bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Middle Childhood: An Evolutionary‐Developmental Synthesis
Authors: Del Giudice Marco
Published: September 2014

Middle childhood is a crucial phase of human development characterized by a global shift in cognition, motivation, and social behavior. In this article, I review recent work on middle childhood from an evolutionary‐developmental perspective and show how contributions from a range of disciplines can be synthesized into an integrated model of this life stage. I begin by reviewing the main evolved functions of middle childhood and the underlying hormonal mechanism of adrenarche. Then, I introduce the idea that the transition to middle childhood works as a switch point in the development of life history strategies. Finally, I discuss three insights into the nature of middle childhood that arise from an integrated approach.
The Costs and Benefits of Development: The Transition From Crawling to Walking
Authors: Adolph Karen E. , Tamis‐LeMonda Catherine S.
Published: September 2014

The transition from crawling to walking requires infants to relinquish their status as experienced, highly skilled crawlers in favor of being inexperienced, low‐skilled walkers. Yet infants willingly undergo this developmental transition, despite incurring costs of shaky steps, frequent falls, and inability to gauge affordances for action in their new upright posture. Why do infants persist with walking when crawling serves the purpose of independent mobility? In this article, we present an integrative analysis of the costs and benefits associated with crawling and walking that challenges prior assumptions, and reveals deficits of crawling and benefits of upright locomotion that were previously overlooked. Inquiry into multiple domains of development reveals that the benefits of persisting with walking outweigh the costs: Compared to crawlers, walking infants cover more space more quickly, experience richer visual input, access and play more with distant objects, and interact in qualitatively new ways with caregivers.
Determinants of physical and mental health complaints in dentists: a systematic review
Authors: de Ruijter Rolf A. G. , Stegenga Boudewijn , Schaub Rob M. H. , Reneman Michiel F. , Middel Berrie
Published: September 2014

Occupational determinants of ill health in dentists were systematically reviewed in literature. The methodological quality of the studies was evaluated. Studies were included if they evaluated health‐related risk factors in dental practice by means of quantitative methods and statistical analysis of collected data. Despite all the factors affecting dentists' physical and mental health, evidence of the predictive value of all these risk factors remains scarce. More than one‐third (37%) of the studies appraised were found to be low quality research (weak or invalid). Results from studies investigating the factors associated with ill health in dentists do not allow for conclusions at the meta‐level. More prospective and retrospective case‐control studies should be conducted and attention should be paid to measuring outcomes with validated instruments to enable comparative studies and statistical summation of findings.
Heparin-coated cardiopulmonary bypass circuits selectively deplete the pattern recognition molecule ficolin-2 of the lectin complement pathway in vivo
Authors: Hein E , Munthe-Fog L , Thiara A S , Fiane A E , Mollnes T E , Garred P
Published: September 2014

The complement system can be activated via the lectin pathway by the recognition molecules mannose-binding lectin (MBL) and the ficolins. Ficolin-2 exhibits binding against a broad range of ligands, including biomaterials in vitro, and low ficolin-2 levels are associated with increased risk of infections. Thus, we investigated the biocompatibility of the recognition molecules of the lectin pathway in two different types of cardiopulmonary bypass circuits. Bloods were drawn at five time-points before, during and postoperatively from 30 patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery. Patients were randomized into two groups using different coatings of cardiopulmonary bypass circuits, Phisio® (phosphorylcholine polymer coating) and Bioline® (albumin-heparin coating). Concentrations of MBL, ficolin-1, −2 and −3 and soluble C3a and terminal complement complex (TCC) in plasma samples were measured. Ficolin-3-mediated complement activation potential was evaluated with C4, C3 and TCC as output. There was no significant difference between the two circuit materials regarding MBL, ficolin-1 and −3. In the Bioline® group the ficolin-2 levels decreased significantly after initiation of surgery (P < 0·0001) and remained reduced throughout the sampling period. This was not seen for Phisio®-coated circuits. Ficolin-3-mediated complement activation potential was reduced significantly in both groups after start of operation (P < 0·0001), whereas soluble C3a and TCC in the samples were increased (P < 0·0001). Ficolin-2 was depleted from plasma during cardiac surgery when using heparin-coated bypass circuits and did not reach baseline level 24 h postoperation. These findings may have implications for the postoperative susceptibility to infections in patients undergoing extracorporeal circulation procedures.
Prospective pilot study of anorectal fistula closure with the OTSC Proctology
Authors: Prosst R. L. , Joos A. K. , Ehni W. , Bussen D. , Herold A.
Published: September 2014

Aim

The OTSC Proctology is a surgical device for anorectal fistula closure. It consists of a super‐elastic nitinol clip, which is placed (with the aid of a transanal applicator) on the internal fistula opening to achieve healing of the fistula track. A prospective, two‐centre clinical pilot study was undertaken to assess the efficacy and safety of the OTSC Proctology in patients with a complex high anorectal fistula.

Method

In patients with a complex anorectal fistula the primary track was debrided using a special brush and the clip was applied to the internal fistula opening. After 6 months the postoperative clinical course and fistula healing were assessed.

Results

Twenty patients with a cryptoglandular anorectal fistula (14 with a transsphincteric fistula and six with a suprasphincteric fistula) were included in the study. There were no intra‐operative technical or surgical complications. Postoperatively no patient reported intolerable discomfort or a sensation of a foreign body in the anal region. At 6 months after surgery, 18 (90%) patients had no clinical signs or symptoms of fistula and were considered healed, whereas in two the fistula persisted. In 13 (72%) of these 18 patients, the clip was still in place without causing problems, whereas in three patients the clip had spontaneously detached. In the two remaining patients it was necessary to remove the clip due to discomfort and delayed wound healing.

Conclusion

Anorectal fistula closure with the OTSC Proctology is an innovative, sphincter‐preserving minimally invasive procedure with promising initial results and a high rate of patient satisfaction.
Laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy in male patients with internal or external rectal prolapse
Authors: Owais A. E. , Sumrien H. , Mabey K. , McCarthy K. , Greenslade G. L. , Dixon A. R.
Published: September 2014

Aim

Laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy (LVMR) has been used to treat rectal prolapse, obstructed defaecation (OD), faecal incontinence (FI) and multicompartment pelvic floor dysfunction. Its value in treating men has been questioned. The aim of the present study was to assess the results in male patients.

Method

A password‐protected electronic database of all LVMRs carried out in North Bristol NHS trust & Spire hospital between 2002 and 2013 was examined. In addition to the clinical outcome, quality of life (QoL), Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score (CCIS), obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS) score, visual analogue score (VAS) for the severity of bowel and urinary symptoms and the numerical rating scale (NRS) for pain and patient‐reported outcome measures were evaluated.

Results

Sixty‐eight men of median age 35 years and body mass index 26 kg/m2 underwent LVMR for external rectal prolapse (18) or Grade III–V rectal intussusception (50) presenting with OD, FI and pelvic pain. Ten per cent had been labelled ‘chronic idiopathic pelvic pain’ and 60% had undergone previous haemorrhoidal surgery. Complications were minor and included urinary retention (10%). Eighty per cent of patients had an uncomplicated recovery with 24% being treated as day cases. There were no cases of impotence or retrograde ejaculation. Median follow‐up was 42 (IQR 26–61) months. CCIS score improved from 4 (IQR 0–8) to 0 (IQR 0–0) (P < 0.001) and the ODS score from 18.5 (IQR 16–22) to 6 (IQR 5–8) (P < 0.001). Patients reported significant improvement in the NRS for pain and QoL (BBSQ‐22) at 3 months (P = 0.000). The QoL and the VAS for bowel symptoms were maintained at 4 years. At the last follow‐up 56 (82%) patients were asymptomatic and 6 (8.8%) had persisting symptoms. There was no case of recurrent external rectal prolapse.

Conclusion

LVMR is an effective treatment for external and symptomatic internal rectal prolapse in men, leading to significant improvement in QoL and function.
Food resources and cyprinid diet in permanent and temporaryMediterranean rivers with natural and regulated flow
Authors: Alexandre Carlos M. , Sales Sabrina , Ferreira Maria Teresa , Almeida Pedro R.
Published: September 2014

This study addresses the differences in food availability, diet and feeding activity of theIberian barbel, between permanent and temporary nonregulated rivers, and the effect of flow regulation on feeding parameters. A total of 267 adult barbels were seasonally collected in four nonregulated and regulated rivers from permanent and temporary basins, and their gut content was analysed. Locally available food sources were evaluated across sites and seasons. Barbels from the permanent nonregulated river exhibit a more variable and diversified diet in which invertebrates assumed a large importance, especially during high flows. Barbels from the temporary nonregulated river presented a more uniform diet composed of plant material and detritus, particularly in drought seasons. Flow regulation affected different flow components in both systems, but the effects on food resources and barbels' diet were similar, resulting in an intra‐annual stabilisation of resource availability and fish diet, with a higher consumption of plants and detritus. Changes in fish diet and feeding activity in both nonregulated and regulated rivers were strongly associated with the seasonal variability of streamflow components, particularly between low‐ and high‐flow periods, and with the reduction in flow variability in the case of dam regulation. Results from this study can be used to improve guidelines for flow requirement implementation.
A Continuum of Behavioral Plasticity in Urban and Desert Black Widows
Authors: Halpin Rebecca N. , Johnson J. Chadwick
Published: September 2014

Behavioral plasticity marks an individual's ability to modulate behavior across functional contexts. Behavioral syndromes, on the other hand, appear as consistent individual variation in behavior that is both repeatable for individuals within a functional context (e.g., consistent voracity toward prey) and correlated across contexts (e.g., high voracity toward prey and high levels of boldness toward enemies). Thus, adaptive plasticity and syndromes represent two extremes of a behavioral plasticity continuum upon which most behavioral phenotypes fall. We tested for both adaptive plasticity and behavioral syndromes in the western black widow spider, Latrodectus hesperus. We measured behavior in three contexts: startle, startle + prey, and startle + mate, and found (1) classic behaviorally plastic responses to predation risk, (2) high repeatability of behavior within contexts, and (3) evidence of a correlation between startle + prey and startle + mate contexts, indicative of a behavioral syndrome. As relative behavioral plasticity may vary across populations, we also compared urban and desert populations to test whether spiders from these habitats exhibit different behaviors and/or behavioral syndromes. While we found that urban males used in mating trials courted urban females significantly more than desert females, we found no other differences in the behavior of urban and desert black widows. Thus, black widows, regardless of habitat, are characterized by both context‐specific behavioral plasticity and across‐context correlations, presenting a phenotypic complexity that is likely exhibited, to varying degrees, by most organisms.
Investor Protection, Investment Efficiency and Value: The Case of Cross‐Listed Firms
Authors: Ghosh Chinmoy , He Fan
Published: September 2014

We examine the impact of improved investor protection due to cross‐listing on foreign firms’ investment decisions and firm value. While we find that cross‐listing increases firms’ capital expenditures and mergers and acquisitions activities, cross‐listed firms also invest more in research and development, make better acquisition decisions, and have higher profitability compared to non‐cross‐listed firms. Moreover, cross‐listing is associated with better cash utilization by foreign firms for investments. These improvements in investments and cash utilization are more pronounced for firms cross‐listed on US exchanges and for firms from countries with weak investor protection laws.
Integrating hydrogeochemical, hydrogeological, and environmental tracer data to understand groundwater flow for a karstified aquifer system
Authors: Pavlovskiy Igor , Selle Benny
Published: September 2014

For karstified aquifer systems, numerical models of groundwater flow are difficult to setup and parameterize. However, a system understanding useful for groundwater management may be obtained without applying overly complicated models. In this study, we demonstrate for a karstified carbonate aquifer in south‐western Germany that a combination of methods with moderate data requirements can be used to infer flowpaths and transit times of groundwater to production wells.
Cerebral microbleeds and cognitive decline in a hemodialysis patient: Case report and review of literature
Authors: Li Lin , Fisher Mark , Lau Wei‐Ling , Moradi Hamid , Cheung Alexander , Thai Gaby , Handwerker Jason , Kalantar‐Zadeh Kamyar
Published: September 2014

Cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) are small hemosiderin deposits indicative of prior cerebral microscopic hemorrhage and previously thought to be clinically silent. Recent population‐based cross‐sectional studies and prospective longitudinal cohort studies have revealed association between CMB and cognitive dysfunction. In the general population, CMBs are associated with age, hypertension, and cerebral amyloid angiopathy. In the chronic kidney disease (CKD) population, diminished estimated glomerular filtration rate has been found to be an independent risk factor for CMB, raising the possibility that a uremic milieu may predispose to microbleeds. In the end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) population on hemodialysis, the incidence of microbleeds is significantly higher compared with a control group without history of CKD or stroke. We present an ESRD patient on chronic hemodialysis with a history of gradual cognitive decline and progressive CMBs. Through this case and literature review, we illustrate the need to develop detection and prediction models to treat this frequent development in ESRD patients.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma‐associated Proteobacteria, but not commensal Prevotella spp., promote Toll‐like receptor 2‐independent lung inflammation and pathology
Authors: Larsen Jeppe M. , Musavian Hanieh S. , Butt Tariq M. , Ingvorsen Camilla , Thysen Anna H. , Brix Susanne
Published: September 2014

Recent studies of healthy human airways have revealed colonization by a distinct commensal bacterial microbiota containing Gram‐negative Prevotella spp. However, the immunological properties of these bacteria in the respiratory system remain unknown. Here we compare the innate respiratory immune response to three Gram‐negative commensal Prevotella strains (Prevotella melaninogenica, Prevotella nanceiensis and Prevotella salivae) and three Gram‐negative pathogenic Proteobacteria known to colonize lungs of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma (Haemophilus influenzae B, non‐typeable Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis). The commensal Prevotella spp. and pathogenic Proteobacteria were found to exhibit intrinsic differences in innate inflammatory capacities on murine lung cells in vitro. In vivo in mice, non‐typeable H. influenzae induced severe Toll‐like receptor 2 (TLR2)‐independent COPD‐like inflammation characterized by predominant airway neutrophilia, expression of a neutrophilic cytokine/chemokine profile in lung tissue, and lung immunopathology. In comparison, P. nanceiensis induced a diminished neutrophilic airway inflammation and no detectable lung pathology. Interestingly, the inflammatory airway response to the Gram‐negative bacteria P. nanceiensis was completely TLR2‐dependent. These findings demonstrate weak inflammatory properties of Gram‐negative airway commensal Prevotella spp. that may make colonization by these bacteria tolerable by the respiratory immune system.
Gadolinium Zirconate/YSZ Thermal Barrier Coatings: Plasma Spraying, Microstructure, and Thermal Cycling Behavior
Authors: Bakan Emine , Mack Daniel E. , Mauer Georg , Vaßen Robert
Published: September 2014

Processing of Gd2Zr2O7 by atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) is challenging due to the difference in vapor pressure between gadolinia and zirconia. Gadolinia is volatilized to a greater extent than zirconia and the coating composition unfavorably deviates from the initial stoichiometry. Aiming at stoichiometric coatings, APS experiments were performed with a TriplexPro™ plasma torch at different current levels. Particle diagnostics proved to be an effective tool for the detection of potential degrees of evaporation via particle temperature measurements at these varied current levels. Optimized spray parameters for Gd2Zr2O7 in terms of porosity and stoichiometry were used to produce double‐layer TBCs with an underlying yttria‐stabilized zirconia (7YSZ) layer. For comparison, double layers were also deposited with relatively high torch currents during Gd2Zr2O7 deposition, which led to a considerable amount of evaporation and relatively low porosities. These coatings were tested in thermal cycling rigs at 1400°C surface temperature. Double layers manufactured with optimized Gd2Zr2O7 spray parameters revealed very good thermal cycling performance in comparison to standard 7YSZ coatings, whereas the others showed early failures. Furthermore, different failure modes were observed; coatings with long lifetime failed due to TGO growth, while the coatings displaying early failures spalled through crack propagation in the upper part of the 7YSZ layer.
Impedance and AC Conductivity of GdCr1−xCoxO3 (x = 0, 0.33, 0.5, 0.67 and 1) Perovskites
Authors: Pecovska‐Gjorgjevich Margareta , Aleksovska Slobotka , Marinšek Marjan , Dimitrovska‐Lazova Sandra
Published: September 2014

Perovskite series GdCr1−xCoxO3 (x = 0, 0.33, 0.5, 0.67 and 1) was obtained using a solution combustion method. The powder XRD was used for identification and structural characterization of the obtained perovskites. All compounds crystallize within the space group Pnma. The morphology of samples was studied using SEM. The impedance and AC conductivity of GdCr1−xCoxO3 were studied using impedance spectroscopy in a frequency range from 10 Hz to 10 MHz and in temperature interval 297–337 K. Changes in electric modulus and DC conductivity, with increasing of the value of x in the structures, were observed. The AC conductivity obeyed the universal power law, σ(ω) = σ(0) + Aωn and revealed semiconductor behavior. The calculated activation energies of existing processes varied with the cobalt content and applied frequency. The impedance spectra showed non‐Debye behavior with a distribution of relaxation times for relaxation and conductive processes. The conduction mechanism for pure orthochromite and orthocobaltite was defined and two types of conduction were observed in the investigated temperature range for the complex perovskites. In order to explain the results, an equivalent circuit with fitted values of circuit components was proposed.
‘We have to be Satisfied with the Scraps’: South African Nurses' Experiences of Care on Adult Psychiatric Intellectual Disability Inpatient Wards
Authors: Capri Charlotte , Buckle Chanellé
Published: September 2014

Background

Migrating nursing labour inadvertently reinforces South Africa's care drain, contributes to a global care crisis and forces us to reconsider migration motivation. This paper highlights issues that complicate psychiatric intellectual disability nursing care and identifies loci for change in an attempt to redress this care challenge.

Method

An exploratory descriptive‐interpretivist method investigated nurses' experiences of psychiatric intellectual disability work. Sixteen free association narrative interviews were collected in 2013. Thematic analysis allowed findings to emerge from the data.

Results

Findings reflect a number of themes: ‘relational interaction’, ‘care burden’, ‘system fatigue’, ‘infantilising dynamic of care’ and ‘resources for coping’.

Conclusion

System fatigue contributes more to negative experiences of providing care than direct patient work, and nurses experience more relational reciprocity from patients than from institutional management. Organizations should meet nurses’ needs for burnout prevention, afford them impact in implementing institutional controls, and engage in a non‐exploitative and non‐exclusionary way.
Promoting Exercise as Part of a Physiotherapy‐Led Falls Pathway Service for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities: A Service Evaluation
Authors: Crockett Jennifer , Finlayson Janet , Skelton Dawn A. , Miller Gillian
Published: September 2014

Background

People with intellectual disabilities experience high rates of falls. Balance and gait problems are common in people with intellectual disabilities, increasing the likelihood of falls; thus, tailored exercise interventions to improve gait and balance are recommended. The present authors set up a physiotherapy‐led falls pathway service (FPS) for clients with intellectual disabilities to promote exercise and prevent falls.

Method

Fifty clients with intellectual disabilities were referred in an 18‐month period, 35 (70%) were prescribed exercise and 27 (54%) completed the exercise programme. The FPS was evaluated using the following outcome measures: Tinetti score, number of falls, clinician's judgement and carer's judgement.

Results

Improvement in balance and mobility and a decrease in the number of falls were reported post‐exercise intervention.

Conclusion

Physiotherapists have a key role to play in promoting exercise to prevent falls in services for people with intellectual disabilities. This evaluation suggests positive outcomes for these clients to reduce or prevent further falls.
Intelligence is in the Eye of the Beholder: Investigating Repeated IQ Measurements in Forensic Psychiatry
Authors: Habets Petra , Jeandarme Inge , Uzieblo Kasia , Oei Karel , Bogaerts Stefan
Published: September 2014

Background

A stable assessment of cognition is of paramount importance for forensic psychiatric patients (FPP). The purpose of this study was to compare repeated measures of IQ scores in FPPs with and without intellectual disability.

Methods

Repeated measurements of IQ scores in FPPs (n = 176) were collected. Differences between tests were computed, and each IQ score was categorized. Additionally, t‐tests and regression analyses were performed.

Results

Differences of 10 points or more were found in 66% of the cases comparing WAIS‐III with RAVEN scores. Fisher's exact test revealed differences between two WAIS‐III scores and the WAIS categories. The WAIS‐III did not predict other IQs (WAIS or RAVEN) in participants with intellectual disability.

Discussion

This study showed that stability or interchangeability of scores is lacking, especially in individuals with intellectual disability. Caution in interpreting IQ scores is therefore recommended, and the use of the unitary concept of IQ should be discouraged.
The strength of cross‐taxon congruence in species composition varies with the size of regional species pools and the intensity of human disturbance
Authors: Rooney Rebecca C. , Azeria Ermias T.
Published: September 2014

Aim

Our aims were to determine whether cross‐taxon congruence of species composition patterns varies across regions and human disturbance levels and to infer whether these patterns relate to the size of the regional species pool and the sorting of species along a gradient of human disturbance.

Location

Alberta's Boreal and Grassland Natural Regions, Canada.

Method

We compiled presence–absence data of four biological groups (birds, vascular plants, bryophytes and mites) from low and high disturbance sites in upland habitat. The cross‐taxon congruence across ecoregion and disturbance levels was analysed using Mantel and Procrustes tests. We applied resampling without replacement to generate confidence intervals to test for significant differences in strength of congruency between disturbance levels and ecoregions. We performed indicator species analysis to highlight how the species‐level response to high and low disturbance influences the pattern in community‐level cross‐taxon congruence.

Results

Cross‐taxon congruence was stronger when all sites were considered than when high and low disturbance sites were considered separately. Congruency was relatively stronger in high than low disturbance sites in the Boreal ecoregion, but the pattern was reversed in the Grassland ecoregion. More species were indicators of undisturbed habitat than of highly disturbed habitats for all biological groups except for birds. Overall, biological groups that were poorly represented in a region and/or with few characteristic indicator species showed weak congruence in those sites.

Main conclusions

We conclude that a longer disturbance gradient can promote cross‐taxon congruence by increasing the species pool characteristic of low or high disturbance levels. Moreover, regional context can influence (or even reverse) the relative strength of cross‐taxon congruence in high and low disturbance sites, which may explain the inconsistent strength of cross‐taxon congruence along the disturbance gradient. To use biodiversity surrogates across biogeographical regions, it is therefore important to account for the regional and disturbance‐level dependence of cross‐taxon congruence.
High prevalence of cutaneous manifestations in the elderly with diabetes mellitus: an institution‐based cross‐sectional study in Taiwan
Authors: Tseng H.‐W. , Ger L.‐P. , Liang C.‐K. , Liou H.‐H. , Lam H.‐C.
Published: September 2014

Backgrounds

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common endocrine disorder and an increasing epidemic worldwide. Proportional diabetic patients eventually develop cutaneous diseases.

Objectives

This study determined the statistical association of cutaneous manifestations and DM as well as the DM‐associated cutaneous manifestations in elderly male residents.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted in a Veterans Home in Taiwan. The cutaneous manifestations and major systemic diseases of the residents were recorded separately. Univariate logistic regression and multivariate analysis after adjustment for age, body mass index and significant major systemic diseases provided odds ratios and P values for the statistical association.

Results

A total of 313 male residents (age ≥65 years) were recruited, including 70 (22.4%) with DM. Their most common cutaneous manifestations included fungal infection (77%) and brown spots on the legs (38.3%). Chronic ulcers adjusted odds ratios (AOR 4.90, 95%CI: 1.82–13.19; P = 0.002), brown spots on the legs (AOR 6.82, 95%CI: 3.60–12.89; P < 0.001) and pruritus (AOR 12.86, 95%CI: 4.40–37.59; P < 0.001) were significantly associated with DM. The diabetic residents were inclined to have chronic ulcers, brown spots on the legs and pruritus at a 7.46‐fold higher risk (AOR 7.46, 95%CI: 3.86–14.43; P < 0.001). The diabetic residents exhibited marginally higher risks of bacterial infection, scabies, or skin tags.

Conclusion

The DM‐associated cutaneous manifestations were chronic ulcers, brown spots on the legs, and pruritus. By observing clues of diabetic cutaneous features, a more complete condition of diabetic patients can be appreciated. The information is essential for providing appropriate treatment and key nursing points regarding the diabetes‐associated skin diseases.
Xerostomia in geriatric patients: a burgeoning global concern
Authors: Anil Sukumaran , Vellappally Sajith , Hashem Mohamed , Preethanath Reghunathan S. , Patil Shankargouda , Samaranayake Lakshman P.
Published: September 2014

Saliva plays a key role in maintaining oral homeostasis, function, and health. The prevalence of xerostomia and its consequences are rising due to the increasing aging population, the effects of some systemic diseases, medical management, and commonly‐prescribed medications that reduce saliva production. When salivary function is diminished, patients are at a greater risk of developing caries, discomfort in wearing dentures, and opportunistic diseases, such as candidiasis. The psychosocial aspects of xerostomia can range from a mild effect on self‐rated oral health to frustration, embarrassment, unhappiness, or substantial disruptions in quality of life. This article reviews the clinical features, diagnosis, and prevalence of dry mouth, as well as its treatment strategies.
Laser scanning photothermal microscopy: fast detection and imaging of gold nanoparticles
Authors: ARUNKARTHICK S. , BIJEESH M. M. , VARIER GEETHA K. , KOWSHIK MEENAL , NANDAKUMAR P.
Published: September 2014

We report on the design and construction of a laser scanning photothermal microscope and present images of gold nanoparticles of size as small as 5 nm. Laser scanning method allows fast image acquisition at 80 μs pixel dwell time so that a 500 × 500 pixel image is acquired in 20 s. Photothermal imaging at fast time scales can have potential applications in variety of fields including tracking of biomolecular transport processes.
Effect of fixation procedures on the fluorescence lifetimes of Aequorea victoria derived fluorescent proteins
Authors: JOOSEN L. , HINK M.A. , GADELLA T.W.J. , GOEDHART J.
Published: September 2014

Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy can be used to study protein–protein interactions by Förster Resonance Energy Transfer or to perform lifetime‐based multiplexing. Fixation of samples with cells producing fluorescent fusion proteins is commonly used for preservation of samples and for staining with membrane impermeable reagents such as antibodies. However, the effect of fixation methods and mounting media on fluorescence lifetime is poorly documented so far. Here, we demonstrate that fixation by formaldehyde or methanol itself does not affect the lifetime of fluorescent proteins produced in cells but that several widely used mounting media decrease the fluorescence lifetime by up to 20%. It is shown that fixed cells producing Aequorea victoria derived fluorescent proteins mounted in Tris buffer have fluorescence lifetimes indistinguishable from values measured in living cells. Tris buffer also allows accurate Förster Resonance Energy Transfer quantification in fixed cells, as shown with an mTurquoise2‐SYFP2 fusion protein. Moreover, identical lifetime contrasts are measured in living and fixed cells mounted in Tris buffer after introducing a single plasmid expressing two lifetime variants of cyan fluorescent proteins, each targeted to different locations in the cell. Our findings will aid the preparation of fixed cells producing fluorescent proteins for reliable measurement of fluorescence lifetimes for Förster Resonance Energy Transfer determination, lifetime based multiplexing and for instrument calibration for standardization purposes.
Massive occlusive thrombosis of the pulmonary artery in pigtailed macaques chronically infected with R5‐tropic simian‐human immunodeficiency virus
Authors: Courtney Cynthia L. , Ethun Kelly F. , Villinger Francois , Ruprecht Ruth M. , Byrareddy Siddappa N.
Published: September 2014

Background

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) has been identified as a serious complication of HIV infection.

Methods and Results

Here, we report sudden death in two pigtailed macaques (Macaca nemestrina) chronically infected (~1–2 years post‐infection) with an R5 SHIV strain. At necropsy, total occlusion of the pulmonary artery by a large fibrin thrombus was present in both animals.

Conclusion

This report describes pulmonary vascular lesions similar to PAH in R5 SHIV‐infected pigtail macaques.
Product Line Rivalry and Firm Asymmetry
Authors: Chen Zhihong , Chen Zhiqi
Published: September 2014

We extend the Brander and Eaton (1984) model of product line rivalry to study the effects of asymmetry between firms on the equilibrium outcome. Our analysis shows that market interlacing can emerge as the equilibrium outcome even in situations where market segmentation would have been the only possible outcome had the firms been symmetric. We identify two strategic factors that lead to such an outcome.
Do Auctions and Forced Divestitures Increase Competition? Evidence for Retail Gasoline Markets
Authors: Soetevent Adriaan R. , Haan Marco A. , Heijnen Pim
Published: September 2014

To foster competition, governments can intervene by auctioning licenses to operate, or by imposing divestitures. The Dutch government has done exactly that, organizing auctions to redistribute tenancy rights for highway gasoline stations and imposing divestitures of such stations on the four major companies. We evaluate this policy experiment and find that the auctioning of licenses without an obligation to divest has no discernible effect on prices. An obligation to divest lowers prices by 1.3–2.3% at divested sites. Moreover, prices decrease by 0.9–1.2% at sites nearby. This suggests that the observed price decreases are at least partly due to competitive spillovers.
A Note on Third Degree Price Discrimination in Intermediate Good Markets
Authors: Li Youping
Published: September 2014

This note studies third degree price discrimination in intermediate good markets. I show that whether a more efficient downstream firm is charged a higher or lower price than a less efficient firm depends on the shape of the demand function. Different from the case in which final market demand is linear, the usual assumption in the literature, constant elasticity demand, for example, results in a more efficient firm's receiving a discount.
Pigment epithelium-derived factor upregulates collagen I and downregulates matrix metalloproteinase 2 in osteosarcoma cells, and colocalises to collagen I and heat shock protein 47 in fetal and adult bone
Authors: Alcantara Marice B , Nemazannikova Natalie , Elahy Mina , Dass Crispin R
Published: September 2014

Objective

Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) has proven anti-osteosarcoma activity. However, the mechanism(s) underpinning its ability to reduce primary bone tumour (osteosarcoma) metastasis is unknown.

Methods

Adult and fetal murine bone were immunostained for PEDF, collagen I (major protein in bone) and its processing proteins, heat shock protein 47 (HSP47, a chaperone protein for collagen I), membrane type I matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP, a collagenase), and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2, which is activated by MT1-MMP). Immunoblotting and immunocytochemistry were used to observe levels of the above biomarkers when human osteosarcoma cells were treated with PEDF.

Key findings

Immunohistochemical staining in adult and fetal bone mirrors collagen I. PEDF localised to ridges of trabecular bone in tibial cortex and to megakaryocytes within bone marrow. Second, we observed that PEDF upregulates collagen I, HSP47 and MT1-MMP, while downregulating MMP-2 in osteosarcoma cells in vitro.

Conclusion

PEDF is a promising antagonist to osteosarcoma cell metastasis via downregulation of MMP-2, and can induce tumour cells to further adopt differentiative properties, thereby possibly reducing their aggressive growth in vitro and in vivo.
Sofosbuvir, a novel nucleotide analogue inhibitor used for the treatment of hepatitis C virus
Authors: Summers Bryant B , Beavers Joshua W F , Klibanov Olga M
Published: September 2014

Objective

To provide an overview of a novel anti-hepatitis C agent, sofosbuvir.

Key findings

Sofosbuvir is a novel nucleotide analogue inhibitor of hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS5B polymerase that has recently been approved by the Federal Drug Administration for the treatment of HCV genotypes 1, 2, 3 or 4 in a variety of patients. The emergence of such a novel treatment provides benefit to previously untreated genotypes and patient populations, with little chance of promoting significant viral resistance. Excellent sustained virologic response rates 12 weeks after the end of treatment (SVR12) were seen in phase II and III clinical trials when sofosbuvir was used with ribavirin. Even more promising are the results from phase II and III clinical trials that evaluated sofosbuvir in combination with other oral direct acting antivirals (DAAs). Data with sofosbuvir in the hepatitis C virus (HCV)/HIV coinfected and in the pre- and post-transplantation populations are still emerging. The drug was very well tolerated in clinical studies, with the most common adverse events of headache, nausea and fatigue.

Overall, sofosbuvir presents a new and effective treatment option for HCV-infected patients.
Protective effects of melatonin against metabolic and reproductive disturbances in polycystic ovary syndrome in rats
Authors: Pai Sarayu A , Majumdar Anuradha S
Published: September 2014

Objectives

This study was undertaken to study the effects of melatonin on metabolic and reproductive aspects of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in rats.

Methods

PCOS was induced by daily subcutaneous administration of testosterone (20 mg/kg) to 21-day-old female rats for 35 days. Rats were given metformin (500 mg/kg), melatonin (1 mg/kg) or melatonin (2 mg/kg) along with testosterone. One group served as vehicle control. On the 36th day, the animals were euthanised, and anthropometrical, biochemical (glucose, insulin, lipids, testosterone, C reactive protein (CRP)), oral glucose tolerance test, and histopathological evaluation of ovaries, uterus and intraabdominal fat (IAF), were carried out. Daily colpocytological examination was carried out from 14th day of study until termination.

Key findings

Both the doses of melatonin significantly reduced body weight, body mass index, IAF, insulin and CRP. A favourable lipid profile, normal glucose tolerance and a decrease in the percentage of estrus smears were observed. Histopathological examination of ovary, uterus and IAF revealed a decrease in the number of cystic follicles, decrease in neoplastic endometrial glands, and decrease in adipocyte hypertrophy, respectively. The effects observed with melatonin were comparable to that with metformin.

Conclusion

The study provides evidence of the potential beneficial effects of melatonin in PCOS.
Small-scale twin-screw extrusion – evaluation of continuous split feeding
Authors: Muehlenfeld Christian , Thommes Markus
Published: September 2014

Objectives

The aim of this work was to evaluate a continuous, small-scale extrusion process with a particular focus on powder and liquid-feeding systems, because it is likely that uniformity issues are related to small-scale production.

Methods

The study is divided into three parts. The first part investigates the uniformity and accuracy of the powder and the liquid feeders. In the second part, a solid polymer and low amounts of liquid plasticizer were combined in hot-melt extrusion. The third part deals with wet extrusion-spheronization using water as the granulation liquid.

Key Findings

The powder and the liquid feed rate were identified as crucial parameters in small-scale extrusion. With respect to powder feeding, the cohesiveness of the powder and electrostatic charging are the limitations, while liquid feeding is challenging based on particularly low feed rates. The hot-melt extrusion was performed using a powder feed rate of 2 g/min. When small quantities of plasticizer were applied to the hot melt extrusions (from 2.5% to 15% w/w), homogenous plasticizer distribution was found. In wet extrusion, larger quantities of water were used and the extrudates were investigated with respect to their spheronization behaviour. Spherical pellets were obtained at certain water contents.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrated that the extruder is a useful tool to screen formulations and perform feasibility studies on a small scale in the early stages of product development.
A re‐assessment of the infra‐generic classification of the genusCaulerpa(Caulerpaceae,Chlorophyta) inferred from a time‐calibrated molecular phylogeny
Authors: Draisma Stefano G.A. , van Reine Willem F. Prud'homme , Sauvage Thomas , Belton Gareth S. , Gurgel C. Frederico D. , Lim Phaik‐Eem , Phang Siew‐Moi
Published: September 2014

The siphonous green algal familyCaulerpaceae includes the monotypic genusCaulerpellaand the species‐rich genusCaulerpa. A molecular phylogeny was inferred from chloroplasttufA andrbcLDNAsequences analyzed together with a five marker dataset of non‐caulerpacean siphonous green algae. SixCaulerpaceae lineages were revealed, but relationships between them remained largely unresolved. ACaulerpellaclade representing multiple cryptic species was nested within the genusCaulerpa. Therefore, that genus is subsumed andCaulerpa ambiguaOkamura is reinstated.Caulerpasubgenus status is proposed for the six lineages substantiated by morphological characters, viz., three monotypic subgeneraCliftonii,Hedleyi, andCaulerpella, subgenusAraucarioideaeexhibiting stolons covered with scale‐like appendages, subgenusCharoideaecharacterized by a verticillate branching mode, and subgenusCaulerpafor a clade regarded as theCaulerpacore clade. The latter subgenus is subdivided in two sections, i.e.,Sedoideaefor species with pyrenoids and a species‐rich sectionCaulerpa. A single section with the same name is proposed for each of the other five subgenera. In addition, species status is proposed forCaulerpa filicoidesvar.andamanensis(W.R. Taylor). AllCaulerpaspecies without sequence data were examined (or data were taken from species descriptions) and classified in the new classification scheme. A temporal framework ofCaulerpadiversification is provided by calibrating the phylogeny in geological time. The chronogram suggests thatCaulerpadiversified into subgenera and sections after theTriassic‐Jurassic mass extinction and that infra‐section species radiation happened after theCretaceous‐Tertiary mass extinction.
Hepatitis B virus mother‐to‐child transmission among HIV‐infected women receiving lamivudine‐containing antiretroviral regimens during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Authors: Pirillo M. F. , Scarcella P. , Andreotti M. , Jere H. , Buonomo E. , Sagno J.‐B. , Amici R. , Mancini M. G. , Leone P. , Ceffa S. , Mancinelli S. , Marazzi M. C. , Vella S. , Palombi L. , Giuliano M.
Published: September 2014

The study included 309 HIV‐infected pregnant women receiving a lamivudine‐containing antiretroviral regimen from week 25 of gestational age until 6 months postpartum, during breastfeeding. Twenty‐seven of them (8.7%) were hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg) positive; at baseline, hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA levels >3 log10 IU/mL (with a median level of 6.2 log10 IU/mL) were found in 10 women, who at one, three and six months postpartum had median levels of 5.2 log10 IU/mL, 4.5 log10 IU/mL and 2.8 log10 IU/mL, respectively. Twenty‐four of the 30 breast milk samples evaluated had undetectable HBV DNA and the other six had values between 15 and 155 IU/mL. Median lamivudine concentrations were 1070 ng/mL in serum and 684 ng/mL in breast milk. Among the 24 HBV‐exposed children with available samples, 16 always tested negative, four had a transient infection, one had an undetermined status and three (12.5%) first tested positive at Month 12 or Month 24. Among the children born to the HBV‐uninfected mothers of the same cohort, the rate of HBsAg positivity at 12–24 months was 2% (4/196). Our finding of the absence of significative levels of HBV DNA in the breast milk of co‐infected mothers supports the present recommendations for breastfeeding in HBV‐infected women. Horizontal transmission can be hypothesized for the infections detected in children at 12–24 months. Children born to HBV‐positive mothers remained at higher risk of postnatal HBV acquisition compared to those born to HBV‐negative women.
BMI, male sex and IL28B genotype associated with persistently high hepatitis C virus RNA levels among chronically infected drug users up to 23 years following seroconversion
Authors: Grady B. P. X. , Prins M. , Rebers S. , Molenkamp R. , Geskus R. B. , Schinkel J.
Published: September 2014

The natural course of serum HCV RNA levels during chronic infection remains unclear. We investigated HCV RNA levels and factors associated with HCV RNA levels for the entire course from HCV seroconversion. We measured HCV RNA levels of 54 HCV seroconverters from the Amsterdam Cohort Studies among drug users at yearly intervals up to 23 years using bDNA (VERSANT 3.0, lower limit of detection 615 IU/mL). Samples below the cut‐off of the assay were tested by TMA (Siemens VERSANT, detection limit 5 IU/mL). We used a latent class linear mixed model to examine the HCV RNA patterns and factors associated with HCV RNA levels. The median follow‐up time was 10.8 years (IQR 6.5–14.9). We found two distinct HCV RNA patterns characterized by 45/54 cases and 9/54 cases. In multivariable analyses, HCV RNA levels were 0.41 log10 IU/mL (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.06–0.75) higher for males as compared to females. Individuals with the IL28B CC genotype had 0.40 log10 IU/mL (95% 0.08–0.73) higher HCV RNA levels than individuals with IL28B CT/TT genotypes. Body mass index (BMI) was associated with higher HCV RNA levels, 0.055 log10 IU/mL per BMI point (95% CI 0.027–0.083). In this unique study, which examines the HCV RNA patterns over an extended period and following seroconversion, male sex, IL28B CC genotype and BMI were independently associated with higher average HCV RNA levels. These results contribute to defining the natural history of HCV infection and could play an important part in clinical decision‐making.