bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gene profile of soluble growth factors involved in angiogenesis, in an adipose‐derived stromal cell/endothelial cell co‐culture, 3D gel model
Authors: Cun Xiangzhu , Xie Jing , Lin Shiyu , Fu Na , Deng Shuwen , Xie Qiang , Zhong Juan , Lin Yunfeng
Published: June 2015

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate gene expressions of growth factors for angiogenesis, in a three‐dimensional (3D) gel populated with adipose‐derived stromal cells (ASCs) and endothelial cells (ECs) in co‐culture.

Materials and methods

The 3D gel, mixed with green fluorescent protein (GFP)‐positive ASCs and DsRed‐Express‐positive ECs, 1:1 ratio, was established in vitro. The phenomenon of angiogenesis was observed using confocal microscopy. To detect gene expressions for growth factor proteins in both ASCs and ECs, transwell co‐culture was used, and cell lysate samples were collected at 1, 3, 5 and 7 days. Semi‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was conducted to quantify mRNA expressions of the growth factors.

Results

Angiogenesis was first observed in the gels by 7 days post‐implantation. Over this time in ECs, genes coding for VEGFA/B, IGF‐1, HIF‐1α, FGF‐1/‐2 and BMP‐5/‐7 significantly increased. Meanwhile in ASCs, genes coding for VEGFA/B, IGF‐1, HIF‐1α, FGF‐1/‐2 and BMP‐6 also were significantly enhanced. In particular, increased amounts of IGF‐1 and HIF‐1α in both ECs and ASCs were prominent relative to other factors.

Conclusions

Contact co‐culture with ASCs and ECs at 1:1 ratio, in the 3D gel promoted angiogenesis; non‐contact co‐culture further confirmed gene expressions for growth factors, VEGFA/B, IGF‐1, HIF‐1α and FGF‐1/‐2 in both ASCs and ECs; BMP‐5/‐7 in ECs and BMP‐6 in ASCs were also confirmed. This establishment of growth factor expression seemed to be responsible for enhancement of angiogenesis. This indicates that these factors could be utilized as targets for engineered angiogenesis.
Relation of perinatal risk and early parenting to executive control at the transition to school
Authors: Clark Caron A.C. , Woodward Lianne J.
Published: June 2015

Executive control (EC) develops rapidly during the preschool years and is central to academic achievement and functional outcome. Although children with perinatal adversity are at known risk for EC impairments, little is known about the underlying nature of these impairments or the mechanisms that contribute to their development over time. Drawing on a cohort of 110 high‐risk children born very preterm (VPT; < 33 weeks / < 1500 g) and 113 healthy full‐term children, this study examined the implications of perinatal adversity and early parenting for children's EC as they transitioned to formal schooling. Parent supportive presence, intrusiveness, and parent–child synchrony were observed during a series of problem‐solving tasks at ages 2 and 4 years. At age 6, children completed a comprehensive battery of EC tasks. Academic outcomes were assessed at age 9. The VPT group showed global EC impairments at age 6, although the unitary factor that best characterized the structure of EC was the same in both groups. High‐risk dyads were characterized by more intrusive and less synchronous parent–child interactions in early childhood, which in turn predicted poorer child EC at age 6. EC partially mediated the relation of risk status to poorer academic achievement at age 9. Findings demonstrate the cumulative effects of perinatal adversity on children's EC in the crucial transition to schooling. They also highlight the importance of the parent–child relationship as a target for intervention efforts to help mitigate these effects.
Early Impairment of Cardiac Function and Asynchronization of Systemic Amyloidosis with Preserved Ejection Fraction Using Two‐Dimensional Speckle Tracking Echocardiography
Authors: Huang He , Jing Xian‐chao , Hu Zhang‐xue , Chen Xi , Liu Xiao‐qin
Published: June 2015

Aims

To observe the ventricular global and regional function of the patients with systemic amyloidosis using two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography.

Methods

The study enrolled 31 consecutive biopsy‐proved patients with systemic amyloidosis who underwent echocardiographic examination and EF ≥ 55% and 37 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy controls. We compared systolic strain and strain rate, diastolic strain rate, time to peak strain, peak delay time in longitudinal, radial, circumferential directions in 16 left ventricular segments. The global peak systolic longitudinal and radial strain of left ventricle, peak systolic longitudinal strain and strain rate, diastolic strain rate of right ventricular free wall were also compared.

Results

(1) Global peak systolic longitudinal strain (GPSLS), peak systolic longitudinal strain (PSLS) and strain rate (PSLSR), peak early diastolic longitudinal strain rate (PELSR) in 16 segments were decreased in case (P < 0.05). (2) Peak systolic radial strain and strain rate of inferoseptum and inferolateral at the level of papillary muscle were lower (P < 0.05), and peak early diastolic radial strain rate (PERSR) was reduced (P < 0.05). (3) Peak early diastolic circumferential strain rate was lower (P < 0.05). (4) Time to peak systolic longitudinal, radial, circumferential strain was longer, and peak delay time at the same level retarded (P < 0.05). (5) Into right ventricular wall, PSLS and PSLSR at mid‐segment, and PSLSR, PELSR, peak atrial systolic longitudinal strain rate (PALSR) at basal were reduced (P < 0.05). (6) Inverse correlation between interventricular septum (IVS) thickness and GPSLS and GPSRS was found (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Systolic and diastolic dysfunction existed in systemic amyloidosis with preserved EF. Mechanical contraction disorder may be one reason for systolic dysfunction. GPLSR and GPRSR were negatively related to IVS thickness.
Minimum required number of specimen records to develop accurate species distribution models
Authors: van Proosdij André S. J. , Sosef Marc S. M. , Wieringa Jan J. , Raes Niels
Published: May 2015

Species distribution models (SDMs) are widely used to predict the occurrence of species. Because SDMs generally use presence‐only data, validation of the predicted distribution and assessing model accuracy is challenging. Model performance depends on both sample size and species’ prevalence, being the fraction of the study area occupied by the species. Here, we present a novel method using simulated species to identify the minimum number of records required to generate accurate SDMs for taxa of different pre‐defined prevalence classes. We quantified model performance as a function of sample size and prevalence and found model performance to increase with increasing sample size under constant prevalence, and to decrease with increasing prevalence under constant sample size. The area under the curve (AUC) is commonly used as a measure of model performance. However, when applied to presence‐only data it is prevalence‐dependent and hence not an accurate performance index. Testing the AUC of an SDM for significant deviation from random performance provides a good alternative. We assessed the minimum number of records required to obtain good model performance for species of different prevalence classes in a virtual study area and in a real African study area. The lower limit depends on the species’ prevalence with absolute minimum sample sizes as low as 3 for narrow‐ranged and 13 for widespread species for our virtual study area which represents an ideal, balanced, orthogonal world. The lower limit of 3, however, is flawed by statistical artefacts related to modelling species with a prevalence below 0.1. In our African study area lower limits are higher, ranging from 14 for narrow‐ranged to 25 for widespread species. We advocate identifying the minimum sample size for any species distribution modelling by applying the novel method presented here, which is applicable to any taxonomic clade or group, study area or climate scenario.
Dental trauma in Brazilian children and adolescents with cerebral palsy
Authors: Cardoso Andreia Medeiros Rodrigues , Silva Clara Regina Duarte , Gomes Lays Nóbrega , Gomes Monalisa da Nóbrega Cesarino , Padilha Wilton Wilney Nascimento , Cavalcanti Alessandro Leite
Published: June 2015

Background

Assessing the frequency and factors associated with dental trauma in pediatric populations with cerebral palsy is important for the planning and implementation of prevention and health promotion programs. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with dental trauma in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy.

Material and methods

Cross‐sectional study with a non‐probabilistic sample of 80 patients aged 2–18 years was treated in a rehabilitation institution in northeastern Brazil. Caregivers completed a socioeconomic questionnaire, while oral exams were performed by a calibrated investigator (K = 0.75–1.00), with record of the Dental Trauma Index, DMFT and dmft, and Dental Aesthetics and malocclusion indices. Bivariate and multivariate Poisson regression analyses (α = 0.05) were performed with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 17.

Results

The prevalence of dental trauma was 36.3%, enamel fracture was the most common trauma (89.1%), and the upper central incisors were the most affected dental elements (63.0%). Patients with dental trauma were male, aged 7–18 years, with family income more than one minimum wage, caregiver's education over 4 years, increased overjet, lip hypotonia, quadriplegia, epilepsy, oral breathing, and severe communication skills. The presence of dental trauma was not associated with socioeconomic characteristics (gender, age, family income, and caregiver's educational level), oral health perception, and systemic and oral conditions (dental caries, malocclusion, and lip hypotonia) were evaluated (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The prevalence of dental trauma was high, but not associated with clinical variables and evaluated socioeconomic indicators.
A multicentre observational study for early diagnosis of Gaucher disease in patients with Splenomegaly and/or Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Motta Irene , Filocamo Mirella , Poggiali Erika , Stroppiano Marina , Dragani Alfredo , Consonni Dario , Barcellini Wilma , Gaidano Gianluca , Facchini Luca , Specchia Giorgina , Cappellini Maria Domenica ,   Splenomegaly Gaucher Disease study group
Published: June 2015

Gaucher disease (GD) is the most common lysosomal disorder resulting from deficient activity of the β‐glucosidase enzyme that causes accumulation of glucosylceramide in the macrophage–monocyte system. Notably, because of non‐specific symptoms and a lack of awareness, patients with GD experience long diagnostic delays. The aim of this study was to apply a diagnostic algorithm to identify GD type 1 among adults subjects referred to Italian haematology outpatient units because of splenomegaly and/or thrombocytopenia and, eventually, to estimate the prevalence of GD in this selected population. One hundred and ninety‐six subjects (61 females, 135 males; mean age 47.8 ± 18.2 years) have been enrolled in the study and tested for β‐glucosidase enzyme activity on dried blood spot (DBS). Seven of 196 patients have been diagnosed with GD, (5 females and 2 males) with mean age 31.8 ± 8.2 years, with a prevalence of 3.6% (with a prevalence of 3.6% (I95% CI 1.4–7.2; 1/28 patients) in this population. These results show that the use of an appropriate diagnostic algorithm and a simple diagnostic method, such as DBS, are important tools to facilitate the diagnosis of a rare disease even for not disease‐expert physicians.
Forage yield and chemical composition of canola (Brassica napus L.) as affected by sowing methods
Authors: Reta‐Sánchez D. G. , Serrato‐Corona J. S. , Quiroga‐Garza H. M. , Gaytán‐Mascorro A. , Figueroa‐Viramontes U.
Published: June 2015

The sowing method of spring‐type canola (Brassica napus L. var. oleifera) for forage has a major influence on its productivity and agronomic management. A field experiment was conducted in Matamoros, Coahuila, Mexico, during two growing seasons (2008–2009 and 2009–2010) to determine dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP) and net energy for lactation (NEL) yields, as well as canola forage chemical composition as a function of six sowing methods. The treatments assessed were broadcast sowing and five different row spacings: 0·19, 0·38, 0·57, 0·76 and 0·95 m (double row, 0·20 m apart). In the first year, with a mean growing season temperature of 17·2°C, sowing methods did not affect DM yield, but CP and NEL content and yield were higher in 0·19‐m row spacing. The mean temperature in the second year (13·5°C) was slightly lower than the long‐term mean (14·8°C) in the region, resulting in the highest DM (8840 kg ha−1), CP (2486 kg ha−1) and NEL yields (51 103 MJ ha−1) with 0·19‐m row spacing. In row‐sowing methods with over 0·19‐m row spacing, DM, CP and NEL yields decreased by 19·3–39·7, 20·4–42·1 and 21·2–42·7% respectively. Results indicate that sowing methods significantly affected canola forage productivity.
Is there still such a thing as the ‘European social model'?
Authors: Bilbao‐Ubillos Javier
Published: June 2015

This article presents a definition and characterisation of the ‘European social model’ (ESM), admitting the existence of variants and increasing heterogeneity in institutional and social contexts within the EU in the wake of successive enlargements. The constituent parts of the ESM are compared with data observed in the different countries, in search of empirical evidence of the ESM‘s position as a distinctive model of development, characteristic of Western Europe as opposed to the paths taken by other non‐European developed OECD countries.
Natural killer T cells in multiple sclerosis and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Van Kaer Luc , Wu Lan , Parekh Vrajesh V.
Published: June 2015

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes demyelination of neurons in the central nervous system. Traditional therapies for MS have involved anti‐inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs with significant side effects that often only provide short‐term relief. A more desirable outcome of immunotherapy would be to protect against disease before its clinical manifestation or to halt disease after its initiation. One attractive approach to accomplish this goal would be to restore tolerance by targeting immunoregulatory cell networks. Although much of the work in this area has focused on CD4+ Foxp3+ regulatory T cells, other studies have investigated natural killer T (NKT) cells, a subset of T cells that recognizes glycolipid antigens in the context of the CD1d glycoprotein. Studies with human MS patients have revealed alterations in the numbers and functions of NKT cells, which have been partially supported by studies with the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis model of MS. Additional studies have shown that activation of NKT cells with synthetic lipid antigens can, at least under certain experimental conditions, protect mice against the development of MS‐like disease. Although mechanisms of this protection remain to be fully investigated, current evidence suggests that it involves interactions with other immunoregulatory cell types such as regulatory T cells and immunosuppressive myeloid cells. These studies have provided a strong foundation for the rational design of NKT‐cell‐based immunotherapies for MS that induce tolerance while sparing overall immune function. Nevertheless, additional pre‐clinical and clinical studies will be required to bring this goal to fruition.
Interleukin‐10 plays a key role in the modulation of neutrophils recruitment and lung inflammation during infection by Streptococcus pneumoniae
Authors: Peñaloza Hernán F. , Nieto Pamela A. , Muñoz‐Durango Natalia , Salazar‐Echegarai Francisco J. , Torres Javiera , Parga María J. , Alvarez‐Lobos Manuel , Riedel Claudia A. , Kalergis Alexis M. , Bueno Susan M.
Published: June 2015

Streptococcus pneumoniae is a major aetiological agent of pneumonia worldwide, as well as otitis media, sinusitis, meningitis and sepsis. Recent reports have suggested that inflammation of lungs due to S. pneumoniae infection promotes bacterial dissemination and severe disease. However, the contribution of anti‐inflammatory molecules to the pathogenesis of S. pneumoniae remains unknown. To elucidate whether the production of the anti‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) is beneficial or detrimental for the host during pneumococcal pneumonia, we performed S. pneumoniae infections in mice lacking IL‐10 (IL‐10−/− mice). The IL‐10−/− mice showed increased mortality, higher expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, and an exacerbated recruitment of neutrophils into the lungs after S. pneumoniae infection. However, IL‐10−/− mice showed significantly lower bacterial loads in lungs, spleen, brain and blood, when compared with mice that produced this cytokine. Our results support the notion that production of IL‐10 during S. pneumoniae infection modulates the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and the infiltration of neutrophils into the lungs. This feature of IL‐10 is important to avoid excessive inflammation of tissues and to improve host survival, even though bacterial dissemination is less efficient in the absence of this cytokine.
Linking Physical Self‐Worth to Posttraumatic Growth in a Sample of Physically Active Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Castonguay Andrée L. , Crocker Peter R. E. , Hadd Valerie , McDonough Meghan H , Sabiston Catherine M.
Published: June 2015

Using a sample of physically active breast cancer survivors (N = 470), the associations between physical self‐worth, enduring stressors, and posttraumatic growth were examined based on thePositivePsychologicalGrowthModel. Structural equation modeling indicated that physical self‐worth accounted for a significant proportion of the variance in enduring stressors, and physical self‐worth and enduring stressors together accounted for significant variance in each of the dimensions of posttraumatic growth. These findings support the positive psychological growth model. Health care professionals and educators may benefit from considering the role of physical self and enduring stressors in the psychosocial health of breast cancer survivors.
Major Depressive Disorder and Public School Teachers: Evaluating Occupational and Health Predictors and Outcomes
Authors: Besse Robin , Howard Krista , Gonzalez Stephanie , Howard Jeffrey
Published: June 2015

This study aimed to examine workplace depression among public teachers. Up to 3,003 teachers completed an occupational health survey and Patient Health Questionnaire, which provided provisional diagnoses of major depressive disorder (MDD). Analyses explored key factors linked to MDD among teachers. Teachers more likely to meet MDD criteria were Hispanic, divorced, had less experience, taught at elementary level, reported low job satisfaction and control, and had higher absenteeism and increased likelihood of leaving the profession. Teachers with MDD had higher levels of perceived stress, anxiety, panic and somatization disorder, and lower quality of life. Workplace depression is associated with several variables, including job control, satisfaction, and mental and physical health. Future studies should address workplace interventions for educators.
Political Philosophy and the Real World of the Welfare State
Authors: Wolff Jonathan
Published: June 2015

What contribution can political philosophers make to policy questions, such as the best configuration of the welfare state? On one view, political philosophers set out abstract theories of justice that can guide policy makers in their attempt to transform existing institutions. Yet it rarely seems the case that such a model is used in practice, and it therefore becomes unclear how political philosophy can contribute to policy debates. Following a suggestion from Margaret MacDonald, I consider the view that political philosophers can contribute by drawing attention to relatively neglected values. I develop this view to add the possibility that political philosophers can try to correct a situation in which a particular value, though important, can come to be too highly emphasised. I illustrate the account by considering the rise of the value of ‘responsibility’ in the welfare state, and ultimately the damage that has been done to society to disadvantaged groups by the over‐insistence on the importance of responsibility.
How (Not) to Criticise Property‐Owning Democracy: A Response to Schemmel
Authors: Williamson Thad
Published: June 2015

Christian Schemmel makes a strong case that John Rawls underplayed the capacity of robust ‘universal welfare states’ to realise in practice liberal egalitarian principles of justice, and that improvements upon the best existing welfare states will more plausibly take the form of movement in the direction of democratic socialism rather than the more individualist regime that Rawls called a property‐owning democracy. Nonetheless, I do not believe it follows from these arguments (even if accepted) that highly unjust, deeply flawed welfare states such as the United States should first focus on developing a universal welfare state and leave thoughts of property‐owning democracy to the side for the foreseeable future.
Eroding Capitalism: A Comment on Stuart White's ‘Basic Capital in the Egalitarian Toolkit’
Authors: Wright Erik Olin
Published: June 2015

Stuart White argues that egalitarians need a diverse toolkit of policy proposals in order to move closer to a just economic system. In particular he argues that a policy of Basic Capital grants should be included in this toolkit along with a variety of other more familiar instruments such as unconditional Basic Income, welfare state services and income supports, and support for worker cooperatives. The various policies in the egalitarian toolkit, however, have implications for issues other than contributing to a more just economic system. In particular, they have implications for the long term stability, transformation, or even transcendence, of capitalism as an economic system. In this article I will argue that unconditional Basic Income has a greater potential to erode capitalism than does Basic Capital. While both of these policies in the egalitarian toolkit may make the economic system statically more just, over time Basic Capital grants are likely to strengthen capitalism as the core structure of the economic system, whereas unconditional Basic Income has the potential to erode the dominance of capitalism. As part of a long‐term project of human emancipation, therefore, unconditional Basic Income should have priority over Basic Capital.
Basic Capital in the Egalitarian Toolkit?
Authors: White Stuart
Published: June 2015

Under a basic capital grant policy (BC), every citizen receives a large capital grant as a right, typically in their early adulthood. Is BC part of the institutional framework of a just economy? Starting from John Rawls's discussion of just economic systems, this article clarifies Rawls's reasons for thinking we need to complement welfare state policies with property‐owning democracy and/or liberal socialist policies. It then seeks to clarify the grounds specifically for BC as a particular policy of the property‐owning democracy type, and considers in depth what it adds to a policy of basic income (a uniform, universal and unconditional income grant paid to all, possibly in some part as a share of the return on publicly‐owned wealth).
How (Not) to Criticise the Welfare State
Authors: Schemmel Christian
Published: June 2015

This article assesses John Rawls's case against the welfare state as a means for implementing socio‐economic justice, and for a ‘property‐owning democracy’, from both a normative and a methodological point of view. It points out several flaws of Rawls's critique of the welfare state, through a focus on an existing variety of it — a Swedish‐style universal welfare state — which can be said to be relatively successful, both in terms of normative merits (assessed on the basis of liberal egalitarian principles of social justice) and in terms of institutional stability and capacity for self‐perpetuation. On this basis, the article argues that a universal welfare state should constitute the institutional bedrock of Rawlsian social justice, even though it cannot completely fulfil all its requirements. It also develops some reasons to think that, in order to adequately and stably implement those requirements of Rawlsian justice that cannot be fulfilled even by a universal welfare state, the latter should be supplemented by democratic socialism, not by a ‘property‐owning democracy’.
Is Corporal Punishment Torturous?
Authors: Lenta Patrick
Published: June 2015

The aim of this article is to determine whether fixed courses of judicial corporal punishment (JCP) and non‐abusive corporal punishment of children (CPC) amount to torture. I assess the reasons that have been offered for distinguishing fixed courses of JCP from torture and argue that none is successful. I argue that non‐consensual JCP that inflicts severe pain is appropriately classifiable as torture, but that JCP that inflicts mild pain and entirely consensual JCP are not torturous. I consider whether any of the reasons offered for distinguishing JCP from torture can distinguish non‐abusive CPC from torture given certain important differences between CPC and JCP. I submit that none of these reasons is successful. I consider other possible reasons for distinguishing non‐abusive CPC that inflicts severe pain from torture and argue that none is successful. I conclude that fixed courses of non‐consensual JCP which inflict severe pain and non‐abusive CPC that inflicts severe pain are correctly classifiable as torture.
An experimental investigation into judgment and behavioral implications of disability‐based stereotypes in simulated work decisions: Evidence of shifting standards
Authors: Lynch Joel E. , Finkelstein Lisa M.
Published: June 2015

We investigated the explanatory relevance of the shifting standards model to the role of employee disability in two simulated organizational processes: (a) job performance appraisal and (b) resource allocation. Two experimental studies found evidence of the shifting standards effect—employees with and without a disability received similar ratings when subjective judgment standards were employed, but those without a disability received significantly higher performance ratings than their counterparts with a disability when rated with objective standards. Furthermore, the analysis of the ranking process on the dimension of deservingness of limited resources yielded evidence that disability‐related stereotypes can differentially affect perceptions of deservingness through the allocation of organizational resources.
Physician Acceptance of a Physician‐Pharmacist Collaborative Treatment Model for Hypertension Management in Primary Care
Authors: Smith Steven M. , Hasan Michaela , Huebschmann Amy G. , Penaloza Richard , Schorr‐Ratzlaff Wagner , Sieja Amber , Roscoe Nicholai , Trinkley Katy E.
Published: June 2015

Physician‐pharmacist collaborative care (PPCC) is effective in improving blood pressure (BP) control, but primary care provider (PCP) engagement in such models has not been well‐studied. The authors analyzed data from PPCC referrals to 108 PCPs, for patients with uncontrolled hypertension, assessing the proportion of referral requests approved, disapproved, and not responded to, and reasons for disapproval. Of 2232 persons with uncontrolled hypertension, PPCC referral requests were sent for 1516 (67.9%): 950 (62.7%) were approved, 406 (26.8%) were disapproved, and 160 (10.6%) received no response. Approval rates differed widely by PCP with a median approval rate of 75% (interquartile range, 41%–100%). The most common reasons for disapproval were: PCP prefers to manage hypertension (19%), and BP controlled per PCP (18%); 8% of cases were considered too complex for PPCC. Provider acceptance of a PPCC hypertension clinic was generally high and sustained but varied widely among PCPs. No single reason for disapproval predominated.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Using Watch‐PAT 200 Is Independently Associated With an Increase in Morning Blood Pressure Surge in Never‐Treated Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Cho Jung Sun , Ihm Sang‐Hyun , Kim Chan Joon , Park Mahn‐Won , Her Sung‐Ho , Park Gyung‐Min , Kim Tae‐Seok
Published: June 2015

This study aimed to examine the association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and morning blood pressure surge in never‐treated patients with essential hypertension. This prospective study included a total of 58 patients (mean age, 51.7 years; 55.2% men) with never‐treated essential hypertension. The patients were divided into non‐OSA (n=23, 49.3±12.7 years) and OSA (n=35, 53.2±9.8 years) groups. The OSA group was defined as having an apnea‐hypopnea index level >5 as measured by the Watch‐PAT 200. The authors collected 24‐hour ambulatory BP, plasma aldosterone concentration, and plasma renin activity data from all of the patients. The measured sleep‐trough morning systolic blood pressure (SBP) increases were higher in the OSA group than in the non‐OSA group (28.7±11.8 mm Hg vs 19.6±12.8 mm Hg, P=.008). The sleep‐trough morning SBP increase was inversely correlated with the lowest oxygen saturation (r=−0.272, P=.039). OSA known to be associated with increased daytime and nocturnal sympathetic activity was associated with significantly higher sleep‐trough morning SBP levels in this study.
Pulse Pressure and Cognitive Decline in Stroke Patients With White Matter Changes
Authors: Wang Zhaolu , Wong Adrian , Liu Wenyan , Yang Jie , Chu Winnie C.W. , Au Lisa , Lau Alexander , Xiong Yunyun , Mok Vincent C.T.
Published: June 2015

The authors hypothesized that both high and low pulse pressure (PP) may predict cognitive decline in stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA) patients with white matter changes (WMCs). The authors prospectively followed up 406 ischemic stroke/TIA patients with confluent WMCs over 18 months. PP was measured at 3 to 6 months after stroke/TIA and categorized into four groups by quartile. Cognition was assessed 3 to 6 months and 15 to 18 months after stroke/TIA using the Clinical Dementia Rating and Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE). Logistic regression showed that patients in the first quartile of PP had a 5.9‐fold higher risk for developing cognitive decline than patients in the third quartile (odds ratio, 5.9; 95% confidence interval, 1.7–20.6), while patients in the fourth quartile had a 3.5‐fold higher risk for cognitive decline than those in the third quartile (odds ratio, 3.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.0–12.4). This U‐shaped relationship was also evident between PP and cognitive decline in MMSE, underlining the role of arterial stiffness and hypoperfusion in cognitive decline related to small vessel disease.
Shade‐Matching Performance Using a New Light‐Correcting Device
Authors: Gasparik Cristina , Grecu Alexandru Graţian , Culic Bogdan , Badea Mîndra Eugenia , Dudea Diana
Published: June 2015

Purpose

To evaluate the shade‐matching performance of dental students when using a new light‐correcting device with polarization filter.

Materials and Methods

A total of 21 observers assessed the shade of the upper frontal teeth in one patient under three lighting conditions: daylight (A), daylight and a light‐correcting device (Smile Lite, Switzerland) (B), daylight and a light‐correcting device with a polarization filter attached (C) by using two shade guides: VITA Classical and 3D Master. Matching scores were calculated as a sum of the color differences between the reference shades and the selected shades (ΔEab*). Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) test (α = 0.05).

Results

A significant difference was found between the shade‐matching scores under the three lighting conditions (p < 0.001). However, pairwise comparisons showed that between A (ΔEab*A = 1,873.6) and C (ΔEab*C = 2,019.1), there was no significant difference (p > 0.05). The best matching scores were calculated for B (ΔEab*B = 1,652.5). Significant differences were found in respect to the observer's gender (p < 0.05) and color competency (p < 0.05), as well as with the shade guide used (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Dental students' shade‐matching ability was better when the light‐correcting device was used, but the addition of the filter to it did not prove beneficial. The shade guides used, the observer's gender, and color competency influenced the shade matching.

Clinical Significance

The light‐correcting device influenced the shade‐matching performance; however, the attached polarization filter did not improve the results of the shade matching.
Direct‐Indirect Class V Restorations: A Novel Approach for Treating Noncarious Cervical Lesions
Authors: Fahl Newton
Published: June 2015

Noncarious cervical lesions are highly prevalent and may have different etiologies. Regardless of their origin, be it acid erosion, abrasion, or abfraction, restoring these lesions can pose clinical challenges, including access to the lesion, field control, material placement and handling, marginal finishing, patient discomfort, and chair time. This paper describes a novel technique for minimizing these challenges and optimizing the restoration of noncarious cervical lesions using a technique the author describes as the class V direct‐indirect restoration. With this technique, clinicians can create precise extraoral margin finishing and polishing, while maintaining periodontal health and controlling polymerization shrinkage stress.

Clinical Significance

The clinical technique described in this article has the potential for being used routinely in treating noncarious cervical lesions, especially in cases without easy access and limited field control. Precise margin finishing and polishing is one of the greatest benefits of the class V direct‐indirect approach, as the author has seen it work successfully in his practice over the past five years.
Bulk‐fill Composites, Part I
Authors: Swift Edward J.
Published: June 2015

The Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry published a Critical Appraisal of bulk‐fill flowable composite resins by Dr. Ricardo Walter in early 2013 (JERD 2013;25(1):72–6). Since then, new bulk‐fill composite options have become available and have rapidly achieved great popularity. This two‐part Critical Appraisal reviews some of the more recent information on the various bulk‐fill options.
Gloss and Stain Resistance of Ceramic‐Polymer CAD/CAM Restorative Blocks
Authors: Lawson Nathaniel C. , Burgess John O.
Published: June 2015

Objective

To evaluate the gloss and stain resistance of several new ceramic‐polymer CAD/CAM blocks

Materials and Methods

Specimens (4 mm) were sectioned from: Enamic (polymer‐infused ceramic), LAVA Ultimate (nano‐ceramic reinforced polymer), e.max (lithium disilicate), Paradigm C (porcelain), and Paradigm MZ100 (composite). Specimens were wet polished on a polishing wheel to either 320 grit silicon paper (un‐polished, N = 8) or 2000 grit silicon carbide papers followed by a 0.05 μm alumina slurry (polished, N = 8). Initial gloss and color (L*a*b*) values were measured. Specimens were stored in a staining solution at 37°C in darkness for 12 days (simulating 1 year). After storage, L*a*b* values re‐measured. Change in color was reported as ΔE00 based on the CIEDE2000 formula. Gloss and ΔE00 were analyzed by two‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) (alpha = .05). Separate one‐way ANOVA and Tukey post‐hoc analyses were performed for both polish conditions and all materials.

Results

Two‐way ANOVA showed that factors material, polish and their interaction were significant for both gloss and ΔE00 (p < .01). Post‐hoc analysis reveals that polished specimens had significantly less color change than un‐polished specimens for Paradigm C and LAVA Ultimate. E.max had significantly higher gloss and less color change than all other materials.

Conclusion

The composition and polish of CAD/CAM materials affects gloss and stain resistance.

Clinical Significance

Ceramic‐polymer hybrid materials can achieve the high gloss required for esthetic restorations. These materials should be polished in order to minimize staining. If polished, all of the tested materials exhibited clinically acceptable color changes at 1 year of simulated staining. (J Esthet Restor Dent 28:S40–S45, 2016)
Contribution of water chemistry and fish condition to otolith chemistry: comparisons across salinity environments
Authors: Izzo C. , Doubleday Z. A. , Schultz A. G. , Woodcock S. H. , Gillanders B. M.
Published: June 2015

This study quantified the per cent contribution of water chemistry to otolith chemistry using enriched stable isotopes of strontium (86Sr) and barium (137Ba). Euryhaline barramundi Lates calcarifer, were reared in marine (salinity 40), estuarine (salinity 20) and freshwater (salinity 0) under different temperature treatments. To calculate the contribution of water to Sr and Ba in otoliths, enriched isotopes in the tank water and otoliths were quantified and fitted to isotope mixing models. Fulton's K and RNA:DNA were also measured to explore the influence of fish condition on sources of element uptake. Water was the predominant source of otolith Sr (between 65 and 99%) and Ba (between 64 and 89%) in all treatments, but contributions varied with temperature (for Ba), or interactively with temperature and salinity (for Sr). Fish condition indices were affected independently by the experimental rearing conditions, as RNA:DNA differed significantly among salinity treatments and Fulton's K was significantly different between temperature treatments. Regression analyses did not detect relations between fish condition and per cent contribution values. General linear models indicated that contributions from water chemistry to otolith chemistry were primarily influenced by temperature and secondly by fish condition, with a relatively minor influence of salinity. These results further the understanding of factors that affect otolith element uptake, highlighting the necessity to consider the influence of environment and fish condition when interpreting otolith element data to reconstruct the environmental histories of fish.
Physical Stability and Antimicrobial Activity of Encapsulated Cinnamaldehyde by Self‐Emulsifying Nanoemulsion
Authors: Tian Wei‐Lu , Lei Ling‐Ling , Zhang Qi , Li Yan
Published: June 2015

In the present study, natural cinnamaldehyde was encapsulated in self‐emulsifying emulsion systems. After optimization, the stability of encapsulated cinnamaldehyde was evaluated by dynamic light‐scattering and electronic nose. The antimicrobial activity of cinnamaldehyde was investigated by minimum inhibition concentration and time‐kill assay. The results showed that pure cinnamaldehyde as oil phase could not form stable emulsion under different oil‐to‐surfactant ratio. Stable cinnamaldehyde nanoemulsions were achieved with the addition of medium‐chain triglyceride. With the exception of temperature, the obtained nanoemulsions were stable against pH and NaCl. Phase separation was observed after 12 days of storage under 37C. Encapsulation efficiency of cinnamaldehyde in nanoemulsions was maintained around 80% within 1 week. Radar plots from electronic nose indicated that encapsulation could slow the release of cinnamaldehyde from nanoemulsion. Hence, the antimicrobial activity of cinnamaldehyde encapsulated in nanoemulsion could provide a long‐term inhibition on the bacterial growth of Escherichia coli compared with pure cinnamaldehyde.

Practical Applications

The applications of natural essential oils with their excellent antibacterial activities, such as cinnamon essential oils, as a food additive and green preservative are limited in the food systems, due to their highly instability against environmental conditions including temperature, light, air and others. The emulsification technique has been successfully utilized to overcome this drawback. However, it is known that emulsions with essential oils as oil phase will be highly unstable due to Ostwald ripening. Although the evaluation of the stability and bioactivities of encapsulated essential oil is an important and critical issue during the practical application, hence, studies of the physical properties such as environmental stability, volatility and antibacterial activity can explore the ideal formulation and applications of natural essential oils.
Rapid Identification of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas fluorescens Using Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Yilmaz Ayse Gamze , Temiz Havva Tumay , Acar Soykut Esra , Halkman Kadir , Boyaci Ismail Hakki
Published: June 2015

Rapid and accurate identification of Pseudomonas species, especially in drinking water, is of great importance for human health. In the present study, we aim to develop a fast and reliable verification method, which does not require intensive microbiological procedures. In this method, specific Raman spectra of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Burkholderia pseudomallei were collected directly from the medium and principal component analysis was used for the data mining process of collected Raman spectra. Application of Raman spectroscopy accompanied with principal component analysis enabled us to differentiate the two most dominant accompanying flora among pathogen Pseudomonas species. Based on Raman spectroscopy, an alternative cultivation‐free verification method with 15 min analysis time was developed. It is envisioned that using this method will also contribute to prevent the unnecessary closure of water wells.

Practical Applications

It is well known that Pseudomonas sp. is commonly found in water and their detection is significant in terms of human health. In the present study, a rapid and cultivation‐free verification method has been developed for the identification and differentiation of Pseudomonas sp. namely, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Burkholderia pseudomallei. The results of the study offer that Raman spectroscopy coupled with principal component analysis seems to be a simple alternative verification method with a shortened analysis time as low as 15 min.
Combined Effect of Bioactive Compounds and Storage Temperature on Sensory Quality and Safety of Minimally Processed Celery, Leek and Butternut Squash
Authors: Alvarez María V. , Ponce Alejandra G. , Moreira María R.
Published: June 2015

In this work, the combined effect of bioactive compounds (tea tree essential oil, propolis extract and gallic acid) and storage temperature (15 and 5C) on microbiological and sensory quality of fresh‐cut celery, leek and butternut squash was studied. It was confirmed that a good control of refrigeration temperature limits the growth of spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms. Tea tree essential oil and propolis showed significant effectiveness in controlling the microbiota present in vegetables. Also, both endogenous Escherichia coli and inoculated E. coli O157:H7 counts were significantly reduced in vegetables by the combined application of propolis and tea tree essential oil with optimal refrigeration temperature. Propolis improved visual quality extending the sensory shelf life of celery and butternut squash at 5C. Similar improvement effects were shown by tea tree essential oil when applied on leek and squash, at 5C. These findings strongly suggest that propolis and tea tree essential oil have potential to be good preservatives improving microbiological and sensory quality of celery, leek and squash.

Practical Applications

The industry of fresh‐cut produce confronts new challenges such as the development of technologies that allows the maintenance of fresh produce quality and extends its shelf life to reach more distant markets, ensuring the safety of products to protect the health of consumers. Thus, the development of natural food preservatives in the field of fresh produce responds to consumer demands of healthy and natural products. The findings reported in this work strongly suggest that propolis and tea tree essential oil have potential to be good preservatives improving microbiological and sensory quality of celery, leek and squash.
Cognitive Status According to Homocysteine and B‐Group Vitamins in Elderly Adults
Authors: Bonetti Francesco , Brombo Gloria , Magon Stefania , Zuliani Giovanni
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To determine the association between hyperhomocysteinemia and cognitive function, taking into account the effect of B group vitamin (BGV) deficiency.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Memory Clinic, S. Anna University Hospital, Ferrara, Italy.

Participants

Elderly individuals (≥65) (N = 318; 44 normal cognition, 127 with cognitive impairment, 147 with dementia) divided into four groups according to plasma homocysteine (high vs normal) and BGV (normal vs deficit) levels.

Measurements

Cognitive, clinical, biochemical, functional, and neuroimaging parameters were evaluated.

Results

Hyperhomocysteinemia (>15 μmol/L) was associated with a higher prevalence of cognitive and functional impairment and dementia (odds ratio (OR) = 1.98, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.13–3.48), independent of BGV status and other confounders. Participants with hyperhomocysteinemia with normal BGV status had the worst functional status and the highest prevalence of dementia (high homocysteine/normal BGV vs normal homocysteine/normal BGV: OR = 3.20, 95% CI = 1.65–6.21). Homocysteine levels were correlated negatively with folate and vitamin B12 levels and glomerular filtration rate and positively with free thyroxine and uric acid levels (model coefficient of determination = 0.43).

Conclusion

Hyperhomocysteinemia was associated with worse cognitive and functional status and dementia independently of BGV levels. Approximately half of participants with hyperhomocysteinemia had normal BGV levels, suggesting that other unmeasured factors might be associated with high homocysteine levels.
Healthcare Proxy Awareness of Suspected Infections in Nursing Home Residents with Advanced Dementia
Authors: Givens Jane L. , Spinella Sara , Ankuda Claire K. , D'Agata Erika , Shaffer Michele L. , Habtemariam Daniel , Mitchell Susan L.
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To determine healthcare proxy involvement in decision‐making regarding infections in individuals with advanced dementia.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Thirty‐five Boston‐area nursing homes (NHs).

Participants

NH residents with advanced dementia and their proxies (N = 362).

Measurements

Charts were abstracted monthly (up to 12 months) for documentation of suspected infections and provider–proxy discussions for each episode. Proxies were interviewed within 8 weeks of the infection to determine their awareness and decision‐making involvement. Factors associated with proxy awareness and discussion documentation were identified.

Results

There were 496 suspected infections; proxies were reached for interview for 395 (80%). Proxy–provider discussions were documented for 207 (52%) episodes, yet proxies were aware of only 156 (39%). Proxies participated in decision‐making for 89 (57%) episodes of which they were aware. Proxy awareness was associated with antimicrobial use (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.43, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.94–6.05), hospital transfer (AOR = 3.00, 95% CI = 1.19–7.53), infection within 30 days of death (AOR = 3.32, 95% CI = 1.54–7.18), and fewer days between infection and study interview (AOR = 2.71, 95% CI = 1.63–4.51). Discussion documentation was associated with the resident residing in a dementia special care unit (AOR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.04–2.80), the resident not on hospice (AOR = 3.25, 95% CI = 1.31–8.02), more provider visits (AOR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.07–2.75), proxy visits of more than 7 h/wk (AOR = 1.93, 95% CI = 1.02–3.67), and episode within 30 days of death (AOR = 3.99, 95% CI = 1.98–8.02).

Conclusion

Proxies are unaware of and do not participate in decision‐making for most suspected infections that NH residents with advanced dementia experience. Proxy awareness of episodes and documentation of provider–proxy discussions are not congruent.