bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between subjective and objective evaluation of peri‐implant soft tissue color
Authors: Paniz Gianluca , Bressan Eriberto , Stellini Edoardo , Romeo Eugenio , Lops Diego
Published: June 2013

Purpose

While extensive references are present in the literature dealing with the correlation between subjective and objective evaluation of tooth shade, there is a lack of information on this correlation regarding the soft tissue color. The purpose of this experimental study was to verify whether a correlation between the objective and subjective evaluation exists in analyzing soft tissue color.

Material and methods

A total of 39 patients with at least one implant‐supported restoration in the anterior maxilla were included in the study. The shade of the peri‐implant mucosa was compared with the shade of the gingiva at the adjacent tooth in a subjective and in an objective manner. The subjective evaluation was performed by five dental professionals (prosthodontist, periodontist, general dentist, dental hygienist, and dental assistant) in a subjective scale (ranging from 1 to 4). The objective evaluation was obtained by means of a spectrophotometer in a CIELAB* Color Scale, and the differences were evaluated through formula . To correlate the subjective and the objective evaluation, for each arithmetical median value of the subjective evaluation, a mean value of objective evaluation has been calculated, and the Spearman's rank correlation coefficient has been used. The differences have been also analyzed for thin and thick tissue biotypes.

Results

The mean ∆E value for the subjective evaluation between peri‐implant soft tissue and adjacent tooth gingival tissue was ∆E = 9.74. Also, mean ∆E values of 10.35 and 7.54 have been reported for thin and thick biotypes, respectively. Mean values of ∆E = 6.63, 8.54, and 15.54 were presented by median values of 1 (perfect matching), 2 (good matching), and 3 (clinically distinguishable), respectively. The threshold for the distinction of differences of mucosal color by the human eyes between perfect or good matching and distinguishable values has been calculated in ∆E = 8.74.

Conclusions

Within the limitation of this study, a correlation between the subjective and the objective evaluation of the peri‐implant soft tissue exists and the threshold for the distinction of mucosal color differences between perfect or good matching and distinguishable subjective values has been calculated in ∆E = 8.74 in the objective evaluation.
Modelling the properties of pigment‐dyed polyester/cotton sheeting fabrics by response surface methodology
Authors: Hussain Tanveer , Ahmad Maarij , Masood Rashid
Published: June 2013

The aim of this study was to model the effect of pigment, binder and fixer concentrations on the rubbing fastness, crease recovery, tear strength and stiffness of pigment‐dyed polyester/cotton sheeting fabrics. The design and analysis of experiments were carried out using Minitab® statistical software according to the central composite design of response surface methodology. It was found that an increase in the binder concentration significantly improves the dry rubbing fastness, crease recovery and stiffness of the fabric, with a corresponding decrease in fabric tear strength, without significantly affecting the wet rubbing fastness. An increase in the fixer concentration significantly improves both the dry and wet rubbing fastness and crease recovery, with a decrease in fabric tear strength and stiffness. The effect of binder and fixer concentrations on crease recovery was not linear and there was significant negative interaction between these factors for dry rubbing fastness. The effect of pigment concentration was not found to be statistically significant for the types and range of concentrations of pigment, binder and fixer used in this study.
Ultrathin endoscope‐assisted self‐expandable metallic stent placement following initial unsuccessful attempt in malignant upper gastrointestinal obstruction
Authors: Park Se Woo , Lee Hyuk , Park Jun Chul , Shin Sung Kwan , Lee Sang Kil , Lee Yong Chan
Published: June 2013

Background

Conventional endoscopy for self‐expandable metallic stent (SEMS) placement may be technically limited in long and tortuous strictures. Therefore, we analyzed the feasibility, safety and usefulness of ultrathin endoscopy (UTE)‐guided SEMS placement.

Patients and Methods

This study involved 24 patients with upper gastrointestinal obstruction and unsuccessful initial attempts to place SEMS using conventional endoscopy. After completely passing a UTE across the stricture, the UTE was withdrawn, leaving a guidewire placed via the working channel. Through‐the‐scope SEMS placement was done using a conventional endoscope inserted along the guidewire. The primary endpoints were assessed by technical/clinical success and stent patency duration.

Results

Stents were successfully placed at target locations in all but one case with a long tortuous stricture, with 95.8% (23/24) technical success. One week after stent placement, mean gastricoutlet obstruction score improved significantly from baseline (1.74 ± 0.62 and 0.33 ± 0.48, respectively; P < 0.001). Stent migration, restenosis, and fracture occurred in four (17.4%), six (26.1%), and one (4.3%) of 23 stents, respectively. Median stent patency duration was 79 days. Mean stent patency was significantly longer in patients who received palliative chemotherapy than in those who did not (122.9 ± 11.0 and 38.3 ± 4.6, respectively; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

UTE guidance SEMS delivery can be a feasible and safe rescue treatment method for malignant upper gastrointestinal obstruction in cases of failed attempts to place SEMS using conventional endoscopy. Our result warrants a further study to define the efficacy of this method in difficult SEMS placement cases.
Provision of long‐term care in relation to needs in urban and rural municipalities in Japan and Sweden
Authors: Lagergren Mårten , Kurube Noriko
Published: June 2013

Aim

The aim of the study was to establish whether there are differences in long‐term care (LTC) provision with regard to needs between rural and urban municipalities in Japan and Sweden, and we propose possible causes for these differences.

Methods

Using comparable datasets from Japan (n = 20 699) and Sweden (n = 17 576), the care systems have been compared on an individual level. The datasets each contain information from nine large urban, midsize urban and rural municipalities regarding disability levels and the LTC services provided.

Results

LTC users in the large urban municipalities in both countries are, on average, less disabled than users in the midsize urban and rural municipalities. In both countries, per capita costs for LTC were lower in the large urban municipalities than in the rural municipalities (10% and 14%, respectively). However, when standardized for the level of disability, the per capita costs were higher in the large urban municipalities (4% in both cases). Multivariate analysis showed that there were significant per capita cost differences between the large urban and the rural municipalities in Japan. In Sweden, there were no significant per capita cost differences between the different types of municipality when age, sex and disability differences were accounted for.

Conclusion

The findings seem to reflect the effect of differences in household structure, which in the large urban municipalities result in less access to informal LTC, thereby influencing the propensity to apply for formal, public LTC – especially for those with lesser needs. In Japan, where the number of extended family households is decreasing, this gives an idea of the future challenges facing LTC provision. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14: 315–327..
Underweight/overweight and the risk of long‐term care: Follow‐up study using data of the Japanese long‐term care insurance system
Authors: Honda Akiko , Tanabe Naohito , Seki Nao , Ogawa Yoshiko , Suzuki Hiroshi
Published: June 2013

Aim

Both being underweight and overweight can lead to reduced activity of daily living, which subsequently can require long‐term care. The aim of the present study was to clarify the association between underweight/overweight and the subsequent risk of long‐term care introduction.

Methods

We tracked the data of long‐term care insurance for 1580 men and women aged ≥65 years who had participated in the official population‐based health check‐up program in 2001 in Tsunan town and Sekikawa village, Japan. The health check‐up data and medical expenditure data for the fiscal year 2001 were used as baseline data. Participants were classified into underweight (body mass index (BMI) <18.5 kg/m2), normal range (BMI = 18.5 to <25.0 kg/m2) and overweight (BMI ≥25.0 kg/m2); the normal range was used as a reference category in Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

During the average 5.8 years of follow up, 156 participants were identified to start using long‐term care services. Among the young‐old elderly (65–74 years‐of‐age), underweight was significantly associated with the risk of long‐term care introduction (multivariable‐adjusted HR 4.26, 95% CI 1.69–10.72), whereas overweight was not (multivariable‐adjusted HR 1.45, 95% CI 0.69–3.06). Neither underweight nor overweight were significantly associated with long‐term care introduction among the old‐old elderly (≥75 years‐of‐age).

Conclusions

Underweight could be a good predictor of long‐term care introduction in the young‐old elderly. We should pay attention to underweight in the elderly, as it might be a manifestation of some physical or mental problems related to future long‐term care introduction. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14: 328–335.
Consequences of switching from prophylactic treatment to on‐demand treatment in late teens and early adults with severe haemophilia A: the TEEN/TWEN study
Authors: Manco‐Johnson M. J. , Sanders J. , Ewing N. , Rodriguez N. , Tarantino M. , Humphries T. ,   TEEN/TWEN Study Group
Published: June 2013

Although many people with haemophilia discontinue prophylaxis in their late teens or early adulthood, the consequences of this decision are largely not known. This 18‐month, observational, case‐controlled, multicentre study evaluated long‐term prophylaxis and the consequences of switching from prophylaxis to on‐demand treatment in late teens and young adults with severe haemophilia A. Participants with haemophilia (aged 14–29 years) on prophylaxis ≥60% of the time for the 5 years before study entry were enrolled into 1 of 2 prospective or 1 retrospective group. Group 1 was prophylaxis, group 2 had voluntarily discontinued prophylaxis ≤12 months before study entry and group 3 had voluntarily discontinued prophylaxis ≥13 months before study entry. Assessments included bleeding frequency (primary endpoint), Haemo‐QoL‐A health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) scores, Gilbert score, development of target joints, Haemophilia Activities List, Godin Leisure‐Time, treatment satisfaction and State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory (secondary and exploratory endpoints). Descriptive statistics were provided for all variables. Thirty‐eight participants (group 1, n = 22; group 2, n = 5; group 3, n = 11; median age, 19.5 years) were enrolled. The median annualized number of bleeding events was 0, 4.8 and 24 in groups 1, 2 and 3 respectively. HRQoL was lower in participants who discontinued prophylaxis vs. those who remained on prophylaxis. Changes in the remaining secondary and exploratory variables were small, but were generally worse in participants who discontinued prophylaxis. Following a switch from prophylaxis to on‐demand therapy, the number of bleeding events increased and HRQoL worsened in late teens and young adults with severe haemophilia A.
Indices of initial hepatitis C virus RNA reduction rate to predict efficacy of interferon‐beta followed by peginterferon plus ribavirin for genotype 1b high viral load
Authors: Okushin Hiroaki , Yamamoto Takeharu , Kishida Hiroshi , Morii Kazuhiko , Uesaka Koichi
Published: June 2013

Aim

Initial hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA reduction was investigated as a potential index for sustained virological response (SVR) in the treatment of interferon (IFN)‐β followed by peginterferon plus ribavirin (PEG IFN/RBV).

Methods

The treatment course was retrospectively analyzed in 64 genotype 1b patients with a HCV RNA level of 5.0 logIU/mL or higher. IFN‐β was administrated twice a day for 2 weeks followed by 24 or 48 weeks of PEG IFN/RBV. The serum HCV RNA level was measured by real‐time polymerase chain reaction before administration and at 1, 2 and 4 weeks of therapy.

Results

By the duration of PEG IFN administration, the SVR rates were 11% (2/18, <19 weeks), 64% (23/36, 20–24 weeks) and 40% (4/10, 25–72 weeks) (P = 0.0011, χ2‐test). The SVR rate was high in patients in whom the HCV RNA level had decreased by 2.5 logIU/mL or greater at 1 week of IFN‐β (29/55 [53%] vs 0/9 [0%], P = 0.0029, χ2‐test). Among these patients, the SVR rate was even higher in those with continuous reduction in the first 2 weeks after the switch to PEG IFN/RBV (27/45 [60%] vs 2/10 [20%], P = 0.0048). Age below 65 years, no previous IFN course and good initial HCV RNA reduction were significantly associated with SVR on multivariate analysis, and the SVR rate was 95% (18/19) among these patients.

Conclusion

The 2.5 logIU/mL reduction in HCV RNA at 1 week of IFN‐β and the continuous reduction just after the switch to PEG IFN/RBV are important SVR‐predictive indices.
Integration of pharmacists into general practice clinics in Australia: the views of general practitioners and pharmacists
Authors: Tan Edwin C K , Stewart Kay , Elliott Rohan A , George Johnson
Published: June 2013

Background

Pharmacists working collaboratively with general practitioners (GPs) in primary-care settings can improve patient outcomes; however, there are challenges to the implementation of collaborative services. A possible solution is the co-location of pharmacists within general practice clinics.

Objective

To elicit the views of GPs and pharmacists on the integration of pharmacists into general practice in Australia.

Methods

Semi-structured, individual interviews with a sample of 11 GPs and 16 pharmacists.

Key findings

Four major themes emerged: the current GP–pharmacist relationship; the role of the general practice pharmacist; the pros and cons of integration; and the barriers to and facilitators for integration. Most participants had experienced positive inter-professional relationships, though there were limitations in the collaborative services currently provided. Various methods of integration were discussed, including the co-location of pharmacists within practices. The potential roles for practice pharmacists were deemed to be multifaceted and in some cases allowed for role expansion. Although these roles were thought to offer potential benefits to practice staff, patients and pharmacists, they were also perceived to be potentially disadvantageous. The integration of pharmacists into general practice was believed to be hindered by limited funding and infrastructure and by practitioner perceptions. Various facilitating factors were proposed that could help ensure viability of the role.

Conclusions

Various roles and methods of integration were identified for pharmacists in general practice; however, a number of barriers and facilitators to integration would need to be considered to ensure viability of services. Future research should explore different methods of collaboration and trial their implementation.
Systemic perspective of violence and aggression in mental health care: Towards a more comprehensive understanding and conceptualization: Part 2
Authors: Cutcliffe John R. , Riahi Sanaz
Published: June 2013

This is the second of a two part paper which seeks to explore a wide range of phenomena that have been found to have an association with aggression and violence (A/V) in inpatient mental health care, synthesize these propositions according to fit or congruence into a systemic model of A/V, explore the empirical evidence pertaining to these propositions, and begin to consider application of this model to better inform our individual and/or organizational responses to A/V in mental health care. The systemic model is comprised of four thematic categories with part two of the paper focusing on the final two categories: mental health‐care system‐related phenomena and clinician‐related phenomena. The paper then discusses a number of implications arising out of embracing a more systemic model of A/V in mental health care. In broadening our understanding to include all the phenomena that contribute increased risk of A/V incidents, we are able to move away from inaccurate views that disproportionately assign ‘responsibility’ to clients for causing A/V when the evidence indicates that the client‐related phenomena may only account for a small portion of these incidents.
Rentensysteme und ihre Reformen auf der ganzen Welt: Ursachen, Trends und Herausforderungen
Authors: Holzmann Robert
Published: June 2013

Auszug

Die Rentensysteme und ihre Reformen befinden sich aufgrund sich verschiebender Schwerpunkte, verändertem Reformbedarf und sich wandelnder Umfeldfaktoren auf der ganzen Welt in stetigem Wandel. Diese Veränderungen widerspiegeln einerseits objektive Ereignisse und andererseits Veränderungen der Überzeugungen und Wahrnehmungen. Aufgrund der anhaltenden globalen Finanzkrise und der Anpassung an eine noch ungewisse „neue Normalität“ werden sich die Rentensysteme der Zukunft von denen der Vergangenheit unterscheiden. In diesem Artikel unterbreiten wir: i) eine Zusammenfassung der wichtigsten aktuellen Veränderungen, die zu Reformen führen, ii) eine Übersicht über die wesentlichen Reformtrends bei den unterschiedlichen Rentensäulen in den letzten zwei Jahrzehnten und iii) einen Überblick über die wichtigsten Aspekte, auf die sich die Verantwortlichen bei Rentenreformen konzentrieren müssen, um ihre Ziele zu erreichen.
Versicherungsmathematische Bilanzen für die Bewertung der Nachhaltigkeit von Rentensystemen der sozialen Sicherheit
Authors: Billig Assia , Ménard Jean‐Claude
Published: June 2013

Auszug

Die Auswahl einer geeigneten Methode zur Erstellung der Bilanz von Rentensystemen der sozialen Sicherheit hängt im Wesentlichen vom Finanzierungsverfahren eines jeweiligen Systems ab. In diesem Artikel wird am Beispiel des Canada Pension Plan dargelegt, dass die Methode, die für die Beurteilung der finanziellen Nachhaltigkeit von umlagebasierten Systemen oder teilweise kapitalgedeckten Systemen mithilfe einer versicherungsmathematischen Bilanz ausgewählt wird, zukünftige Beitragszahlungen aktueller und zukünftiger Teilnehmer berücksichtigen sollte. Es werden Bilanzen untersucht, die anhand eines Ansatzes mit offenen Gruppen erstellt werden, sowie in den USA und in Schweden verwendete Methoden.
Leistungsabhängigkeit: Die Vor‐ und Nachteile der Verwendung von Fallzahlen für nationale und internationale Vergleiche
Authors: De Deken Johan , Clasen Jochen
Published: June 2013

Auszug

In entwickelten Sozialstaaten sind Entscheidungsträger zunehmend besorgt darüber, dass zahlreiche Menschen im arbeitsfähigen Alter eine Unterstützung durch die soziale Sicherheit beantragen. In der Folge sind Strategien zur Verringerung der Zahl der „Leistungsabhängigen“ vermehrt in den Blickpunkt gerückt. Diese Strategien sind allerdings empirisch nicht sehr zuverlässig hergeleitet. Nur selten werden nationale Falldaten systematisch gesammelt, die Programme der sozialen Sicherheit überschneiden sich oft und die administrativen Kategorien verändern sich über die Zeit. Eine weitere Schwierigkeit für länderübergreifende Vergleiche entsteht durch die international uneinheitliche Kategorisierung der Transferprogramme. Dieser Artikel beschreibt und diskutiert zunächst einige dieser Probleme und zeigt Wege auf, wie sie angegangen werden können. Sodann wird anhand administrativer Antragstellerdaten aus sechs europäischen Ländern aufgezeigt, welche Trends über die Zeit und in den verschiedenen Ländern bestehen. Vorrangig soll ermittelt werden, wie groß das wissenschaftliche Potenzial ist für die Nutzung von Leistungsempfängerzahlen als Indikator für den Wandel des Sozialstaats über die Zeit und über die Länder hinweg.
Trends in immediate perioperative morbidity and delay in discharge after open and minimally invasive radical prostatectomy (RP): a 20‐year institutional experience
Authors: Pierorazio Phillip M. , Mullins Jeffrey K. , Ross Ashley E. , Hyams Elias S. , Partin Alan W. , Han Misop , Walsh Patrick C. , Schaeffer Edward M. , Pavlovich Christian P. , Allaf Mohamad E. , Bivalacqua Trinity J.
Published: June 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Standard clinical care pathways to discharge have been established for a number of operations including radical prostatectomy (RP). The pathway after RP has changed dramatically over the past two decades due to improvements in surgical technique, anaesthesia and most recently, the introduction of minimally invasive RP (MIRP).

This study adds evidence that the emergence of MIRP is associated with a decrease in LOS for all patients undergoing RP. In addition, it catalogues the development of the clinical care pathway over 20 years at a large, tertiary care hospital with extensive experience in RP. Finally, it defines the common reasons patients fall ‘off‐pathway’ (ileus, urine leak, anaemia and re‐exploration for bleeding) and defines the immediate perioperative morbidity profile of RP. Specifically, it addresses approach‐specific morbidities and indicates that MIRP is associated with higher rates of ‘off‐pathway’ discharge, most often due to ileus.

Objective

To investigate the development of the clinical care pathway to discharge after radical prostatectomy (RP) at a large, academic medical centre over the past 20 years, focusing on the rates and reasons for deviation.

Patients and Methods

In all, 18 049 men were identified from the Johns Hopkins RP database who had undergone surgery since 1991.

Patients in whom the length of stay (LOS) was ≤95th percentile, defined the clinical care pathway to discharge and those in whom LOS was ≥98th percentile were termed ‘off‐pathway’.

Results

The mean LOS decreased from 7.7 days in 1991 to 1.6 days in 2010.

Of 7126 patients undergoing RP since 2005, 1803(25.3%), 4881(68.5%) and 312 (4.4%) were discharged on postoperative day (POD) 1, 2 and 3, respectively; 126 (1.8%) patients, discharged on POD4–21 were ‘off‐pathway’.

The most common reasons for delay of discharge were ileus (44, 0.615%), urine leak (12, 0.17%), anaemia requiring blood transfusion (nine, 0.126%) and bleeding requiring re‐exploration (six, 0.08%).

The proportion of patients ‘off‐pathway’ was 1.20%, 1.06% and 4.01% for retropubic RP (RRP), laparoscopic RP (LRP) and robot‐assisted laparoscopic RP (RALRP), respectively (P < 0.001).

Ileus delayed discharge in 0.28%, 0.37% and 1.9% of patients undergoing RRP, LRP and RALRP, respectively (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The clinical care pathway to discharge after RP has changed dramatically at our institution over the past 20 years.

RALRP appears to result in a higher proportion of ‘off‐pathway’ patients, primarily due to ileus, compared with RRP and LRP. However, very few patients were discharged ‘off‐pathway’.
Serum Biochemical Parameters Following Heroin Withdrawal: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Divsalar Kouros , Meymandi Manzumeh Shamsi , Afarinesh Mohammadreza , Zarandi Mahdi Mahmoudi , Haghpanah Tahereh , Keyhanfar Fariborz , Mahmoodi Majid , Kruszewski Stefan P.
Published: June 2013

Background

Long‐term consumption of opioid compounds, even after withdrawal, affects serum biochemical parameters. Investigating these alterations is a new approach in substance abuse studies.

Method

This study investigated clinical laboratory results in men who are currently active, recently abstinent and non‐heroin users. Participants (N = 240) of this matched cohort study included heroin dependent men referred for abstinence treatment, volunteer men who did not abuse opioids matched for age, sex, body mass index, and educational level (control group). The groups were further sub‐divided for analysis into (a) continuous heroin users for more than 2 years (N = 70), the dependent group; (b) heroin abusers with 1 month abstinence period (N = 70), identified as ex‐heroin dependents; and (c) a matched, non‐dependent control group (N = 100). All participants were tested for fasting blood sugar (FBS), sodium, potassium, calcium, uric acid (UA), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, total cholesterol, triglycerides (TGs), total protein, fibrinogen, and prothrombin.

Results

Compared to the control group, ex‐heroin dependents showed decreased FBS and significantly higher sodium, creatinine, and cholesterol levels. Compared to the heroin dependent group, the ex‐heroin dependents showed significant differences in FBS, sodium, calcium, creatinine, UA, and thrombin time. No significant differences were noted between ex‐heroin dependents and controls in potassium, calcium, UA, BUN, TGs, total protein, and thrombin time.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate altered laboratory markers in long‐term heroin dependents as well as ex‐heroin dependents and suggest the need for further identification, population distribution, and etiological understanding of these biomarkers in individuals who have abused heroin. (Am J Addict 2014;23:48–52)
Mechanisms of Parenchymal Cell Death In‐Vivo after Microvascular Hemorrhage
Authors: WILMS HERBERT , DELANO FRANK A. , SCHMID‐SCHÖNBEIN GEERT W.
Published: June 2013

Objective: In vitro studies suggest that microhemorrhages with escape of red cells into the tissue may be cytotoxic to parenchymal cells due to oxygen free radical formation. We examined in the rat mesentery the impact of microhemorrhages on parenchymal cell death, as detected by propidium iodide staining, using an intravital approach.

Methods and Results: Postcapillary venules were punctured with a closed‐end micropipette, permitting escape of blood cells and plasma into the mesentery interstitium. Over a period of 2 h, no significant increase in parenchymal cell death was encountered in tissues with hemorrhagic sites compared with non‐hemorrhagic control sites. Interstitial microinjections of plasma derived from whole blood incubated for several hours with and without a combination of sodium azide (2mM) and hydrogen peroxide (1 mM) led to significantly increased levels of cell death compared to control experiments. Interventions against the hydroxyl radical with dimethylthiourea (DMTU, 2 mM) or 2,2′‐dipyridyl (DPD, 2 mM), a lipid soluble iron chelator, provided no protective effect against the parenchymal cell death. DMTU slightly delayed the cytotoxic reaction.

Conclusions: These observations suggest that a newly formed microhemorrhage is not necessarily cytotoxic to parenchymal tissue cells. Interstitial microinjections of plasma, derived from whole blood after prolonged exposure to oxygen free radicals or just aging under in vitro conditions, may be cytotoxic to mesenteric parenchymal cells without effective blockade by interventions against the hydroxyl radical.
The Inflammatory Reaction During Venous Hypertension in the Rat
Authors: TAKASE SHINYA , LEROND LAURANCE , BERGAN JOHN J. , SCHMID‐SCHÖNBEIN GEERT W.
Published: June 2013

Objective: Numerous studies have examined arterial occlusion followed by reperfusion but few studies have reported about venular occlusion which, in contrast to arterial occlusion, is associated with elevation of the capillary blood pressure. Here we examine leukocytes infiltration and tissue injury in rat mesentery during local venular occlusion and venous hypertension followed by reperfusion, and determine the level of protection offered by pretreatment with micronized, purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF).

Methods: Leukocyte rolling, adhesion, migration, and parenchymal cell death as detected by propidium iodide labeling were determined during venular occlusion using a micropipette followed by reperfusion in the rat mesenteric microcirculation pretreated with 0, 50, or 100 mg/kg MPFF for 7 days. Spontaneous leukocyte activation by nitroblue tetrazolium reduction and expression of CD18 and CD62L on naive donor neutrophils incubated with plasma from each treatment group were determined.

Results: Venous occlusion led to elevated levels of leukocyte rolling, adhesion, and migration as well as parenchymal cell death. These injurious processes were significantly inhibited by MPFF in a dose‐dependent fashion. MPFF reduced spontaneous leukocyte NBT reduction and the neutrophil expression of CD62L, even though CD18 was not affected.

Conclusion: These results suggested that microvascular occlusion in venules with elevation of the micropressure followed by reperfusion is a highly cytotoxic process in the rat mesentery which can be attenuated by MPFF pretreatment.
Early Pliocene range expansion of a clade of subterranean Pyrenean beetles
Authors: Rizzo Valeria , Comas Jordi , Fadrique Floren , Fresneda Javier , Ribera Ignacio
Published: June 2013

Aim

To investigate the possibility of range expansion and diversification within the subterranean environment in a genus of troglobiont beetles of the family Leiodidae (Troglocharinus), which have a disjunct distribution between the Pyrenees and the Catalonian coast.

Location

North‐eastern Iberian Peninsula.

Methods

We sequenced 4 kb of five mitochondrial and two nuclear genes of 50 specimens of 12 of the 18 species of Troglocharinus, plus several outgroups. We reconstructed a phylogeny using Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood, estimated divergence times using Bayesian probabilities and an a priori evolutionary rate, compared the diversification of the main clades within the genus, and reconstructed their ancestral distribution using maximum likelihood.

Results

We found strong support for the monophyly of Troglocharinus and the clades in each of the geographical areas, which diverged in the early Pliocene. The coastal clade was further divided into geographically well‐defined lineages, separated by Quaternary deposits. The origin of the coastal clade was a single colonization in the early Pliocene from the central Pyrenees. The diversification of the Pyrenean clade followed a constant rate, while the diversification rate of the coastal clade significantly decreased through the Plio‐Pleistocene transition.

Main conclusions

Troglocharinus expanded its range from its ancestral area in the central Pyrenees to the coast of Catalonia and subsequently diversified, probably within the subterranean environment. Our favoured scenario is a stepping‐stone migration, with possibly short‐distance dispersals through the surface, along the eastern margin of the north‐eastern Ebro basin. The range expansion took place in a narrow temporal window with favourable conditions between the early Pliocene and the onset of the Mediterranean climate by the mid‐Pliocene. Surface dispersal was probably severely limited afterwards, as shown by the fragmentation of the coastal lineage.
Where Do We Go From Here? Progressing Sustainability Implementation Efforts Across Supply Chains
Authors: Brockhaus Sebastian , Kersten Wolfgang , Knemeyer A. Michael
Published: June 2013

The findings from an inductive study conducted in the United States and Europe focused on sustainability implementation efforts across supply chains are reported. In particular, the study focuses on developing a better understanding of: “how do companies involve other members of their supply chain into their sustainability efforts?” Building upon themes that emerged from the data, a typology for the supply chain implementation of sustainability initiatives is proposed. A lack of supply chain integration was identified and companies reported a tendency toward a “mandated” implementation when extending efforts across companies. These efforts are generally initiated by the dominant companies and then forced onto the weaker upstream members. The data suggests that the merits of these initiatives are viewed as being disproportionately awarded to the dominant firm and thus did not receive full buy‐in from the other party. A common vision by both sides of this relationship is to develop a more collaborative implementation that can be supported by all the involved parties. In theoretical implications, empirical findings are viewed through the lens of several prominent management theories in order to augment and elaborate current theory. Managerial implications, limitations, and opportunities for further research are detailed.
Historical Reflection on Health Promotion Within Midwifery Care in the United States
Authors: Walsh Linda V.
Published: June 2013

Heath promotion has become recognized as a vital component of health care delivery. It is well known that the traditional model of medical care delivery is limited by its focus on diagnosis of illness and treatment. The integration of public health concepts of prevention and health promotion offers depth and breadth of care that is associated with attaining optimal health status. This review offers a historical reflection on the early and continued integration of health promotion activities in midwifery care in the United States.
Evaluation of Metal Ion Release from Ti6Al4V and Co‐Cr‐Mo Casting Alloys: In Vivo and In Vitro Study
Authors: El Sawy Amal A. , Shaarawy Mohammed A.
Published: June 2013

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the amount of ions released from Ti6Al4V and Co‐Cr‐Mo alloys both in vivo and in vitro.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐one discs of each alloy were constructed and divided into seven groups. Three specimens from each group were immersed in a buffered saline solution over a period of 1, 3, 5, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. Twenty‐eight participants were also included in the study, where the study group consisted of 14 mandibular partially edentulous patients, and the control group consisted of 14 volunteers. The study group was further divided into two equal groups: the first group received removable partial dentures (RPDs) constructed from Co‐Cr‐Mo alloy, while the second group received RPDs constructed from Ti6Al4V alloy. Saliva samples were collected from each participant over the same study period. The conditioning media and saliva samples were analyzed using a spectrophotometer. One‐way ANOVA and Tukey tests were used for statistical analysis (p < 0.05).

Results

The concentrations of metal ions released from the studied alloys were significantly higher in the in vitro than in the in vivo study group during the follow‐up periods. A statistically significant increase in ion concentrations of the different elements for both alloys was found with time (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The amounts of released metallic ions from Co‐Cr‐Mo and Ti6Al4V alloys were higher in the buffered saline solutions than in the studied saliva samples and control groups; however, these amounts were still within the physiological limit of trace elements in the human body.
The Active Patient Role and Asthma Outcomes in an Underserved Rural Community
Authors: Young Henry N. , Larson Tonja L. , Cox Elizabeth D. , Moreno Megan A. , Thorpe Joshua M. , MacKinnon Neil J.
Published: June 2013

Purpose

Patient activation, an individual's knowledge, skills, and confidence for managing their own health and health care, can play an important role in the management of chronic conditions. However, few studies have examined patient activation in underserved rural communities. The purpose of this study was to describe patient activation and examine how patient activation is associated with adherence to asthma maintenance medication and disease control in a low‐income rural population with asthma.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional telephone survey with 98 adults. Patient activation was assessed with the Patient Activation Measure. Adherence to long‐term controller (LTC) medications and asthma control were examined using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS) and Asthma Control Test (ACT). Multivariate regression analyses were used to assess the associations between patient activation and: (1) adherence to LTC medications and (2) asthma control.

Findings

The majority of participants (50%) were classified in the highest level of patient activation. The least activated participants had lower mean MMAS and ACT scores in comparison to participants who were classified in higher patient activation levels. Multivariate analyses found significant positive associations between patient activation and adherence and asthma control.

Conclusions

Patient activation may be instrumental in low‐income rural patients’ use of asthma medication and disease control. Study results inform interventions to help patients use asthma medications appropriately and achieve better asthma control. In addition to increasing access to health care services in rural communities, health care professionals also may develop and implement strategies to positively impact rural patients’ involvement in care.
Golgi organization and the apical extension of fungal hyphae: an essential relationship
Authors: Harris Steven D.
Published: June 2013

The Golgi apparatus performs crucial functions in the sorting and processing of proteins destined for secretion from eukaryotic cells. In filamentous fungi, organization of the Golgi apparatus reflects the unique challenges brought about by the highly polarized nature of hyphal growth. Recent results show that Golgi compartments are spatially segregated within hyphal tip cells in a manner that depends upon the integrity of the cytoskeleton. Moreover, loss of normal Golgi organization stops polarized hyphal extension and triggers de‐polarization of the hyphal tip. These results emphasize the point that a spatially organized and dynamic Golgi apparatus represents an adaptation that is as important for hyphal extension as is the presence of a Spitzenkörper. In addition, they also identify regulatory mechanisms that could enable controlled de‐polarization of hyphae during development or infection‐related morphogenesis.
Dysfunction of the PI3K–Akt–GSK‐3 pathway is a common feature in cell culture and in vivo models of prion disease
Authors: Simon D. , Herva M. E. , Benitez M. J. , Garrido J. J. , Rojo A. I. , Cuadrado A. , Torres J. M. , Wandosell F.
Published: June 2013

Aims

Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies, also called prion diseases, are characterized by the cerebral accumulation of misfolded prion protein (PrPSC) and subsequent neurodegeneration. However, despite considerable research effort, the molecular mechanisms underlying prion‐induced neurodegeneration are poorly understood. Here, we explore the hypothesis that prions induce dysfunction of the PI3K/Akt/GSK‐3 signalling pathway.

Methods

We employed two parallel approaches. Using cell cultures derived from mouse primary neurones and from a human neuronal cell line, we identified common elements that were modified by the neurotoxic fragment of PrP106–126. These studies were then complemented by comparative analyses in a mouse model of prion infection.

Results

The presence of a polymerized fragment of the prion protein (PrP106–126) or of a prion strain altered PI3K‐mediated signalling, as evidenced by Akt inhibition and GSK‐3 activation. PI3K activation by the addition of insulin or the expression of a constitutively active Akt mutant restored normal levels of Akt and GSK‐3 activity. These changes were correlated with a reduction in caspase activity and an increase in neuronal survival. Moreover, we found that activation of caspase 3, Erk and GSK‐3 are common features of PrP106–126‐mediated neurotoxicity in cellular systems and prion infection in the mouse cerebellum, while activation of caspase 12 and JNK was observed in cellular models.

Conclusions

Our findings in cell culture and in vivo models of prion disease demonstrate marked alterations to the PI3K/Akt/GSK‐3 pathway and suggest that two additional pathways contribute to PrP‐induced neurotoxicity as responsible of JNK and caspase 12 activation.
Jon Driver: a tribute
Authors: Shallice Tim
Published: June 2013

Professor Jon Driver made significant contributions to cognitive neuroscience. This paper pays tribute to that work and to the personal qualities of Jon that so many of his colleagues were fortunate enough to experience.
Decomposing oil use per vehicle in modelling oil demand in the US road transportation
Authors: Mazraati Mohammad
Published: June 2013

Oil demand growth, driven by transportation sector, were affected by many variables including the number of vehicle on road, average vehicle mile travelled, average fuel economy of the vehicle stock and alternative fuels in the transportation sector. The amount of oil either avoided due to penetration of advanced technologies or replaced by consumption of alternative fuels will affect the so‐called oil consumption per vehicle (OPV) variable. This is a vital variable in forecasting oil demand in large models through vehicle stock model. This paper tries to show that by decomposing the OPV variable, the impact of alternative fuels and advanced technologies on oil demand in road transportation can be better traced. Decomposition of the US road fuel consumption shows that more than 2.5 million barrels of oil equivalent per day will be avoided or replaced by 2035 due to the penetration of alternative fuels and advanced technology vehicles. The annual average decline rate of OPV in United States could be −1.5 per cent, −1.3 per cent and −1.1 per cent, in the high, low and medium scenarios, respectively, in the period from 2009 to 2035 depending on the past alternative and advanced technologies are penetrating. It illustrates the huge uncertainty that facing future oil demand forecast in road transportation even in the case of OPV decomposition.
Econometric modelling of world oil supplies: terminal price and the time to depletion
Authors: Mohaddes Kamiar
Published: June 2013

This paper develops a novel approach by which to identify the price of oil at the time of depletion; the so‐called ‘terminal price’ of oil. It is shown that while the terminal price is independent of both gross domestic product growth and the price elasticity of energy demand, it is dependent on the world real interest rate and the total lifetime stock of oil resources, as well as on the marginal extraction and scarcity cost parameters. The theoretical predictions of this model are evaluated using data on the cost of extraction, cumulative production and proven reserves. The predicted terminal prices seem sensible for a range of parameters and variables, as illustrated by the sensitivity analysis. Using the terminal price of oil, we calculate the time to depletion and determine the extraction and price profiles over the lifetime of the resource. The extraction profiles generated seem to be in line with the actual production and the predicted prices are generally in line with those currently observed.
Experiences of long term ongoing structured support in early stage of dementia – a case study
Authors: Kjallman Alm Annika , Hellzen Ove , Norbergh Karl‐Gustaf
Published: June 2013

Background

The prevalence of dementia diseases is increasing worldwide with advancing age and growing populations. In Sweden alone, which currently has a population of approximately 9 million people, there are about 25 000 persons diagnosed each year with a dementia. Consequently, after such a diagnosis, there is a need for support. The recipients of that support include next of kin who seek a variety of information, including potential lifestyle changes and ways of dealing with personality changes in their loved one who has a dementia.

Aims and objectives

The aim was to explore four couples experiences in long‐term ongoing structured support groups.

Design

A single‐case study using semi‐structured interviews supported by ‘diary notes’ maintained by each participating couple were used. Method: Semi‐structured interviews were analysed using content analysis.

Result

Three categories represent the findings across the four cases: Knowledge about the disease, Sense of comfort and support, and, Kinship through shared experiences. One category, Longing for kinship was created exclusively for one of the couples. Viewing the emerging categories from a healthy ageing perspective, both comfort and support and kinship through shared experiences can be considered as components of larger themes of support and social interaction.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that structured support groups are a good way to encourage discussions, allow persons with dementia to express themselves and support healthy ageing among partners.

Implications for practice

Facilitators, regardless of whether they are social workers or Registered Nurses, should be trained in group processes to enable individuals in a group to communicate and find meaning in their experiences.
Functional relationships between plant feeding and prey feeding for a zoophytophagous bug
Authors: HAMDI FATEN , CHADOEUF JOEL , BONATO OLIVIER
Published: June 2013

The consumption of plants by the zoophytophagous bug Macrolophus pygmaeus Rambur (Heteroptera : Miridae) in relation to the presence or absence of prey is monitored for 7 days. Tobacco plants enriched with 15N, a stable, nonradioactive isotope of nitrogen, are used for characterization. In the absence of prey, the relationship between time and 15N content (which equates to plant feeding) is linear, with a constant daily accumulation of 15N; however, if prey are available, the mathematical relationship becomes curvilinear. From day 1 to day 5, feeding on plants is independent of the consumption of prey. The rate of 15N accumulation decreases in the presence of prey after day 5, whereas the number of prey eaten remains unchanged.
Symbiosis Between Photoactive Nanoparticles and their Organic Ligands
Authors: Pérez‐Prieto Julia
Published: June 2013

Photoactive spherical metal and semiconductor nanoparticles (NPs) are smart systems that exhibit unique properties, such as a high surface‐to‐volume ratio, a broad absorption spectrum and size‐dependent properties. They are capped with a considerable number of ligands required to give rise to stable organic and aqueous NP colloidal solutions. In addition, the ligands can also be used to introduce functionality at the NP periphery. In this case, the NP could act as a 3D‐scaffold, which would make a high local concentration of a functional moiety at the NP periphery possible, moreover, the photophysical properties of the NP could be tuned. The combined action of the organic capping and the inorganic core can exert an encapsulating effect, i.e. the organic capping could establish specific interactions with nearby molecules and this would enable the molecules to approach or interact with the NP surface. Therefore, the NP core and the ligand can work together providing the overall hybrid system with new properties or capacities. The relevance of the cooperative action between the spherical photoactive core and the capping are shown in this report with several recent examples developed by my research group, some of them in collaboration with other groups.