bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between social determinants of health and functional dentition in 35‐year‐old to 44‐year‐old Brazilian adults: a population‐based analytical study
Authors: Chalub Loliza Luiz Figueiredo Houri , Borges Carolina Marques , Ferreira Raquel Conceição , Haddad João Paulo Amaral , Ferreira Efigênia Ferreira e , Vargas Andréa Maria Duarte
Published: June 2014

Objectives

To verify the association between functional dentition and social determinants of health in 35‐year‐old to 44‐year‐old adults residing in the metropolitan municipalities of Minas Gerais, Brazil.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study assessed a sample of 850 adults obtained using a cluster sampling scheme. Five of 33 municipalities were randomly selected, followed by the random selection of census tracts and neighborhood blocks. Every household in the randomly selected blocks was visited and every resident adult was interviewed and examined by five previously calibrated researchers (κinter, 0.8–0.9; κintra, 0.8–1.0) between May and December 2010. The condition of the dental crown was recorded using the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria, with the exception of the third molars. The dependent variable functional dentition was defined as the presence of 20 or more teeth in the mouth and obtained by counting the number of teeth lost due to any reason, followed by subtraction of this number from the total of 28 teeth. Independent variables were grouped, according to a theoretical model adapted from those proposed by Dahlgren and Whitehead and Petersen, into distal factors (contextual, socioeconomic, and housing conditions), intermediate factors (availability and use of oral health services), and proximal factors (lifestyle, risk behaviors, and demographic conditions). The association between functional dentition and the independent variables was investigated using simple and multiple Poisson regression with robust variance, which followed a modeling strategy in accordance with the hierarchy outlined by the theoretical model. The analyses were processed on SPSS 17.0.

Results

The average age of the participants was 39.4 ± 3.2 years, and the average per capita monthly family income was US$214.52 ± 261.11. Most adults presented functional dentition (80.6%; 95% CI: 77.3–83.5). Independently of marital status, age group and sex, the prevalence ratio (PR) of subjects with a per capita monthly family income ≥US$168.54 was 1.09 (P = 0.048); the PR of adults with at least an undergraduate degree was 1.14 (P = 0.001), and the PR of the participants who most often used a dental service other than a public service supplementary healthcare plan or private service was 1.13 (P = 0.021). The prevalence of functional dentition was 17% higher among nonsmokers (P = 0.012) and 16% higher among those who used dental floss (P = 0.006).

Conclusions

Income, education, type of dental service most often used, lifestyle, risk behaviors and demographic conditions are distal, intermediate and proximal social determinants of health associated with functional dentition in adults, demonstrating the need for public policies aimed to promoting oral health including intersectoral actions.
Primary aldosteronism in hypertensive patients: clinical implications and target therapy
Authors: Papanastasiou Labrini , Markou Athina , Pappa Theodora , Gouli Aggeliki , Tsounas Panagiotis , Fountoulakis Stelios , Kounadi Theodora , Tsiama Vasiliki , Dasou Aikaterini , Gryparis Alexandros , Samara Christianna , Zografos George , Kaltsas Gregory , Chrousos George , Piaditis George
Published: June 2014

Background

The prevalence of primary aldosteronism (PA) in hypertensive patients varies according to diagnostic testing and ascertained normal cut‐offs. The aim of this case–control study was to confirm the high prevalence of PA in a large hypertensive population and evaluate the antihypertensive effect of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRA) treatment.

Material and methods

We investigated 327 hypertensive and 90 matched normotensive subjects with normal adrenal imaging. Serum aldosterone (ALD), active renin (REN) levels and aldosterone/active renin (ALD/REN) ratio were measured before and after a combined sodium chloride, fludrocortisone and dexamethasone suppression test (FDST). Post‐FDST values were compared to cut‐offs obtained from controls (post‐FDST ALD 2·96 ng/dL and post‐FDST ALD/REN 0·93 ng/dL/μU/mL). PA patients received MRA treatment.

Results

By applying the combination of post‐FDST ALD levels and ALD/REN ratio, 28·7% of the hypertensive patients had PA. There was a positive, albeit weak, correlation between systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and ALD levels and/or ALD/REN ratio after the FDST (P < 0·0001). SBP was associated with a post‐FDST ALD of 3·24 ng/dL and ALD/REN ratio of 0·90 ng/dL/μU/mL, whereas post‐FDST ALD had an inverse association at serum K+ values of less than 3·9 mEq/L. MRA treatment in 69 PA patients, resulted in a significant reduction in the maximum SBP and DBP values (28 ± 15 and 14 ± 7 mmHg, respectively, P < 0·0001).

Conclusions

Using the FDST, an increased prevalence of PA in hypertensives was observed. Α significant blood pressure lowering effect was obtained with MRA treatment, implying that these agents may be beneficial in a significant number of hypertensive patients.
Nitric oxide is necessary for labilization of a consolidated context memory during reconsolidation in terrestrial snails
Authors: Balaban Pavel M. , Roshchin Matvey , Timoshenko Alia K. , Gainutdinov Khalil L. , Bogodvid Tatiana K. , Muranova Lyudmila N. , Zuzina Alena B. , Korshunova Tatiana A.
Published: June 2014

Nitric oxide (NO) is known to be involved in associative memory formation. We investigated the influence of blocking NO function on the reconsolidation of context memory in terrestrial snails (Helix lucorum L.). After a 10 day session of electric shocks in one context only, context memory in snails was observed in test sessions as the significant difference of amplitudes of withdrawal responses to tactile stimuli in two different contexts. After a 1 day rest, a session of ‘reminding’ was performed, preceded by injection in different groups of the snails with either vehicle or combination of the protein synthesis blocker anisomycin (ANI) with one of the following drugs: the NO scavenger carboxy‐PTIO, the NO‐synthase inhibitors N‐omega‐nitro‐L‐arginin, nitroindazole and NG‐nitro‐L‐arginine methyl ester hydrochloride, or the NO donor S‐nitroso‐N‐acetyl‐DL‐penicillamine. Testing the context memory at different time intervals after the reminder under ANI injection showed that the context memory was impaired at 24 h and later, whereas the reminder under combined injection of ANI and each of the NO‐synthase inhibitors used or the NO scavenger showed no impairment of long‐term context memory. Injection of the NO donor S‐nitroso‐N‐acetyl‐DL‐penicillamine with or without reminder had no effect on context memory. The results obtained demonstrated that NO is necessary for labilization of a consolidated context memory.
Regional analysis of drought and heat impacts on forests: current and future science directions
Authors: Law Beverly E.
Published: June 2014

Accurate assessments of forest response to current and future climate and human actions are needed at regional scales. Predicting future impacts on forests will require improved analysis of species‐level adaptation, resilience, and vulnerability to mortality. Land system models can be enhanced by creating trait‐based groupings of species that better represent climate sensitivity, such as risk of hydraulic failure from drought. This emphasizes the need for more coordinated in situ and remote sensing observations to track changes in ecosystem function, and to improve model inputs, spatio‐temporal diagnosis, and predictions of future conditions, including implications of actions to mitigate climate change.
Long‐Term Outcome, Complications and Disease Progression in 23 Dogs After Placement of Tracheal Ring Prostheses for Treatment of Extrathoracic Tracheal Collapse
Authors: Chisnell Hope K. , Pardo Anthony D.
Published: June 2014

Objective

To report complications, long‐term outcome, and disease progression in dogs with extrathoracic tracheal collapse treated by surgical placement of commercially available extraluminal rings.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

Dogs (n = 23).

Methods

Medical records (2002–2011) of dogs treated with extraluminal rings for extrathoracic tracheal collapse were reviewed. Owner interviews, conducted at >10 months postoperatively, determined response to surgery, progression of clinical signs after surgery, and frequency of medication administration. Long‐term re‐evaluation (>10 months after surgery) was offered for surviving dogs, including radiographs and tracheoscopy if indicated.

Results

Of 23 dogs, 22 survived to discharge after surgery. Clinical signs improved in all dogs at 2 weeks after surgery and at long‐term re‐evaluation. Fourteen dogs (65%) required no medical management for respiratory signs after surgery. Four dogs (17%) were diagnosed with laryngeal paralysis at some point after surgery, but only 9% were diagnosed within 48 hours of the surgery. Additional rings were placed between previously placed rings in 2 dogs, and 1 dog was treated with an endoluminal stent for intrathoracic tracheal collapse. Three dogs had clinical signs consistent with progression of tracheal collapse. Based on owner questionnaire, all owners were satisfied with surgical outcome.

Conclusions

Treatment of severe cervical tracheal collapse with commercially‐available extraluminal ring placement leads to an overall improvement in quality of life and good long‐term results, with about one‐third of dogs requiring continued medical management. Most dogs do not have clinical signs consistent with disease progression after surgery.
The Effect of Photodynamic Therapy on Cisterna Chyli Patency in Rats
Authors: Rowe Eric A. , Mathews Kyle G. , Linder Keith E. , Tate Lloyd P.
Published: June 2014

Objective

To radiographically and histologically evaluate the effects of photodynamic therapy on the cisterna chyli in rats.

Study Design

Experimental study.

Animals

Adult male Sprague‐Dawley rats (n = 60).

Methods

Cecal lymph nodes were injected with the photodynamic compound verteporfin. A 690 nm, 500 mW diode laser was then directed at the area of the cisterna chyli for either 0, 1.5, or 3 minutes. Cisterna chyli patency was evaluated using lymphography, and histologic changes were evaluated on postoperative Days 1, 3, 5, 7, and 14.

Results

Histologically, minimal to marked injury to the cisternal and/or pericisternal tissues was present in all treated rats at all time periods. Radiographically, 8/20 cisternae were occluded in the 1.5‐minute treatment group (including 1/4 on Day 1, 2/4 on Day 3, 3/4 on Day 5, 0/4 on Day 7, and 2/4 on Day 14), and 9/20 cisternae were occluded in the 3‐minute treatment group (including 0/4 on Day 1, 1/4 on Day 3, 3/4 on Day 5, 3/4 on Day 7, and 2/4 on Day 14). There was minimal to no histologic evidence of tissue injury in control rats. All control cisternae were radiographically open.

Conclusions

Further investigations into the timing of laser application and light dose, or alternative photodynamic agents are required to limit injury to adjacent tissues and to improve the effectiveness of cisternal photoablation.
Ovariectomy in Jenny Using Subarachnoid Propofol Administration
Authors: Daradka Mousa , Ibtihal Khreesha
Published: June 2014

Objective

To evaluate the effects of subarachnoid propofol administration (SPA) on analgesia, sedation, ataxia, cardiopulmonary, blood gas variables, and its application in ovariectomy in Jennies.

Study Design

Prospective, randomized, clinical trial.

Animals

Adult Jennies (n = 20; 100–120 kg; 5–7 years old).

Methods

In study 1, 5 Jennies had SPA (n = 5; group 1) through Tuohy catheter, and another 5 control Jennies had normal saline subarachnoid administration (n = 5; group 2). In study 2, 10 Jennies had SPA and ovariectomy (n = 10; group 3). In groups 1 and 3 analgesia, sedation and ataxia scores, cardiopulmonary and blood gas variables were recorded at different intervals before and after PSA. In group 2, only cardiopulmonary and blood gas variables were recorded.

Results

SPA produced pronounced analgesia, mild sedation and minimal ataxia. Heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), pulse rate (PR), rectal temperature (RT), arterial blood pH, PaO2, and PaCO2were not significantly different from base line values after subarachnoid administration of either propofol or normal saline.

Conclusion

SPA was found to be useful, efficient and feasible procedure for ovariectomy through standing flank laparotomy in Jennies.
Comparison of Radiography and Computed Tomography for Determining Tracheal Diameter and Length in Dogs
Authors: Montgomery James E. , Mathews Kyle G. , Marcellin‐Little Denis J. , Hendrick Steve , Brown James C.
Published: June 2014

Objective

To compare radiographic and computed tomography (CT) measurements of tracheal size as would be made for the purpose of tracheal stent size selection.

Study Design

Cross‐over.

Animals

Dogs (n = 15).

Methods

Canine cadavers without evidence of tracheal or respiratory disease were used for CT and digital radiography of the neck and thorax. Three observers each made 3 independent measurements at each of 5 tracheal locations, and also measured tracheal length, on each radiograph and for each CT scan on each cadaver.

Results

CT tracheal measurements were on average 1.03 mm larger (P < .01) compared with radiographic measurements for all 3 observers.

Conclusions

Radiographic measurements of the canine trachea consistently underestimate tracheal size, and CT measurements are preferable for selecting tracheal stent size.
Evaluation of Osteotomy Accuracy and Rotational and Angular Alignment for Cranial Closing Wedge Ostectomy Performed With and Without Alignment Aids
Authors: Addison Elena S. , Emmerson Terrance D. , de la Puerta Benito , Groth Anna , Black Tony , Smith Bruce A. , Burton Neil J. , Toscano Michael J. , Wallace Adrian M.
Published: June 2014

Objective

To (1) investigate the use of K‐wires as alignment aids for cranial closing wedge ostectomy (CCWO) and (2) evaluate their effect on osteotomy accuracy and angular/rotational alignment.

Study Design

Cadaveric study.

Animals

Cadaveric pelvic limbs (n = 20).

Methods

CCWO was performed with and without alignment aids on 20 cadaveric pelvic limbs. CT scans were performed pre‐ and post‐operatively to evaluate tibial torsion and valgus/varus deformity. Digital photographs of the ostectomized bone wedges were used to assess divergence of the 2 osteotomies, and the area of the medial and lateral aspects measured to assess osteotomy angulation within the dorsal plane.

Results

Osteotomy divergence angle, the difference between the area of the medial and lateral aspects of the ostectomized wedges, and the difference between the pre‐ and post‐operative angles of valgus/varus deformity were all significantly smaller for the alignment aid group. The difference in pre‐ and post‐operative tibial torsion was not significantly different between groups.

Conclusions

K‐wires can be used successfully as alignment aids during CCWO and help to create a significantly more orthogonal osteotomy. This allows a significant reduction in the difference between the preoperative and postoperative angles of valgus or varus, which may reduce the risk of developing a clinically important iatrogenically introduced valgus/varus deformity postoperatively.
Phase and Texture Evolution in Chemically Derived PZT Thin Films on Pt Substrates
Authors: Mhin Sungwook , Nittala Krishna , Lee Jinhyung , Robinson Douglas S. , Ihlefeld Jon F. , Brennecka Geoff L. , Sanchez Luz M. , Polcawich Ronald G. , Jones Jacob L.
Published: June 2014

The crystallization of lead zirconate titanate (PZT) thin films was evaluated on two different platinum‐coated Si substrates. One substrate consisted of a Pt coating on a Ti adhesion layer, whereas the other consisted of a Pt coating on a TiO2 adhesion layer. The Pt deposited on TiO2 exhibited a higher degree of preferred orientation than the Pt deposited on Ti (as measured by the Full Width at Half Maximum of the 111 peak about the sample normal). PZT thin films with a nominal Zr/Ti ratio of 52/48 were deposited on the substrates using the inverted mixing order (IMO) route. Phase and texture evolution of the thin films were monitored during crystallization using in situ X‐ray diffraction at a synchrotron source. The intensity of the Pt3Pb phase indicated that deposition on a highly oriented Pt/TiO2 substrate resulted in less diffusion of Pb into the substrate relative to films deposited on Pt/Ti. There was also no evidence of the pyrochlore phase influencing texture evolution. The results suggest that PZT nucleates directly on Pt, which explains the observation of a more highly oriented 111 texture of PZT on the Pt/TiO2 substrate than on the Pt/Ti substrate.
Mechanochemical Wear of Soda Lime Silica Glass in Humid Environments
Authors: He Hongtu , Qian Linmao , Pantano Carlo G. , Kim Seong H.
Published: June 2014

The mechanochemical wear of multicomponent glasses was studied under controlled humidity conditions using a reciprocating ball‐on‐flat tribometer. For dry conditions, the surfaces were extensively damaged by scratching for all of the glasses, while for humid conditions the wear behavior varied with the glass composition suggesting a chemical effect on scratch behaviors of glass surfaces. The wear of soda lime silica (also called sodium calcium silicate) glass was suppressed with increasing humidity, while the borosilicate and barium boroaluminosilicate glasses showed an increase in wear volume with increasing humidity. The unique humidity dependence of the observed mechanochemical wear of soda lime silica glass supports the hypothesis that hydronium ion formation in the sodium‐leached sites of the soda lime glass enhances its wear resistance.
First‐Principle Study of Structural, Electronic, and Magnetic Properties of Strontium Mono Ferrite Ceramic
Authors: Salehi Hamdollah , Javdani Zohre , Badehian Hojat Allah , Amiri Peiman
Published: June 2014

In this research, structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of Strontium mono ferrite ceramic were studied. The calculations were performed by Full‐Potential‐Linearized Augmented Plane Wave method in the framework density functional theory with different approximations. The results suggest that among the four states of nonmagnetic, ferromagnetic, antiferromagnetic, and ferrimagnetic of SrFe2O4, ferrimagnetic is the most stable state. “Generalized Gradient” and “Local Spin Density” approximations were not an appropriate approach to calculate the band gap and magnetic moment of the compound. Therefore, other approximations such as GGA+U, LSDA+U, and modified Becke–Johnson were used. Band gap and lattice constants improved using these approximations. The Hubbard parameter was calculated (Ueff = 4.5 eV) by an ab initio method. Then, the electronic properties of SrFe2O4 such as band gap, exchange constant, and magneto crystalline anisotropy as well as the influence of pressure on these properties were investigated by using GGA+U approximation. Calculated magnetic moment for strontium mono ferrite is equal to 2.72 μB in the semiconductor state. Lattice constant results are in consistent with experimental studies. However, the amounts for bulk modulus, magnetic moment, and band gap have been not estimated experimentally.
Correlating Electrical Resistance Change with Mechanical Damage in Woven SiC/SiC Composites: Experiment and Modeling
Authors: Sujidkul Thanyawalai , Smith Craig E. , Ma Zhijun , Morscher Gregory N. , Xia Zhenhai
Published: June 2014

Silicon carbide (SiC) fiber‐reinforced SiC matrix composites are inherently multifunctional materials. In addition to their primary function as a structural material, the electric properties of the SiC/SiC composites could be used for the sensing and monitoring of in situ damage nucleation and evolution. To detect damage and use that information to further predict the useful life of a particular component, it is necessary to establish the relationship between damage and electrical resistance change. Here, two typical SiC/SiC composites, melt infiltrated (MI), and chemical vapor infiltrated (CVI) woven SiC/SiC composites, were tested to establish the relationship between the electrical response and mechanical damage in unload–reload tensile hysteresis tests. Compared to the 55% resistance increase seen for CVI composites, the MI SiC/SiC composites exhibit a maximum resistance change in 450% in response to mechanical loading (damage), which is the highest sensitivity known among various composites. An analytic model accounting for fiber breakage and matrix cracks was developed to link the electrical resistance to mechanical damage in the composites. The predictions from the models agree well with the experimental data for both composites with high and low conductive matrices. The residual resistance change after unloading is also correlated to the loading history by the analytical relationship. This study demonstrates that resistance change is sensitive to damage in a predictable manner and can be used to improve the reliability of damage assessment of SiC/SiC composites.
Low Temperature Synthesis of Carbonate‐Free Barium Titanate Nanoscale Crystals: Toward a Generalized Strategy of Titanate‐Based Perovskite Nanocrystals Synthesis
Authors: Ashiri Rouholah , Moghtada Abdolmajid , Shahrouzianfar Ali , Ajami Reza
Published: June 2014

Synthesis temperature and purity of perovskite materials are key challenges facing the scientific community. This work aims to address these challenges by developing an innovative low temperature synthesis pathway for preparation of carbonate‐free perovskite nanocrystals. The method is based on an ultrasound‐assisted wet chemical processing method. Nanocrystals are characterized and observed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), field‐emission scanning electron microscopy and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy techniques. XRD studies show that very fine BaTiO3 nanocrystals (<11 nm) free from any by‐products such as BaTi2O5 and BaCO3 are synthesized at 50°C. Moreover, the method developed here can be used as a strategy for synthesizing carbonate‐free perovskite nanocrystals. We believe that the method developed in this work provides a simple, cost‐effective, and convenient route for synthesizing a variety of perovskite materials for assembling in nanotechnology.
High Pressure Behavior of 7:4 Mullite and Boron‐Substituted Mullite: Compressibility and Mechanisms of Amorphization
Authors: Kalita Patricia E. , Cornelius Andrew , Lipinska Kristina , Sinogeikin Stanislav , Fischer Reinhard X. , Lührs Hanna , Schneider Hartmut
Published: June 2014

The high‐pressure elastic properties behavior, phase stability, and mechanisms of amorphization of the alumino‐silicate 7:4 mullite and a corresponding mullite doped with boron were investigated in situ by powder synchrotron X‐ray diffraction with a diamond anvil cell in quasi‐hydrostatic conditions. The samples of 7Al2O3:4SiO2 (Al4.66Si1.33O9.67), referred to as 7:4 mullite and an alumino‐silicate mullite with 3.5(4) mol% B2O3, referred to as B‐mullite, were compressed, in small pressure steps, up to 27.8 and 28.9 GPa, respectively, and then decompressed back to ambient pressure. All along the compression path both samples' patterns are indexable with a mullite structure. Compression data are smooth up to a threshold pressure, from which point the diffraction peaks appeared to broaden, and the refined unit cell parameters deviate significantly down from the compressional trend. Above ~23 GPa the diffraction patterns are not indexable anymore, suggesting amorphization. Rietveld structural refinements allow for a description of the pressure‐induced main deformation mechanisms and structural trends. Pressure‐induced mechanisms of amorphization are also discussed. A third‐order Birch Murnaghan equation of state is fitted to the pressure‐volume data to obtain experimental bulk moduli, as well as axial compressibilities for 7:4 mullite and B‐mullite. Finally the volume compression in response to the applied pressure, combined with thermal expansion coefficients, allows a P–T–V equation‐of‐state for B‐mullite to be proposed.
Fabrication and Piezoelectric Property of BaTiO3 Nanofibers
Authors: Zhuang Yongyong , Li Fei , Yang Guang , Xu Zhuo , Li Jinglei , Fu Bi , Yang Yaodong , Zhang Shujun
Published: June 2014

BaTiO3 (BTO) nanofibers were fabricated by sol–gel combined with electrospinning method. The effects of the concentration of acetic acid and sintering temperatures on the crystal phase and microstructure of the samples were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). BTO nanofibers with improved surface morphology were obtained as the ethanol to acetic acid ratio (E/A) was 8:3. The fibers calcined at 750°C for 2 h exhibited good morphology and crystallization. TEM studies revealed that the BTO nanofibers were polycrystalline, with diameters being on the order of hundreds nanometer, where the existence of domains offered proof of ferroelectric structure. The ferroelectric domains and piezoresponse of BTO nanofibers were characterized by piezoresponse force microscopy. The calculated d33 was 20 pm/V at maximum strain amplitude.
Electrical and Thermal Properties of SiC Ceramics Sintered with Yttria and Nitrides
Authors: Kim Kwang Joo , Lim Kwang‐Young , Kim Young‐Wook
Published: June 2014

The electrical and thermal properties of SiC ceramics containing 1 vol% nitrides (BN, AlN or TiN) were investigated with 2 vol% Y2O3 addition as a sintering additive. The AlN‐added SiC specimen exhibited an electrical resistivity (3.8 × 101 Ω·cm) that is larger by a factor of ~102 compared to that (1.3 × 10−1 Ω·cm) of a baseline specimen sintered with Y2O3 only. On the other hand, BN‐ or TiN‐added SiC specimens exhibited resistivity that is lower than that of the baseline specimen by a factor of 10−1. The addition of 1 vol% BN or AlN led to a decrease in the thermal conductivity of SiC from 178 W/m·K (baseline) to 99 W/m·K or 133 W/m·K, respectively. The electrical resistivity and thermal conductivity of the TiN‐added SiC specimen were 1.6 × 10−2 Ω·cm and 211 W/m·K at room temperature, respectively. The present results suggest that the electrical and thermal properties of SiC ceramics are controllable by adding a small amount of nitrides.
High‐Performance Ferroelectric Solid Solution Crystals: Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3–Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbTiO3
Authors: Li Tao , Long Xifa
Published: June 2014

A series of regular shaped Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3‐based ternary ferroelectric single crystals (1 − x)Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3–0.33Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3–xPbTiO3 (PIN–PZN–PT) have been grown by means of the top‐seeded solution growth method that prevented pyrochlore phase and promoted [001] or [111] growth. The nucleation and crystallization behavior of the Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3‐based ferroelectric single crystals differed from other relaxor‐based ferroelectric single crystals was discovered. Di‐/piezo‐/ferro‐/pyroelectric properties were characterized systematically. The PIN–PZN–PT single crystals showed large coercive fields Ec, high Curie temperature TC and high pyroelectric coefficient P, presenting similar performance but better thermal stability compared with the PZN–PT single crystals, and making it a promising material for transducers and IR detectors in a wider temperature range.
Microwave Sintering of Ti3Si(Al)C2 Ceramic
Authors: Li Fangzhi , Zhang Haibin , Wang Qian , Qu Dong , Zhou Tianliang , Kim Byungnam , Sakka Yoshio , Hu Chunfeng , Huang Qing
Published: June 2014

In this work, microwave sintering (MWS) method was successfully applied for fabrication of dense layered ternary Ti3Si(Al)C2 ceramic. Compared to conventional pressureless approaches, MWS could significantly decrease preparation temperature from 1600°C to 1400°C. The activation energy of the MWS process was estimated as 233 ± 18 kJ/mol, which was much lower than those in previous sintering techniques. The low sintering temperature likely originates from the low activation energy during MWS process. Such low temperature do not only make the as‐received Ti3Si(Al)C2 ceramic much smaller grain size and better mechanical properties, but also indicate higher energy converting efficiency during the sintering processes. Wide application of MWS techniques in MAX phases is expected to promote the practical applications of these materials and contribute to the energy saving during sintering process.
Microstructure, Mechanical, and Thermal Properties of (ZrB2 + ZrC)/Zr3[Al(Si)]4C6 Composite
Authors: Yu Lei , Yang Jian , Qiu Tai , Zhang Jingxian , Pan Limei
Published: June 2014

The microstructure, mechanical, and thermal properties of in situ hot‐pressed 30 vol% (ZrB2+ZrC)/Zr3[Al(Si)]4C6 composite have been investigated and compared with monolithic Zr3[Al(Si)]4C6 ceramic. The composite is composed of ZrB2 and ZrC grains embedded in a Zr3[Al(Si)]4C6 matrix. The composite shows superior hardness (Vickers hardness of 16.4 GPa), stiffness (Young's modulus of 415 GPa), strength (bending strength of 621 MPa), and toughness (fracture toughness of 7.37 MPa·m1/2) compared with monolithic Zr3[Al(Si)]4C6. The composite retains high modulus of 357 GPa at 1430°C (86% of that at ambient temperature) due to clean grain boundaries with no glassy phase. In addition, the composite exhibits higher specific heat capacity and thermal conductivity but slightly lower coefficient of thermal expansion compared with monolithic Zr3[Al(Si)]4C6. The calculation of the thermal stress fracture resistance parameter (R) predicts a much improved thermal shock resistance of the composite. Based on these results, (ZrB2+ZrC)/Zr3[Al(Si)]4C6 composites show promising potential for high‐temperature and ultra high‐temperature applications.
Effect of Glass Refractive Index on Light Extraction Efficiency of Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Seo Jiyoung , Kim Sunil , Kim Yurian , lqbal Fauzia , Kim Hyungsun
Published: June 2014

Light‐emitting‐diode (LED) encapsulants, such as epoxy and silicone resin, have a lower refractive index than YAG:Ce phosphor, and this is usually one of the major causes of LED inefficiency. To improve LED performance, a glass encapsulant is considered. In this study, the SiO2–B2O3–ZnO glass system containing La2O3 and WO3 was investigated as an encapsulant to minimize total internal reflection and to increase the light extraction efficiency of LED packages. The characterization of glass encapsulants was performed using a differential scanning calorimeter, a pycnometer, a prism coupler, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and integrating spheres. The refractive index increased linearly with increasing molar volume of glass because La2O3 and WO3 act as modifiers in the glass, creating more nonbridging oxygen. The refractive index of glass increases with the content of La2O3 and WO3, which is attributed to the increase in polarizability of oxide ions in the glass. When the refractive index between glass and phosphor matched, light extraction efficiency was maximized because total internal reflection decreased.
Effects of Pleistocene climatic fluctuations on the phylogeography, demography and population structure of a high‐elevation snake species, Thermophis baileyi, on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Hofmann Sylvia , Kraus Sabine , Dorge Tsering , Nothnagel Michael , Fritzsche Peter , Miehe Georg
Published: June 2014

Aim

Our aims were to investigate the geographical distribution, population history and demographics of the hot‐spring snake Thermophis baileyi, and to examine how the Pleistocene glacial stages and geomorphological configurations resulting from the uplift of the Tibetan–Himalayan orogen shaped the genetic diversity and evolutionary history of the species.

Location

Tibetan Plateau.

Methods

We surveyed potential habitat sites throughout Tibet. Sequence data were obtained for three mitochondrial markers (ND2, ND4 and cytb; 2185 bp) in 181 individuals from 18 populations across the species' distribution range. We conducted population‐genetic (samova; baps), phylogenetic (maximum likelihood; Bayesian), demographic (Tajima's D; Fu's FS; mismatch distribution) and ecological analyses (logistic regression for presence/absence data) to examine the recent distribution, evolutionary history and diversification of the species.

Results

The geographical range of T. baileyi is a restricted area between the Transhimalaya and the Himalaya, along the central part of the Yarlung Tsangpo suture zone. The divergence times of sequences matched the Guxiang glaciation (300–130 ka) and the last glacial period (70–10 ka). We observed two genetically distinct lineages north of the Yarlung Tsangpo river. These lineages are known from previous work and are largely congruent with a division across the drainage divide of the Nyainqêntanglha rift. Haplotype grouping based on cluster analysis indicated the existence of riverine migration corridors between populations.

Main conclusions

The evolutionary history of T. baileyi is consistent with a model of range expansion from different refugia during interglacial and post‐glacial times. All lines of evidence suggest that Pleistocene glacial oscillations, triggered by tectonic activity during plateau uplift, have had the strongest influence on intraspecific differentiation. Physical barriers, such as high‐elevation mountains and the drainage system, however, also appear to have affected the population structure and distribution of this snake. Population clustering suggests that there has been long‐distance dispersal along riverine corridors.
Proper Patient Selection Yields Significant and Sustained Reduction in Systolic Blood Pressure Following Renal Artery Stenting in Patients With Uncontrolled Hypertension: Long‐Term Results From the HERCULES Trial
Authors: Chrysant George S. , Bates Mark C. , Sullivan Timothy M. , Bachinsky William B. , Popma Jeffrey J. , Peng Lei , Omran Hend L. , Jaff Michael R. ,   the HERCULES Investigators
Published: June 2014

The Safety and Effectiveness Study of the Herculink Elite Renal Stent to Treat Renal Artery Stenosis (HERCULES) trial is a prospective, multicenter trial evaluating the safety, effectiveness, and durability of the RX Herculink Elite renal stent system (Abbott Vascular, Abbott Park, IL) in select patients with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis and uncontrolled hypertension. A total of 202 patients were enrolled between August 2007 and October 2009. The primary endpoint, 9‐month binary restenosis, was 10.5% determined by core laboratory adjudicated duplex ultrasound and/or angiography. Additional analyses included changes in blood pressure, antihypertensive medications, renal function (RF), major adverse events (MAEs) (death, ipsilateral nephrectomy, and embolic events resulting in kidney damage), and clinically driven target lesion revascularization (CD‐TLR) between baseline and 36 months. Freedom from MAE was 98.5% at 30 days. At 36 months, freedom from death, nephrectomy, and CD‐TLR were 90.1%, 100%, and 91.8%, respectively. After 30 days there were no site‐reported embolic events resulting in kidney damage. The mean baseline systolic blood pressure of 162±18 mm Hg significantly decreased postprocedure and through 36 months (mean systolic blood pressure 141 mm Hg [P<.0001] and 146 mm Hg [P<.0001], respectively). No differences were noted in antihypertensive medications or RF compared with baseline. The HERCULES trial demonstrated sustained clinically and statistically significant reduction in SBP in patients with uncontrolled HTN. Coupled with the low core laboratory–adjudicated in‐stent restenosis, acceptable procedural complication rates (1.5%), and <10% CD‐TLR, the study suggests that there may be a role for renal artery stenting using contemporary stent technology.
Selective prevention of cardiometabolic diseases in general practice: attitudes and working methods of male and female general practitioners before and after the introduction of the Prevention Consultation guideline in the Netherlands
Authors: Vos Hedwig M.M. , Van Delft Diane H.W.J.M. , De Kleijn Miriam J.J. , Nielen Markus M.J. , Schellevis François G. , Lagro‐Janssen Antoine L.M.
Published: June 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

In 2011 the module cardiometabolic risk of the Prevention Consultation guideline was introduced in the Netherlands in order to prevent cardiometabolic diseases. We aimed to compare attitudes and working methods of Dutch general practitioners (GPs) towards selective prevention of cardiometabolic diseases before and after the introduction of the guideline and to study the effect of GP gender on these attitudes and working methods.

Methods

We compared attitudes and working methods in prevention of cardiometabolic diseases in a cross‐sectional survey among Dutch GPs in 2013 to the results of a comparable study performed in 2008.

Results

Both in 2008 and 2013 30% responded. In 2013, more GPs reported to actively invite patients for preventive measurements. Thirty per cent of the GPs implemented the module cardiometabolic risk. In 2013, less GPs reported that it is worthwhile to make an effort to detect patients at increased risk for cardiometabolic diseases, and more GPs suggested that prevention may be performed by other stakeholders compared with 2008. Financial support and evidence for prevention programmes were mentioned as main facilitators for prevention. In 2013, more male than female GPs actively invite patients for preventive measurements.

Conclusions

More GPs report active preventive working methods after the introduction of the Prevention Consultation guideline, but only 30% implemented the guideline. More male than female GPs actively invite patients for preventive measurements. Compared with 2008 less GPs think it is worthwhile to make an effort to detect patients at increased risk and more GPs are willing to delegate preventive actions to other health institutions in 2013. As financial support and evidence for prevention are important facilitators for prevention, further research of the effectiveness of the guideline in preventing cardiometabolic diseases is necessary, and political choices have to be made in order to financially facilitate selective prevention in general practice.
Pharmacovigilance in oncology: evaluation of current practice and future perspectives
Authors: Baldo Paolo , De Paoli Paolo
Published: June 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

Pharmacovigilance (PV), or drug safety monitoring, aims to improve patient safety through the detection and management of drug‐related adverse reactions. It is implemented both by spontaneous reporting of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and by careful detection of signals suggestive of drug toxicity. PV is an important clinical topic in clinical practice and pharmacotherapy, assuring the maintenance of a safe risk/benefit ratio throughout the commercial life cycle of a drug.

Methods

We conducted a structured literature search on PubMed, Scopus, Cinahl and the Cochrane Library. We also performed manual searches in international databases of ADR individual reports to outline a structured profile on the topic. Our goal was to review key elements that affect safety monitoring of cancer drugs and their appropriate use, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of PV in oncology.

Results

This paper provides an understanding of the methodologies used by PV in current clinical practice and particularly in cancer drug therapy; a focus upon reporting of ADRs by health professionals and patients; and a focus upon methods used by PV to detect new signals of risk/harm related to medicines utilization.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, few articles focus upon the importance of PV and post‐marketing surveillance of cancer drug therapies. Structured management of spontaneous reports of ADRs and data collection is essential to monitoring the safe use of drugs in this field in which pharmacotherapy is affected by high incidence of drug‐related complications and by a narrow benefit/risk ratio.
Effect of occlusal rehabilitation on spatial memory and hippocampal neurons after long‐term loss of molars in rats
Authors: Sakamoto S. , Hara T. , Kurozumi A. , Oka M. , Kuroda‐Ishimine C. , Araki D. , Iida S. , Minagi S.
Published: June 2014

Experimental loss of occlusal support caused by the extraction or grinding of molar teeth has been reported to foment the impairment of learning and memory in laboratory animals. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of occlusal reconstruction after long‐term loss of molars on spatial memory by using 8‐arm radial maze and by assessing histopathological changes of neuron density in the hippocampus. Experimental dentures were inserted into the oral cavities of molarless rats to recover the occlusal support. Age‐matched groups of control, molarless and denture‐wearing rats were trained to perform the maze tasks. The difference of the error incidence in the maze task was evaluated between three groups. The difference of neuron density between three groups was also evaluated at the end of the maze task. Serum corticosterone levels were also measured to estimate the chronic stress, which could be caused by extraction, insertion of the experimental denture or any experimental procedure. The error incidence in the denture‐wearing group was significantly higher than that of the control group, but significantly lower than that of the molarless group. Significant differences of neuron density were observed between three groups in each of the hippocampal CA1, CA3 and DG subfields. No significant difference of the serum corticosterone levels between three groups could be observed. From the results of this study, it was suggested that the recovery of occlusal support would bring amelioration of cognitive impairment concomitant with long period loss of molars in rats.
Dynamics of corticospinal changes during and after high‐intensity quadriceps exercise
Authors: Gruet Mathieu , Temesi John , Rupp Thomas , Levy Patrick , Verges Samuel , Millet Guillaume Y.
Published: June 2014

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Progressive development of the supraspinal component of central fatigue and increases in corticospinal excitability and inhibition have been demonstrated during fatiguing contractions of the elbow flexors. However, the kinetics of mechanical and EMG responses induced by transcranial magnetic stimulation during and after single‐joint fatiguing knee‐extensor exercise remains unknown.

What is the main finding and its importance?

Our results show that single‐joint knee‐extensor isometric exercise induces late supraspinal fatigue with increased intracortical inhibition, both of which recover quickly after task failure, and unchanged corticospinal excitability. This indicates that fatigue‐induced corticospinal changes are muscle and/or limb specific and reinforces the need to measure corticospinal changes within seconds after task failure to avoid their underestimation.

This study tested the hypothesis that during fatiguing quadriceps exercise, supraspinal fatigue develops late, is associated with both increased corticospinal excitability and inhibition and recovers quickly. Eight subjects performed 20 s contractions [15 s at 50% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) followed by 5 s MVC] separated by a 10 s rest period until task failure. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and electrical femoral nerve stimulation (PNS) were delivered ∼2 s apart during 50% MVC, during MVC and after MVC in relaxed muscle. Voluntary activation was assessed by TMS (VATMS) immediately before and after exercise and then three times over a 6 min recovery period. During exercise, MVC and twitch force evoked by PNS in relaxed muscle decreased progressively to 48 ± 8 and 36 ± 16% of control values, respectively (both P < 0.01). Significant changes in voluntary activation assessed by PNS and twitch evoked by TMS during MVC were observed during the last quarter of exercise only (from 96.4 ± 1.7 to 86 ± 13%, P = 0.03 and from 0.76 ± 0.8 to 4.9 ± 4.7% MVC, P = 0.02, from baseline to task failure, respectively). The TMS‐induced silent period increased linearly during both MVC (by ∼79 ms) and 50% MVC (by ∼63 ms; both P < 0.01). Motor‐evoked potential amplitude did not change during the protocol at any force levels. Both silent period and VATMS recovered within 2 min postexercise, whereas MVC and twitch force evoked by PNS in relaxed muscle recovered to only 84 ± 9 and 73 ± 17% of control values 6 min after exercise, respectively. In conclusion, high‐intensity single‐joint quadriceps exercise induces supraspinal fatigue near task failure, with increased intracortical inhibition and, in contrast to previous upper‐limb results, unchanged corticospinal excitability. These changes recover rapidly after task failure, emphasizing the need to measure corticospinal adaptations immediately at task failure to avoid underestimation of exercise‐induced corticospinal changes.
Amelioration of capillary regression and atrophy of the soleus muscle in hindlimb‐unloaded rats by astaxanthin supplementation and intermittent loading
Authors: Kanazashi Miho , Tanaka Masayuki , Murakami Shinichiro , Kondo Hiroyo , Nagatomo Fumiko , Ishihara Akihiko , Roy Roland R. , Fujino Hidemi
Published: June 2014

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

We asked whether the combination of astaxanthin supplementation and intermittent loading would attenuate both the muscle atrophy and the capillary regression associated with chronic unloading.

What is the main finding and its importance?

Intermittent loading alone attenuated atrophy of the soleus, while astaxanthin treatment alone maintained the capillary network in the soleus. The combination of these two interventions ameliorated both the muscle atrophy and the capillary regression induced by chronic unloading.

A chronic decrease in neuromuscular activity (activation and/or loading) results in muscle atrophy and capillary regression that are due, in part, to the overproduction of reactive oxygen species. We have reported that antioxidant treatment with astaxanthin attenuates the overexpression of reactive oxygen species in atrophied muscles that, in turn, ameliorates capillary regression in hindlimb‐unloaded rats. Astaxanthin supplementation, however, had little effect on muscle mass and fibre cross‐sectional area. In contrast, intermittent loading of the hindlimbs of hindlimb‐unloaded rats ameliorates muscle atrophy. Therefore, we hypothesized that the combination of astaxanthin supplementation and intermittent loading would attenuate both muscle atrophy and capillary regression during hindlimb unloading. As expected, 2 weeks of hindlimb unloading resulted in atrophy, a decrease in capillary volume and a shift towards smaller‐diameter capillaries in the soleus muscle. Intermittent loading alone (1 h of cage ambulation per day) attenuated atrophy of the soleus, while astaxanthin treatment alone maintained the capillary network to near control levels. The combination of intermittent loading and astaxanthin treatment, however, ameliorated atrophy of the soleus and maintained the capillary volume and luminal diameters and the superoxide dismutase‐1 protein levels near control values. These results indicate that intermittent loading combined with astaxanthin supplementation could be an effective therapy for both the muscle atrophy and the capillary regression associated with a chronic decrease in neuromuscular activity.