bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predition of Textile Fabric Color by Digital Camera
Authors: Nateri Ali Shams
Published: April 2016

The main objective of this study is to highlight the relationship between RGB values of digital camera as a device-dependent color space and a device-independent CIE color space. Calibration and testing databases are the colorimetric specifications of colored polyester
fabrics. The colored fabrics were dyed with a variety of disperse dyestuffs. Camera characterization was done based on the polynomial regression technique. The methods adopted in the study were non-linear filtering applied to camera RGB values and a polynomial regression function directly applied to the CIELAB space.

The performances of the methods improved by increasing the number of terms in the polynomial. The estimation errors of the linear polynomial regression to CIEXYZ, the nonlinear polynomial regression to CIEXYZ, the linear polynomial regression to CIELAB, and the nonlinear polynomial regression to CIELAB were 3.29, 4.43, 3.05, and 3.04 DE*ab respectively. The generalization capability decreased by increasing the number of terms in the polynomial regression. The best generalization capability was obtained by the linear polynomial regression to CIELAB. The best result was obtained by non-linear filtering while the second-best result was obtained by the polynomial regression to the CIELAB values.
Measurement of Thermal Resistance of Woven Fabrics in Natural and Forced Convections
Authors: Bhattacharjee D. , Kothari V.K.
Published: April 2016

The objective of this paper is to report the values of thermal resistance in natural and convection heat transfer modes through woven fabrics. An instrument developed on the principle of the guarded hot plate method will be discussed. The instrument is precise up to two decimal places and the accuracy is approximately 14%. The fabrics were tested in a natural as well as forced convective mode with air velocity of 1m/s flowing parallel over the fabric surface. It was observed that the thermal resistance of the fabric in forced convection is less than that in the natural convective mode.

The thermal resistance can be predicted with the help of a statistical model when all the constructional parameters are taken together. A polynomial equation consisting of linear, interaction and square terms based on the response surface modelling was developed for both the conditions of heat flow. It was observed that as all constructional parameters, such as warp and weft count, thread spacing, thickness, fabric weight and porosity are taken as variables, the response function; namely thermal resistance can be predicted with a high coefficient of determination and less average error.
Effect of Hair Damage on Colour Uptake and Colour Fastness
Authors: Cheng S.Y. , Yuen C.W.M. , Kan C.W. , Cheuk K.K.L.
Published: April 2016

Furthering our previous study on damage to hair, this paper investigates the effects of three different hair damaging treatments on colouration effects with an oxidizing semi-permanent colourant. The three damaging treatments are (i) sunlight (simulated by Xenon light), (ii) perming and (iii) bleaching. The colour uptake was evaluated differently with a conventional method by CIE L*a*b* system of equation.

In addition, the colour fastness properties of coloured hair to different simulated daily activities, such as (i) hair washing, (ii) hair perming, (iii) sunlight exposure and (iv) swimming in sea water were also examined.

Based on the experimental results, it can be concluded that hair treatment with bleaching can improve colouring performance because melanin is eliminated from hair. At the same time, the colour fastness properties of coloured hair under different colour fastness testing conditions becomes worse with respect to the increasing degree of damaging treatment
Special Finishing of Cotton to Impart Flame-Retardancy, Easy Care Finishing and Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Waly A. , Abou-Zeid N. Y. , Marie M. M. , El-Sheikh M. A. , Mohamed A. L.
Published: April 2016

Reactive amine-amide derivatives are prepared via the addition reaction of different primary and secondary amines on acrylamide (AAm) using equivalent molar ratios and the resultant product is methylolated using equivalent amounts of HCHO. Bis (hydroxymethyl carbamoylethyl) ethylamine (I), tetra (hydroxymethyl carbamoyl ethyl) ethylene diamine (II) and penta (hydroxymethyl carbamoylethyl) diethylenetriamine (III) are prepared by reaction between ethylamine or ethylenediamine or diethylenetriamine and AAm. N-Hydroxydiethyl-phosphonopropianamide (IV) is prepared via Mecheal addition reaction of diethylphosphite with AAm followed by reaction with HCHO. To impact flame-retardancy and easy care finishing to cotton fabric aqueous formulations of compound IV, etherified methylolated melamine (EMM) and/or compounds III, II or I have been prepared. Cotton fabric treated by pad–dry–cure system, the drying time was investigated. Cured cotton fabrics are fire retardant if the aqueous formulation contains 12 % w/w of compound IV and 6 % w/w of EMM respectively. Physical and mechanical properties are less deteriorated when compound III, II or I are used instead of EMM and the liberated HCHO is almost decreased to one half by replacing EMM by one of the prepared methylol compounds. Treatments with compounds III, II or I is impart antibacterial and antifungus properties to the finished fabric.
Studying the Efficiency of Hollow Fiber Dialyzers Used in Hemodialysis
Authors: Mahmoud Eman Ramadan
Published: April 2016

his research studies the effectiveness of different dialysis units on patients with renal failure by comparing the blood constituent before and after dialysis which indicates the dialyzer efficiency. Three kinds of hollow fiber materials were used in this research, Cuprophan, hemophan and polysulfone, with three surface areas of 1.1, 1.3, and 1.6 m2. Different parameters were studied, including fiber type and surface area, to evaluate the efficiency of the dialyzers under study. Polysulfone dialyzers of 1.6 m2 have achieved the best results compared to other types of dialyzers.
Rendering Cotton Fabrics Antibacterial Properties Using Silver Nanoparticle-based Finishing Formulation
Authors: Hebeish A. , Ramadan M.A. , El-Naggar M.E. , El-Rafie M.H.
Published: April 2016

Nano-sized silver particles at a concentration of 1620 ppm were prepared using hydroxypropyl starch (HPS) as a reductant of silver nitrate and a stabilizer for silver nanoparticles. A solution containing 1620 ppm silver nanoparticles was diluted to 50 ppm and 100 ppm. The diluted solution was applied to cotton fabrics in the presence and absence of a binder to impart antibacterial properties to the fabrics. The solution containing 50 ppm silver nanoparticles with 1% binder (Printofix® Binder MTB EG liquid) induces excellent and durable bactericidal activity in cotton fabrics. The finished fabrics were examined for morphological features and surface characteristics by making use of the SEM. The SEM pictures reveal that silver nanoparticles are deposited on the surface of fibrils (fabric fibres).
Structure Designing and Property Investigation of Flexible Multilayer Thermal Insulation Materials
Authors: Chen Jinjing , Yu Weidong
Published: April 2016

In this paper, a method of designing flexible multilayer insulation is analyzed and discussed, with focus on reducing the three basic modes of heat transfer (thermal radiation, solid spacer and residual gas conduction). The foundation for designing the new flexible thermal insulation material is provided. The insulation performances of different types (by choosing different reflection shields and spacers) of flexible multilayer insulation materials are obtained through measurements using a KES-F7 Thermal Labo II apparatus. The thermal performance of flexible multilayer insulation materials at different layers are also presented, and the best is about 20∼25 layers. To improve the thermal performance of multilayer insulation materials, treble spacers between double aluminized shields are applied. Aluminized shields with air, meshes, wool fibres, etc. are compared with each other. The aluminized shields with meshes fixed with down can reduce thermal contact, which reduces the radiation heat transfer more fully and can be more steady than the other spacers in the project applications. With the same layers and spacers, the thermal conductivity of crinkled aluminized shields is lower than that of the smooth aluminized shields. The effects of compressive loads on layer density and thermal performance are also investigated.
Formaldehyde-Free Chemical and Enzymatic Crosslinking of Plant Proteins
Authors: Li Ying , Yang Yiqi
Published: April 2016

This paper discusses various methods of formaldehyde-free crosslinking of plant proteins and the chemistry of the crosslinking reaction based on recent developments. Currently, there are increasing demands for replacing petroleum-derived raw materials with renewable biodegradable materials. The abundant availability of zein, soy protein, wheat gluten and gliadin from industrial byproducts at low prices leads to the increase of use of renewable plant proteins to produce zein, soy protein, wheat gluten and gliadin fibers. However, poor mechanical properties and weak water stability of these protein fibers are not suitable to meet the needs of industry application. It is necessary to strengthen these renewable protein fibers. This paper reviews various methods related to formaldehyde-free crosslinking of plant proteins. A critical analysis is given on the kinetic study of glutaraldehyde crosslinking of proteins. In this paper, we also discuss a green catalyst for citric acid crosslinking of protein fibers at mild temperatures, the quantitative relationship between the reaction parameters and mechanical properties of crosslinked gliadin fibers, and changes in the molecular weight of the proteins.
Surface Roughness Evaluation of Weft Knitted Fabric by Using a Textile Surface Tester
Authors: Maâtoug Najeh , Sahnoun Mehdi , Sakli Faouzi
Published: April 2016

A Textile Surface Tester was used in this study to measure the surface roughness of weft knitted fabric. The aim of this work is to examine the influence of fabric parameters and test conditions on the sample's surface roughness. In this investigation, tests were carried out on single jersey knitted fabric for outwear. The measurement was carried out via an inductive sensor for displacement which produces signal in relation to the sample relives. We applied decomposition via the Fourier and the wavelet transforms to extract useful data from the produced signals signal. The surface roughness parameters were calculated according to the standard ISO 4287 (1997). Implications of the results on the influence of the stitch length and the yarn count on surface roughness are discussed.
Effect of Acids and Metal Salt Pretreatments on Acrylic Dyeability
Authors: El Gabry L.K. , Bendak A. , El Hossamy M.B. , Abo Hamr M.S.
Published: April 2016

Acrylic fabrics are treated with aluminum sulphate, copper sulphate, tannic acid and isophthalic-5-sodiumsulphonic acid in different concentrations and various temperatures in presence and absence of plasticizer agents, such as dimethylformamide (DMF) or dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO). The treatment is carried out by two techniques (padding and exhaustion). Then, pretreated acrylic fabrics are dyed with cationic and acid dyes for various times. The effects of the treatments on the mechanical and physical properties of the treated acrylic fabrics such as moisture regain, roughness, tensile strength, elongation and bending stiffness are thoroughly investigated. Infrared spectroscopic analysis has been used to suggest changes in the treated acrylic fabrics. The dyeability of the treated fabrics by both cationic and acid dyestuffs is studied. The effects of the treatments with metal salts and acids on fastness properties of dyed acrylic fabrics are estimated. The pretreatment improves the dyeability of acrylic fabrics modified with both cationic and acid dyestuffs and also their fastness properties.
Green Strategy for Development of Antimicrobial Printed Textile Fabrics
Authors: A.A. Hebeish , Ali N.F. , El- Thalouth J.I. Abd
Published: April 2016

The green synthesis strategy was established for textile finishing, aiming at development of antimicrobial-printed cotton and silk fabrics. The synthesis referred to the treatment of these fabrics with chitosan of low, medium and high molecular weights using different concentrations of each. This was followed by screen printing using a natural dye extracted from prickly pears. Thus, the obtained fabrics were monitored for nitrogen, color strength and antimicrobial activity. The results signify that the chitosan concentration and its molecular weight determine the magnitudes of both antimicrobial activity and color strength. Utilization of chitosan of medium or high molecular weight at a concentration of 2% in the treating solution inhibits completely the growth of s. aureus and E. coli, which represent two types of bacteria, namely gram +ve and gram −ve. Meanwhile, the color strength assumes the highest values. The antimicrobial activities of the treated fabrics with respect to other strains of bacteria and their color strength were reported. Also reported was the mode of interactions of chitosan with cotton and silk fabrics as well as a comparison between the results obtained from these two substrates.
Studying The Performance of Men’s Socks
Authors: Mohammad Aliaa A. , Abdel Megeid Z. M. , Saleh Sanaa S. , Abdo Khaled M.
Published: April 2016

Socks are one of the most important accessories, which have many kinds of blend composition, design, style and construction. In this study, an investigation was conducted to identify the blend composition ratio, stitch density, thickness, weight per unit area and air permeability to explore their effects on the durability and comfortability of socks. Other factors that affect durability were also investigated, such as the abrasion resistance. The result shows that the increase in weight and stitch density can lead to a decrease in air permeability, while the when the weight and stitch density increase lead to decrease in air permeability, while the increase in weight and thickness can lead to an increase in abrasion resistance.
Digital Ink-jet Printing on Textiles
Authors: Kan C.W. , Yuen C.W.M.
Published: April 2016

Digital ink-jet printing was developed more than two decades ago, to print image directly from the computer on substrates such as paper, film and plastic, etc. In the past decade, digital ink-jet printing has been extensively used in textile applications also due to improvement of ink, software and machinery. Therefore, a comprehensive review of digital ink-jet printing on textiles was conducted. The technical aspects of digital ink-jet printing are addressed and hardware requirements of digital ink-jet printing system for textiles are also reviewed. Specific criteria of ink and substrate for digital ink-jet printing are discussed. On the other hand, problems of printing quality because of textile substrate are also discussed in this paper.
Influence of UV Radiation on Extraction and Dyeing of Cotton Fabrics Using Eucalyptus Bark Powder as Natural Dye
Authors: Bhatti Ijaz A. , Adeel Shahid , Rani Safia , Gulzar Tahsin , Naz Saima , Mansour H.F.
Published: April 2016

The efficiency of UV radiation on boiled aqueous and alkaline extracts of Eucalyptus bark powder has been determined. Irradiated and un-irradiated cotton fabrics were used to study the dyeing parameters such as material-liquor ratio, dyeing time and dyeing pH. Pre- and postmordanting were carried out by using copper and iron mordants. The data colour report was obtained for evaluation of un-irradiated and irradiated dyed cotton using a Spectra Flash (SF- 650) in the CIE Lab system. It was found that UV irradiation has the potential to improve dyeing and fastness properties, such as washing, light and rubbing, of cotton dyed with Eucalyptus bark powder.
Impact Protective Clothing in Sport: Areas of Application and Level of Utilization
Authors: Dlugosch Sabine , Hu Hong , Chan Allan CK
Published: April 2016

Each year, 75 million people worldwide suffer from different sporting injuries. It has been shown that the majority of these injuries occur among athletes who did not wear protective equipment. The diversity of demands in sport requires a wide range of products for sufficient body protection, but to be efficient, the benefit of the protective clothing and equipment must meet the athlete's approval. Major impact protective clothing of five popular sports and its role in injury prevention have been identified through a systematic review of the literature. It has been found that although a variety of impact protectors are available, and most athletes are aware of their effectiveness in preventing injuries, the use of impact protective clothing and equipment is often rejected by athletes. Impact protectors in sport are designed to protect people, but their shock-absorbing ability often stands in contradiction to their wearing comfort and freedom of movement. In order for impact protecting clothing to gain wider acceptance and encourage use that is more regular during sport, sportswear and sporting textile devices that incorporate impact protective components must fulfil the requirements not only for effective protection, but also the athlete's performance and comfort.
Cellulase Enzyme in Bio-finishing of Cotton-Based Fabrics: Effects of Process Parameters
Authors: Ali Hebeish , Hashem Mohamed , Shaker Nihal , Ramadan Mohamed , El-Sadek Bahiya , Hady Marwa Abdel
Published: April 2016

Cotton-based fabrics, namely loomstate cotton fabric, grey mercerized cotton fabric, loomstate cotton/polyester (50/50 and 35/65) blended fabric were bio-desized by α amylase enzymes and bio-scoured by alkaline pectinase enzymes. The obtained bio-scoured substrates were subject to bleaching with peracetic acid and proceeded for bio-polishing under a variety of conditions. Results show that the extent of bio-polishing depends on the conditions of the treatment. The loss in fabric weight exhibits values which are comparable at 50° and 60°C and substantially higher than those obtained at 40°C. Temperatures of bio-polishing, specifically 40° and 50°, decrease the whiteness index; higher temperature, i.e. 60 °C, does not cause further decrease in the whiteness index whereas the tensile strength decreases. The temperature has a positive effect on surface roughness particularly when bio-polishing is performed at 50°and 60 °C. It was also found that cellulase is more active in mercerized cotton than in either 100 % cotton or cotton/polyester blend. The scanning electron micrograph of fibers after the enzymatic treatment reveals smoothened faces. The ridges that are present in the untreated fiber samples are not found in the case of cellulase-treated fibers. Bio-polishing of cotton fabrics can offer unmatched results by optimizing the process conditions, which can be otherwise achieved with chemical finishes. Reasonably good results were obtained from all the cotton and cotton blend fabrics and show high flexibility and versatility of the treatment in the manufacturing process.
Bioscouring Aided by EDTA and β-Cyclodextrin for Purification of Loomstate Cotton and Blend Fabrics
Authors: Hebeish A. , Hashem M. , Ramadan M.A. , Sadek B. , Abdel-Hady M.
Published: April 2016

Incorporation of either EDTA or β-cyclodextrin in the bioscouring treatments and its onset on the bioscoured fabrics performance was intensively studied. Biotreatments involved single use of alkaline pectinase enzyme or in combination with cellulase enzyme in a subsequent treatment. EDTA and β-cyclodextrin were entailed independently in the bioscouring by using two strategies: 1) they were applied to the fabrics as a pretreatment and; 2) they were added to the bioscouring treating solution. Fabrics used were enzymatically desized. Desized fabrics under investigation comprised cotton fabric, mercerized cotton fabric, cotton/polyester (50/50) blend fabric and cotton/polyester (35/65) blend fabric. Results showed that pretreatment of fabrics with EDTA followed by subsequent bioscouring by alkaline pectinase enzyme in single use or in combination with cellulase enzyme in a separate step decreases the performance of bioscoured fabrics. On the other hand, incorporation of EDTA in the bioscouring solution containing alkaline pectinase enzyme alone or together with an extra treatment in the bioscouring solution containing cellulase improves the performance of the bioscoured fabrics. It was also found that addition of β-cyclodextrin to the bioscouring solutions containing alkaline pectinase enzyme alone or supported by cellulase enzyme in a separate step acts in favour of the technical properties and performance of the bioscoured fabrics.
Fight‐flight or freeze‐hide? Personality and metabolic phenotype mediate physiological defence responses in flatfish
Authors: Rupia Emmanuel J. , Binning Sandra A. , Roche Dominique G. , Lu Weiqun
Published: April 2016

Survival depends on appropriate behavioural and physiological responses to danger. In addition to active ‘fight‐flight’ defence responses, a passive ‘freeze‐hide’ response is adaptive in some contexts. However, the physiological mechanisms determining which individuals choose a given defence response remain poorly understood.

We examined the relationships among personality, metabolic performance and physiological stress responses across an environmental gradient in the olive flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus.

We employed four behavioural assays to document the existence of two distinct behavioural types (‘bold’ and ‘shy’) in this species. We found consistent metabolic differences between individuals of a given behavioural type across an environmental gradient: shy individuals had overall lower aerobic scope, maximum metabolic rate and standard metabolic rate than bold individuals in both high (25 ppt) and low (3 ppt) salinity.

These behavioural and metabolic differences translated into divergent physiological responses during acute stress: shy individuals adopted a passive ‘freeze‐hide’ response by reducing their oxygen consumption rates (akin to shallow breathing) whereas bold individuals adopted an active ‘fight‐flight’ response by increasing their rates of respiration. These distinct defence strategies were repeatable within individuals between salinity treatments.

Although it has been suggested theoretically, this is the first empirical evidence that the metabolic response to stressful situations differs between bold and shy individuals. Our results emphasize the importance of incorporating physiological measures to understand the mechanisms driving persistent inter‐individual differences in animals.
Men in the Communities of Dominican Nuns – Sister‐Books Discussing Priests and Friars
Authors: Heinonen M.
Published: April 2016

This article discusses the relationship between Dominican nuns and their caregivers (priests and friars) with the help of sister‐books written by the Dominican nuns themselves in the first half of the fourteenth century. My main focus will be on analysing the way religious men were described in these books and asking how this discussion was related to the everyday life of the nuns in the Dominican convents. I will suggest that the sister‐books can give a new and perhaps unexpected view of the relationships between Dominican nuns and their spiritual caregivers, as these texts suggest that nuns preferred local secular priests over the friars, even though they accepted the religious authority of the latter. I will argue that although the sister‐books were literary products, they had a close connection to the lived reality of nuns and that they can tell us about the interaction between nuns and religious men in their service. However, these texts also formed the ideas of nuns and kept the old attitudes towards priests and friars live, even when the interaction might have already taken other forms in practice.
REIT Stock Price Volatility and the Effects of Leverage
Authors: Kawaguchi Yuichiro , Sa‐Aadu Jarjisu , Shilling James D.
Published: April 2016

This article sheds light on several puzzling empirical observations. We examine the volatility implications of equity Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) stock returns over the sample period from January 1985 through October 2012. We find a negative “leverage effect” in the pre‐ and post‐Greenspan era, but not during the Greenspan era (circa 1994–2006). We argue that the positive elasticity of variance with respect to the value of equity during the Greenspan era can be explained by a decline in the spread between the yield on commercial mortgages and 10‐year Treasuries, which triggered a wealth transfer from REIT equity holders to REIT debt holders. We also argue that the declining commercial‐mortgage‐10‐year‐Treasury yield spread during the Greenspan era allowed REITs to take on far more risk than most people realized. We then document that average REIT stock return volatility increased significantly in the 2007–2010 period in the midst of a historic decline in REIT stock prices. The results have significant implications for the good deal of interest and debate in the media over the status of REITs and whether equity REITs have become excessively risky relative to the returns they generate.
The employability of newcomer self‐initiated expatriates in China: an employers' perspective
Authors: Makkonen Paula
Published: April 2016

Based on 24 interviews of western recruiters with staffing experience in China, this empirical study is one of the first to explore a neglected aspect of the careers of western newcomer self‐initiated expatriates (NC‐SIEs) in cross‐cultural career settings from the employers' perspective: the value and employability of NC‐SIEs in China. The findings reveal that individuals responsible for staffing in China perceive the employability of NC‐SIEs to be low, and how both organisational and contextual drivers define the value of each person‐related skill and ability, and how the knowledge that affects the perceived employability of a staff member. The findings also illustrate how those attributes are expected to contribute to the performance of an organisation. These findings are relevant both for employers and employees because increasing numbers of mobile NC‐SIEs without previous work experience in cross‐cultural career contexts seek career opportunities in such labour markets.
It's the Lungfish, stupid: knowledge fights, activism, and the science–policy interface
Authors: Morgan Edward A. , Osborne Natalie
Published: April 2016

Since the post‐positivist turn in the 20th century, many scholars and philosophers have argued for the importance of Other Ways Of Knowing – including local, embodied, situated, partial, and indigenous knowledges – in developing a better understanding of the world. This argument has been further stressed by a large subset of scholars working in the fields of geography, policy, planning, natural resource management, and community development, yet in practice, positivism retains its epistemological dominance. Drawing from a case study of a dam proposal at Traveston Crossing, Queensland, Australia, this paper will explore these epistemological tensions from the perspective of those whose first/primary ways of knowing about the issue were marginalised, namely the local activists who opposed the proposal. Using data gathered from document analysis and interviews, the paper will explore how these activists implicitly understood this epistemological marginalisation, how they adopted and employed positivist knowledge and language to further the exposure and credibility of their campaign, how this credibility was mediated by their identities, how they strategically deployed different forms of knowledge at local, national, and international scales, and how their successful navigation of these epistemological tensions was critical to the ultimate success of their campaign.
Recent and emerging innovations inSalmonelladetection: a food and environmental perspective
Authors: Bell Rebecca L. , Jarvis Karen G. , Ottesen Andrea R. , McFarland Melinda A. , Brown Eric W.
Published: April 2016

Salmonellais a diverse genus of Gram‐negative bacilli and a major foodborne pathogen responsible for more than a million illnesses annually in the United States alone. Rapid, reliable detection and identification of this pathogen in food and environmental sources is key to safeguarding the food supply. Traditional microbiological culture techniques have been the ‘gold standard’ for State and Federal regulators. Unfortunately, the time to result is too long to effectively monitor foodstuffs, especially those with very short shelf lives. Advances in traditional microbiology and molecular biology over the past 25 years have greatly improved the speed at which this pathogen is detected. Nonetheless, food and environmental samples possess a distinctive set of challenges for these newer, more rapid methodologies. Furthermore, more detailed identification and subtyping strategies still rely heavily on the availability of a pure isolate. However, major shifts inDNAsequencing technologies are meeting this challenge by advancing the detection, identification and subtyping ofSalmonellatowards a culture‐independent diagnostic framework. This review will focus on current approaches and state‐of‐the‐art next‐generation advances in the detection, identification and subtyping ofSalmonellafrom food and environmental sources.
Risk factors and predictors of uncontrolled hyperglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus in Jeddah, western Saudi Arabia
Authors: Sayed Mohamed Hesham , Hegazi Moustafa Abdelaal , Abdulwahed Khairyah , Moussa Khairya , El‐Deek Basem Salama , Gabel Hala , Ragheb Rana
Published: April 2016

Background

Little is known about levels of glycemic control and risk factors for uncontrolled hyperglycemia in Saudi children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). The aim of the present study was to identify levels of glycemic control, risk factors and predictors of uncontrolled hyperglycemia (HG) and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in children with T1DM.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed on Saudi children and adolescents with confirmed T1DM who were followed at the Pediatric Endocrinology Clinic of the Maternity and Children Hospital, Jeddah, from 2000 to 2014. Data collection included all possible factors that may be associated with uncontrolled T1DM. Patients were classified according to American Diabetes Association guidelines for target HbA1c levels per age group. Comparisons were made between well‐controlled (WC) patients, HG patients, and DKA patients. Calculation of odds ratios and logistic regression allowed for estimation of the role of each risk factor in uncontrolled T1DM.

Results

Only 31.2 % of children and adolescents with T1DM were well controlled. Better glycemic control was associated with age < 6 years, urban residence, and T1DM duration <5 years. Glycemic control was not affected by gender, insulin therapy, or comorbidities. The most significant independent predictors of hyperglycemia and DKA were poor compliance with a healthy lifestyle (adjusted hazards ratio [AHR] 28.94; 95 % confidence interval [CI] 8.37–100.04) and an excess intake of sweets (AHR 3.31; 95 % CI 1.54–7.11).

Conclusion

The most significant independent predictor for poor glycemic control (particularly DKA rather than hyperglycemia) in Saudi children and adolescents was poor compliance with a healthy lifestyle with an excessive intake of sweets.
Transcriptome analysis reveals physiological characteristics required for magnetosome formation in Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense MSR‐1
Authors: Wang Xu , Wang Qing , Zhang Yang , Wang Yinjia , Zhou Yuan , Zhang Weijia , Wen Tong , Li Li , Zuo Meiqing , Zhang Ziding , Tian Jiesheng , Jiang Wei , Li Ying , Wang Lei , Li Jilun
Published: April 2016

Magnetosome synthesis ability of Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense MSR‐1 in an autofermentor can be precisely controlled through strict control of dissolved oxygen concentration. In this study, using transcriptome data we discovered gene transcriptional differences and compared physiological characteristics of MSR‐1 cells cultured under aerobic (high‐oxygen) and micro‐aerobic (low‐oxygen) conditions. The results showed that 77 genes were up‐regulated and 95 genes were down‐regulated significantly under micro‐aerobic situation. These genes were involved primarily in the categories of cell metabolism, transport, regulation and unknown‐function proteins. The nutrient transport and physiological metabolism were slowed down under micro‐aerobic condition, whereas dissimilatory denitrification pathways were activated and it may supplemental energy was made available for magnetosome synthesis. The result suggested that the genes of magnetosome membrane proteins (Mam and Mms) are not directly regulated by oxygen level, or are constitutively expressed. A proposed regulatory network of differentially expressed genes reflects the complexity of physiological metabolism in MSR‐1, and suggests that some yet‐unknown functional proteins play important roles such as ferric iron uptake and transport during magnetosome synthesis. The transcriptome data provides a holistic view of the responses of MSR‐1 cells to differing oxygen levels. This approach will give new insights into general principles of magnetosome formation.
Branchial nitrogen cycle symbionts can remove ammonia in fish gills
Authors: van Kessel Maartje A.H.J. , Mesman Rob J. , Arshad Arslan , Metz Juriaan R. , Spanings F.A. Tom , van Dalen Stephanie C.M. , van Niftrik Laura , Flik Gert , Wendelaar Bonga Sjoerd E. , Jetten Mike S.M. , Klaren Peter H.M. , Op den Camp Huub J.M.
Published: April 2016

Knowledge of the mechanisms by which fish excrete their metabolic nitrogenous waste and insights into nitrogen cycling in aquaculture systems is of utmost importance to improve the sustainable commercial production of fish. In fish, most nitrogenous waste is excreted via the gills as ammonia, a potentially toxic nitrogenous compound. In this study; activity assays, physiological experiments, molecular analysis and microscopy were used to show that the gills of fish harbor a unique combination of hitherto overlooked nitrogen‐cycle microorganisms that can theoretically detoxify excreted ammonia by converting it into inert dinitrogen gas. By doing so, these microorganisms may benefit from the ammonia supply by the host and prevent the build‐up of this compound to toxic concentrations. This novel relationship between vertebrates and microorganisms may shed new light on nitrogen handling by ammonotelic fish species.
Host influence on germination and reproduction of the facultative hemi‐parasitic weed Rhamphicarpa fistulosa
Authors: Kabiri S. , van Ast A. , Rodenburg J. , Bastiaans L.
Published: April 2016

Rice Vampireweed, Rhamphicarpa fistulosa, was a minor parasitic weed until recently when rice cultivation in sub‐Saharan Africa was expanded into marginal wetlands, that are the parasite's natural habitat. Unlike most of the parasitic weeds, R. fistulosa is facultative, meaning that the parasite is able to complete its life cycle without a host. However, when not connected to a host plant, its biomass and seed production is lower. Because very little is known regarding the germination ecology of the parasite, the main objective of our study was to identify the cues that favour germination. We hypothesised that, first, being a wetland species, germination of R. fistulosa is stimulated by light and high soil moisture. Second, we hypothesised that if host plant presence increases its reproductive output then a germination stimulatory effect from host presence is likely to have developed. A Petri‐dish and pot experiment showed that light and completely saturated soils were a requirement for germination, demonstrating that germination requirements of R. fistulosa are typical of species that grow in environments with fluctuating water levels. A pot experiment in which five infestation levels of R. fistulosa were installed in the absence and presence of a rice plant, showed that host plant presence resulted in a 3.7 times higher seed production rate and a 15% larger average seed size. Despite this reproductive advantage, a pot experiment with three rice cultivars, selected because of their difference in strigolactone production, showed that host plant presence, regardless of the development stage, did not influence the emergence rate of R. fistulosa. In a follow‐up study, the germination stimulation effect of root exudates collected from the same three rice cultivars and a treatment consisting of an artificial germination stimulant (GR24) was compared with a treatment consisting of plain water. In these treatments, seeds of R. fistulosa were compared with seeds of the obligate parasite Striga hermonthica. Germination of S. hermonthica was strongly advanced by the presence of root exudates and GR24 but was completely absent in water, whereas germination of R. fistulosa in all treatments was similar to that in plain water. The absence of a host recognition mechanism at the germination stage suggests that the regulation of germination through light and soil moisture is near optimal. Our finding might also indicate that for this facultative parasitic plant species, a more opportunistic germination strategy is superior. Implications of the findings for management of R. fistulosa in rice cultivation are discussed.
Variable levels of apoptotic signal‐associated cytokines in the disease course of patients with Stevens–Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis
Authors: Yang Yongsheng , Li Feng , Du Juan , Shen Yanyun , Lin Jinran , Zhu Xiaohua , Luo Xiaoqun , Liang Jun , Xu Jinhua
Published: April 2016

Background/Objectives

Keratinocyte death is a hallmark of Stevens–Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN). Apoptotic signal‐associated cytokines, such as TNF‐α, sFasL, granulysin, sTRAIL and IFN‐γ have been reported to participate in keratinocyte apoptosis. However, their levels are variable, which hampers the elucidation of the role of these cytokines. We sought to determine whether cytokine levels vary with disease course.

Methods

The serum cytokine levels of 24 patients and blister fluid of 10 were analysed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay on the first day of their admission to hospital and were evaluated at different time points in the disease course. Meanwhile, surface markers (CD3, CD4, CD8, CD1a, CD14, CD16+56 and CD68) of blister fluid cells were measured by flow cytometry.

Results

The concentrations of all cytokines in the serum and blister fluid were higher than those in the controls and were more elevated in the blister fluid than in the serum. Moreover, sTRAIL, IFN‐γ and TNF‐α quantities were relatively stable, while those of sFasL and granulysin decreased rapidly in the disease course. On the first day, CD8+ T and natural killer cells were predominant in the blister fluid but their relative percentage diminished gradually, while that of CD14+ cells increased.

Conclusion

Our study confirmed there are high but variable levels of these cytokines in SJS/TEN, especially in the early phase and different tendencies are manifested in the disease course.
Breastmilk fatty acids in relation to sensitization – the ALADDIN birth cohort
Authors: Rosenlund H. , Fagerstedt S. , Alm J. , Mie A.
Published: April 2016

Background

Breastmilk fatty acids (FAs) have been associated with childhood allergic disease. Children of families with an anthroposophic lifestyle have a low prevalence of sensitization compared to reference groups. This study aimed to investigate whether the lower prevalence of sensitization among these children can be explained by the differences in breastmilk FA composition.

Methods

The prospective birth cohort ALADDIN included 330 children from anthroposophic, partly anthroposophic and nonanthroposophic families recruited between 2004 and 2007 in Sweden. In total, 245 breastmilk samples, collected at 2 months of age, were analysed for FA composition. Allergen‐specific IgE levels against seven common allergens were measured in the blood samples at the ages of 6, 12 and 24 months. Data were analysed longitudinally using generalized estimating equations.

Results

An inverse association was observed between total concentration of omega‐3 PUFA in breastmilk and sensitization in the child up to 24 months of age (highest vs lowest quartile, RRadj 0. 49, 95% CI 0.23–1.05, P for trend 0.024). No associations were observed between omega‐6 PUFAs or ruminant FAs and sensitization. Overall, we observed 56% lower risks of sensitization among the anthroposophic group compared to the nonanthroposophic group (RRadj 0.44, 95% CI 0.21–0.90). This association remained largely unchanged when breastmilk omega‐3 PUFA was included in the model.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that a higher concentration of omega‐3 PUFAs in breastmilk may be associated with a reduced risk of sensitization up to 24 months of age; however, this did not explain the lower risk of sensitization among children of anthroposophic families.
MP‐AzeFlu is more effective than fluticasone propionate for the treatment of allergic rhinitis in children
Authors: Berger W. , Bousquet J. , Fox A. T. , Just J. , Muraro A. , Nieto A. , Valovirta E. , Wickman M. , Wahn U.
Published: April 2016

The objective was to evaluate the efficacy of MP‐AzeFlu (Dymista®) vs fluticasone propionate (FP), (both 1 spray/nostril bid), in children with allergic rhinitis (AR). MP‐AzeFlu combines azelastine hydrochloride, FP and a novel formulation in a single spray. Children were randomized in a 3 : 1 ratio to MP‐AzeFlu or FP in this open‐label, 3‐month study. Efficacy was assessed in children aged ≥ 6 to <12 years (MP‐AzeFlu: n = 264; FP: n = 89), using a 4‐point symptom severity rating scale from 0 to 3 (0 = no symptoms; 3 = severe symptoms). Over the 3‐month period, MP‐AzeFlu‐treated children experienced significantly greater symptom relief than FP‐treated children (Diff: −0.14; 95% CI: −0.28, −0.01; P = 0.04), noted from the first day (particularly the first 7 days) and sustained for 90 days. More MP‐AzeFlu children achieved symptom‐free or mild symptom severity status, and did so up to 16 days faster than FP. MP‐AzeFlu provides significantly greater, more rapid and clinically relevant symptom relief than FP in children with AR.
Epiretinal membrane surgery evaluated by subjective outcome
Authors: Miliatos Ionas , Lindgren Gun
Published: April 2016

Purpose

To examine pre‐ and postoperative visual interference, subjective symptoms and visual acuity in patients undergoing epiretinal membrane (ERM) surgery.

Methods

A retrospective observational case series comparing 239 eyes in 231 consecutive patients with idiopathic ERM in a selected catchment area from 2002 to 2009. Demography, visual acuity (VA), lens status and subjective symptoms were analysed before and after the operation. Patients, healthy enough to participate at least 2 years post surgery, answered a questionnaire about their subjective functional impairment before and after the ERM peeling. Visual disturbance was assessed on a visual analogue scale (VAS) ranging from 1 to 100 mm.

Results

The preoperative VA for the eyes in the study was median 0.40 logMAR (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution) (range −0.1 to 1.22) resulted in VA of 0.22 logMAR (range −0.1 to 1.1), which is a statistical significant difference (p −). Of 180 patients contacted, answers were received from 103 (57%). Subjective visual disturbance assessed on the VAS showed a median of 70 mm (range 0–100) before surgery compared to a subjective disturbance median 27 mm (range 0–98) postoperatively. The change preoperatively to postoperatively was mean −34 mm (SD 31), median −37 (range −96 to 37), p −. Patients with much disturbance at baseline measured by VAS experienced more subjective benefit of the operation measured by the distance between the mark on the VAS preoperatively and postoperatively, p −, Spearman correlation coefficient.

Conclusion

Patients with considerable preoperative disturbance benefit more from an operation than those with less disturbance.
The influence of drill length and irrigation system on heat production during osteotomy preparation for dental implants: an ex vivo study
Authors: Gehrke Sergio Alexandre , Aramburú Júnior Jaime Sardá , Pérez‐Albacete Martínez Carlos , Ramirez Fernandez Maria Piedad , Maté Sánchez de Val José Eduardo , Calvo‐Guirado José Luis
Published: April 2016

Objective

This study aimed to measure the influence of drill length and irrigation system on heat production during osteotomy preparation for dental implants using bovine bone rib as experimental model.

Materials and methods

Three groups were created: Group 1: drilling with three consecutive burs with double irrigation (internal and external) for a 4.0 mm conical implant; and Group 2 and Group 3: drilling with three consecutive burs with external irrigation for a 4.1 mm cylindrical implant and for a 4.3 mm conical implant, respectively. Four lengths were tested: 10, 12, 14 and 16 mm; in site prepared on bovine ribs using a surgical unit linked to a testing device, to standardize and simulate implant drilling procedures. Bone temperature variations were recorded using three thermocouples in different positions as of the crestal bone: 2 mm, position (p1); 7 mm, position 2 (p2); and 12 mm, position 3 (p3).

Results

The highest temperature changes were invariably recorded during the process of withdrawal. Significantly lower temperature changes (P < 0.02) could be recorded at maximum drilling depths during the shearing process regardless of drilling depth or irrigation method. Double irrigation was associated with significantly lower temperatures compared with external irrigation by the use of implant drills (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this ex vivo study was possible concluded that the use a double irrigation system in multiple conventional drill for osteotomy can decrease the heat generation when increase the drill length.
Information retrieval, critical appraisal and knowledge of evidence‐based dentistry among Finnish dental students
Authors: Nieminen P. , Virtanen J. I.
Published: April 2016

Background

One of the core skills of competent dentist is the ability to search and analyse high‐quality evidence. Problems in understanding the basic aspects of knowledge‐based information may impede its implementation into clinical practice. We examined how Finnish dental students acquire scientific information and how familiar they are with methods for evaluating scientific evidence related to clinical questions.

Methods

All fifth‐year dental students (n = 120) at the three universities in Finland received a self‐administered questionnaire.

Results

The three most commonly used sources of information were colleagues, the commercial Health Gate Portal for dental practitioners and personal lecture notes. Although students rarely read scientific journals, they did find that they possess at least passable or even good skills in literature retrieval. Three questions related to the appraisal of evidence in dentistry revealed that students' knowledge of evidence‐based dentistry was inadequate to critically evaluate clinical research findings.

Conclusion

Most students seem to lack knowledge of key methodological evidence‐based terms. The present curricula in dental schools fail to encourage the students to search and acquire knowledge wider than their patients themselves do. Universities have the responsibility to teach dentists various methods of critical appraisal to cope with scientific information.