bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Plasma vitamin D and serum total immunoglobulin E levels in patients with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis
Authors: Dadaci Zeynep , Borazan Mehmet , Kiyici Aysel , Oncel Acir Nursen 
Published: March 2014

AbstractPurposeTo evaluate plasma 25‐hydroxyvitamin D and serum total immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels in patients with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (SAC).MethodsThis observational case–control study involved 49 patients with SAC without any other ocular and systemic diseases, and 44 consecutive, age‐ and sex‐matched healthy subjects. Plasma 25‐hydroxyvitamin D and serum total IgE levels of all subjects were quantified with electrochemiluminescence technique. Results were compared between the groups, and p values of <0.05 were considered as statistically significant.ResultsNo significant differences were found between the groups with respect to age (p = 0.41) and sex (p = 0.98). Plasma vitamin D levels of the subjects with SAC (median 8.03 ng/ml, range 3.00–17.97 ng/ml) were significantly lower than the control group (median 10.52 ng/ml, range 3.30–25.92 ng/ml) (p = 0.007). Serum total IgE levels of patients with SAC (median 48.65 IU/ml, range 1.77–812.00 IU/ml) were significantly higher when compared to the control group (median 32.49 IU/ml, range 0.14–104.60 IU/ml) (p = 0.003).ConclusionsWe found lower plasma vitamin D levels and higher serum total IgE levels in patients with SAC.
Review article: evidence for the role of gut microbiota in irritable bowel syndrome and its potential influence on therapeutic targets
Authors: DuPont H. L. 
Published: March 2014

SummaryBackgroundIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent gastrointestinal disease with a substantial social and economic burden. Treatment options remain limited and research on the aetiology and pathophysiology of this multifactorial disease is ongoing.AimTo discuss the potential role of gut microbiota in the pathophysiology of IBS and to identify possible interactions with pathophysiologic targets in IBS.MethodsArticles were identified via a PubMed database search [‘irritable bowel syndrome’ AND (anti‐bacterial OR antibiotic OR flora OR microbiota OR microflora OR probiotic)]. English‐language articles were screened for relevance. Full review of publications for the relevant studies was conducted, including additional publications that were identified from individual article reference lists.ResultsThe role of gut microbiota in IBS is supported by varying lines of evidence from animal and human studies. For example, post‐infectious IBS in humans is well documented. In addition, certain probiotics and nonsystemic antibiotics appear to be efficacious in the treatment of IBS. Mechanisms involved in improving IBS symptoms likely go beyond mere changes in the composition of the gut microbiota, and accumulating animal data support the interplay of microbiota with other IBS targets, such as the gut–brain axis, visceral hypersensitivity, mucosal inflammation and motility.ConclusionThe role of the gut microbiota is still being elucidated; however, it appears to be one of several important factors that contributes to the aetiology and pathophysiology of the irritable bowel syndrome.
A tool for learning or a tool for cheating? The many‐sided effects of a participatory student website in mass higher education
Authors: Stöckelová Tereza , Virtová Tereza 
Published: March 2014

AbstractThis paper is a case study of the genesis, operation and, in particular, the educational effects of a participatory website established and run by students of one of the largest universities in theCzechRepublic, the purpose of which is to enable students to share study materials, essays and evaluations of staff and courses. We study the rise of the website as a bottom‐up reaction to deficiencies in the educational process perceived by students, which has led to changes in some of the university's educational practices. Drawing upon ethnographic data, we inquire into the various ways in which the website's existence has influenced educational processes and student–teacher relations. The findings show how such a website's impact can be both positive and negative. While it can foster collaboration and a sense of mutuality among students, trigger institutional reflexivity and generate a platform for the collective production of knowledge lacking in curricula, it can also perpetuate institutional deficiencies by compensating for them, often in undesirable ways such as cheating and plagiarism.A video abstract of this article can be viewed athttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49NlvdpEyuE
The moderating impact of self‐esteem on self‐affirmation effects
Authors: Düring Camilla , Jessop Donna C. 
Published: March 2014

ObjectivesThis study explored whether self‐esteem would moderate the effectiveness of a self‐affirmation manipulation at increasing openness to personally relevant health‐risk information.DesignThe study employed a prospective experimental design.MethodParticipants (N = 328) completed either a self‐affirmation manipulation or a control task, prior to reading information detailing the health‐related consequences of taking insufficient exercise. They then completed a series of measures assessing their cognitions towards exercise and their derogation of the information. Exercise behaviour was assessed at 1‐week follow‐up.ResultsSelf‐esteem moderated the impact of self‐affirmation on the majority of outcomes. For participants with low self‐esteem, the self‐affirmation manipulation resulted in more positive attitudes and intentions towards exercise, together with lower levels of derogation of the health‐risk information. By contrast, there was no effect of the self‐affirmation manipulation on outcomes for participants with high self‐esteem.ConclusionFindings suggest that self‐affirmation manipulations might be of particular benefit for those with low self‐esteem in terms of promoting openness towards health‐risk information. This is promising from a health promotion perspective, as individuals with low self‐esteem often represent those most in need of intervention.
Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Self‐affirmation has been shown to result in more open processing of personally relevant health‐risk information.

Individuals low in self‐esteem tend to process such information more defensively than those high in self‐esteem.

What does this study add?

It explores whether self‐esteem moderates the impact of self‐affirmation on responses to health‐risk information.

Findings suggest that individuals with low self‐esteem benefit most from the self‐affirmation manipulation.

This has important applied implications, as individuals with low self‐esteem may be most in need of intervention.
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide receptor antagonist JTC‐801 reverses pain and anxiety symptoms in a rat model of post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Zhang Y , Simpson‐Durand C D , Standifer K M 
Published: March 2014

Background and PurposeSingle‐prolonged stress (SPS), a rat model of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), also induces long‐lasting hyperalgesia associated with hypocortisolism and elevated nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) levels in serum and CSF. Here, we determined the effect of JTC‐801 (N‐(4‐amino‐2‐methylquinolin‐6‐yl)‐2‐(4‐ethylphenoxymethyl) benzamide monohydrochloride), a nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide (NOP) receptor antagonist, on symptoms of pain and anxiety in rats after SPS exposure, and examined N/OFQ‐NOP receptor system changes.Experimental ApproachMale Sprague Dawley rats received JTC‐801 (6 mg kg−1 i.p., once daily) during days 7–21 of SPS. The ability of JTC‐801 to inhibit N/OFQ‐stimulated [35S]‐GTPγS binding was confirmed in rat brain membranes. Anxiety‐like behaviour and pain sensitivity were monitored by changes in elevated plus maze performance and withdrawal responses to thermal and mechanical stimuli. Serum corticosterone and N/OFQ content in CSF, serum and brain tissues were determined by radioimmunoassay; NOP receptor protein and gene expression in amygdala, hippocampus and periaqueductal grey (PAG) were examined by immunoblotting and real‐time PCR respectively.Key ResultsJTC‐801 treatment reversed SPS‐induced mechanical allodynia, thermal hyperalgesia, anxiety‐like behaviour and hypocortisolism. Elevated N/OFQ levels in serum, CSF, PAG and hippocampus at day 21 of SPS were blocked by JTC‐801; daily JTC‐801 treatment also reversed NOP receptor protein and mRNA up‐regulation in amygdala and PAG.Conclusion and ImplicationsJTC‐801 reversed SPS‐induced anxiety‐ and pain‐like behaviours, and NOP receptor system up‐regulation. These findings suggest that N/OFQ plays an important role in hyperalgesia and allodynia maintenance after SPS. NOP receptor antagonists may provide effective treatment for co‐morbid PTSD and pain.Linked ArticlesThis article is part of a themed section on Opioids: New Pathways to Functional Selectivity. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2015.172.issue-2
Movers and shakers: cell cytoskeleton in cancer metastasis
Authors: Fife C M , McCarroll J A , Kavallaris M 
Published: March 2014

Metastasis is responsible for the greatest number of cancer deaths. Metastatic disease, or the movement of cancer cells from one site to another, is a complex process requiring dramatic remodelling of the cell cytoskeleton. The various components of the cytoskeleton, actin (microfilaments), microtubules (MTs) and intermediate filaments, are highly integrated and their functions are well orchestrated in normal cells. In contrast, mutations and abnormal expression of cytoskeletal and cytoskeletal‐associated proteins play an important role in the ability of cancer cells to resist chemotherapy and metastasize. Studies on the role of actin and its interacting partners have highlighted key signalling pathways, such as the Rho GTPases, and downstream effector proteins that, through the cytoskeleton, mediate tumour cell migration, invasion and metastasis. An emerging role for MTs in tumour cell metastasis is being unravelled and there is increasing interest in the crosstalk between key MT interacting proteins and the actin cytoskeleton, which may provide novel treatment avenues for metastatic disease. Improved understanding of how the cytoskeleton and its interacting partners influence tumour cell migration and metastasis has led to the development of novel therapeutics against aggressive and metastatic disease.Linked ArticlesThis article is part of a themed section on Cytoskeleton, Extracellular Matrix, Cell Migration, Wound Healing and Related Topics. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue‐24
Identifying ligand‐specific signalling within biased responses: focus on δ opioid receptor ligands
Authors: Charfi I , Audet N , Bagheri Tudashki H , Pineyro G 
Published: March 2014

Opioids activate GPCRs to produce powerful analgesic actions but at the same time induce side effects and generate tolerance, which restrict their clinical use. Reducing this undesired response profile has remained a major goal of opioid research and the notion of ‘biased agonism’ is raising increasing interest as a means of separating therapeutic responses from unwanted side effects. However, to fully exploit this opportunity, it is necessary to confidently identify biased signals and evaluate which type of bias may support analgesia and which may lead to undesired effects. The development of new computational tools has made it possible to quantify ligand‐dependent signalling and discriminate this component from confounders that may also yield biased responses. Here, we analyse different approaches to identify and quantify ligand‐dependent bias and review different types of confounders. Focus is on δ opioid receptor ligands, which are currently viewed as promising agents for chronic pain management.Linked ArticlesThis article is part of a themed section on Opioids: New Pathways to Functional Selectivity. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2015.172.issue-2
Recent advances on the δ opioid receptor: from trafficking to function
Authors: Gendron Louis , Mittal Nitish , Beaudry Hélène , Walwyn Wendy 
Published: March 2014

Within the opioid family of receptors, δ (DOPrs) and μ opioid receptors (MOPrs) are typical GPCRs that activate canonical second‐messenger signalling cascades to influence diverse cellular functions in neuronal and non‐neuronal cell types. These receptors activate well‐known pathways to influence ion channel function and pathways such as the map kinase cascade, AC and PI3K. In addition new information regarding opioid receptor‐interacting proteins, downstream signalling pathways and resultant functional effects has recently come to light. In this review, we will examine these novel findings focusing on the DOPr and, in doing so, will contrast and compare DOPrs with MOPrs in terms of differences and similarities in function, signalling pathways, distribution and interactions. We will also discuss and clarify issues that have recently surfaced regarding the expression and function of DOPrs in different cell types and analgesia.Linked ArticlesThis article is part of a themed section on Opioids: New Pathways to Functional Selectivity. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2015.172.issue-2
Plant DNA barcoding: from gene to genome
Authors: Li Xiwen , Yang Yang , Henry Robert J. , Rossetto Maurizio , Wang Yitao , Chen Shilin 
Published: March 2014

ABSTRACTDNA barcoding is currently a widely used and effective tool that enables rapid and accurate identification of plant species; however, none of the available loci work across all species. Because single‐locus DNA barcodes lack adequate variations in closely related taxa, recent barcoding studies have placed high emphasis on the use of whole‐chloroplast genome sequences which are now more readily available as a consequence of improving sequencing technologies. While chloroplast genome sequencing can already deliver a reliable barcode for accurate plant identification it is not yet resource‐effective and does not yet offer the speed of analysis provided by single‐locus barcodes to unspecialized laboratory facilities. Here, we review the development of candidate barcodes and discuss the feasibility of using the chloroplast genome as a super‐barcode. We advocate a new approach for DNA barcoding that, for selected groups of taxa, combines the best use of single‐locus barcodes and super‐barcodes for efficient plant identification. Specific barcodes might enhance our ability to distinguish closely related plants at the species and population levels.
Osteoclast‐like cells on deproteinized bovine bone mineral and biphasic calcium phosphate: light and transmission electron microscopical observations
Authors: Jensen Simon S. , Gruber Reinhard , Buser Daniel , Bosshardt Dieter D. 
Published: March 2014

AbstractObjectivesThe occurrence of multinucleated giant cells (MNGCs) on bone substitute materials has been recognized for a long time. However, there have been no studies linking material characteristics with morphology of the MNGCs. The aim was to analyze the qualitative differences of MNGCs on two commercially available calcium phosphate bone substitute materials retrieved from bone defects.Material and methodsSix defects were prepared bilaterally in the mandibular body of three mini pigs. The defects were randomly grafted with either deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) or biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP). After a healing period of four weeks, bone blocks were embedded in LR White resin. Three consecutive sections per defect were analyzed as follows: two with light microscopy using toluidine blue and tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining and one with transmission electron microscopy.ResultsMultinucleated giant cells appeared on both biomaterials. On BCP, MNGCs had a flat morphology and were not observed in resorption lacunae. On DBBM, the MNGCs appeared more round and were often found in shallow concavities. MNGCs on both biomaterials demonstrated a varying degree of TRAP staining, with a tendency toward higher staining intensity of MNGCs on BCP. At the ultrastructural level, signs of superficial dissolution of BCP together with phagocytosis of minor fragments were observed. MNGCs on the surface of DBBM demonstrated sealing zones and ruffled borders, both features of mature osteoclasts.ConclusionMNGCs demonstrated distinctly different histological features depending on the bone substitute material used. Further research is warranted to understand the clinical implications of these morphological observations.
Microbiological assessment of the implant‐abutment interface in different connections: cross‐sectional study after 5 years of functional loading
Authors: Canullo Luigi , Penarrocha‐Oltra David , Soldini Claudio , Mazzocco Fabio , Penarrocha Maria , Covani Ugo 
Published: March 2014

AbstractObjectiveTo evaluate the bacterial microflora present inside the implant connection and in the peri‐implant sulcus fluid of healthy implants, and to analyze the relationships between these harboring sites for four different implant systems after at least 5 years of functional loading.Materials and methodsA cross‐sectional study was performed involving 40 patients treated with metal‐ceramic cemented bridges supported by at least two healthy implants functionally loaded for 5 years. Four different implant‐abutment connections were studied: external hexagon (control group), double internal hexagon (test group 1), internal hexagon with external collar (test group 2), and conical connection (test group 3). Samples for microbiological analysis were obtained from three types of sites: peri‐implant sulci, connections' inside and abutments surface and, as control, gingival sulci of neighboring teeth. Quantitative real‐timePCRwas carried out for Total Bacterial Count and for 10 microorganisms:Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythensis, Treponema denticola, Prevotella intermedia, Peptostreptococcus micros, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Campylobacter rectus, Eikenella corrodens,andCandida albicans. The response variables were percentage of positive sites and absolute bacterial load. The relations of the response variables with the type of connection and of sampling site were assessed using generalized estimating equations.ResultsRegarding the analysis of positivity to bacteria in the peri‐implant sulcus no significant differences were observed. Analyzing the connection's inside, none of the connection designs had the capacity to prevent microbiological leakage through the implant/abutment microgap. Test group 3 presented the lowest mean values for red complex bacteria and control group the highest, although differences were non‐significant. Statistical significance was only reached forTreponema denticolain the bacterial load analysis inside the connection. Test groups 1 and 2 yielded lower values for orange complex bacteria but only forPeptostreptococos microsthe differences resulted significant. Test groups 2 and 3 had significantly lower total bacterial counts in the peri‐implant sulcus and inside the connection.ConclusionsOutcomes suggested that all the analyzed connections resulted contaminated after 5 years of functional loading. However, the connection design might influence bacterial activity levels qualitatively and quantitatively, especially inside the implant connection.
Duodenal villous morphology assessed using magnification narrow band imaging correlates well with histology in patients with suspected malabsorption syndrome
Authors: Dutta Amit Kumar , Sajith Kattiparambil Gangadharan , Shah Gautam , Pulimood Anna Benjamin , Simon Ebby George , Joseph Anjilivelil Joseph , Chacko Ashok 
Published: March 2014

Background and AimNarrow band imaging with magnification enables detailed assessment of duodenal villi and may be useful in predicting the presence of villous atrophy or normal villi. We aimed to assess the morphology of duodenal villi using magnification narrow band imaging and correlate it with histology findings in patients with clinically suspected malabsorption syndrome.MethodsPatients with clinical suspicion of malabsorption presenting at a tertiary care center were prospectively recruited in this diagnostic intervention study. Patients underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy using magnification narrow band imaging. The villous morphology in the second part of the duodenum was assessed independently by two endoscopists and the presence of normal or atrophic villi was recorded. Biopsy specimen was obtained from the same area and was examined by two pathologists together. The sensitivity and specificity of magnification narrow band imaging in detecting the presence of duodenal villous atrophy was calculated and compared to the histology.ResultsOne hundred patients with clinically suspected malabsorption were included in this study. Sixteen patients had histologically confirmed villous atrophy. The sensitivity and specificity of narrow band imaging in predicting villous atrophy was 87.5% and 95.2%, respectively, for one endoscopist. The corresponding figures for the second endoscopist were 81.3% and 92.9%, respectively. The interobserver agreement was very good with a kappa value of 0.87.ConclusionMagnification narrow band imaging performed very well in predicting duodenal villous morphology. This may help in carrying out targeted biopsies and avoiding unnecessary biopsies in patients with suspected malabsorption.
Psychological and pharmacological interventions for depression in patients with diabetes mellitus: an abridged Cochrane review
Authors: Baumeister H. , Hutter N. , Bengel J. 
Published: March 2014

AbstractAimsTo summarize and critically evaluate the effectiveness of psychological and pharmacological interventions for depression in patients with both diabetes and depression.MethodsRandomized controlled trials investigating psychological and pharmacological interventions for depression in adults with diabetes and depression were included. A comprehensive search of primary studies according to Cochrane were conducted. Primary outcomes were depression and glycaemic control. Further, treatment adherence, diabetes complications, mortality, healthcare costs and quality of life were investigated. Two reviewers identified primary studies and extracted data independently. Random‐effects model meta‐analyses were conducted to compute overall estimates of treatment outcomes.ResultsThe database search resulted in 3963 references, of which 19 trials were included. Randomized controlled trials of psychological interventions showed positive effects on short‐ and medium‐term depression severity [standardized mean difference short‐term range –1.47; –0.14, n = 7; medium‐term standardized mean difference –0.42 (95% CI –0.70 to –0.14), n = 3] and depression remission [odds ratio short term 2.88 (95% CI 1.58–5.25), n = 4; odds ratio medium term 2.49 (95% CI 1.44–4.32), n = 2]. Effects on glycaemic control in psychological intervention trials varied substantially (standardized mean difference range –0.97 to 0.47, n = 4). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors showed a moderate beneficial effect on short‐term depression severity [standardized mean difference –0.39 (95% CI –0.64 to –0.13], n = 5) and depression remission [odds ratio 2.52 (95% CI 1.11–5.75), n = 2]. Glycaemic control improved in randomized controlled trials comparing selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors with placebo at the end of treatment [standardized mean difference –0.38 (95% CI –0.64 to –0.12), n = 5].ConclusionsPsychological and pharmacological interventions positively affect depression outcomes in patients with diabetes at the end of treatment. Furthermore, short‐term glycaemic control improved moderately in pharmacological trials. Most outcomes have not been investigated sufficiently. Moreover, there is a lack of follow‐up data for pharmacological trials limiting the evidence on the sustainability of treatment effects.