin on the tumor microenvironment would cause an immediately‐early as well as a sustained antiangiogenic response in vivo.
Ex vivo evaluation of various instrumentation techniques and irrigants in reducing E. faecalis within root canals
Authors: Basmaci F. , Öztan M. D. , Kiyan M. 
Published: January 2013

AbstractAimTo evaluate ex vivo the effectiveness of single‐file instrumentation techniques compared with serial Ni–Ti rotary instrumentation with several irrigation regimens in reducing E. faecalis within root canals.MethodologyA total of 81 extracted human mandibular premolar teeth with a single root canal were infected with E. faecalis before and after canal preparation. Samples were divided randomly into 9 groups, as follows: group 1‐A: sterile phosphate‐buffered saline + Self‐adjusting file, group 1‐B: 5% sodium hypochlorite + 15% EDTA + Self‐adjusting file, group 1‐C: 5% sodium hypochlorite + 7% maleic acid + Self‐adjusting file, group 2‐A: sterile phosphate‐buffered saline + Reciproc (R25), group 2‐B: 5% sodium hypochlorite + 15% EDTA + Reciproc (R25), group 2‐C: 5% sodium hypochlorite + 7% maleic acid + Reciproc (R25), group 3‐A: sterile phosphate‐buffered saline + ProTaper, group 3‐B: 5% sodium hypochlorite + 15% EDTA + ProTaper, group 3‐C: 5% sodium hypochlorite + 7% maleic acid + ProTaper. anova was used to analyse statistically the differences in terms of reduction in colony counts between the groups, and Dunn's post hoc test was used for multiple comparisons.ResultsAll techniques and irrigation regimens significantly reduced the number of bacterial cells in the root canal (P < 0.001). Comparisons amongst the groups revealed significant differences between group 1A (sterile phosphate‐buffered saline + Self‐adjusting file)/group 1B (5% sodium hypochlorite + 15% EDTA + Self‐adjusting file) (P = 0.031), group 1A (sterile phosphate‐buffered saline + Self‐adjusting file)/group 2C (5% sodium hypochlorite + 7% maleic acid + Reciproc) (P = 0.003), group 2A (sterile phosphate‐buffered saline + Reciproc)/group 3B (5% sodium hypochlorite + 15% EDTA + ProTaper) (P = 0.036), group 3B (5% sodium hypochlorite + 15% EDTA + ProTaper)/group 1A (sterile phosphate‐buffered saline + Self‐adjusting file) (P < 0.001), and group 3C (5% sodium hypochlorite + 7% maleic acid + ProTaper)/group 1A (sterile phosphate‐buffered saline + Self‐adjusting file) (P = 0.033).ConclusionsNo significant differences in terms of reduction in microbial counts were observed between single‐file techniques (SAF and Reciproc) and serial Ni–Ti instrumentation technique (ProTaper) in combination with irrigants.
Extending the honey bee venome with the antimicrobial peptide apidaecin and a protein resembling wasp antigen 5
Authors: Van Vaerenbergh M. , Cardoen D. , Formesyn E. M. , Brunain M. , Van Driessche G. , Blank S. , Spillner E. , Verleyen P. , Wenseleers T. , Schoofs L. , Devreese B. , de Graaf D. C. 
Published: January 2013

AbstractHoney bee venom is a complex mixture of toxic proteins and peptides. In the present study we tried to extend our knowledge of the venom composition using two different approaches. First, worker venom was analysed by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry and this revealed the antimicrobial peptide apidaecin for the first time in such samples. Its expression in the venom gland was confirmed by reverse transcription PCR and by a peptidomic analysis of the venom apparatus tissue. Second, genome mining revealed a list of proteins with resemblance to known insect allergens or venom toxins, one of which showed homology to proteins of the antigen 5 (Ag5)/Sol i 3 cluster. It was demonstrated that the honey bee Ag5‐like gene is expressed by venom gland tissue of winter bees but not of summer bees. Besides this seasonal variation, it shows an interesting spatial expression pattern with additional production in the hypopharyngeal glands, the brains and the midgut. Finally, our immunoblot study revealed that both synthetic apidaecin and the Ag5‐like recombinant from bacteria evoke no humoral activity in beekeepers. Also, no IgG4‐based cross‐reactivity was detected between the honey bee Ag5‐like protein and its yellow jacket paralogue Ves v 5.
Head lice: the feelings people have
Authors: Parison Julie C. , Speare Richard , Canyon Deon V. 
Published: January 2013

AbstractBackground  Head lice are a source of amusement for outsiders and an embarrassing nuisance to those who have to deal with them. Our study collected the emotions experienced by people dealing with head lice. An area with extremely sparse literature, our purpose is to inform the development of more effective programs to control head lice.Methods  We asked “what were your feelings upon discovery of head lice?” as part of a study exploring the experience of those treating head lice. A short questionnaire was available via the authors’ head lice information internet site. A total of 294 eligible responses were collected over several months and analyzed, supported by QSR N6.Results  The predominantly female (90·9%) respondents were residents of Australia (56·1%), USA (20·4%), Canada (7·2%), or UK (4·4%), and working full‐time (43·0%) or part‐time (34·2%). Reactions and feelings fell into three categories: strong (n = 320; 79% of all stated emotions), mediocre (n = 56; 20%), and neutral (n = 29; 9·8%). There were no positive emotions.Comment  The significant negative reaction was expected. The range of feeling expressed demonstrates the stigma held for these ectoparasites within western market economies. This contrasts with conceptions of head lice in traditional societies. The negative social effects of this perception create more problematic issues than the infection itself; these include quarantine, overtreatment, and a potentially negative psychological impact. Head lice control strategies and programs that address these negative emotional reactions may prove more effective than current biomedical focus.
A unified model of species immigration, extinction and abundance on islands
Authors: Rosindell James , Harmon Luke J. 
Published: January 2013

AbstractAimMacArthur and Wilson's theory of island biogeography was revolutionary, and also inspired the more recent unified neutral theory of biodiversity and biogeography. The unified neutral theory has the potential to make predictions about island biogeography that are not well studied. Here we aim to unify the two theories by using an ecological neutral model to study immigration and extinction rates on islands – the cornerstone of MacArthur and Wilson's theory.MethodsWe conduct simulations of a spatially implicit neutral model and measure species abundances, immigration rates and extinction rates. We study the behaviour of the model at dynamic equilibrium and on approach to dynamic equilibrium both from volcanic origin (low initial diversity) and from land bridge origin (high initial diversity). We extend the model to study the effects of clustered immigration and to explicitly account for the distinction between immigration and colonization.ResultsOur model, in accord with the simplest version of MacArthur and Wilson's theory, predicts linear immigration and extinction rates as functions of species richness at dynamic equilibrium. In contrast, the approach to dynamic equilibrium produces rich and unexpected behaviour where immigration and extinction rates are non‐monotonic functions of species richness, at odds with other theory. Once examined, however, this behaviour makes biological sense and results from the influence of the species abundance distribution over immigration and extinction rates. The turnover predicted by our first model appears high, but can be lowered to realistic levels with an alternative model of clustered immigration or by accounting for the difference between the immigration of a new species and its true colonization of the island.Main conclusionsMacArthur and Wilson's theory of island biogeography and ecological neutral theory are different, but there are strong similarities in their assumptions and predictions that should not be overlooked when evaluating them. Our results highlight the importance of species abundances as indicators of immigration and extinction rates; species richness alone is insufficient. In particular, extinction rate and species abundances are unavoidably linked, as rarity usually precedes extinction.
Visual Hallucinations Related to Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitor Use: Case Reports and Review
Authors: Doane John , Stults Barry 
Published: January 2013

Four patients experienced visual hallucinations that appear to have been precipitated by lisinopril. Other cases of visual hallucinations have been reported with other angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. Older patients, particularly those with a history of either dementia or mild cognitive impairment, may be at higher risk. Hallucinations resolved within 1 to 30 days after cessation of ACE inhibitors. Development of visual hallucinations after initiation of ACE inhibitors should prompt discontinuation of therapy. Visual hallucinations have been reported in one case involving an ARB. Visual hallucinations have not been associated with direct renin inhibitors. Consideration should be given to use of alternative, unrelated antihypertensive drug classes.
The Effect of NaCl Reduction and Replacement on the Growth of Listeria Monocytogenes in Broth, Cooked Ham and White Sauce
Authors: Samapundo Simbarashe , Anthierens Tom , Ampofo‐Asiama Jerry , Xhaferi Ramize , Van Bree Ilse , Szczepaniak Slawomir , Goemaere Olivier , Steen Liselot , Dhooge Marieke , Paelinck Hubert , Devlieghere F. 
Published: January 2013

AbstractThe growth‐inhibiting effects of simple and commercial salt replacers on the growth of Listeria monocytogenes were determined in broth at 7C. The divalent chlorides, CaCl2 and MgCl2, had the largest antilisterial activities at equivalent water phase concentrations or molalities followed by NaCl ≈ KCl and MgSO4 in decreasing order of antilisterial effect. Additional antilisterial activities other than their water activity depressing effects were observed for CaCl2 and MgCl2. Challenge tests performed on cooked ham and white sauce showed that reduction of NaCl levels by ≤28 and 33%, respectively, did not affect the stability of these products to L. monocytogenes. It can be concluded from the study that changes in the stability to L. monocytogenes are most likely to occur when NaCl is fully reduced and/or replaced or partially replaced by either CaCl2 (increased stability) or MgSO4 (reduced stability).Practical ApplicationsThe association of high dietary NaCl levels to hypertension and cardiovascular diseases has led to concerted efforts in the food industry to reduce NaCl levels. To date, several studies have been performed, which have focused primarily on addressing the sensorial, technological and shelf life aspects, with far less emphasis being placed on the food safety aspects. The results of this study provide much needed insight into the potential food safety consequences of reduction and/or replacement of NaCl in food products.
Antimicrobial Activities of Acetic Acid, Citric Acid and Lactic Acid against Shigella Species
Authors: In Ye‐Won , Kim Jung‐Ji , Kim Hyun‐Jung , Oh Se‐Wook 
Published: January 2013

AbstractThis study determined the antimicrobial activities of acetic acid, citric acid and lactic acid against four Shigella species: S. sonnei, S. flexneri, S. boydii and S. dysenteriae. Minimal inhibitory concentrations of acetic acid and citric acid against Shigella were 200 and 300 ppm, respectively. But S. sonnei was 400 ppm. Lactic acid (0.5%) in tryptic soya broth inhibited the growth of all Shigella species. Citric acid weakly inhibited the growth of S. flexneri, but it strongly inhibited the growth of S. dysenteriae, resulting in a 5‐log reduction. Acetic acid exhibited the weakest antimicrobial activity among the tested organic acids but produced the highest ratios of injured cells. When artificially inoculated lettuce was dipped in 1% organic acid solutions, the growth of S. flexneri, S. dysenteriae and S. boydii were reduced by 2 logs. And the growth was further reduced by lactic acid as the dipping time increased. The antimicrobial activities of organic acids against Shigella species differed. Acetic acid exhibited the greatest antimicrobial activity in the paper disk diffusion experiment, but lactic acid was the most effective antimicrobial agent against Shigella species artificially inoculated on lettuce.Practical ApplicationsShigellosis induced by Shigella species results in at least 600,000 deaths worldwide each year. And in the U.S.A., it is a major bacteria involved in food poisoning, reported in 10,000–20,000 patients. In the present study, organic acids were used as basic materials for controlling Shigella species, and there are potential for organic acids, which are natural antimicrobials, to be used in the development of eco‐friendly reduction technology on Shigella species.
Advance Care Planning and the Quality of End‐of‐Life Care in Older Adults
Authors: Bischoff Kara E. , Sudore Rebecca , Miao Yinghui , Boscardin Walter John , Smith Alexander K. 
Published: January 2013

ObjectivesTo determine whether advance care planning influences quality of end‐of‐life care.DesignIn this observational cohort study, Medicare data and survey data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) were combined to determine whether advance care planning was associated with quality metrics.SettingThe nationally representative HRS.ParticipantsFour thousand three hundred ninety‐nine decedent subjects (mean age 82.6 at death, 55% women).MeasurementsAdvance care planning (ACP) was defined as having an advance directive (AD), durable power of attorney (DPOA) or having discussed preferences for end‐of‐life care with a next of kin. Outcomes included previously reported quality metrics observed during the last month of life (rates of hospital admission, in‐hospital death, >14 days in the hospital, intensive care unit admission, >1 emergency department visit, hospice admission, and length of hospice ≤3 days).ResultsSeventy‐six percent of subjects engaged in ACP. Ninety‐two percent of ADs stated a preference to prioritize comfort. After adjustment, subjects who engaged in ACP were less likely to die in a hospital (adjusted relative risk (aRR) = 0.87, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.80–0.94), more likely to be enrolled in hospice (aRR = 1.68, 95% CI = 1.43–1.97), and less likely to receive hospice for 3 days or less before death (aRR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.85–0.91). Having an AD, a DPOA or an ACP discussion were each independently associated with a significant increase in hospice use (P < .01 for all).ConclusionACP was associated with improved quality of care at the end of life, including less in‐hospital death and increased use of hospice. Having an AD, assigning a DPOA and conducting ACP discussions are all important elements of ACP.