bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Antimicrobial activity of different disinfection methods against biofilms in root canals
Authors: Gergova Raina T. , Gueorgieva Tzvetelina , Dencheva‐Garova Mariya S. , Krasteva‐Panova Assya Z. , Kalchinov Vasil , Mitov Ivan , Kamenoff Julia 
Published: January 2015

AbstractAimThe aim of the present study was to evaluate the bactericidal effects of different disinfection methods against microbial biofilms grown in root canals.MethodsA total of 300 freshly‐extracted human teeth were infected with microbial pathogens. The biofilm formation and the effects of laser therapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT), iontophoresis, and disinfection with irrigating solutions were evaluated by counting the generations of microbial cells in the samples of root canals and by scanning electron microscopy.ResultsEnterococcus faecalis and other Gram‐positive cocci demonstrated highest sensitivity to the methods of antibacterial action compared here. In most of the cases observed, the antibacterial treatment was less effective against Gram‐negative bacteria in dental biofilms. The biofilms that were most difficult to eliminate were those formed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Iontophoresis treatment with iodine and chemical disinfection with hypochlorite and chlorhexidine demonstrated the most powerful bactericidal effect. When PDT was applied with Fotosan as a photosensitizer, better disinfection was achieved in comparison to the other lasers alone.ConclusionThe comparison of these different strategies for endodontic treatment showed that hypochlorite, followed by the chlorhexidine irrigant in our experimental conditions, gave the most satisfactory results against the formation of bacterial biofilms in the root canals.
ThERF1 regulates its target genes via binding to a novel cis‐acting element in response to salt stress
Authors: Wang Liuqiang , Wang Chao , Qin Liping , Liu Wenjin , Wang Yucheng 
Published: January 2015

AbstractEthylene responsive factors (ERFs) are plant‐specific transcription factors that are involved in a variety of biological processes. We previously demonstrated that an ERF gene from Tamarix hispida, ThERF1, encodes a protein binding to GCC‐box and DRE motifs and negatively modulates abiotic stress tolerance. In the present study, microarray analysis was performed to study the genes regulated by ThERF1 on a genomic scale. There were 154 and 307 genes (respectively representing 134 and 260 unique genes) significantly up‐ and downregulated by ThERF1 under salt stress conditions, respectively. A novel motif, named TTG, was identified to be recognized by ThERF1, which commonly presents in the promoters of ThERF1‐targeted genes. The TTG motif is also bound by other ERFs of a different subfamily from T. hispida and Arabidopsis, indicating that it is commonly recognized by ERF proteins. The binding affinities of ERFs to the TTG motif are significantly induced by salt stress. The TTG motif is more enriched than the GCC‐box and DRE motifs in the promoters of ThERF1‐targeted genes. Taken together, these studies suggested that the TTG motif plays an important role in the gene expression regulated by ERFs in response to salt stress.
Phase equilibria modelling and LASS monazite petrochronology: P–T–t constraints on the evolution of the Priest River core complex, northern Idaho
Authors: Stevens L. M. , Baldwin J. A. , Cottle J. M. , Kylander‐Clark A. R. C. 
Published: February 2015

AbstractPhase equilibria modelling, laser‐ablation split‐stream (LASS)‐ICP‐MS petrochronology and garnet trace‐element geochemistry are integrated to constrain the P–T–t history of the footwall of the Priest River metamorphic core complex, northern Idaho. Metapelitic, migmatitic gneisses of the Hauser Lake Gneiss contain the peak assemblage garnet + sillimanite + biotite ± muscovite + plagioclase + K‐feldspar ± rutile ± ilmenite + quartz. Interpreted P–T paths predict maximum pressures and peak metamorphic temperatures of ~9.6–10.3 kbar and ~785–790 °C. Monazite and xenotime 208Pb/232Th dates from porphyroblast inclusions indicate that metamorphism occurred at c. 74–54 Ma. Dates from HREE‐depleted monazite formed during prograde growth constrain peak metamorphism at c. 64 Ma near the centre of the complex, while dates from HREE‐enriched monazite constrain the timing of garnet breakdown during near‐isothermal decompression at c. 60–57 Ma. Near‐isothermal decompression to ~5.0–4.4 kbar was followed by cooling and further decompression. The youngest, HREE‐enriched monazite records leucosome crystallization at mid‐crustal levels c. 54–44 Ma. The northernmost sample records regional metamorphism during the emplacement of the Selkirk igneous complex (c. 94–81 Ma), Cretaceous–Tertiary metamorphism and limited Eocene exhumation. Similarities between the Priest River complex and other complexes of the northern North American Cordillera suggest shared regional metamorphic and exhumation histories; however, in contrast to complexes to the north, the Priest River contains less partial melt and no evidence for diapiric exhumation. Improved constraints on metamorphism, deformation, anatexis and exhumation provide greater insight into the initiation and evolution of metamorphic core complexes in the northern Cordillera, and in similar tectonic settings elsewhere.
Coping Strategies Used by Hospitalized Children With Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy
Authors: Sposito Amanda Mota Pacciulio , Silva‐Rodrigues Fernanda Machado , Sparapani Valéria de Cássia , Pfeifer Luzia Iara , de Lima Regina Aparecida Garcia , Nascimento Lucila Castanheira 
Published: January 2015

AbstractPurposeTo analyze coping strategies used by children with cancer undergoing chemotherapy during hospitalization.Design and MethodsThis was an exploratory study to analyze qualitative data using an inductive thematic analysis. Semistructured interviews using puppets were conducted with 10 children with cancer, between 7 and 12 years old, who were hospitalized and undergoing chemotherapy.FindingsThe coping strategies to deal with chemotherapy were: understanding the need for chemotherapy; finding relief for the chemotherapy's side effects and pain; seeking pleasure in nourishment; engaging in entertaining activities and having fun; keeping the hope of cure alive; and finding support in religion.ConclusionsChildren with cancer undergoing chemotherapy need to cope with hospitalizations, pain, medication side effects, idle time, and uncertainty regarding the success of treatment. These challenges motivated children to develop their own coping strategies, which were effective while undergoing chemotherapy.Clinical RelevanceBy gaining knowledge and further understanding about valid coping strategies during chemotherapy treatment, health professionals can mobilize personal and material resources from the children, health teams, and institutions aiming to potentiate the use of these strategies to make treatments the least traumatic.
Wall Street Occupations
Authors: AXELSON ULF , BOND PHILIP 
Published: February 2015

ABSTRACTMany finance jobs entail the risk of large losses, and hard‐to‐monitor effort. We analyze the equilibrium consequences of these features in a model with optimal dynamic contracting. We show that finance jobs feature high compensation, up‐or‐out promotion, and long work hours, and are more attractive than other jobs. Moral hazard problems are exacerbated in booms, even though pay increases. Employees whose talent would be more valuable elsewhere can be lured into finance jobs, while the most talented employees might be unable to land these jobs because they are “too hard to manage.”
A missense mutation underlies defective SOCS4 function in a family with autoimmunity
Authors: Arts P. , Plantinga T. S. , van den Berg J. M. , Gilissen C. , Veltman J. A. , van Trotsenburg A. S. , van de Veerdonk F. L. , Kuijpers T. W. , Hoischen A. , Netea M. G. 
Published: January 2015

AbstractObjectiveThe aim of this study was to determine the genetic and immunological defects underlying familial manifestations of an autoimmune disorder.MethodsWhole‐exome sequencing was performed on the index patient with various manifestations of autoimmunity, including hypothyroidism, vitiligo and alopecia. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells and DNA of family members were used for functional and genetic testing of the candidate variants obtained by Sanger sequencing.ResultsExome sequencing identified 233 rare, coding and nonsynonymous variants in the index patient; five were highly conserved and affect genes that have a possible role in autoimmunity. Only a heterozygous missense mutation in the suppressor of cytokine signalling 4 gene (SOCS4) cosegregated with the autoimmune disorder in the family. SOCS4 is a known inhibitor of epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor signalling, and functional studies demonstrated specific upregulation of EGF‐dependent immune stimulation in affected family members.ConclusionWe present a family with an autoimmune disorder, probably resulting from dysregulated immune responses due to mutations in SOCS4.
Polymorphisms in alcohol and tobacco metabolism genes in head and neck cancer in the Basque Country
Authors: Bediaga Naiara G. , Marichalar‐Mendia Xabier , Rey‐Barja Natalia , Setien‐Olarra Amaia , Gonzalez‐Garcia José A. , de Pancorbo Marian Martinez , Aguirre‐Urizar José M. , Acha‐Sagredo Amelia 
Published: January 2015

BackgroundThe Basque Country has one of the highest rates of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in Europe, although tobacco and alcohol consumption are not high when compared to other European countries where HNSCC incidence is lower. Our aim was to determine the role of genetic variation with regard to the metabolism of alcohol and carcinogens from tobacco smoke in the Basque Country.MethodsFourteen polymorphisms in alcohol or tobacco metabolism genes were genotyped in 84 HNSCC patients and 242 healthy individuals from the Basque Country.ResultsADH1B histidine allele (rs1229984), CYP2E1 rs3813867 heterozygous genotype, and GSTT1 deletion conferred protection against HNSCC (OR: 0.318 [0.04–0.75], OR: 0.13 [0.02–0.94], and OR: 0.12 [0.02–0.60], respectively) while GSTP1 (rs1695) Val/Val genotype was related to an increased risk (OR: 4.12 [1.11–15.31]). Regarding alcohol and tobacco habits, GSTT1 deletion was associated with tobacco usage, while the 3 polymorphisms tested in ALDH2 were associated with alcohol consumption. However, genotypic distributions of these 7 SNPs did not differ from those observed for other Caucasian populations where HNSCC incidence is lower.ConclusionsThe identified genotypic variations in alcohol and tobacco metabolizing genes only by themselves do not seem to be responsible for the higher incidence of HNSCC observed in the Basque Country.
Insights on the vasorelaxant mode of action of malbrancheamide
Authors: Madariaga-Mazón Abraham , Hernández-Abreu Oswaldo , Estrada-Soto Samuel , Mata Rachel 
Published: February 2015

Abstract

Objectives
This study was conducted to evaluate the vasorelaxant effect of the fungal alkaloids malbrancheamides on pre-contracted rat aorta rings. Also, we explored the probable mode of action using experimental and theoretical docking studies.

Methods
The vasorelaxant effect was assessed on rat aorta rings pre-contracted with noradrenaline (0.1 μm). The mechanism of action was evaluated using different inhibitors of the pathways involved in the vasorelaxation process, such as l-NAME, indomethacin, tetraethylammonium and atropine. The docking analyses were carried out with AutoDock 4.2 software using the crystallized structure of the cyclooxygenase domain of eNOS.

Key findings
Malbrancheamides (1–3) induced a significant vasorelaxant activity in a concentration- and endothelium-intact model in rat aorta rings, and a lesser effect in an endothelium-denuded model. Malbrancheamide-induced vasorelaxation was significantly weakened by pretreatment of endothelium-intact aortic rings with L-NAME (10 μm), indicating a nitrergic relaxant mechanism. Docking analysis predicted that 1–3 could activate eNOS throughout an allosteric fashion at C1 and C2 pockets.

Conclusions
Experimental evidence revealed that malbrancheamides induced both endothelium-independent and endothelium-dependent relaxant effects. According to theoretical studies, it is feasible that the endothelium-independent relaxation exerted by malbrancheamide could be mediated by its calmodulin inhibitory properties throughout an interference with myosin light chain phosphorylation and a positive modulation of eNOS.
Age-related cataract and drug therapy: opportunities and challenges for topical antioxidant delivery to the lens
Authors: Abdelkader Hamdy , Alany Raid G , Pierscionek Barbara 
Published: February 2015

Abstract

Objectives
The search for anticataract drugs has been continuing for decades; some treatments no longer exist but antioxidants are still of much interest.

Key findings
The primary function of the human lens, along with the cornea, is to refract light so that it is correctly focused onto the retina for optimum image quality. With age, the human lens undergoes morphological, biochemical and physical changes leading to opacification. Age-related or senile cataract is one of the main causes of visual impairment in the elderly; given the lack of access to surgical treatment in many parts of the world, cataract remains a major cause of sight loss. Surgical treatment is the only means of treating cataract; this approach, however, has limitations and complications.

Summary
This review discusses the anatomy and physiology of the lens and the changes that are understood to occur with ageing and cataract formation to identify potential areas for effective therapeutic intervention. Experimental techniques and agents used to induce cataract in animal models, the advantages and disadvantages of potential pharmacological treatments specific barriers to delivery of exogenous antioxidants to the lens and the prospects for future research are discussed.
Enhancing the Resilience of Parents of Adults With Intellectual Disabilities through Volunteering: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Wong Phyllis K. S. , Fong K. W. , Lam T. L. 
Published: January 2015

AbstractThe resilience of parents of people with intellectual disability (ID) has increasingly become a concern in the field. However, very little research has focused on resilience interventions. InHongKong, the authors attempted to enhance the resilience level of parents of adults withIDthrough their participation in a volunteer program. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between participation in the volunteer program and the resilience protective factors of parents. A pretest–posttest design was used involving 36 of the participants who were recruited from the 6‐month volunteer program. A 24‐itemResilienceMeasuringScale developed from theResilienceScale and thePurpose inLifeTest was used to measure the changes in the participants after the intervention. The results showed that the participants achieved positive changes in the protective factors of social resources and meaning of life after joining the volunteer program. The findings provide initial evidence of the relationship between volunteering and the resilience protective factors for middle‐ to old‐agedChinese parents. The factors of the program that facilitated resilience enhancement included using a group format, providing a situation to appreciate problems that others have, and frequent debriefings enabling integration and internalization of the experience. The authors posit some implications on the interventions for this population and make recommendations for further studies.
Puerarin decreases bone loss and collagen destruction in rats with ligature‐induced periodontitis
Authors: Yang X. , Zhang H. , Wang J. , Zhang Z. , Li C. 
Published: February 2015

Background and ObjectivePuerarin, the most abundant isoflavonoid in kudzu root, shows various bioactivities, including bone‐sparing, anti‐inflammatory and antiproteinase properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of puerarin in a rat model of ligature‐induced periodontitis.Material and MethodsRat models of periodontitis were developed by bilaterally placing ligatures around the first mandibular molars. Puerarin was administrated daily by gavage at doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, starting a day before the placement of ligatures. Rats were humanely killed 7 d after the induction of periodontitis. Micro‐computed tomography and sirius red staining were used to evaluate alveolar bone loss and collagen destruction, respectively. Histomorphometrical analysis was used to assess the inflammatory cell infiltration. Immunohistochemistry and tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase were used to detect receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand and osteoprotegerin expressions, and osteoclast activity in the gingiva and alveolar bone. The activation of nuclear factor‐kappa B, production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and interleukin (IL)‐1β, glycosylation of extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer, and production of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐2 and MMP‐9 in the gingiva were assessed by Western blot.ResultsPuerarin at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg significantly reduced the alveolar bone loss compared with the vehicle group. Collagen destruction and inflammatory cell infiltration were significantly less in the puerarin‐treated group (200 mg/kg) compared with that of the vehicle group. Puerarin (200 mg/kg) also reduced the ratio of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand/osteoprotegerin and osteoclast activity. Western blot analysis showed that puerarin (200 mg/kg) inhibited the activation of nuclear factor‐kappa B p65, which is associated with lower IL‐1β and TNF‐α production, and reduced the glycosylation of extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer, which is associated with lower levels of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9.ConclusionsPuerarin reduced the alveolar bone loss and collagen destruction in rats with ligature‐induced periodontitis by inhibiting the production of RANKL, IL‐1β, TNF‐α, MMP‐2 and MMP‐9. Thus, puerarin can be considered a promising agent for adjunctive therapy of periodontitis.
Effect of Orally Administered Cisapride, Bethanechol, and Erythromycin on the Apparent Efficiency of Colostral IgG Absorption in Neonatal Holstein‐Friesian Calves
Authors: Ghoreishi S.M. , Nouri M. , Rasooli A. , Ghorbanpour M. , Mokhber‐Dezfouli M.R. , Constable P.D. 
Published: January 2015

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of orally administered cisapride, bethanechol, and erythromycin on the absorption of colostralIgGin dairy calves.AnimalsTwenty‐four healthy neonatal Holstein‐Friesian calves.ProceduresCalves were randomly assigned to one of the following treatments: 0.9% NaCl solution (2 mL, PO; negative control); erythromycin lactobionate (20 mg/kg BW, PO; anticipated to be a positive control); cisapride (0.5 mg/kg BW, PO); bethanechol chloride (0.5 mg/kg BW, PO). Calves were fed 3 L of pooled bovine colostrum containing acetaminophen (50 mg/kg) by suckling and oroesophageal intubation 30 minutes after each treatment was administered. Jugular venous blood samples were obtained periodically after the start of feeding and plasma total IgG, protein, acetaminophen, and glucose concentrations determined. Abomasal emptying rate was assessed by the time to maximal plasma acetaminophen concentration.ResultsOral administration of cisapride facilitated the absorption of colostral IgG and protein. The effect of cisapride on abomasal emptying rate could not be evaluated because cisapride appeared to interfere with acetaminophen metabolism. Based on the total IgG and total protein concentration‐time relationships, the beneficial effects of cisapride appeared to occur early after oral administration and were transient.Conclusions and Clinical ImportanceAdditional studies appear indicated to characterize the effect of cisapride dose on the magnitude and duration of its effect on facilitating the absorption of colostral IgG and protein. Identification of a nonantimicrobial method for increasing abomasal emptying rate, such as cisapride, will potentially provide a practical and effective method for facilitating transfer of passive immunity in colostrum‐fed dairy calves.
Regional intravenous limb perfusion compared to systemic intravenous administration for marimastat delivery to equine lamellar tissue
Authors: Underwood C. , Collins S. N. , Mills P. C. , Van Eps A. W. , Allavena R. E. , Medina Torres C. E. , Pollitt C. C 
Published: January 2015

Pharmaceutical agents with potential for laminitis prevention have been identified. Many of these, including theMMPinhibitor marimastat, are impractical for systemic administration. This study compared local delivery of marimastat by regional limb perfusion (RLP) to systemic intravenous bolus dosing (SIVB), and established whetherRLPresults in local lamellar drug delivery. Six adult horses received 0.23 mg/kg of marimastat byRLPfollowed by 0.23 mg/kg marimastat bySIVB, with a 24‐h washout period. Lamellar ultrafiltration probes sampled lamellar interstitial fluid as lamellar ultrafiltrate (LUF).LUFand plasma marimastat concentrations (LUF[M]and P[M], respectively) were measured for 24 h after each treatment. Regional pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using noncompartmental analyses. TheLUFCmaxfollowingRLPwas 232 [34–457] times that followingSIVB.LUF[M]afterRLPwere higher than those obtained afterSIVBfor 18 h (P < 0.03). MedianLUF[M]were > IC90of equine lamellarMMP‐2 andMMP‐9 for 9 h after tourniquet removal.RLPappeared superior toSIVBfor lamellar marimastat delivery (higherLUFCmax,,AUCand T > IC90of lamellarMMPs). However, frequent dosing is necessary to achieve therapeutic lamellar concentrations.RLPcould be used to investigate whether marimastat prevents experimentally induced laminitis. Further refinement of the technique and dosing interval is necessary before clinical application.
Are Transcutaneous Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide Determinations of Value in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension?
Authors: Tonelli Adriano R. , Alkukhun Laith , Cikach Frank , Ahmed Mostafa , Dweik Raed A. 
Published: January 2015

AbstractBackgroundWe hypothesized that transcutaneous gas determinations of O2 and CO2 (TcPO2 and TcPCO2) are associated with the severity of PAH.MethodsIn this cross‐sectional study, we included consecutive patients with PAH (group 1 PH; n = 34). Transcutaneous gas determinations were compared to those of age‐ and gender‐matched healthy controls (n = 14), nongroup 1 PH (n = 19) or patients with high estimated RVSP on echocardiography but without hemodynamic evidence of PH (n = 12).ResultsIn patients with PAH, TcPO2, and TcPCO2 were significantly associated with PaO2 (R = 0.44, p = 0.03) and PaCO2 (R = 0.77, p < 0.001), respectively. TcPO2/FiO2 (mean difference: −65.0 [95% CI: −121.3, −8.7]) and TcPCO2 (mean difference: −7.4 [95% CI: −11.6, −3.1]) were significantly lower in patients with PAH than healthy controls. TcPCO2 was useful in discriminating PAH patients from other individuals (AUC: 0.74 [95% CI: 0.62, 0.83]). TcPO2/FiO2 ratio was significantly associated with mean PAP, TPG, PVR, CI, SVI, DLCO, six‐minute walk distance and components of the CAMPHOR questionnaire.ConclusionsTranscutaneous pressure of CO2 was lower in patients with PAH. Transcutaneous pressure of O2 over inspired fraction of O2 ratio was inversely associated with severity of disease in patients with PAH.