bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strontium‐Substituted Calcium Deficient Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Characterization, and Antibacterial Properties
Authors: Ravi Narmadha Devi , Balu Rajkamal , Sampath Kumar T.S.
Published: June 2012

Strontium‐substituted apatites have provoked increased interest in recent years for their beneficial effects on osteoporotic bone treatment and replacement. In this study, rod‐ and acicular‐shaped, strontium‐substituted calcium deficient hydroxyapatite (CDHA) nanoparticles with (Ca + Sr)/P ratio of 1.61 were synthesized via accelerated microwave processing. The X‐ray powder diffraction analysis indicates the synthesized nanoparticles as apatite phase with diffraction patterns similar to those of hydroxyapatite. The hydrodynamic diameter of the particles were observed to be ~200–500 nm and found to increase with strontium substitution along with an increase in the negative zeta potential by dynamic light scattering method, suggesting the particles to be agglomerates in water. The morphology of the nanoparticles was studied using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), where, pure CDHA showed globular and strontium substituted CDHAs showed rod and acicular shape for 5% and 10% Sr substitution, respectively. The average size of the particles in TEM was measured to be 33 nm × 5 nm, 40 nm × 6 nm, and 55 nm × 8 nm (L × W) for pure and strontium‐substituted CDHAs, respectively. Inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy further confirm the substitution of strontium and deficiency of calcium in the synthesized nanoparticles. Thermal stability and in vitro solubility of CDHA nanoparticles were observed to increase with strontium substitution. The MTT [3‐(4, 5‐Dimethylthiazole‐2‐yl)‐2, 5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide] assay indicate that the substituted nanoparticles are non‐toxic to human periodontal ligament fibroblast (HPDLF) cells. Cell uptake study by fluorescence microscopy using rhodamine‐123 and actin/DAPI stained HPDLF cells show cellular localization of the nCDHA, nSr5CDHA, nSr10CDHA nanoparticles without any adverse effects. The strontium‐substituted CDHAs showed significant antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria by colony count method. The 10% Sr substituted CDHA show the maximum microbial reduction of around 56% for E. coli and 35% for S. aureus with 1 × 105 cells/mL of respective bacterial culture.
Evaluation of CVD‐Deposited SiO2 as a Sintering Aid for Cubic Boron Nitride Consolidated with Alumina by Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Zhang Jianfeng , Tu Rong , Goto Takashi
Published: June 2012

A SiO2 nanolayer, 1.0–2.8 mass% in content, was coated on cubic boron nitride (cBN) powder by rotary chemical vapor deposition (RCVD). The morphology of the SiO2 nanolayer changed from isolated islands to a continuous layer with increasing supply rate of the precursor, tetraethyl orthosilicate. The effect of the SiO2 coating on the sinterability and mechanical properties of cBN for machine‐tool applications was evaluated. The SiO2‐coated cBN (cBN/SiO2) powder was mixed with Al2O3 and consolidated by spark plasma sintering (SPS) at 1473–1873 K. The phase transformation temperature of cBN to hexagonal BN (hBN) in Al2O3–cBN/SiO2 was 1773 K, 100 K higher than that in Al2O3–cBN composites. The highest density of the Al2O3–cBN/SiO2 composites was 99.5% at 30 vol% cBN/SiO2 content, at which the microhardness and fracture toughness were 28 GPa and 4.1 MPa·m1/2, respectively. This indicates that RCVD‐deposited SiO2 is a promising sintering aid for cBN and Al2O3–cBN/SiO2 sintered bodies produced by SPS may be applicable as cutting tools.
The Harmful Effects of Sintering Aids in Pr:LuAG Optical Ceramic Scintillator
Authors: Shen Yiqiang , Shi Yun , Feng Xiqi , Pan Yubai , Li Jiang , Zeng Yanping , Nikl Martin , Krasnikov Aleksei , Vedda Anna , Moretti Federico
Published: June 2012

We investigate scintillation properties and energy trapping processes in Pr‐doped Lu3Al5O12 (Pr:LuAG) optical ceramics, specifically focusing on the effects of sintering aids. Ceramics with good transmittance and scintillation properties comparable with those of single crystals were obtained without the use of sintering aids. Their introduction caused a transparency improvement, accompanied, however, by a deterioration of scintillation properties in terms of light yield and time decay. We interpret the results, discussing the role of aliovalent sintering agents on the formation of point defects acting as traps affecting the transport of charge carriers to the luminescence centers.
Optimization of Fine Alumina Gelcasting UsingIn SituDynamic Rheology
Authors: Bera Oskar , Trunec Martin
Published: June 2012

In situdynamic rheology was used to investigate the polymerization process of gelcasting suspensions based on fine alumina and water solution of methacrylamide and methylene bisacrylamide monomers. Small‐strain oscillatory shear measurements were able to detect the progress of the whole gelation process from the liquid suspension to the elastic gel. The parameters describing the gelation kinetics and final gel properties such as idle time, total gelation time, and equilibrium complex viscosity were correlated with the initiator/accelerator concentration, linear to cross‐linking monomer ratio, polymerization temperature, and alumina loading. A strong catalytic effect of fine alumina particles on the decomposition of ammonium persulfate into free radicals was established. The catalytic activity of alumina powder was controlled by ions adsorbed on the particle surface. The catalytic effect of alumina in the presence of the Dolapix CE 64 dispersant made the polymerization process independent of the accelerator concentration and enabled the gelation of concentrated ceramic suspensions at and below room temperature without any accelerator. The variations of the polymerization process in the range of investigated gel compositions did not affect the particle packing in green bodies and the densities of sintered ceramic bodies were similar.
Electrophoretic Deposition of Ti3SiC2 and Texture Development in a Strong Magnetic Field
Authors: Mishra Mrinalini , Sakka Yoshio , Hu Chungfeng , Suzuki Tohru S. , Uchikoshi Tetsuo , Besra Laxmidhar
Published: June 2012

In this study,we have shown the applicability of electrophoretic deposition (EPD) for shape‐forming in Ti3SiC2—a representative MAX phase; and viability of texture development thereof by application of a strong magnetic field (12 T). The dispersion characteristics of Ti3SiC2 suspension were investigated in terms of surface charge, rheological measurement, and adsorption study. Polyethyleneimine has been used as dispersant to stabilize the suspension. It was found that the iso‐electric point (IEP) of Ti3SiC2 powder was pHIEP ~ 4. The surface charge of powder changed in presence of the Polyethyleneimine dispersant and IEP shifted significantly towards basic pH ~ 10. The shift in IEP has been quantified in terms of ΔG0SP, the specific free energy of adsorption between the surface sites and the adsorbing polyelectrolyte (PEI) (The value of ΔG0SP obtained is −9.521 RT units). The optimized suspension parameters for EPD were determined as 10 vol% Ti3SiC2 and 1 dwb PEI in 50% ethanolic water at pH ~ 7. X‐ray diffraction analysis of the textured samples developed, revealed that the preferred orientation of Ti3SiC2 grains parallel to the magnetic field direction was along the a, b‐axis (The Lotgering orientation factors on the textured top surface and textured side surface were determined as fL(hk0) = 0.35 and fL(00l) = 0.75, respectively).
Investigation of Ternary System PbHfO3–PbTiO3–Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 with Morphotropic Phase Boundary Compositions
Authors: Wang Dawei , Cao Maosheng , Zhang Shujun
Published: June 2012

Ternary system, (1−x)Pb(Hf1−yTiy)O3–xPb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 (x = 0–0.5, y = 0.45–0.70) was prepared using two‐step precursor method. The phase structure, dielectric, piezoelectric, and ferroelectric properties of the ceramics near morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) have been investigated systematically. On the basis of the results of X‐ray powder diffraction and dielectric‐temperature measurement, the MPB region and isothermal map of Curie temperature (TC) for the ternary system were obtained. The optimum piezoelectric and electromechanical properties were achieved in the MPB composition 0.8Pb(Hf0.445Ti0.555)O3–0.2Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3, with piezoelectric d33 being on the order of 680 pC/N, while the maximum high‐field piezoelectric d33* of 780 pm/V was observed for 0.82Pb(Hf0.445Ti0.555)O3–0.18Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 with tetragonal composition, due to the high extrinsic contribution induced by domain wall motion. In addition, the fracture toughness KIC and flexural strength σf were measured and found to be 1.2 MPa·m1/2 and 71.4 MPa, respectively, comparable to PZT‐based ceramics.
A prospective, controlled clinical trial evaluating the clinical radiological and aesthetic outcome after 5 years of immediately placed implants in sockets exhibiting periapical pathology
Authors: Jung Ronald E. , Zaugg Balthasar , Philipp Alexander O. H. , Truninger Thomas C. , Siegenthaler David W. , Hämmerle Christoph H. F.
Published: June 2012

Objective

The aim was to compare the clinical, aesthetic and radiological outcome of immediately placed implants in sockets with or without periapical pathology 5 years after placement.

Materials and methods

Twenty‐seven patients were followed 5 years after immediate implant placement (test‐group: 12 patients with periapical pathologies; control‐group: 15 patients without periapical pathology). Clinical (FMBS, FMPS, CAL, keratinized mucosa), aesthetical (length of clinical crown, Papilla index), and radiological (vertical distance implant shoulder to first bone to implant contact (IS‐BIC)) parameters were assessed. Both 95% confidence intervals, as well as results of statistical tests (one‐sample, two‐sample, paired t‐test) were provided.

Results

After 5 years the implant survival rate was 100% for all 27 implants. In the test group the width of the keratinized mucosa increased significantly over the observation period (0.8 ± 1.0 mm). Concerning aesthetic parameters at the 3‐month as well as at the 5‐year examination no statistically significant difference could be found between the two groups. In the control‐group the papilla mesial and distal to the implant increased statistically significant during the observation period by 0.5 ± 0.5 and 0.4 ± 0.6 index score points, respectively. The position of the gingival margin at the implant site and the two neighboring teeth remained stable. At the 5‐year visit IS‐BIC measured between 1.4 ± 0.5 mm (mesial, control) and 1.7 ± 0.7 mm (distal, test), no significant difference could be found between the two groups. Over the observation period no statistically significant change of IS‐BIC could be found in the test‐ as well as in the control‐group. None of the examined radiographs revealed any signs of retrograde peri‐implantitis.

Conclusion

The replacement of teeth exhibiting periapical pathologies by implants placed immediately after tooth extraction can be a successful treatment modality with no disadvantages in clinical, aesthetical and radiological parameters to immediately placed implants into healthy sockets.
First reflections: third‐year dentistry students' introduction to reflective practice
Authors: Jonas‐Dwyer D. R. D. , Abbott P. V. , Boyd N.
Published: June 2012

Introduction

To develop both professionally and personally, health professionals need to build essential skills in reflective practice. Educators generally agree that these skills should be developed as part of curricula for health professional students. The aims were to introduce reflective practice to third‐year dentistry students and to evaluate the students' self‐perceived reflective skills before and after their reflective activities.

Materials and methods

Using a written questionnaire, third‐year dentistry students' perceptions of reflective practice were gathered before and after their first clinic placement. Students also completed two reflective writing pieces about their clinical placements.

Results

The students' reflective writing pieces were allocated into one of the three categories: non‐reflector, reflector and critical reflector. Content analysis of students' perceptions of reflective practice revealed nine themes. Eight main themes emerged from students' suggestions for improving their reflective abilities.

Discussion and conclusion

Issues around the assessment of reflective writing are discussed, and students' suggestions for improving their reflective abilities are presented.
The influences of skin visco‐elasticity, hydration level and aging on the formation of wrinkles: a comprehensive and objective approach
Authors: Choi Jae Woo , Kwon Soon Hyo , Huh Chang Hun , Park Kyoung Chan , Youn Sang Woong
Published: June 2012

Background

Various skin parameters including skin visco‐elasticity and hydration level affect the formation of wrinkles.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the comprehensive and objective relationship between age, skin visco‐elasticity, hydration level, and the occurrence of wrinkles using bioengineering equipments for the first time.

Methods

A total number of 97 healthy women were included in this study. Age, Fitzpatrick skin type, skin mechanical parameters obtained with Cutometer®(R0~R9), hydration level measured with Corneometer®, as well as wrinkle parameters (SEsm, SEr, SEsc, and SEw) assessed with Visioscan®, were analyzed with the Pearson's correlation test.

Results

The skin fluidity (R6) increased while the elastic recovery ratio (R7) decreased with the age. The wrinkle parameter (SEw) also increased with the age. The higher skin hysteresis values (R4 and R9) coincided with the higher SEw values. Skin hydration significantly lowered the hysteresis (R9), the wrinkles (SEw), and the depth of wrinkle furrows (R3mr).

Conclusion

The elderly have less elastic skin and more wrinkles. Skin hysteresis most closely related with the degree of wrinkles. Drier skin showed more wrinkles and deeper furrows, with wider intervals. On the basis of these objective findings, we propose several skin parameters associated with wrinkles, and hypothesize the mechanism of wrinkle generation.
Near‐infrared imaging of water in human hair
Authors: Egawa Mariko , Hagihara Motofumi , Yanai Motohiro
Published: June 2012

Background/purpose

The water content of hair can be evaluated by weighing, the Karl Fischer method, and from electrical properties. However, these methods cannot be used to study the distribution of water in the hair. Imaging techniques are required for this purpose. In this study, a highly sensitive near‐infrared (NIR) imaging system was developed for evaluating water in human hair. The results obtained from NIR imaging and conventional methods were compared.

Methods

An extended indium–gallium–arsenide NIR camera (detection range: 1100–2200 nm) and diffuse illumination unit developed in our laboratory were used to obtain a NIR image of hair. A water image was obtained using a 1950‐nm interference filter and polarization filter. Changes in the hair water content with relative humidity (20–95% RH) and after immersion in a 7% (w/w) sorbitol solution were measured using the NIR camera and an insulation resistance tester. The changes in the water content after treatment with two types of commercially available shampoo were also measured using the NIR camera.

Results

As the water content increased with changes in the relative humidity, the brightness of the water image decreased and the insulation resistance decreased. The brightness in the NIR image of hair treated with sorbitol solution was lower than that in the image of hair treated with water. This shows the sorbitol‐treated hair contains more water than water‐treated hair. The sorbitol‐treated hair had a lower resistance after treatment than before, which also shows that sorbitol treatment increases the water content. With this system, we could detect a difference in the moisturizing effect between two commercially available shampoos.

Conclusion

The highly sensitive imaging system could be used to study water in human hair. Changes in the water content of hair depended on the relative humidity and treatment with moisturizer. The results obtained using the NIR imaging system were similar to those obtained using a conventional method. Our system could detect differences in the moisturizing effects of two commercially available shampoos.
Effectiveness of a mouthrinse containing active ingredients in addition to chlorhexidine and triclosan compared with chlorhexidine and triclosan rinses on plaque, gingivitis, supragingival calculus and extrinsic staining
Authors: Kumar S , Patel S , Tadakamadla J , Tibdewal H , Duraiswamy P , Kulkarni S
Published: June 2012

Objectives

To assess the effectiveness of three different mouthrinses – chlorhexidine, triclosan + sodium fluoride and chlorhexidine + triclosan + sodium fluoride + zinc chloride – on plaque, calculus, gingivitis and stains and to evaluate the occurrence of adverse effects with these three treatments.

Methods

Forty‐eight healthy subjects participated in a double‐blind, randomized, parallel experiment and were randomly allocated to any one of the three experimental mouthrinses: group A (0.2% chlorhexidine (CHX) gluconate), group B (0.03% triclosan + 0.025% sodium fluoride (
NaF
) + 12% ethyl alcohol) or group C (0.2% CHX + 0.3% triclosan + 0.3%
NaF
 + 0.09% Zn chloride (
ZnCl
2
). All the subjects were assessed for gingivitis, plaque, supragingival calculus and extrinsic stains at baseline and at the end of the 21‐day experimental period.

Results

There was a significant difference (P = 0.046) in the effectiveness for the prevention of gingivitis and plaque, with subjects of group A and group C presenting least and highest gingival and plaque scores, respectively. Significant differences (P = 0.03) were observed for the accumulation of supragingival calculus where the deposition of calculus in group A was nearly double that of the group B, and group B was most effective in the prevention of supragingival calculus. Highest deposition of extrinsic stains was in the group A followed by group C and group B. There was no significant difference between the three treatments for adverse events' occurrence.

Conclusions

CHX mouthrinse was most effective in controlling plaque and gingivitis but caused greatest deposition of extrinsic stains. Supragingival calculus deposition was least in triclosan + 
NaF
group followed by CHX + triclosan + 
NaF
 + 
ZnCl
2
and CHX. More than half of the subjects reported adverse events during the experimental phase.
Has the DRG system impacted on inpatient allergy care in university dermatology departments in Germany?
Authors: Treudler Regina , Meier Florian , Schöffski Oliver , Simon Jan‐Christoph
Published: June 2012

Background: Diagnostic provocation tests (ICD Z01.5) have a low cost weight in the German DRG system. We aimed at investigating a possible economic impact on the number of provocation tests in German university medical centers (UMC) for dermatology.

Methods: We review quality records of 35 German UMC for 2008 and 2010 (ICD Z01.5, total number of patients as well as priority ranking).

Results: 33/35 hospitals gave full data for both years including the ten most frequent diagnoses. Between 2008 and 2010, total number of patients treated increased in 23/33 (70 %) UMC, those with ICD Z01.5 only in 11/24 (46 %) UMC with full data. In 2008, the ICD Z01.5 was in the top ten list of main diagnoses in 29/33 (88 %) hospitals, in 2010 in 25/33 (76 %); also, priority ranking tended to decrease. In contrast, total number of ICD Z01.5 in Germany tended to increase slightly.

Conclusions: We noticed a tendency for decreasing numbers of provocation tests being performed in dermatological UMC in Germany. As there is no evidence for a decreasing number of patients suffering from allergies, one may speculate about a shift to non‐university departments due to an economic impact.
Nursing Interventions for Improving Nutritional Status and Outcomes of Stroke Patients: Descriptive Reviews of Processes and Outcomes
Authors: Perry Lin , Hamilton Sharon , Williams Jane , Jones Susan
Published: June 2012

Background

Stroke produces many effects that impact eating. Nutrition is fundamental for recovery and rehabilitation, but the nursing nutritional role and associated outcomes have not been delineated.

Aims

(1) To identify nursing interventions intended to improve nutritional status and related outcomes of stroke survivors, and (2) To examine the outcomes of identified nursing interventions on nutrition‐related outcomes, including dietary intake, functional status, complications, activities of daily living, mortality, and quality of life for stroke survivors.

Methods

A modified version of Cochrane literature searching and review methods was used to identify studies that described and evaluated nursing nutritional interventions for adult stroke patients in hospital and community settings. A minimum of 10 years content of seven databases and nine journals was searched to March 2011. Findings were presented descriptively.

Results

In total 27 papers from 26 studies were included: 5 randomized controlled trials, 5 clinical trials, 6 quasi‐experiments, 4 case studies, and 6 qualitative/observational studies. Stroke nursing nutritional care encompassed screening of nutritional status and swallowing function; assessment of nutritional characteristics and preferences; referral; mealtime organization, supervision and monitoring; mealtime assistance and feeding skills. Nurses individualized care, coordinated or managed meal delivery and enteral feeding systems, were responsible for the dining environment and conduct of mealtimes; they taught staff, patients, and carers. There was little indication of integrated or psychosocial nursing nutritional care, or concepts, theories or models of nursing nutritional care. Many interventions were described but not evaluated. Little high quality evidence was of available.

Conclusions

This review indicated the parameters of nursing nutritional care, and provided a framework for future research. A functional, supportive, and educational nursing nutritional role was described but little evidence was of sufficient quality to support policy and practice development or inform education. Nutritional care was revealed as an essential but under‐recognized element of stroke nursing.
Roadmap for a Participatory Research–Practice Partnership to Implement Evidence
Authors: Harrison Margaret B. , Graham Ian D.
Published: June 2012

Background: Our research team has undertaken implementation of evidence in the form of practice guideline recommendations for populations in hospital, community, and long‐term care settings with diverse provider and patient populations (people with chronic wounds, e.g., pressure and leg ulcers, heart failure, stroke, diabetes, palliative care, cancer, and maternity care). Translating evidence into clinical practice at the point of care is a complex and often overwhelming challenge for the health system as well as for individual practitioners.

Purpose: To ensure that best available evidence is integrated into practice, “local evidence” needs to be generated and this process accomplishes a number of things: it focuses all involved on the “same page,” identifies important facilitating factors as well as barriers, provides empirical support for planning, and in itself is a key aspect of implementation. In doing this work, we developed a roadmap, the Queen's University Research Roadmap for Knowledge Implementation (QuRKI) that outlines three major phases of linked research and implementation activity: (1) issue identification/clarification; (2) solution building; and (3) implementation, evaluation, and nurturing the change.

In this paper, we describe our practical experience as researchers working at point‐of‐care and how research can be used to facilitate the implementation of evidence. An exemplar is used to illustrate the fluid interplay of research and implementation activities and present the range of supporting research.

Implications: QuRKI serves as a guide for researchers in the formation of a strategic alliance with the practice community for undertaking evidence‐informed reorganization of care. Using this collaborative approach, researchers play an integral role in focusing on, and using evidence during all discussions. We welcome further evaluation of its usefulness in the field.
Clinical outcome and microvascular blood flow in VAC®‐ and Sorbalgon®‐treated peri‐vascular infected wounds in the groin after vascular surgery – an early interim analysis
Authors: Acosta Stefan , Monsen Christina , Dencker Magnus
Published: June 2012

Vacuum‐assisted wound closure (VAC®) therapy is considered to be superior to conventional dressings in the treatment of peri‐vascular groin infections after vascular surgery at our department. Therefore, we performed an early interim analysis of the clinical outcomes in these seriously ill patients at risk of amputation and death. Patients were randomised to either VAC® (n = 5) or Sorbalgon® (n = 5; best alternative treatment) therapy after surgical debridement. Non‐invasive, laser Doppler perfusion imaging (LDPI) studies of the skin adjacent to the undressed wound were performed after 14 days of wound treatment. There was no difference in LDPI values in VAC® versus Sorbalgon® treated patients (P = 0·46). One patient in the VAC® group suffered from two re‐bleeding episodes, leading to vascular resection and transfemoral amputation and in the Sorbalgon® group two had a complete wound healing time of more than 4 months and one had a visible interposition bypass graft in the groin after 1 month of treatment. No patient died of the groin infection. Although not statistically proven, fewer wound treatment failures were recorded in the VAC® group, justifying this early interim analysis. LDPI studies were feasible.
Non‐invasive assessment of negative pressure wound therapy using high frequency diagnostic ultrasound: oedema reduction and new tissue accumulation
Authors: Young Stephen R , Hampton Sylvie , Martin Robin
Published: June 2012

Tissue oedema plays an important role in the pathology of chronic and traumatic wounds. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is thought to contribute to active oedema reduction, yet few studies have showed this effect. In this study, high frequency diagnostic ultrasound at 20 MHz with an axial resolution of 60 µm was used to assess the effect of NPWT at – 80 mmHg on pressure ulcers and the surrounding tissue. Wounds were monitored in four patients over a 3‐month period during which changes in oedema and wound bed thickness (granulation tissue) were measured non‐invasively. The results showed a rapid reduction of periwound tissue oedema in all patients with levels falling by a mean of 43% after 4 days of therapy. A 20% increase in the thickness of the wound bed was observed after 7 days due to new granulation tissue formation. Ultrasound scans through the in situ gauze NPWT filler also revealed the existence of macrodeformation in the tissue produced by the negative pressure. These preliminary studies suggest that non‐invasive assessment using high frequency diagnostic ultrasound could be a valuable tool in clinical studies of NPWT.
The effectiveness of intralesional injection of platelet‐rich plasma in accelerating the healing of chronic ulcers: an experimental and clinical study
Authors: Dionyssiou Dimitrios , Demiri Efterpi , Foroglou Pericles , Cheva Aggeliki , Saratzis Nikolaos , Aivazidis Constantine , Karkavelas George
Published: June 2012

The purpose of this prospective experimental and clinical study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the intralesional injection of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP), in the management of non‐healing chronic wounds. Skin defects were created in the ears of 20 white New Zealand rabbits. In the study group, autologous PRP was injected intralesionally. The control group was treated conservatively. Nineteen out of 20 cases of the study group healed within a mean time of 24·9 days. In the control group, seven defects healed within a mean period of 26·7 days, seven ulcers did not heal at day 28 and in six cases a full thickness ear defect was recorded. For a 3‐year period, 26 patients with chronic ulcers underwent surgical debridement and intralesional injection of PRP. A histological study was performed before and 7 days after PRP injection. Ten patients healed within a mean period of 7 weeks. In 16 cases, PRP prepared the wound bed for the final and simpler reconstructive procedure. Intralesional injection is a newly described method for application of PRP and represents an effective therapeutic option when dealing with non‐healing wounds.
Reconstruction of infected and denuded scrotum and penis by combined application of negative pressure wound therapy and split‐thickness skin grafting
Authors: Zhao Jing‐Chun , Xian Chun‐Jing , Yu Jia‐Ao , Shi Kai
Published: June 2012

Trauma to the genital region and perineum can leave behind lifelong sequelae and pose significant challenges to surgeons in the restoration of functional ability and aesthetic status. Effective methods and techniques are indispensable during the treatment period. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is a widely accepted technique that is becoming a commonplace treatment in many clinical settings. The purpose of this case report was to introduce the efficacy of the concurrent usage of NPWT and split‐thickness skin grafting (STSG) in the reconstruction of genital injuries. A man suffered a traffic accident that caused necrosis of the scrotum and penis associated with a severe infection caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacter cloacea. After debridement, we adopted NPWT during the postoperative dressing changes and the application of meshed STSG. The outcomes showed that combination of NPWT and split‐thickness skin grafts is safe, well‐tolerated and efficient in the reconstruction of penoscrotal defects. This could be a versatile tool for reconstruction after perineal and penoscrotal trauma.
Time course pathogenesis of sulphur mustard‐induced skin lesions in mouse model
Authors: Lomash Vinay , Jadhav Sunil E , Vijayaraghavan Rajagopalan , Pant Satish C
Published: June 2012

Sulphur mustard (SM) is a bifunctional alkylating agent that causes cutaneous blistering in humans and animals. In this study, we have presented closer views on pathogenesis of SM‐induced skin injury in a mouse model. SM diluted in acetone was applied once dermally at a dose of 5 or 10 mg/kg to Swiss albino mice. Skin was dissected out at 0, 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72 and 168 hours, post‐SM exposure for studying histopathological changes and immunohistochemistry of inflammatory‐reparative biomarkers, namely, transforming growth factor alpha (TGF‐α), fibroblast growth factor (FGF), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and interlukin 6 (IL‐6). Histopathological changes were similar to other mammalian species and basal cell damage resembled the histopathological signs observed with vesication in human skin. Inflammatory cell recruitment at the site of injury was supported by differential expressions of IL‐6 at various stages. Time‐dependent expressions of eNOS played pivotal roles in all the events of wound healing of SM‐induced skin lesions. TGF‐α and FGF were strongly associated with keratinocyte migration, re‐epithelialisation, angiogenesis, fibroblast proliferation and cell differentiation. Furthermore, quantification of the tissue leukocytosis and DNA damage along with semiquantitative estimation of re‐epithelialisation, fibroplasia and neovascularisation on histomorphologic scale could be efficiently used for screening the efficacy of orphan drugs against SM‐induced skin injury.
Ecstasy‐induced acute coronary syndrome: Something to rave about
Authors: Hoggett Kerry , McCoubrie David , Fatovich Daniel M
Published: June 2012

Ecstasy or 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine is a commonly used illicit recreational drug, enjoying popularity for its stimulant effects. Although acute coronary syndrome is recognized after cocaine and methamphetamine use, association with Ecstasy use has rarely been reported. We report three cases of significantly delayed acute coronary syndrome and ST elevation myocardial infarction related to ingestion of Ecstasy.
Ethical issues in practice: A survey of home‐visiting nurses in Japan
Authors: ASAHARA Kiyomi , ONO Wakanako , KOBAYASHI Maasa , OMORI Junko , MOMOSE Yumiko , TODOME Hiromi , KONISHI Emiko
Published: June 2012

Aim:  The purposes of this study were to identify specific components and frequencies of ethical issues that home‐visiting nurses encountered in their practice, relationships between ethical issues and demographic data, and experience of ethics education and workplace environment.

Methods:  A self‐administered questionnaire was distributed to home‐visiting nurses in Japan. Usable data (1961) were analyzed.

Results:  Item and exploratory factor analysis for the frequency of encountering ethical issues revealed: (i) concern about respecting client or relationships with relevant professionals; (ii) differences in treatment or care‐taking views among home‐visiting nurse and client and family, or relevant professionals; and (iii) discrepancy of intention between family and client or home‐visiting nurse. All factors were significantly positively related to the current position, duration of working experience as a home‐visiting nurse, and type of nursing education; age was significantly negatively related. Home‐visiting nurses noted that programmed continuing education systems and staff‐training programs were not sufficiently available.

Conclusion:  The findings of this study indicated the characteristics of ethical issues that home‐visiting nurses encountered in their practice and insufficient continuing education system including ethics education. Ethics education programs tailored to home‐visiting nurses ethical concerns and traits and continuing education systems are needed.
MBL1 genotypes in wild boar populations from Sweden, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Japan
Authors: Bergman I.‐M. , Sandholm K. , N. Ekdahl K. , Okumura N. , Uenishi H. , Guldbrandtsen B. , Essler S. E. , Knoll A. , Heegaard P. M. H. , Edfors I. , Juul‐Madsen H. R.
Published: June 2012

The single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) G949T in the mannose‐binding lectin (
MBL
) 1 gene has been associated with low MBL‐A concentration in serum and detected at different frequencies in various European pig populations. However, the origin of this SNP is not known. Part of the
MBL1
gene was sequenced in 12 wild boar/Large White crossbred pigs from the second backcross (BC
2) generation in a family material originating from two wild boar x Large White intercrosses. Also, MBL‐A serum concentration was measured in the entire BC
2 generation (n = 45). Furthermore, the genotypes of 68 wild boars from Sweden, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Japan were determined in regard to five previously described SNPs in
MBL1
. The T allele of G949T was present among the BC
2 animals. MBL‐A serum concentration in the BC
2 animals showed a bimodal distribution, with one‐third of the animals at levels between 0.7 and 1.6 μg mL−1 and the remaining pigs at levels around 13 μg mL−1. There was a co‐variation between the presence of the T allele and low MBL‐A concentration in serum. The genotyping of the wild boars revealed differences between populations. The T allele of G949T was not detected in the Austrian and Japanese samples and is thus unlikely to be an original feature of wild boars. In contrast, it was present at high frequency (0.35) among the Swedish wild boars, probably representing a founder effect. Five
MBL1
haplotypes were resolved. Only two of these were present among the Japanese wild boars compared to four in each of the European populations. This difference may reflect differences in selection pressure and population history.
GROWTH RESPONSE OF VIBRIO PARAHAEMOLYTICUS AND LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENES IN SALTED FISH FILLETS AS AFFECTED BY ZATARIA MULTIFLORA BOISS. ESSENTIAL OIL, NISIN, AND THEIR COMBINATION
Authors: EKHTIARZADEH HASSAN , AKHONDZADEH BASTI AFSHIN , MISAGHI ALI , SARI ABBASALI , KHANJARI ALI , ROKNI NOURDAHR , ABBASZADEH SEPIDEH , PARTOVI RAZIEH
Published: June 2012

The growth of Vibrio parahaemolyticus (at inoculation levels, 103 and 105 cfu/g) and Listeria monocytogenes (at inoculation level, 103 cfu/g) were investigated in salted fish fillets (brine salted at 4% NaCl) as affected by different concentrations of Zataria multiflora Boiss. essential oil (EO), nisin (N) and their combinations at 8C (and 4C only for L. monocytogenes) during 21 days. The growth of V. parahaemolyticus was inhibited at 8C (in control group) and reached <2 log10 cfu/g at the first day of study for inoculation level of 103 cfu/g. At inoculation level of 105 cfu/g, this inhibitory effect was significantly (P < 0.05) affected by adding EO. The significant inhibitory effect of N alone and synergistic inhibitory effect of EO with N were also observed during the study. For L. monocytogenes, the obvious significant inhibitory effect of EO and its combination with N was observed at 4C. Considering the organoleptic effect of the EO used in this study, the best inhibitory effects of EO in combination with N for V. parahaemolyticus and L. monocytogenes were obtained at combinations of EO = 0.405% and n = 0.75 µg/mL, and EO = 0.405% and n = 0.25 µg/mL, respectively.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

The synergistic inhibitory effect of Zataria multiflora Boiss. essential oil and nisin on V. parahaemolyticus and L. monocytogenes, which was obtained in this study can improve the scope of essential oil function in food industry.
EFFICACY OF ESSENTIAL OIL COMBINATION OF CURCUMA LONGA L. AND ZINGIBER OFFICINALE ROSC. AS A POSTHARVEST FUNGITOXICANT, AFLATOXIN INHIBITOR AND ANTIOXIDANT AGENT
Authors: PRAKASH BHANU , SINGH PRIYANKA , KEDIA AKASH , SINGH ARADHANA , DUBEY N.K.
Published: June 2012

Keeping in view of the harmful effects of molds and their toxic metabolites, particularly aflatoxins on food items, the present study explores the efficacy of essential oil (EO) combination of Curcuma longa L. and Zingiber officinale Rosc. as a plant‐based preservative in view of its broad fungitoxic spectrum against storage fungi, aflatoxin inhibitory efficacy, antioxidant properties and nonphytotoxicity. The EO combination significantly inhibited the growth and aflatoxin production by the toxigenic foodborne strain of Aspergillus flavus LHP‐6 at 2.5 and 2.0 µL/mL, respectively. The combination also showed strong antioxidant activity through 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazil free radical scavenging, β‐carotene‐linoleic acid bleaching and total phenolic content assay. The EO combination exhibited nonphytotoxic nature during the seed germination and seedling growth experiments with chickpea seeds. The EO combination of C. longa and Z. officinale may successfully overcome the problem of mold contamination as well as oxidative deterioration of stored agricultural food commodities.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The essential oil combination of Curcuma longa and Zingiber officinale may be recommended as a plant‐based nonphytotoxic preservative against the storage molds, aflatoxin production and lipid peroxidation. Such a formulation showing preservative activity through synergistic effects would have better prospects in agricultural pest management program in view of the development of races of pests by different synthetic pesticides.
EVALUATION OF BACTERIOPHAGE AV‐08 FOR SIMULTANEOUS BIOCONTROL OF SALMONELLA MONTEVIDEO AND ESCHERICHIA COLI O157:H7 IN EXPERIMENTALLY CONTAMINATED CHICKEN SKIN
Authors: LÓPEZ‐CUEVAS OSVALDO , CASTRO‐DEL CAMPO NOHELIA , LEÓN‐FÉLIX JOSEFINA , VALDEZ‐TORRES BENIGNO , CHAIDEZ CRISTÓBAL
Published: June 2012

The aim of this research was to evaluate the efficacy of bacteriophage Av‐08 for reducing Salmonella Montevideo and Escherichia coli O157:H7 presence from chicken skin surface at 4C. Significant reduction (P < 0.05) of S. Montevideo (5.16 log10 colony‐forming units [cfu]/4 cm2 chicken skin) and E. coli O157:H7 (4.9 log10 cfu/4 cm2 chicken skin) was achieved. When phage was applied to the bacterial mixture, a reduction of 4.4 and 4.69 log10 cfu/4 cm2 of S. Montevideo and E. coli O157:H7 was obtained on the chicken skin surface, respectively. No significant reduction was observed by buffer application, compared with the control. Phage Av‐08 was able to survive on the chicken skin surface at concentrations fluctuating from 7.27 to 8.44 log10 PFU/4 cm2 for 6 days. These results demonstrated the ability of phage Av‐08 in reducing the presence of S. Montevideo and E. coli O157:H7 from chicken skin surface at 4C.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Recent antimicrobial and disinfectant bacterial resistance have renewed interest of using bacteriophage biocontrol against foodborne bacterial pathogens. In this research lytic bacteriophage Av‐08 was evaluated for reducing Salmonella Montevideo and Escherichia coli O157:H7 from chicken skin surface. Actually, commercial bacteriophage preparations have been exploited for biocontroling foodborne bacterial pathogens. Phage Av‐08 was able to simultaneously reduce S. Montevideo and E. coli O157:H7 presence from chicken skin. Therefore, bacteriophage Av‐08 showed potential to be exploited for biocontroling Salmonella and E. coli O157:H7 from foods.
Chemical Composition of Currant Seed Extracts and Their Protective Effect on Human Lymphocytes DNA
Authors: Gođevac Dejan , Tešević Vele , Vajs Vlatka , Milosavljević Slobodan , Zdunić Gordana , ĐOrđević Boban , Stanković Miroslava
Published: June 2012

Abstract:  On the basis of LC/UV/MS analysis, 35 compounds from the extracts of seeds of black, red, and white currants (2 cultivars of each) were identified. Black currants cultivars contained protocatechuic acid and p‐hydroxybenzoic acid, and traces of nitril containing phenolic acids. The presence of synapoyl glucoside was characteristic for cv. Malling Jewel. Sesquiterpenoid glycosides and carboxymethylindol glycosides were present mainly in white and red currant cultivars. Blackcurrant seeds contained higher amounts of flavonoids, especially rutin, isoquercetin, and taxifolin. The currant seed extracts were tested for in vitro protective effect on chromosome aberrations in peripheral human lymphocytes using cytochalasin‐B blocked micronucleus (CBMN) assay. The frequency of MN was scored in binucleated cells, and the cultivars of black currants showed the best antioxidant potential. At a concentration of only 0.17 mg/mL, extract of the seed cv. Malling Jewel effected a decrease in the frequency of MN of 60% compared with control cell cultures.

Practical Application:  Our results provide evidence of protective effects of currant seed extracts and isolated pure compounds on cytogenetic damages in human lymphocytes. Thus, currant seed extracts could exert beneficial effects in quite a few diseases, for many of the biological actions have been attributed to their antioxidant properties.
Association between inflammatory bowel disease gene 5 (IBD5) and interleukin‐23 receptor (IL23R) genetic polymorphisms in Malaysian patients with Crohn's disease
Authors: CHUA Kek Heng , HILMI Ida , LIAN Lay Hoong , PATMANATHAN Sathya Narayanan , HOE See Ziau , LEE Way Seah , GOH Khean Lee
Published: June 2012

OBJECTIVE:  This study was aimed to investigate the possible association of Crohn's disease (CD) with inflammatory bowel disease gene 5 (IBD5) IGR2198a_1 (rs11739135), IGR2096a_1 (rs12521868) and interleukin‐23 receptor (IL23R) genetic variant (rs1004819) in the Malaysian population.

METHODS:  Blood samples from 80 CD patients and 100 healthy controls were recruited. Genomic DNA was extracted and analyzed by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism.

RESULTS:  The results revealed that there was an increased frequency of IGR2198a_1 C allele (8.8% in CD, 1.5% in controls, P < 0.05, OR 6.30, 95% CI 1.77–22.31) and IGR2096a_1 T allele (6.9% in CD, 1.5% in controls, P < 0.05, OR 4.85, 95% CI 1.33–17.69) in the CD patients as compared to the controls, suggesting the two variants were potential risk factors of CD. Both risk alleles (C and T) were highest in Indians. In contrast, no significant difference was observed for the IL23R gene variant (rs1004819) between these two groups (P = 0.941). All genotypes and alleles of this gene variant were present in equal ratios in the CD and control groups (OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.66–1.57 for T allele and OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.64–1.52 for C allele).

CONCLUSIONS:  There is a strong association between both IBD5 locus variants but not the IL23R gene variant with CD in the Malaysian population. The IBD5 locus variants were highest in Indians, which may explain the increased susceptibility of this particular ethnic group to the disease.
Re‐thinking Disability, Work and Welfare
Authors: Barnes Colin
Published: June 2012

There is a wealth of evidence that disabled people experience far higher levels of unemployment and underemployment than non‐disabled peers. Yet hitherto sociologists have paid scant attention to the structural causes of this issue. Drawing on a socio/political or social model of disability perspective this paper argues for a reconfiguration of the meaning of disability and work in order to address this problem. It is also suggested that such a strategy will make a significant contribution to the struggle for a fairer and equitable global society.
Institutional Activism: Reconsidering the Insider/Outsider Dichotomy
Authors: Pettinicchio David
Published: June 2012

Social movements are conventionally understood as a means by which groups seek to resolve collective grievances outside of the regular political process. With this in mind, I explore the important role of “institutional activists”– insiders with access to resources and power – who proactively take up causes that overlap with those of grassroots challengers. This article focuses on the history of, and recent developments in, the study of institutional activism, situating the concept within existing social movement theory and providing examples of the varying roles of institutional activists in mobilization.
Hybrid vigor in the biological control agent, Longitarsus jacobaeae
Authors: Szűcs Marianna , Eigenbrode Sanford D. , Schwarzländer Mark , Schaffner Urs
Published: June 2012

Hybridization is an important evolutionary mechanism that can increase the fitness and adaptive potential of populations. A growing body of evidence supports its importance as a key factor contributing to rapid evolution in invasive species, but the effects of hybridization have rarely been assessed in intentionally introduced biological control agents. We investigated hybrids between a Swiss and an Italian population of the beetle, Longitarsus jacobaeae, a biological control agent of Jacobaea vulgaris, by reciprocally crossing individuals in the laboratory. Phenological traits of F1 and F2 hybrid lineages showed intermediate values relative to their parental populations, with some maternal influence. Fitness of the F2 generation, measured as lifetime fecundity, was higher than that of the Italian parent in one of the lineages and higher than that of either parent in the other hybrid lineage. The increased fecundity of hybrids may benefit tansy ragwort biological control by increasing the establishment success and facilitating a more rapid population buildup in the early generations. Even though the long‐term consequences of hybridization in this and other systems are hard to predict, intentional hybridization may be a useful tool in biological control strategies as it would promote similar microevolutionary processes operating in numerous targeted invasive species.