bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post‐traumatic stress disorder symptoms in first‐time myocardial infarction patients: roles of attachment and alexithymia
Authors: Gao Wen , Zhao Jing , Li Yang , Cao Feng‐Lin
Published: July 2015

Abstracts

Aims

To explore the roles of attachment and alexithymia in the severity of post‐traumatic stress disorder symptoms and to specify the relationship between sub‐dimensions of attachment, alexithymia and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in patients with first‐time myocardial infarction in mainland China.

Background

Patients experiencing myocardial infarction have a risk of developing post‐traumatic stress disorder symptoms. However, there have been few studies on the roles of attachment and alexithymia.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey design.

Methods

Ninety‐seven patients participated in the assessment of post‐traumatic stress disorder symptoms, attachment and alexithymia from June–December in 2012. To assess post‐traumatic stress disorder symptoms and their correlates, we administered the Post‐traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist‐Civilian Version, the 20‐item Toronto Alexithymia Scale and the Experiences in Close Relationships Scale 5‐17 days after the remission of first myocardial infarction attack.

Results

Twenty‐five (25·77%) patients met the criteria of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. Greater attachment anxiety and avoidance were associated with more severe posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. Except for externally oriented thinking, all dimensions of alexithymia were significantly correlated with post‐traumatic stress symptoms. In the regression model, attachment anxiety and difficulties identifying feelings were found to be predictive and the total regression equation explained 24·2% variance of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms among myocardial infarction patients.

Conclusion

First‐time myocardial infarction patients were at risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. Attachment anxiety and difficulties identifying feelings were positively associated with posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in the early stage of myocardial infarction rehabilitation. It is essential to evaluate the causal relationship between attachment, alexithymia and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in longitudinal studies.
Is the denser contour feather structure in pale grey than in pheomelanic brown tawny owlsStrix alucoan adaptation to cold environments?
Authors: Koskenpato Katja , Ahola Kari , Karstinen Teuvo , Karell Patrik
Published: July 2015

In colour polymorphic species morphs are considered to be adaptations to different environments, where they have evolved and are maintained because of their differential sensitivity to the environment. In cold environments the plumage insulation capacity is essential for survival and it has been proposed that plumage colour is associated with feather structure and thereby the insulation capacity of the plumage. We studied the structure of contour feathers in the colour polymorphic tawny owlStrix aluco. A previous study of tawny owls in the same population has found strong selection against the brown morph in cold and snowy winters whereas this selection pressure is absent in mild winters. We predicted that grey morphs have a denser and more insulative plumage, enabling them to survive better in cold climate compared to brown ones. The insulative plumulaceous part of the dorsal contour feathers was larger and the fine structure of the plumulaceous part of the feather was denser in grey tawny owls than in brown ones. In the ventral contour feathers the plumulaceous part of the feather was denser in females than in males and in older birds without any differences between morphs. Our study suggests that insulative microscopical feather structures differ between colour morphs and we propose that feather structure may be a trait associated with morph‐specific survival in cold environments.
Functionally relevant climate variables for arid lands: a climatic water deficit approach for modelling desert shrub distributions
Authors: Dilts Thomas E. , Weisberg Peter J. , Dencker Camie M. , Chambers Jeanne C.
Published: July 2015

Aim

We have three goals. (1) To develop a suite of functionally relevant climate variables for modelling vegetation distribution on arid and semi‐arid landscapes of the Great Basin, USA. (2) To compare the predictive power of vegetation distribution models based on mechanistically proximate factors (water deficit variables) and factors that are more mechanistically removed from a plant's use of water (precipitation). (3) To quantify the climate gradients that control shrub distributions in a cold desert environment.

Location

The central basin and range ecoregion of the western USA (36–42°N).

Methods

We used a modified Thornthwaite method to derive monthly water balance variables and to depict them using a water balance climograph. Eighteen variables were calculated from the climograph, representing different components of the seasonal water balance. These were used in boosted regression tree models to derive distribution models for 18 desert shrub species. The water balance approach was compared with an approach that used bioclimatic variables derived from the PRISM (Parameter‐elevation Relationships on Independent Slopes Model) climate data.

Results

The water balance and bioclimatic approaches yielded models with similar performance in predicting the geographical distribution of most shrub species. Cumulative annual climatic water deficit was consistently the most important water balance variable for predicting shrub type distributions, although predictions were improved by the inclusion of variables that describe the seasonal distribution of water balance such as water supply in the spring, fall actual evapotranspiration, monsoonality and summer decline in actual evapotranspiration.

Main conclusions

The water balance and bioclimatic approaches to species distribution modelling both yielded similar prediction accuracies. However, the water balance approach offers advantages over the bioclimatic approach because it is mechanistically derived to approximate physical processes important for plant growth.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy and Implantable Defibrillators in Sweden: Inappropriate Shocks and Complications Requiring Surgery
Authors: MAGNUSSON PETER , GADLER FREDRIK , LIV PER , MÖRNER STELLAN
Published: July 2015

Inappropriate ICD Shocks and Complications in HCM

Introduction

The expanded use of implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICDs) to prevent sudden cardiac death (SCD) in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) based on risk stratification in individuals without known previous ventricular arrhythmia is justified by an acceptable risk of device‐related adverse events. Such complications, leading to surgical procedures or inappropriate electrical shocks, may impact mortality, morbidity, quality of life, and cost‐effectiveness.

Methods and Results

From the Swedish ICD Registry, implants due to HCM since 1995 until November 2012 in patients aged ≥18 years were identified and medical records reviewed. Inappropriate ICD shock occurred in 14.3% (46 of 321 patients; mean follow‐up 5.4 years) with a recurrent episode in 28.2% of them. In multivariable analysis, hazard ratio (HR) for atrial fibrillation was 3.5 (95% confidence interval 1.8–6.8; P < 0.001) but showed no significant association to male sex (HR = 0.77), age (HR = 0.99), secondary indication (HR = 1.02) or device, ICD‐DR/CRTD vs. ICD‐VR (HR 1.07). Inappropriate shocks were triggered by atrial fibrillation/flutter or ectopic tachycardia (56.5%), sinus tachycardia (14.5%), lead dysfunction (14.5%), and T‐wave oversensing (13.0%). A reintervention, besides elective device replacement, occurred in 92 patients (totally 150 procedures). The majority were lead‐related (70.0%) procedures, especially of the ICD lead. Reintervention was associated with female sex (HR = 1.6 P = 0.04).

Conclusion

Inappropriate ICD shock triggered by atrial arrhythmias, lead dysfunction, or complications requiring surgical interventions, is a concern in HCM patients who will be eligible for long‐term prevention of sudden death. Efforts to avoid adverse events and provide balanced risk‐benefit information are important, especially in primary prevention.
Catheter Ablation of Ventricular Tachycardia as the First‐Line Therapy in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease and Preserved Left Ventricular Systolic Function: Long‐Term Results
Authors: CLEMENS MARCELL , PEICHL PETR , WICHTERLE DAN , PAVLŮ LUDĚK , ČIHÁK ROBERT , ALDHOON BASHAR , KAUTZNER JOSEF
Published: July 2015

VT Ablation in Patients With Preserved LV Function

Introduction

Patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), relatively preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and hemodynamically tolerated ventricular tachycardia (VT) may benefit from catheter ablation as the first‐line treatment. Our aim was to analyze the long‐term results of VT ablation in this population.

Methods and Results

Thirty‐one patients (1 woman, mean age 67 ± 10 years) with CAD, tolerated VT, and LVEF ≥40% underwent catheter ablation as the first‐line treatment of the arrhythmia. Catheter ablation was performed in order to abolish all inducible VTs. An ICD was implanted if sustained VT of any morphology remained inducible after the procedure. The mean LVEF was 48 ± 6% and the mean VT cycle length reached 348 ± 70 milliseconds in the study cohort. Clinical and all inducible VTs were abolished in 90% (28/31) and 58% (18/31) of the patients, respectively. An ICD was subsequently implanted in 42% of cases. Over a mean follow‐up of 3.8 ± 2.9 years, 42% (13/31) patients died. Survival of the patients with or without the ICD was not significantly different (P = 0.47). VT recurrence was observed in 11% (2/18) of patients who had complete elimination of all inducible VTs. No sudden death occurred in patients without the ICD.

Conclusions

Catheter ablation of VT as the first‐line treatment in patients with CAD and relatively preserved LVEF is a viable strategy. It may prevent implantation of the ICD in a considerable proportion of patients. Abolition of all inducible VTs confers low VT recurrence rate over a long‐term follow‐up.
Independent Determinants of Maternal and Fetal Outcomes in a Sample of Pregnant Outpatients With Normal Blood Pressure, Chronic Hypertension, Gestational Hypertension, and Preeclampsia
Authors: Cicero Arrigo F.G. , Degli Esposti Daniela , Immordino Vincenzo , Morbini Martino , Baronio Cristina , Rosticci Martina , Borghi Claudio
Published: July 2015

The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the main independent prognostic factors of negative maternal and fetal outcomes in a relatively large sample of pregnant outpatients (N=906) who were normotensive or affected by chronic hypertension, gestational hypertension, or preeclampsia. Among the studied parameters, the ones significantly associated with negative maternal outcomes were a diagnosis of preeclampsia (vs other forms of hypertension or normotension) and higher serum uric acid level, while antihypertensive treatment, number of previous deliveries, and blood pressure (BP) control at deliveries seemed to be protective. Regarding negative fetal outcomes, the parameters significantly associated with a negative maternal outcome were a diagnosis of preeclampsia (vs other forms of hypertension or normotension) and mother pre‐pregnancy body mass index, while antihypertensive treatment and BP control at delivery seemed to be protective. Specific patient characteristics should help to predict the risk of negative maternal and fetal outcomes.
Differing Effects of Aliskiren/Amlodipine Combination and High‐Dose Amlodipine Monotherapy on Ambulatory Blood Pressure and Target Organ Protection
Authors: Mizuno Hiroyuki , Hoshide Satoshi , Fukutomi Motoki , Kario Kazuomi
Published: July 2015

The aim of this study was to compare an aliskiren/amlodipine combination with high‐dose amlodipine monotherapy on ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) and organ protection. The study was a prospective, randomized, multicenter, open‐label trial in elderly essential hypertensive patients. A total of 105 patients with clinic BP (CBP) ≥140/90 mm Hg with amlodipine 5 mg were randomly allocated to aliskiren (150–300 mg)/amlodipine (5 mg) (ALI/AML group, n=53) or high‐dose amlodipine (10 mg) (h‐dAML group, n=52) and treated for 16 weeks. Each patient's CBP, ABPM, urine albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio (UACR), and brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) were measured at baseline and at the end of the study. The ALI/AML and h‐dAML groups showed similarly reduced mean 24‐hour SBP, daytime SBP, nighttime SBP, and baPWV. However, UACR reduction was significantly greater in the ALI/AML group (P=.02). ALI/AML was significantly less effective in reducing early‐morning BP (P=.002) and morning BP surge (P=.001) compared with h‐dAML.
JAK2 inhibition has different therapeutic effects according to myeloproliferative neoplasm development in mice
Authors: Debeurme Franck , Lacout Catherine , Moratal Claudine , Bagley Rebecca G. , Vainchenker William , Adrian Francisco , Villeval Jean‐Luc
Published: July 2015

JAK2 inhibition therapy is used to treat patients suffering from myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN). Conflicting data on this therapy are reported possibly linked to the types of inhibitors or disease type. Therefore, we decided to compare in mice the effect of a JAK2 inhibitor, Fedratinib, in MPN models of increasing severity: polycythemia vera (PV), post‐PV myelofibrosis (PPMF) and rapid post‐essential thrombocythemia MF (PTMF). The models were generated through JAK2 activation by the JAK2V617F mutation or MPL constant stimulation. JAK2 inhibition induced a correction of splenomegaly, leucocytosis and microcytosis in all three MPN models. However, the effects on fibrosis, osteosclerosis, granulocytosis, erythropoiesis or platelet counts varied according to the disease severity stage. Strikingly, complete blockade of fibrosis and osteosclerosis was observed in the PPMF model, linked to correction of MK hyper/dysplasia, but not in the PTMF model, suggesting that MF development may also become JAK2‐independent. Interestingly, we originally found a decreased in the JAK2V617F allele burden in progenitor cells from the spleen but not in other cell types. Overall, this study shows that JAK2 inhibition has different effects according to disease phenotypes and can (i) normalize platelet counts, (ii) prevent the development of marrow fibrosis/osteosclerosis at an early stage and (iii) reduce splenomegaly through blockage of stem cell mobilization in the spleen.
The secretome of myocardial telocytes modulates the activity of cardiac stem cells
Authors: Albulescu Radu , Tanase Cristiana , Codrici Elena , Popescu Daniela I. , Cretoiu Sanda M. , Popescu Laurentiu M.
Published: July 2015

Telocytes (TCs) are interstitial cells that are present in numerous organs, including the heart interstitial space and cardiac stem cell niche. TCs are completely different from fibroblasts.TCs release extracellular vesicles that may interact with cardiac stem cells (CSCs)viaparacrine effects. Data on the secretory profile ofTCs and the bidirectional shuttle vesicular signalling mechanism betweenTCs andCSCs are scarce. We aimed to characterize and understand thein vitroeffect of theTCsecretome onCSCfate. Therefore, we studied the protein secretory profile using supernatants from mouse cultured cardiacTCs. We also performed a comparative secretome analysis using supernatants from rat cultured cardiacTCs, a pureCSCline andTCs‐CSCs in co‐culture using (i) high‐sensitivity on‐chip electrophoresis, (ii) surface‐enhanced laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry and (iii) multiplex analysis by Luminex‐xMAP. We identified several highly expressed molecules in the mouse cardiacTCsecretory profile: interleukin (IL)‐6,VEGF, macrophage inflammatory protein 1α (MIP‐1α),MIP‐2 andMCP‐1, which are also present in the proteome of rat cardiacTCs. In addition, rat cardiacTCs secrete a slightly greater number of cytokines,IL‐2,IL‐10,IL‐13 and some chemokines like,GRO‐KC. We found thatVEGF,IL‐6 and some chemokines (all stimulated byIL‐6 signalling) are secreted by cardiacTCs and overexpressed in co‐cultures withCSCs. The expression levels ofMIP‐2 andMIP‐1α increased twofold and fourfold, respectively, whenTCs were co‐cultured withCSCs, while the expression ofIL‐2 did not significantly differ betweenTCs andCSCs in mono culture and significantly decreased (twofold) in the co‐culture system. These data suggest that theTCsecretome plays a modulatory role in stem cell proliferation and differentiation.
Resveratrol, a polyphenol phytoalexin, protects against doxorubicin‐induced cardiotoxicity
Authors: Gu Jun , Hu Wei , Zhang Da‐dong
Published: July 2015

Doxorubicin is the mainstay of treatment for various haematological malignancies and solid tumours. However, its clinical application may be hampered by dose‐dependent cardiotoxicity. The mechanism of doxorubicin‐induced cardiotoxicity may involve various signalling pathways including free radical generation, peroxynitrite formation, calcium overloading, mitochondrial dysfunction and alteration in apoptosis and autophagy. Interestingly, the use of resveratrol in combination with doxorubicin has been reported to prevent cardiac toxicity as well as to exert a synergistic effect against tumour cells both in vivo and in vitro. Thus, the aim of this review is to summarize current knowledge and to elucidate the protective effect of resveratrol in doxorubicin‐induced cardiotoxicity.
‘Reflexive Expectations’ in EU–China Relations: A Media Analysis Approach
Authors: Zhang Li
Published: July 2015

To reverse the downturn in and develop EU–China relations requires mutual understanding. However, the opaque nature of Chinese politics makes it difficult to track China's expectations and its changing views of the EU and their relationship. This paper examines the official Chinese media discourse on the EU's ‘actorness’ and partnership with China. This helps to bridge the gap between international relations and media studies by linking government foreign relations to media discourse. It argues that China's relations with the EU should be characterized neither as a case of a ‘Capability–Expectations Gap’ (Hill, ) nor as an ‘Expectation Deficit’ (Tsuruoka, ), but should rather be seen as a matter of ‘Reflexive Expectations’ by China. The media analysis shows that China's changing national identity, interests and perception of the EU's capability at various times and in various situations influence expectations.
Serum antibody to Porphyromonas gingivalis and periodontitis progression: the Hisayama Study
Authors: Takeuchi Kenji , Furuta Michiko , Takeshita Toru , Shibata Yukie , Shimazaki Yoshihiro , Akifusa Sumio , Ninomiya Toshiharu , Kiyohara Yutaka , Yamashita Yoshihisa
Published: July 2015

Aim

To assess the effectiveness of serum titres of antibody to Porphyromonas gingivalis in the prediction of periodontitis progression in a community‐dwelling adult population.

Materials and Methods

This 4‐year follow‐up cohort study included 183 Japanese individuals (75 men and 108 women) aged 40–49 years. The clinical attachment level was measured at two sites on all teeth present at baseline and follow‐up, and periodontitis progression was defined as progression in attachment loss of ≥3 mm at ≥2 measurement sites. Serum titres of antibody to Porphyromonas gingivalis were evaluated at baseline and served as the primary predictor variable for periodontitis progression.

Results

Periodontitis progression was found in 8.7% subjects. In a multivariate logistic regression model, higher titres of antibody to Porphyromonas gingivalis and male gender were significantly associated with greater odds of periodontitis progression, even after adjustment for other confounding variables (titres of antibody to Porphyromonas gingivalis per 10 units: odds ratio, 1.66; 95% confidence interval, 1.16–2.36; male gender: odds ratio, 4.13; 95% confidence interval, 1.20–14.27).

Conclusions

Elevated serum titres of antibody to Porphyromonas gingivalis may be a risk factor for periodontitis progression.
Postabsorptive hyperglucagonemia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus analyzed with a novel enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay
Authors: Matsuo Toshihiro , Miyagawa Jun‐ichiro , Kusunoki Yoshiki , Miuchi Masayuki , Ikawa Takashi , Akagami Takafumi , Tokuda Masaru , Katsuno Tomoyuki , Kushida Akira , Inagaki Takashi , Namba Mitsuyoshi
Published: July 2015

Aims/introduction

The aims of the present study were to investigate the performance of a novel sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for measuring glucagon (1–29) with monoclonal antibodies against both the C‐ and N‐terminal regions of glucagon (1–29), and to analyze the differences in plasma levels and responses of glucagon (1–29) to oral glucose loading in normal glucose tolerance (NGT) subjects and patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Materials and Methods

The cross‐reactivity against proglucagon fragments using the ELISA kit and two types of conventional radioimmunoassay (RIA) kits was evaluated. A 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test was carried out with NGT subjects and patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, and the glucagon (1–29) concentration was measured using three types of kit.

Results

The ELISA kit clearly had the lowest cross‐reactivity against miniglucagon (19–29) and glicentin (1–61). The oral glucose tolerance test was carried out with 30 NGT and 17 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The glucagon (1–29) levels measured by the ELISA kit after glucose loading were significantly higher at all time‐points in the type 2 diabetes mellitus group than in the NGT group. However, the glucagon (1–29) levels measured by one RIA kit were significantly higher in the NGT group, and those measured with the other RIA kit were approximately the same among the groups.

Conclusions

The novel sandwich ELISA accurately determines plasma glucagon (1–29) concentrations with much less cross‐reactivity against other proglucagon fragments than conventional RIA kits.
Seasonal variation in life history traits in two Drosophila species
Authors: Behrman E. L. , Watson S. S. , O'Brien K. R. , Heschel M. S. , Schmidt P. S.
Published: July 2015

Seasonal environmental heterogeneity is cyclic, persistent and geographically widespread. In species that reproduce multiple times annually, environmental changes across seasonal time may create different selection regimes that may shape the population ecology and life history adaptation in these species. Here, we investigate how two closely related species of Drosophila in a temperate orchard respond to environmental changes across seasonal time. Natural populations of Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila simulans were sampled at four timepoints from June through November to assess seasonal change in fundamental aspects of population dynamics as well as life history traits. D. melanogaster exhibit pronounced change across seasonal time: early in the season, the population is inferred to be uniformly young and potentially represents the early generation following overwintering survivorship. D. melanogaster isofemale lines derived from the early population and reared in a common garden are characterized by high tolerance to a variety of stressors as well as a fast rate of development in the laboratory environment that declines across seasonal time. In contrast, wild D. simulans populations were inferred to be consistently heterogeneous in age distribution across seasonal collections; only starvation tolerance changed predictably over seasonal time in a parallel manner as in D. melanogaster. These results suggest fundamental differences in population and evolutionary dynamics between these two taxa associated with seasonal heterogeneity in environmental parameters and associated selection pressures.
Caste‐biases in gene expression are specific to developmental stage in the ant Formica exsecta
Authors: Morandin C. , Dhaygude K. , Paviala J. , Trontti K. , Wheat C. , Helanterä H.
Published: July 2015

Understanding how a single genome creates and maintains distinct phenotypes is a central goal in evolutionary biology. Social insects are a striking example of co‐opted genetic backgrounds giving rise to dramatically different phenotypes, such as queen and worker castes. A conserved set of molecular pathways, previously envisioned as a set of ‘toolkit’ genes, has been hypothesized to underlie queen and worker phenotypes in independently evolved social insect lineages. Here, we investigated the toolkit from a developmental point of view, using RNA‐Seq to compare caste‐biased gene expression patterns across three life stages (pupae, emerging adult and old adult) and two female castes (queens and workers) in the ant Formica exsecta. We found that the number of genes with caste‐biased expression increases dramatically from pupal to old adult stages. This result suggests that phenotypic differences between queens and workers at the pupal stage may derive from a relatively low number of caste‐biased genes, compared to higher number of genes required to maintain caste differences at the adult stage. Gene expression patterns were more similar among castes within developmental stages than within castes despite the extensive phenotypic differences between queens and workers. Caste‐biased expression was highly variable among life stages at the level of single genes, but more consistent when gene functions (gene ontology terms) were investigated. Finally, we found that a large part of putative toolkit genes were caste‐biased at least in some life stages in F. exsecta, and the caste‐biases, but not their direction, were more often shared between F. exsecta and other ant species than between F. exsecta and bees. Our results indicate that gene expression should be examined across several developmental stages to fully reveal the genetic basis of polyphenisms.
Evaluation of the Marginal Fit of CAD/CAM Crowns Fabricated Using Two Different Chairside CAD/CAM Systems on Preparations of Varying Quality
Authors: Renne Walter , Wolf Bethany , Kessler Raymond , McPherson Karen , Mennito Anthony S.
Published: July 2015

Purpose

This study evaluated the marginal gap of crowns fabricated using two new chairside computer‐aided design/computer‐aided manufacturing systems on preparations completed by clinicians with varying levels of expertise to identify whether common preparation errors affect marginal fit. The null hypothesis is that there is no difference in the mean marginal gaps of restorations of varying qualities and no difference in the mean marginal gap size between restorations fabricated using the PlanScan (D4D, Richardson, TX, USA) and the CEREC Omnicam (Sirona, Bensheim, Germany).

Material and Methods

The fit of 80 lithium disilicate crowns fabricated with the E4D PlanScan or CEREC Omnicam systems on preparations of varying quality were examined for marginal fit by using the replica technique. These same preparations were then visually examined against common criteria for anterior all‐ceramic restorations and placed in one of four categories: excellent, good, fair, and poor. Linear mixed modeling was used to evaluate associations between marginal gap, tooth preparation rating, and fabrication machine.

Results

The fit was not significantly different between both systems across all qualities of preparation. The average fit was 104 μm for poor‐quality preparations, 87.6 μm for fair preparations, 67.2 μm for good preparations, and 36.6 μm for excellent preparations.

Conclusion

The null hypothesis is rejected. It can be concluded that preparation quality has a significant impact on marginal gap regardless of which system is used. However, no significant difference was found when comparing the systems to each other.

Clinical Significance

Within the limitations of this in vitro study, it can be concluded that crown preparation quality has a significant effect on marginal gap of the restoration when the clinician uses either CEREC Omnicam or E4D PlansScan.
Surface Evaluation of Polishing Techniques for New ResilientCAD/CAMRestorative Materials
Authors: Fasbinder Dennis J. , Neiva Gisele F.
Published: July 2015

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to measure the surface roughness of milled chairside computer‐assisted design/computer assisted machining (CAD/CAM) restorations using several contouring/polishing systems as to their effectiveness for creating a clinically acceptable surface.

Materials and Methods

One hundred onlays were milled from monolithicCAD/CAMblocks with anMCXLmilling chamber (SironaDental) as follows: 30 resin nano‐ceramic (LavaUltimate, 3M ESPE), 30 hybrid ceramic (Enamic,Vita) and 40 leucite‐reinforced ceramic (EmpressCAD,Ivoclar). A single group ofEmpressCADonlays was glazed‐fired in a porcelain oven (ProgramatCS2,Ivoclar). Finishing and polishing systems consisted of either an abrasive‐polish technique or a brush‐polish technique. Roughness values were measured using a three‐dimensional measuring laser microscope (OLS4000 LEXTbyOlympus).

Results

There was a significant difference in the baseline surface roughness of theCAD/CAMmaterials (p ≤ 0.05), with the resin nano‐ceramic (LavaUltimate) being smoother than the hybrid ceramic (Enamic), and both being smoother than the leucite‐reinforced ceramic (EmpressCAD). All polishing techniques resulted in a smoother surface compared with the baseline surface for the leucite‐reinforced ceramic (p ≤ 0.05), with both techniques resulting in a significantly smoother surface than glazing in a porcelain oven (p ≤ 0.05). Both polishing techniques resulted in a smoother surface compared with the baseline surface for both the nano‐ceramic and hybrid ceramic materials (p ≤ 0.05).

Conclusions

It is possible to create an equally smooth surface for chairsideCAD/CAMresilient materials compared with milled ceramics using several finishing and polishing techniques. In general, the polished ceramic surfaces were smoother than the glazed ceramic surfaces.

Clinical Significance

The results of the study indicate that it is possible to create an equally smooth surface for chairsideCAD/CAMresilient materials compared with milled ceramics using several finishing and polishing techniques. In addition, both polishing techniques resulted in smoother ceramic surfaces when compared to glazed ceramic surfaces. The polished surface of the ceramic material was smoother than the glazed ceramic surface.
Conservative Approach for the Esthetic Management of Multiple Interdental Spaces: A Systematic Approach
Authors: Báez Rosales Abelardo , De Nordenflycht Carvacho Diego , Schlieper Cacciutolo Ramón , Gajardo Guineo Manuel , Gandarillas Fuentes Claudio
Published: July 2015

Purpose

To describe a conservative approach using resin‐based composites following a buccolingual layering technique with a customized silicon index for the management of multiple diastemas.

Clinical Considerations

This clinical article describes the case of a patient with their anterior teeth esthetically compromised by multiple diastemas, incisal wear, and dull/low‐value cervical composite resin restorations that were managed with nanofilled composite resin using the “buccolingual technique” with a customized silicon index made from a wax‐up to build up the restorations. The first layer of composite placed lingually that represents the enamel replacement was placed directly on the silicon index so that it provides in one single step the lingual profile and the position of the incisal edge of the restoration. Then, dentine and effect composite resin can be applied in a precise three‐dimensional configuration.

Conclusions

To solve esthetic dental problems, as anterior diastemas, in a very conservative and even reversible way, the use of direct resin composites for layering is an excellent choice, but should be performed based on simple and reproducible techniques, as the buccolingual technique.

Clinical Significance

The clinical technique described in this paper shows the advantages of a conservative approach to correct diastemas on maxillary anterior teeth. The application of these techniques can not only help achieve optimal esthetics, but also avoid the removal of extensive dental hard tissue and achieve a predictable final result, especially in esthetically demanding cases.
Age and growth of the midwater crocodile shark Pseudocarcharias kamoharai
Authors: Lessa R. , Andrade H. A. , De Lima K. L. , Santana F. M.
Published: July 2015

Age and growth were analysed on the basis of 372 vertebrae from specimens of the crocodile shark Pseudocarcharias kamoharai (66·0–122·0 cm, total length, LT) collected in the south‐western Atlantic Ocean. Centrum edge analysis suggested the first four months of the year as the period of band completion, leading to acceptance of free‐living bands as annual. A pre‐birth ring is formed in embryos >31·0 cm LT, whereas the birthmark is deposited in newborns of 46·1 ± 1·1 cm LT (mean ± s.d.). Growth was parameterized using seven models and the AIC was used for selection of the most plausible model. The von Bertalanffy growth model received the greatest support from the data, providing the following growth parameters for combined sexes: L∞ = 129·2 cm, k = 0·137 year−1 and t0 = −3·9 years. No significant differences were detected in growth by sex, but significant differences in age composition by sex were found in the sample. Overall age ranged from 2 to >13 years in females and from 1 to 8 years in males. Males achieved first maturity at 3·1 years and females at 5·1 years, with pregnancy appearing at 4·8 years. Similar to other lamnoid species, P. kamoharai is relatively fast growing.
Co‐expression of march5b and tlr7 in large yellow croaker Larimichthys crocea in response to Cryptocaryon irritans infection
Authors: Zhang D. L. , Yu D. H. , Chen J. , Chen C. , Wang Z. Y.
Published: July 2015

In this study, molecular characteristics of march5b and co‐expression of march5b and tlr7 in response to the infection of Cryptocaryon irritans in the large yellow croaker Larimichthys crocea were investigated. The full‐length complementary (c)DNA of march5b was 1314 bp, including an open reading frame of 846 bp encoding a polypeptide of 281 amino acids, and the full‐length genomic sequence was composed of 23 577 nucleotides, including six exons and five introns. The putative March5b protein contained a RINGv motif and four transmembrane domains. The march5b transcripts were broadly distributed in all detected tissues, with a strong expression in blood, brain and gills, and a weak expression in kidney by quantitative PCR analysis. The expression of march5b and tlr7 in the skin, gills, spleen and head kidney changed in the same manner at most time points post‐primary infection with C. irritans. Significant increase was observed in the skin with march5b at days 2 and 3 by 26·10 and 6·88 fold, respectively, and with tlr7 at day 3 by 57·68 fold, when compared with the control. Their expressions, however, were decreased in the gills, especially at day 3 (march5b by 8·9%, tlr7 by 22·06%). In the spleen and head kidney, march5b and tlr7 transcripts were up‐regulated early, then noticeably declined at day 3. These results suggested that march5b and tlr7 are co‐expressed in response to parasite infection and March5b probably catalyses ubiquitination of some proteins of TLR7 signalling pathway.
Effects of seawater temperature on sound characteristics in Ophidion rochei (Ophidiidae)
Authors: Kéver L. , Boyle K. S. , Parmentier E.
Published: July 2015

Although the sound production mechanisms of male and female Ophidion rochei (Ophidiidae) differ significantly, temperature affects them in the same manner. In both sexes, temperature correlated negatively with pulse period and positively with sound frequencies but had no, or weak effects on other sound characteristics.
Comparison of Acidic and Enzymatic Pectin Extraction from Passion Fruit Peels and Its Gel Properties
Authors: Liew S.Q. , Chin N.L. , Yusof Y.A. , Sowndhararajan K.
Published: July 2015

The influences of extractor concentration, extraction temperature and time on the yield of pectin and degree of esterification (DE) were investigated by the acidic and enzymatic extraction methods. Citric acid and Celluclast were selected as pectin extractors for environmentally friendly reasons. The peels of yellow passion fruit using the acidic and enzymatic extraction methods gave pectin yield of 7.16 and 7.12%, and DE of 71.02 and 85.45% in the optimized condition of extraction time of 102 min with citric acid concentration of 0.19% (w/w) at 75C and Celluclast concentration of 1.67% (w/w) at 61.11C, respectively. The enzymatic extraction method has greater capability of producing high methoxyl pectin. The morphological features of fruit peel powder and the extracted pectin examined by scanning electron microscopy suggested that the nanostructure of wet passion fruit pectin was dependable on the type of extraction process. The formed pectin gel also has pseudoplastic liquid behavior and its viscosity was greatly affected by sugar.

Practical Applications

Pectin has been intensively used as natural gelling agent and stabilizer to alter rheological properties in food ingredients by most food processing industries to achieve desired textural quality. Pectin could be recovery from fruit wastes. The conversion of passion fruit peel into pectin offers great scope for utilization. Citric acid and enzymatic extraction methods are effectively used for pectin extraction which may be of interest by pectin industry and consumer with these eco‐friendly processing technology with no using harmful chemicals. Furthermore, scientific work of this study such as the optimized condition, morphological features of extracted pectin and pectin gel formation contributes valuable information on pectin, which could be beneficial for pectin industry improving the process quality of pectin as well as process profitability.
A methodology to estimate wave‐induced coastal flooding hazard maps in Spain
Authors: Tomás A. , Méndez F.J. , Medina R. , Jaime F.F. , Higuera P. , Lara J.L. , Ortiz M.D. , Álvarez de Eulate M.F.
Published: July 2015

The purpose of the European Flooding Directive (2007/60/CE) is to establish a European framework for the assessment and management of flood risks. The aim is to reduce the adverse flooding consequences on a wide range of topics such as human health, environmental and cultural heritage, and economic activity. In Spain, coastal zone flood hazard and risk maps are managed by the Environment Spanish Ministry (MAGRAMA, Dirección General para la Sostenibilidad de la Costa y el Mar). These maps are designed using the methodology explained in this paper. This methodology allows to perform quick flood hazard maps along the Spanish coast because of the combination of high‐resolution marine climate databases, state‐of‐the‐art numerical models, innovative data‐mining techniques and statistical models.
Statins Provide Less Benefit in Populations with High Noncardiovascular Mortality Risk: Meta‐Regression of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Kim Caroline A. , Kim Dae Hyun
Published: July 2015

Objectives

To examine whether the benefit of statins varied according to cardiovascular (CV) and non‐CV mortality of the treated population.

Design

Meta‐analysis and meta‐regression of 16 randomized placebo‐controlled trials.

Setting

Community and hospital.

Participants

Statin‐ (n = 59,671) and placebo‐treated (n = 59,707) individuals with and without CV disease (mean age 55 to 75).

Measurements

Meta‐regression was used to model relative risks (RRs) of major CV events (myocardial infarction and stroke) and total mortality for statins versus placebo as a function of CV and non‐CV mortality risks of the study population.

Results

Every 1% increase in 5‐year non‐CV mortality risk of the study population was associated with a 3.7% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.2 to 6.3%) greater RR of major CV events and a 4.4% (95% CI = 2.1 to 6.9%) greater RR of total mortality. (Higher RRs indicate smaller benefits.) CV mortality was not associated with statin effects (P > .05). In stratified analysis according to CV (≥5.3% vs <5.3%) and non‐CV mortality (≥3.8% vs <3.8%) of the study population, statins had little mortality benefit in populations with high non‐CV mortality, regardless of CV mortality (random‐effects pooled RR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.72 to 0.91, for low CV and low non‐CV mortality; random‐effects pooled RR = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.76 to 1.06 for low CV and high non‐CV mortality; random‐effects pooled RR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.72 to 0.87 for high CV and low non‐CV mortality; random‐effects pooled RR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.87 to 1.02 for high CV and high non‐CV mortality). The CV event reduction was also attenuated in populations with high non‐CV mortality (random‐effects pooled RR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.60 to 0.75, for low CV and low non‐CV mortality; random‐effects pooled RR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.66 to 0.81 for low CV and high non‐CV mortality; random‐effects pooled RR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.69 to 0.87 for high CV and low non‐CV mortality; random‐effects pooled RR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.74 to 0.92 for high CV and high non‐CV mortality).

Conclusion

Benefits of statins may depend on the non‐CV mortality risk of the treated population. This should be confirmed using individual‐level data.
Color stability of mineral trioxide aggregate and calcium enriched mixture cement
Authors: Eghbal Mohammad Jafar , Torabzadeh Hassan , Bagheban Alireza Akbarzadeh , Shamszadeh Sayna , Marvasti Laleh A. , Asgary Saeed
Published: July 2015

Aim

To assess the effect of light irradiation and different immersion media on discoloration of white mineral trioxide aggregate (WMTA) and calcium enriched mixture (CEM) cement at different time intervals.

Methods

Enamel sections of 12 teeth were removed and six cavities were prepared in each tooth. The cavities were filled randomly either with WMTA or CEM and covered with transparent sealant. Half the specimens were irradiated for 160 sec (eight exposures of 20 sec each) and the remaining were irradiated for 40 sec (two exposures of 20 sec each); digital images were taken after each exposure. The teeth were stored in phosphate buffer saline, oxygen‐rich medium and glycerin (n = 4). Digital images were obtained after 1, 3, 7, 14, and 28 days. Commission Internationale de I'E'clairage (CIE) color space system and Photoshop CS5 software were used to evaluate the discoloration. The color change (ΔE) and lightness (ΔL) values was analyzed using repeated measures anova and Tukey's Tukey's honest significant difference (HSD) test.

Results

The materials tested showed significant discoloration over time (WMT > CEM; P < 0.001). ΔE increased significantly while ΔL decreased in three media over time (P < 0.001). Greater duration of light curing caused a significant decrease in ΔL and ΔE values in both materials (WMTA > CEM; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Color stability of WMTA was inferior to CEM samples after exposure to different duration of irradiation and media over time.
Impact of heavy smoking on the clinical, microbiological and immunological parameters of patients with dental implants: a prospective cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ata‐Ali Javier , Flichy‐Fernández Antonio Juan , Alegre‐Domingo Teresa , Ata‐Ali Fadi , Peñarrocha‐Diago Miguel
Published: July 2015

Aim

The aim of the present study was to investigate how heavy smoking influences the clinical, microbiological, and host‐response characteristics in peri‐implant sulcus fluid of patients with healthy dental implants.

Methods

A total of 29 individuals with 74 dental implants were included in the present study; 20 implants were in heavy smokers and 54 were in non‐smokers. The modified gingival index, modified plaque index, and probing pocket depth were evaluated. Periodontopathogenic bacteria Tannerella forsythia, Treponema denticola, and Porphyromonas gingivalis were evaluated, together with the total bacterial load. Peri‐implant sulcus fluid samples were analyzed for the quantification of interleukin‐8, interleukin‐1β, interleukin‐6, interleukin‐10, and tumor necrosis factor‐α.

Results

No significant differences in the clinical parameters evaluated were found between the groups, although smokers had poorer peri‐implant parameters. Among the smokers, subgingival microbiota was composed of a greater number of periodontal pathogens; these differences were not statistically significant. Smokers showed a greater expression of interleukin‐1β, interleukin‐6, interleukin‐10, and tumor necrosis factor‐α, but interleukin‐8 was slightly higher among non‐smokers, but not significantly.

Conclusions

Although smokers presented deeper probing depths, bleeding on probing, and peri‐implant microbiota composed of a greater number of periodontal pathogens than in non‐smoking patients, these data did not show significant differences. In the present study, and in relation to the samples analyzed, smoking alone did not influence the immunological and microbiological parameters in dental implants with healthy peri‐implant tissues. Further studies with larger samples are required to better evaluate the influence of smoking on dental implants.
OsSIDP366, a DUF1644 gene, positively regulates responses to drought and salt stresses in rice
Authors: Guo Chiming , Luo Chengke , Guo Lijia , Li Min , Guo Xiaoling , Zhang Yuxia , Wang Liangjiang , Chen Liang
Published: July 2015

Domain of unknown function 1644 (DUF1644) is a highly conserved amino acid sequence motif present only in plants. Analysis of expression data of the family of DUF1644‐containing genes indicated that they may regulate responses to abiotic stress in rice. Here we present our discovery of the role of OsSIDP366, a member of the DUF1644 gene family, in response to drought and salinity stresses in rice. Transgenic rice plants overexpressing OsSIDP366 showed enhanced drought and salinity tolerance and reduced water loss as compared to that in the control, whereas plants with downregulated OsSIDP366 expression levels using RNA interference (RNAi) were more sensitive to salinity and drought treatments. The sensitivity to abscisic acid (ABA) treatment was not changed in OsSIDP366‐overexpressing plants, and OsSIDP366 expression was not affected in ABA‐deficient mutants. Subcellular localization analysis revealed that OsSIDP366 is presented in the cytoplasmic foci that colocalized with protein markers for both processing bodies (PBs) and stress granules (SGs) in rice protoplasts. Digital gene expression (DGE) profile analysis indicated that stress‐related genes such as SNAC1, OsHAK5 and PRs were upregulated in OsSIDP366‐overexpressing plants. These results suggest that OsSIDP366 may function as a regulator of the PBs/SGs and positively regulate salt and drought resistance in rice.
Plant Mediator complex and its critical functions in transcription regulation
Authors: Yang Yan , Li Ling , Qu Li‐Jia
Published: July 2015

The Mediator complex is an important component of the eukaryotic transcriptional machinery. As an essential link between transcription factors and RNA polymerase II, the Mediator complex transduces diverse signals to genes involved in different pathways. The plant Mediator complex was recently purified and comprises conserved and specific subunits. It functions in concert with transcription factors to modulate various responses. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in understanding the plant Mediator complex and its diverse roles in plant growth, development, defense, non‐coding RNA production, response to abiotic stresses, flowering, genomic stability and metabolic homeostasis. In addition, the transcription factors interacting with the Mediator complex are also highlighted.