bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Influence of Length of Occlusal Support on Masticatory Function of Free‐End Removable Partial Dentures: Short‐Term Adaptation
Authors: Sánchez‐Ayala Alfonso , Gonçalves Thaís Marques Simek Vega , Ambrosano Gláucia Maria Bovi , Garcia Renata Cunha Matheus Rodrigues 
Published: February 2013

AbstractPurposeTo analyze masticatory function after a short adaptation period relative to occlusal support length reduction in free‐end removable partial denture (RPD) wearers.Materials and MethodsTwenty‐three patients (55.2 ± 8.4 years) were rehabilitated with maxillary complete and mandibular free‐end RPDs extending to the second molars. Five occlusal support length conditions were determined by removing artificial teeth from the RPDs: full occlusal support (control); occlusal support to the first molars, second premolars, and first premolars; and no occlusal support. To explore a probable short‐term adaptation to occlusal support length reduction, participants wore their dentures at each condition for a period of 1 week before starting masticatory function assessment. For this purpose, masticatory performance, masticatory efficiency, chewing rate, selection chance, and breakage function were evaluated at each condition using the sieving method. Data were analyzed using repeated‐measures ANOVA and post hoc Dunnett tests (α = 0.05).ResultsMasticatory performance and masticatory efficiency for 2 to 4 mm particles under the condition of occlusal support to the first molars and second premolars were similar to control values (p > 0.05). Masticatory efficiency relative to particles smaller than 2 mm was also seen at the condition of support length to the first premolars (p > 0.05). Chewing rates showed adaptation only at the condition of support length to the first molars (p > 0.05). A similar trend was noted for the selection chance of 8‐mm particles, and breakage function for 8‐ and 2.4‐mm particles (p > 0.05).ConclusionAfter a 1‐week adaptation period to free‐end RPDs with occlusal support lengths reduced to the premolars, participants were able to achieve adequate masticatory function.
Interim Prosthodontic Management of Surgery‐Induced Dental Agenesis: A Clinical Report of 8 Years of Treatment
Authors: Kotsiomiti Eleni , Kolokitha Olga Elpis , Lazaridis Nikolaos 
Published: February 2013

AbstractThe prosthodontic management of a 7‐year‐old girl with induced dental agenesis is described. The mandibular posterior tooth germs had been removed during surgical excision of a melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy, at the age of 2 months. The ongoing prosthodontic treatment, now in its eighth year, was implemented by regular follow‐up of the operation outcome and by targeted orthodontic intervention. The treatment plan included the provision of four successive interim removable partial dentures. Care was taken to preserve the oral structures, adapt to the morphological changes, and satisfy the needs of the child. Due to the unfavorable biomechanical conditions, retention and stability problems were encountered. These were resolved by engaging the mechanism of neuromuscular adaptation through optimization of the shape of the denture base. For children and adolescents with extensive dental agenesis, prosthodontic management with interim removable dentures supports function, restores esthetics, and provides a solid basis for the definitive treatment.
An Approach to Measuring Adolescents' Perception of Complexity for Pictures of Fruit and Vegetable Mixes
Authors: Mielby Line Holler , Jensen Sidsel , Edelenbos Merete , Thybo Anette Kistrup 
Published: February 2013

AbstractComplexity is an important parameter in the food industry because of its relationship with hedonic appreciation. However, difficulties are encountered when measuring complexity. The hypothesis of this study was that sensory descriptive analysis is an effective tool for deriving terms to measure adolescents' perception of complexity of pictures of fruit and vegetable mixes. A sensory panel evaluated 10 descriptive attributes, including simplicity and complexity, for 24 pictures of fruit and vegetable mixes. The descriptive analysis found strong inverse correlation between complexity and simplicity. An adolescent consumer group (n = 242) and an adult consumer group (n = 86) subsequently rated the pictures on simplicity and attractiveness. Pearson's correlation coefficients revealed strong correlations between the sensory panel and both consumer groups' usage of simplicity. This suggests that simplicity can be used to measure perceived complexity. In relation to attractiveness, different optimal levels of simplicity of pictures of fruit mixes were found for segments of the adolescent consumer group.Practical ApplicationsThese results potentially extend the applications of the sensory descriptive analysis procedure as it was found to be an effective tool to derive a term to measure adolescents' perception of complexity for pictures of food. This method can also be potentially extended to other types of stimuli. This method is thought to be extended to other situations where terms are needed to measure other consumer groups' perception of challenging parameters. For food practitioners, this gives new opportunities to measure important but challenging parameters.
The Physical Consequences of Gynecologic Cancer Surgery and Their Impact on Sexual, Emotional, and Quality of Life Issues
Authors: Carter Jeanne , Stabile Cara , Gunn Abigail , Sonoda Yukio 
Published: February 2013

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Surgical management of gynecologic cancer can cause short- and long-term effects on sexuality, reproductive function, and overall quality of life (QOL) (e.g., sexual dysfunction, infertility, lymphedema). However, innovative approaches developed over the past several decades have improved oncologic outcomes and reduced treatment sequelae.

Aim
To provide an overview of the standards of care and major advancements in gynecologic cancer surgery, with a focus on their direct physical impact, as well as emotional, sexual, and QOL issues. This overview will aid researchers and clinicians in the conceptualization of future clinical care strategies and interventions to improve sexual/vaginal/reproductive health and QOL in gynecologic cancer patients.

Main Outcome Measures
Comprehensive overview of the literature on gynecologic oncology surgery.

Methods
Conceptual framework for this overview follows the current standards of care and recent surgical approaches to treat gynecologic cancer, with a brief overview describing primary management objectives and the physical, sexual, and emotional impact on patients. Extensive literature support is provided.

Results
The type and radicality of surgical treatment for gynecologic cancer can influence sexual function and play a significant role in QOL. Psychological, sexual, and QOL outcomes improve as surgical procedures continue to evolve. Procedures for fertility preservation, laparoscopy, sentinel lymph node mapping, and robotic and risk-reducing surgery have advanced the field while reducing treatment sequelae. Nevertheless, interventions that address sexual and vaginal health issues are limited.

Conclusions
It is imperative to consider QOL and sexuality during the treatment decision-making process. New advances in detection and treatment exist; however, psycho-educational interventions and greater patient–physician communication to address sexual and vaginal health concerns are warranted. Large, prospective clinical trials including patient-reported outcomes are needed in gynecologic oncology populations to identify subgroups at risk. Future study designs need clearly defined samples to gain insight about sexual morbidity and foster the development of targeted interventions.
Addressing Female Sexual Function after Cancer by Internists and Primary Care Providers
Authors: Bober Sharon L. , Carter Jeanne , Falk Sandy 
Published: February 2013

ABSTRACT

Introduction
There are now almost 14 million cancer survivors in the United States, and for the majority of survivors, the bulk of post-cancer medical care is provided by community primary care providers (PCPs). Sexual dysfunction is one of the most common and distressing quality of life issues facing female cancer survivors yet it has become increasingly evident that women’s cancer-related sexual dysfunction often goes unaddressed, including in primary care treatment setting.

Aim
Building on a model that calls for an integrative approach to treatment, the aim is to concisely review barriers and challenges of managing cancer-related female sexual dysfunction for PCPs and to offer specific and effective strategies that PCPs may use to treat common sexual problems in their female cancer survivors.

Methods
Literature was reviewed for relevant publications on the topic of treating cancer-related sexual dysfunction and primary care, and interviews were conducted with experts on state-of-the-art methods for treating cancer-related sexual dysfunction.

Main Outcome Measure
Clinical evidence that demonstrates the effectiveness of simple strategies to manage cancer-related female sexual dysfunction.

Results
Cancer-related female sexual dysfunction does not seem to be appropriately acknowledged and addressed in primary care treatment settings. There is evidence to show that simple and effective strategies exist to ameliorate many of these problems.

Conclusions
PCPs provide the bulk of survivorship care and are therefore in a critical position to initiate assessment and treatment for female survivors with cancer-related sexual dysfunction. Although PCPs are in need of increased support and preparation to manage this aspect of survivorship care, simple and effective strategies are available for PCPs to offer women as part of their clinical practice.
Preparing for Survivorship: Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Gao Jennifer , Dizon Don S. 
Published: February 2013

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Breast cancer affects over 200,000 women each year; however, with earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment, patients are living longer, even in the presence of metastatic disease. Current estimates place patients with breast cancer as the largest population of cancer survivors in the United States. Given the successes in treatment, quality of life (QOL) of breast cancer survivors has become a more important consideration.

Aim
The aim of this study is to examine QOL throughout the cancer journey.

Methods
The cancer journey will be conceptualized across disease states.

Main Outcome Measures
Understanding of the longitudinal journey associated with dynamic changes in physical, mental, and psychosocial spheres that occur with cancer, cancer treatment, and the sequelae of both. Conceptualization of changes is shown through the QOL as the survivor moves through the phases of cancer.

Results
QOL is not a static concept, and breast cancer survivors undergo dynamic changes in QOL starting at diagnosis, as they progress through treatment and enter posttreatment. Some domains that make up QOL (i.e., sexual functioning and role functioning) can show persistent detriments related to cancer and its treatment.

Conclusions
In this article, we will provide a snapshot of some research performed to better understand the QOL of breast cancer survivors using a disease states model of breast cancer.
DNA methylation patterns of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma gene associated with liver fibrosis and inflammation in chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Zhao Q. , Fan Y. ‐C. , Zhao J. , Gao S. , Zhao Z. ‐H. , Wang K. 
Published: February 2013

SummaryPeroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPAR gamma) is a nuclear receptor that regulates gene expression of inflammatory mediators in liver injury. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) suppresses the PPAR gamma‐mediated transactivation in liver cancerous cell lines. However, the role of PPAR gamma in patients with chronic HBV infection has not fully demonstrated. Our present study was firstly to determine the clinical relevance of peripheral PPAR gamma mRNA levels in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients, and then, the DNA methylation of PPAR gamma promoter was investigated. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from 91 CHB patients and 18 healthy controls. The mRNA level of PPAR gamma was determined by quantitative real‐time PCR; meanwhile, the CpG island methylation was assessed by methylation‐specific PCR. CHB patients showed significantly lower mRNA level of PPAR gamma than healthy controls (P = 0.005). The mRNA level was decreased in HBV‐DNA‐positive group than HBV‐DNA‐negative group (P = 0.041). Interaction analysis demonstrated that the DNA methylation pattern was responsible for the suppression of peripheral PPAR gamma transcription in CHB patients (P = 0.003). Furthermore, the hypermethylation of PPAR gamma gene promoter was significantly associated with liver inflammation and fibrosis in CHB. In conclusion, DNA methylation patterns were responsible for the decreased mRNA level of peripheral PPAR gamma in CHB patients. Liver inflammation and fibrosis were found to be associated with hypermethylation of PPAR gamma promoter.
The presence of resistance mutations to protease and polymerase inhibitors in Hepatitis C virus sequences from the Los Alamos databank
Authors: Alves R. , Queiroz A. T. L. , Pessoa M. G. , da Silva E. F. , Mazo D. F. C. , Carrilho F. J. , Carvalho‐Filho R. J. , de Carvalho I. M. V. G. 
Published: February 2013

SummarySeveral new direct‐acting antiviral (DAA) drugs are in development for chronic hepatitis C viral (HCV) infection, and NS3‐NS4A serine protease and the NS5B RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase have been the major targets. HCV variants displaying drug‐resistant phenotypes have been observed both in vitro and during clinical trials. Our aim was to characterize amino acid changes at positions previously associated with resistance in protease (NS3) and polymerase (NS5B) regions from treatment‐naïve HCV patients infected with genotypes 1a, 1b and 3a. All 1383 NS3 protease sequences (genotype 1a = 680, 1b = 498 and 3a = 205) and 806 NS5B polymerase sequences (genotypes 1a = 471, 1b = 329, 3a = 6) were collected from Los Alamos databank. Genotype 3a protease sequences showed the typical low‐level resistance mutation V36L. NS3 sequences from other genotypes presented mutations on positions 36, 39, 41, 43, 54, 80, 109, 155 and 168 in a frequency lower than 2%, except for the mutation Q80R found in 35% of genotype 1a isolates. Polymerase sequences from genotype 3a patients showed five typical mutations: L419I, I424V, I482L, V499A and S556G. Two positions presented high polymorphism in the NS5B region from genotype 1a (V499A) and genotype 1b (C316N) subjects. Our results demonstrated a natural profile of genotype 3a that can be associated with the pre‐existence of HCV variants resistant to first‐generation protease inhibitors and to non‐nucleoside polymerase inhibitors. Likewise, genotype 1b isolates and genotype 1a sequences exhibited pre‐existing mutations associated with resistance to Palm II and Thumb I polymerase inhibitors, respectively.
Asymmetric growth and division in Mycobacterium spp.: compensatory mechanisms for non‐medial septa
Authors: Singh Bhupender , Nitharwal Ram Gopal , Ramesh Malavika , Pettersson B. M. Fredrik , Kirsebom Leif A. , Dasgupta Santanu 
Published: February 2013

SummaryMycobacterium spp., rod‐shaped cells belonging to the phylum Actinomycetes, lack the Min‐ and Noc/Slm systems responsible for preventing the placement of division sites at the poles or over the nucleoids to ensure septal assembly at mid‐cell. We show that the position for establishment of the FtsZ‐ring in exponentially growing Mycobacterium marinum and Mycobacterium smegmatis cells is nearly random, and that the cells often divide non‐medially, producing two unequal but viable daughters. Septal sites and cellular growth disclosed by staining with the membrane‐specific dye FM4‐64 and fluorescent antibiotic vancomycin (FL‐Vanco), respectively, showed that many division sites were off‐centre, often over the nucleoids, and that apical cell growth was frequently unequal at the two poles. DNA transfer through the division septum was detected, and translocation activity was supported by the presence of a putative mycobacterial DNA translocase (MSMEG2690) at the majority of the division sites. Time‐lapse imaging of single live cells through several generations confirmed both acentric division site placement and unequal polar growth in mycobacteria. Our evidence suggests that post‐septal DNA transport and unequal polar growth may compensate for the non‐medial division site placement in Mycobacterium spp.
The actin‐regulating kinase homologue MoArk1 plays a pleiotropic function in Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Wang Jiamei , Du Yan , Zhang Haifeng , Zhou Chen , Qi Zhongqiang , Zheng Xiaobo , Wang Ping , Zhang Zhengguang 
Published: February 2013

SummaryEndocytosis is an essential cellular process in eukaryotic cells that involves concordant functions of clathrin and adaptor proteins, various protein and lipid kinases, phosphatases and the actin cytoskeleton. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Ark1p is a member of the serine/threonine protein kinase (SPK) family that affects profoundly the organization of the cortical actin cytoskeleton. To study the function of MoArk1, an Ark1p homologue identified in Magnaporthe oryzae, we disrupted the MoARK1 gene and characterized the ΔMoark1 mutant strain. The ΔMoark1 mutant exhibited various defects ranging from mycelial growth and conidial formation to appressorium‐mediated host infection. The ΔMoark1 mutant also exhibited decreased appressorium turgor pressure and attenuated virulence on rice and barley. In addition, the ΔMoark1 mutant displayed defects in endocytosis and formation of the Spitzenkörper, and was hyposensitive to exogenous oxidative stress. Moreover, a MoArk1‐green fluorescent protein (MoArk1‐GFP) fusion protein showed an actin‐like localization pattern by localizing to the apical regions of hyphae. This pattern of localization appeared to be regulated by the N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins MoSec22 and MoVam7. Finally, detailed analysis revealed that the proline‐rich region within the MoArk1 serine/threonine kinase (S_TKc) domain was critical for endocytosis, subcellular localization and pathogenicity. These results collectively suggest that MoArk1 exhibits conserved functions in endocytosis and actin cytoskeleton organization, which may underlie growth, cell wall integrity and virulence of the fungus.
Clinical utility of colonic manometry in slow transit constipation
Authors: Singh S. , Heady S. , Coss‐Adame E. , Rao S. S. C. 
Published: February 2013

AbstractBackgroundThe clinical significance of colorectal sensorimotor evaluation in patients with slow transit constipation (STC) is unclear. We investigated whether colonic manometric evaluation is useful for characterizing colonic sensorimotor dysfunction and for guiding therapy in STC.Methods24‐h ambulatory colonic manometry was performed in 80 patients (70 females) with STC by placing a six sensor solid‐state probe, along with assessment of colonic sensation with barostat. Anorectal manometry was also performed. Manometrically, patients were categorized as having colonic neuropathy or myopathy based on gastrocolonic response, waking response and high amplitude propagated contractions (HAPC); and based on colonic sensation, as colonic hyposensitivity or hypersensitivity. Clinical response to pharmacological, biofeedback, and surgical treatment was assessed at 1 year and correlated with manometric findings.Key ResultsForty seven (59%) patients who had abnormal colonic manometry, with features suggestive of neuropathy (26%), and myopathy (33%); 41% had normal colonic manometry. Patients who had abnormal colonic sensation were 74% and 61% had overlapping dyssynergic defecation. Patients with neuropathy were more likely to have colonic hyposensitivity. Sixty‐four percent of patients with colonic myopathy or normal manometry improved with medical/biofeedback therapy when compared to 15% with colonic neuropathy (P < 0.01). Selected patients with colonic neuropathy had excellent response to surgery, but many developed bacterial overgrowth.Conclusions & InferencesColonic manometry demonstrates significant colonic sensorimotor dysfunction in STC patients and reveals considerable pathophysiological heterogeneity. It can be useful for characterizing the underlying pathophysiology and for guiding clinical management in STC, especially surgery.
Rupatadine oral solution in children with persistent allergic rhinitis: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Potter Paul , Maspero Jorge F. , Vermeulen Jan , Barkai László , Németh Ildikó , Baillieau Rene A. , Garde Jesús M. , Giralt Josep , Doménech Alejandro , Izquierdo Iñaki , Nieto Antonio 
Published: February 2013

AbstractBackgroundAllergic rhinitis (AR) is one of the most common chronic diseases in childhood. No large, multicentre clinical trials in children with persistent allergic rhinitis (PER) have previously been performed. Rupatadine, a newer second‐generation antihistamine, effective and safe in adults, is a promising treatment for children with AR. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new rupatadine oral solution in children aged 6–11 yr with PER.MethodsA multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study was carried out worldwide. Patients between 6 and 11 yr with a diagnosis of PER according to ARIA criteria were randomized to receive either rupatadine oral solution (1 mg/ml) or placebo over 6 wk. The primary efficacy end‐point was the change from baseline of the total nasal symptoms score (T4SS) after 4 wk of treatment.ResultsA total of 360 patients were randomized to rupatadine (n = 180) or placebo (n = 180) treatment. Rupatadine showed statistically significant differences vs. placebo for the T4SS reduction both at 4 (−2.5 ± 1.9 vs. −3.1 ± 2.1; p = 0.018) and 6 wk (−2.7 ± 1.9 vs. −3.3 ± 2.1; p = 0.048). Rupatadine also showed a statistically better improvement in the children's quality of life compared with placebo. Adverse reactions were rare and non‐serious in both treatment groups. No QTc or laboratory test abnormalities were reported.ConclusionsRupatadine oral solution (1 mg/ml) was significantly more effective than placebo in reducing nasal symptoms at 4 and 6 wk and was well tolerated overall. This is the first large clinical report on the efficacy of an H1 receptor antagonist in children with PER in both symptoms and quality of life.