bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of capsaicin‐driven nasal hyper‐reactivity by SB‐705498, a TRPV1 antagonist
Authors: Holland Carlijn , van Drunen Cornelis , Denyer Jane , Smart Kevin , Segboer Christine , Terreehorst Ingrid , Newlands Amy , Beerahee Misba , Fokkens Wytske , Tsitoura Daphne C.
Published: August 2013

Aims

To assess the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of intranasal SB‐705498, a selective TRPV1 antagonist.

Methods

Two randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, clinical studies were performed: (i) an intranasal SB‐705498 first time in human study to examine the safety and PK of five single escalating doses from 0.5 to 12 mg and of repeat dosing with 6 mg and 12 mg twice daily for 14 days and (ii) a PD efficacy study in subjects with non‐allergic rhinitis (NAR) to evaluate the effect of 12 mg intranasal SB‐705498 against nasal capsaicin challenge.

Results

Single and repeat dosing with intranasal SB‐705498 was safe and well tolerated. The overall frequency of adverse events was similar for SB‐705498 and placebo and no dose‐dependent increase was observed. Administration of SB‐705498 resulted in less than dose proportional AUC(0,12 h) and Cmax, while repeat dosing from day 1 to day 14 led to its accumulation. SB‐705498 receptor occupancy in nasal tissue was estimated to be high (>80%). Administration of 12 mg SB‐705498 to patients with NAR induced a marked reduction in total symptom scores triggered by nasal capsaicin challenge. Inhibition of rhinorrhoea, nasal congestion and burning sensation was associated with 2‐ to 4‐fold shift in capsaicin potency.

Conclusions

Intranasal SB‐705498 has an appropriate safety and PK profile for development in humans and achieves clinically relevant attenuation of capsaicin‐provoked rhinitis symptoms in patients with NAR. The potential impact intranasal SB‐705498 may have in rhinitis treatment deserves further evaluation.
Towards an integrative attachment‐based model of relationship functioning
Authors: Karantzas Gery C. , Feeney Judith A. , Goncalves Celia V. , McCabe Marita P.
Published: August 2013

Based on attachment theory, this study developed a theory‐based model of heterosexual relationship functioning that examined both proximal and distal factors and both actor and partner effects. A particular focus was on the underexplored issue of double‐mediated effects between attachment orientation and relationship satisfaction. Data were collected from a community sample of 95 cohabiting and married couples with a mean age of 39.30 years. Participants completed measures of attachment, commitment, provision of partner support, trust, intimacy, destructive conflict management, and relationship satisfaction. The hypothesized model was largely supported. The association between attachment orientation and relationship satisfaction was mediated through a series of actor and partner variables. No gender differences were found across actor paths; however, differences were found in partner effects for men and women. The model has important implications for relationship researchers and practitioners.
Experiences of housing insecurity among participants of an early childhood intervention programme
Authors: Turnbull H. , Loptson K. , Muhajarine N.
Published: August 2013

Objectives

To understand the barriers to programme success among high‐needs families in KidsFirst, an early childhood intervention programme.

Methods

Using a qualitative approach, a secondary analysis was performed using the qualitative data set (111 interviews and focus groups with 242 participants) from the KidsFirst programme evaluation. Data analysis was conducted to identify common experiences among high‐needs families in the programme and barriers to programme success.

Results

Participants identified housing insecurity as a major factor impeding programme delivery, retention and successful outcomes. Housing insecurity was shown to create or exacerbate ongoing crises among high‐needs families. Only after housing insecurity was addressed were families able to benefit from the KidsFirst programme.

Conclusions

The findings of this research suggest that until baseline material security is established for high‐needs families, early childhood development (ECD) interventions will be limited in meeting their objectives. In order to have the most effect for those living in poverty, helping families to achieve basic material security, including secure housing, should precede the targeted provision of psychosocial ECD supports. This finding has implications for how ECD intervention programmes could more effectively be designed and whom they should target.
Adolescent Resilience: Promotive Factors That Inform Prevention
Authors: Zimmerman Marc A. , Stoddard Sarah A. , Eisman Andria B. , Caldwell Cleopatra H. , Aiyer Sophie M. , Miller Alison
Published: August 2013

Resilience theory provides a framework for studying and understanding how some youths overcome risk exposure and guides the development of interventions for prevention using a strengths‐based approach. In this article, we describe basic concepts of the theory, such as promotive factors, and distinguish assets and resources that help youths overcome the negative effects of risk exposure. We also present three models of resilience theory—compensatory, protective, and challenge—and review empirical research on three promotive factors—ethnic identity, social support, and prosocial involvement—that include individual, family, and community levels of analysis and have modifiable qualities for informing interventions. Finally, we present examples of how research findings from the three promotive factors can be translated into interventions to enhance youth development.
The role of orlistat combined with lifestyle changes in the management of overweight and obese patients with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Panidis Dimitrios , Tziomalos Konstantinos , Papadakis Efstathios , Chatzis Panagiotis , Kandaraki Eleni A. , Tsourdi Elena A. , Katsikis Ilias
Published: August 2013

Objective

Obesity is frequently present in women with the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and aggravates insulin resistance (IR) and hyperandrogenemia. We aimed to assess the effects of orlistat combined with lifestyle changes in overweight and obese women with PCOS and body mass index (BMI)‐matched controls.

Design

Prospective study.

Patients

We studied 101 women with PCOS (age 26·1 ± 6·4 years, BMI 34·5 ± 5·9 kg/m2) and 29 BMI‐matched women with normal ovulating cycles. All women were instructed to follow a low‐calorie diet to exercise and were treated with orlistat 120 mg tid for 6 months.

Measurements

Metabolic and endocrine characteristics of PCOS, blood pressure (BP) and lipid profile.

Results

A significant and comparable reduction in BMI was observed in women with PCOS and controls. Systolic and diastolic BP decreased only in women with PCOS. Serum low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels decreased in both women with PCOS and controls; however, this reduction was greater in controls. In contrast, serum high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels did not change in women with PCOS and decreased in controls. Serum triglyceride levels decreased significantly and to a comparable degree in the two groups. Similarly, markers of IR improved significantly and to a comparable degree in women with PCOS and controls. Serum testosterone levels and the free androgen index decreased significantly in women with PCOS and did not change in controls.

Conclusions

Orlistat combined with lifestyle changes induces substantial weight loss in women with PCOS, resulting in improvements in IR, hyperandrogenemia and cardiovascular risk factors.
Short Implants with Oxidized Surface in Posterior Areas of Atrophic Jaws: 3‐ to 5‐Year Results of a Multicenter Study
Authors: De Santis Daniele , Cucchi Alessandro , Rigoni Giovanni , Longhi Carlo
Published: August 2013

Background

The loss of one or more teeth has always been a reason for bone resorption and it can lead to a condition of “alveolar atrophy” that could make implant rehabilitation difficult.

Purpose

The aim of this prospective study was to observe crestal bone loss and implant success of short implants with oxidized surfaces in patients with partially edentulous jaws after a 3‐ to 5‐year follow‐up.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐six patients with single or partial edentulism were treated consecutively from 2006 to 2008 using 107 short implants with oxidized surfaces, which were restored with a single crown or a partial fixed denture. Clinical and radiographic examinations were scheduled after functional loading of implants according to a well‐established protocol generally applied to determine implant success rates and crestal bone levels. Statistical analysis was used to determine significant differences or correlations between variables (p = .05).

Results

After a 3‐ to 5‐year follow‐up, 44 patients with 102 implants were still followed up according to previously established study protocol, because two patients with five implants dropped out. Ninety‐eight out of 102 implants are still functioning: four implants have been lost, with a survival rate of 96.1%. Moreover, a total of seven implants failed to meet the success criteria, resulting in a success rate of 93.1%. The mean bone loss was 0.9 ± 0.6 mm.

Conclusions

Many authors had recently demonstrated the predictability of short implants in different clinical conditions after a short‐term follow‐up. After 3 to 5 years of functional loading, short implants used to restore posterior teeth seems to be a viable solution in order to simplify and shorten the treatment of patients with partial edentulous jaws. Long‐term follow‐up is recommended to definitively establish the predictability and efficiency of this kind of implant‐supported rehabilitation.
The Soft Tissue Immunologic Response to Hydroxyapatite‐Coated Transmucosal Implant Surfaces: A Study in Humans
Authors: De Wilde Elisabeth A.W.J. , Jimbo Ryo , Wennerberg Ann , Naito Yoshihito , Coucke Paul , Bryington Matthew S. , Vandeweghe Stefan , De Bruyn Hugo
Published: August 2013

Objective

To evaluate the soft tissue response in humans immunologically and histologically after placement of mini‐implants coated with or without nano‐size hydroxyapatite coatings.

Material and Methods

Commercially pure (cp) titanium mini‐implants (n = 13) or nano‐hydroxyapatite‐coated ones (n = 12) were randomly placed into partially edentulous jaws. Crevicular fluid was sampled 1 week after placement and subjected to quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis to explore the inflammatory markers. After 8 weeks, implants and surrounding soft and hard tissue were trephined, and undecalcified ground sections were prepared. Inflammatory cell accumulation within a defined region of interest in the soft tissue was quantified histomorphometrically.

Results

No statistically significant differences in immunological response to the different implant surfaces were found for IL‐6 (p = .438), TGF‐β2 (p = .467), MMP‐8 (p = .758), CCL‐3 (p = .758), IL‐8 (p = .771), and IL‐1β (0.771). Histomorphometric evaluation presented no statistically significant difference between the two mini‐implant surfaces with regards to number of inflammatory cells (p = .669).

Conclusion

Nano‐hydroxyapatite‐coated surfaces in the transmucosal region yielded similar inflammatory response and is suggested to be as biocompatible as commercially pure titanium surfaces.
Complications with Computer‐Aided Designed/Computer‐Assisted Manufactured Titanium and Soldered Gold Bars for Mandibular Implant‐Overdentures: Short‐Term Observations
Authors: Katsoulis Joannis , Wälchli Julia , Kobel Simone , Gholami Hadi , Mericske‐Stern Regina
Published: August 2013

Background

Implant‐overdentures supported by rigid bars provide stability in the edentulous atrophic mandible. However, fractures of solder joints and matrices, and loosening of screws and matrices were observed with soldered gold bars (G‐bars). Computer‐aided designed/computer‐assisted manufactured (CAD/CAM) titanium bars (Ti‐bars) may reduce technical complications due to enhanced material quality.

Purpose

To compare prosthetic‐technical maintenance service of mandibular implant‐overdentures supported by CAD/CAM Ti‐bar and soldered G‐bar.

Materials and Methods

Edentulous patients were consecutively admitted for implant‐prosthodontic treatment with a maxillary complete denture and a mandibular implant‐overdenture connected to a rigid G‐bar or Ti‐bar. Maintenance service and problems with the implant‐retention device complex and the prosthesis were recorded during minimally 3–4 years. Annual peri‐implant crestal bone level changes (ΔBIC) were radiographically assessed.

Results

Data of 213 edentulous patients (mean age 68 ± 10 years), who had received a total of 477 tapered implants, were available. Ti‐bar and G‐bar comprised 101 and 112 patients with 231 and 246 implants, respectively. Ti‐bar mostly exhibited distal bar extensions (96%) compared to 34% of G‐bar (p < .001). Fracture rate of bars extensions (4.7% vs 14.8%, p < .001) and matrices (1% vs 13%, p < .001) was lower for Ti‐bar. Matrices activation was required 2.4× less often in Ti‐bar. ΔBIC remained stable for both groups.

Conclusions

Implant overdentures supported by soldered gold bars or milled CAD/CAM Ti‐bars are a successful treatment modality but require regular maintenance service. These short‐term observations support the hypothesis that CAD/CAM Ti‐bars reduce technical complications. Fracture location indicated that the titanium thickness around the screw‐access hole should be increased.
Effect of Age on Single Implant Submersion Rate in the Central Maxillary Incisor Region: A Long‐Term Retrospective Study
Authors: Schwartz‐Arad Devorah , Bichacho Nitzan
Published: August 2013

Background

It is contraindicated to place dental implants before growth and development are completed as they are at a risk of submersion due to growth arrest, creating a potential aesthetic problem.

Purpose

The present study evaluated the effect of age on mean submersion rate of single dental implant in the central maxillary incisor area as compared with the adjacent natural tooth in implants placed after growth has ceased.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 35 patients (mean age 29.3 ± 9.9 years, 21 females) who received a single dental implant replacing a missing maxillary central incisor from 1992 to 2008 with a follow‐up of at least 3 years. Clinical photos from last follow‐up were digitally analyzed to measure the vertical change between the incisal edge of the implant supported crown and the adjacent natural central incisor.

Results

In the younger age group (≤30 years), the submersion rate was more than three times higher than in the older age group (>30 years), yielding submersion rates of 1.02 and 0.27% per year, respectively.

Conclusions

Whereas implant submersion continues throughout adult life, its rate varies with age. It is evident that this phenomenon is much more conspicuous during the second and third decades of life as compared with the fourth and fifth.
Assessing the Overall Impact of Civil Society on Development at the Country Level: An Exploratory Approach
Authors: Riddell Roger C.
Published: August 2013

Very little is known about the wider and longer‐term contribution of civil‐society organisations to development and poverty reduction. Evaluators have shied away from making judgements for lack of data: rigour has trumped relevance. This article reports on the work of a panel set up by NORAD in response to growing pressure from the public to assess the wider impact of CSOs at the country level. It comes to the conclusion that CSOs have made a significant wider impact, but that this would be greater if donors were to encourage them more to think beyond the narrow focus on discrete projects and if they were to adopt a more strategic approach to their work.
Rethinking Trade Preferences for Sub‐Saharan Africa: How Can Trade in Tasks Be the Potential Lifeline?
Authors: Keane Jodie
Published: August 2013

Policy‐related discussion on assisting countries to make use of trade preferences tends to focus on the provision of hard infrastructure to facilitate external economies from modern‐sector exports. This is as opposed to harnessing potential knowledge spillovers. This omission is emblematic of tensions within new trade/new growth theory. Using two country case studies in Asia – Bangladesh and Cambodia – this article shows how different approaches towards making use of trade preferences have resulted in divergent industrial structures and firm‐level technological capability indicators. Less stringent rules of origin requirements may offer new opportunities for late industrialisers in sub‐Saharan Africa to tap into the modern export sector, but a more interventionist approach towards harnessing knowledge spillovers may also be necessary.
Fertiliser Subsidies and Social Cash Transfers as Complementary or Competing Instruments for Reducing Vulnerability to Hunger: The Case of Malawi
Authors: Ellis Frank , Maliro Dyton
Published: August 2013

Fertiliser subsidies and social transfers are complementary instruments for reducing vulnerability to hunger in poor agrarian countries. The former act on production and aim to reduce food insecurity through yield growth, while the latter tackle food‐entitlement failures directly, by providing either food itself or the cash to purchase food to selected beneficiaries. The policies compete for scarce public resources, and each represents an ‘opportunity cost’ compared to the other. Using Malawi to illustrate these comparisons, this article shows that a mix of policies can be affordable, allowing for strategic choice over the portfolio most likely to achieve a reliable consumption floor for the most vulnerable rural people.
Sub‐Saharan African Cotton Policies in Retrospect
Authors: Delpeuch Claire , Leblois Antoine
Published: August 2013

Calls for liberalising cash‐crop sectors in sub‐Saharan Africa have been voiced for decades, yet the impact of reforms remains elusive in empirical studies. This article offers new opportunities for solving this problem by creating precise and consistent market organisation indices for 25 African cotton markets from 1961 to 2008. The aggregation of scores reveals interesting trends: markets are no more competitive today than in the late 1990s, 50% of production still originates from markets with fixed prices and reforms are giving rise to a new type of regulated market in both East and West Africa.
Reliable, verifiable and efficient monitoring of biodiversity via metabarcoding
Authors: Ji Yinqiu , Ashton Louise , Pedley Scott M. , Edwards David P. , Tang Yong , Nakamura Akihiro , Kitching Roger , Dolman Paul M. , Woodcock Paul , Edwards Felicity A. , Larsen Trond H. , Hsu Wayne W. , Benedick Suzan , Hamer Keith C. , Wilcove David S. , Bruce Catharine , Wang Xiaoyang , Levi Taal , Lott Martin , Emerson Brent C. , Yu Douglas W.
Published: August 2013

To manage and conserve biodiversity, one must know what is being lost, where, and why, as well as which remedies are likely to be most effective. Metabarcoding technology can characterise the species compositions of mass samples of eukaryotes or of environmental DNA. Here, we validate metabarcoding by testing it against three high‐quality standard data sets that were collected in Malaysia (tropical), China (subtropical) and the United Kingdom (temperate) and that comprised 55,813 arthropod and bird specimens identified to species level with the expenditure of 2,505 person‐hours of taxonomic expertise. The metabarcode and standard data sets exhibit statistically correlated alpha‐ and beta‐diversities, and the two data sets produce similar policy conclusions for two conservation applications: restoration ecology and systematic conservation planning. Compared with standard biodiversity data sets, metabarcoded samples are taxonomically more comprehensive, many times quicker to produce, less reliant on taxonomic expertise and auditable by third parties, which is essential for dispute resolution.
Lymph flow determination in the equine hindlimb: Lymphoscintigraphic function studies
Authors: Gaedke C. , Witt M. , Koene M. , Berens von Rautenfeld D. , Stadler P.
Published: August 2013

The horse frequently shows idiopathic primary lymphoedema or secondary lymphoedema following trauma or infection to its limbs. Lymphoedema develops if the balance between the amount of lymphatic fluid and capacity of lymphatic transport is disturbed. Scintigraphy appears to be the only in vivo technique to evaluate lymphatic transport capacity. The aim of this study was to develop an evaluation technique to determine the lymph flow in the hindlimb of the horse. This technique might show potential to extend the possibilities for investigating disorders of the lymphatic system in equine extremities.
The Efficacy of Systemic Therapy for Internalizing and Other Disorders of Childhood and Adolescence: A Systematic Review of 38 Randomized Trials
Authors: Retzlaff Ruediger , von Sydow Kirsten , Beher Stefan , Haun Markus W. , Schweitzer Jochen
Published: August 2013

Systemic therapy (ST) is one of the most widely applied psychotherapeutic approaches in the treatment of children and adolescents, yet few systematic reviews exist on the efficacy ofSTwith this age group. Parallel to a similar study on adults, a systematic review was performed to analyze the efficacy ofSTin the treatment of children and adolescents. All randomized or matched controlled trials (RCT) evaluatingSTin any setting with child and adolescent index patients were identified by database searches and cross‐references, as well as in existing meta‐analyses and reviews. Inclusion criteria were: index patient diagnosed with aDSM‐IV orICD‐10 listed psychological disorder, or suffering from other clinically relevant conditions, and trial published byDecember 2011. Studies were analyzed according to their sample, research methodology, interventions applied, and results at end‐of‐treatment and at follow‐up. This article presents findings for internalizing and mixed disorders. Thirty‐eight trials were identified, with 33 showingSTto be efficacious for the treatment of internalizing disorders (including mood disorders, eating disorders, and psychological factors in somatic illness). There is some evidence forSTbeing also efficacious in mixed disorders, anxiety disorders, Asperger disorder, and in cases of child neglect. Results were stable across follow‐up periods of up to 5 years. Trials on the efficacy ofSTfor externalizing disorders are presented in a second article. There is a sound evidence base for the efficacy ofSTas a treatment for internalizing disorders of child and adolescent patients.
Epileptic activities are common in older people with delirium
Authors: Naeije Gilles , Bachir Imane , Gaspard Nicolas , Legros Benjamin , Pepersack Thierry
Published: August 2013

Aim

Delirium is responsible for up to 56% of hospital admissions in the elderly. Epilepsy and delirium share most risk factors and are both associated with confusion. The aim of this work was to study whether a link between epileptic activity (EA) and delirium existed, and if this link was relevant.

Methods

Charts of patients aged over 65 years admitted for delirium at the emergency room in 2011 were retrospectively reviewed. Risk factors for delirium, past medical history, medications, biological and iconographic work‐up were analyzed. Those characteristics were compared in patients who had electroencephalogram (EEG) with those who had not. Clinical characteristics of patients with EA on EEG were compared with the patients without EA.

Results

A total of 177 charts were analyzed. The only parameters associated with the realization of an EEG were anti‐epileptic drug treatment and subdural hematoma. A total of 56% (98/177) of patients had EEG. A total of 84% of EEG were abnormal. EA were present in 15% of EEG: 12 with interictal epileptiform discharges and three with non‐convulsive status (NCSE). In multivariate analysis, only dehydration and the use of anticholinergic drugs were associated with EA. Outcome showed a trend for longer hospital stay and a higher institutionalization rate for patients with delirium who had EA.

Conclusion

EA occur in a significant proportion of delirium, and possibly have a role in the prognosis and pathophysiology of this disorder. Almost no anomalies can distinguish a priori patients in delirium who will have EA. EEG should be carried out in all older patients with delirium. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 14: 447–451.
Are parents and professionals making shared decisions about a child's care on presentation of a suspected shunt malfunction: a mixed method study?
Authors: Smith Joanna , Cheater Francine , Bekker Hilary , Chatwin John
Published: August 2013

Background

Shunts, the main treatment for hydrocephalus, are problematic as they frequently malfunction. Identifying shunt malfunction requires parents to recognize its symptoms and health professionals to integrate parents' information about the child's symptoms within the clinical assessment to reach a diagnosis.

Aim

To investigate parent–professional shared decision making during the diagnosis of suspected shunt malfunction in acute hospital admissions.

Design and methods

A mixed method study involving audio recordings of admission consultations, a shared decision making questionnaire and interviews 1‐week post‐consultation, was undertaken. Twenty‐eight family members and fourteen health professionals participated. The interactions were analysed using conversational analysis, framework approach for the interview data and descriptive statistics for questionnaire responses.

Findings

Both parents and professionals focussed on establishing a diagnosis and ruling out shunt malfunction when a child with hydrocephalus was ill. Participants' perceived effective collaboration as central to this task: parents wanted to contribute to the process of diagnosis by providing information about the likely cause of symptoms. Professionals were satisfied with the level of involvement by parents, although parent satisfaction was more variable. The challenge for professionals was to integrate parents' expertise of their child's presenting symptoms within clinical decision making processes.

Conclusion

In this context, both parents' and professionals' perceived their interactions to be about problem‐solving, rather than making decisions about treatments. Although the shared decision‐making model can help patients to make better decisions between treatment options, it is unclear how best to support collaboration between professionals and parents to ensure a good problem‐solving process.
Instant‐quality fluorescence in‐situ hybridization as a new tool for HER2 testing in breast cancer: a comparative study
Authors: Franchet Camille , Filleron Thomas , Cayre Anne , Mounié Eveline , Penault‐Llorca Frédérique , Jacquemier Jocelyne , MacGrogan Gaëtan , Arnould Laurent , Lacroix‐Triki Magali
Published: August 2013

Aims

HER2 instant‐quality fluorescence in‐situ hybridization (IQFISH) is a new fluorescence in‐situ hybridization (FISH) assay developed with a non‐toxic buffer that reduces the hybridization time to 1–2 h, enabling a turnaround time of 3 h 30 min from dewax to counting. The aim of this study was to compare assessment of HER2 status using IQFISH and assessment using standard FISH.

Methods and results

We selected 160 breast cancer samples according to their HER2 status as determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in a retrospective multicentre cohort (40 cases in each scoring category, i.e. 0/1+/2+/3+). Each participating site (n = 5) constructed its tissue microarray (TMA) of 32 archival cases and sent it to the central site (site 1). HER2 IHC, HER2 FISH and HER2 IQFISH were performed blindly at site 1. IQFISH provided excellent quality signals without any background staining, thus allowing excellent reading conditions even on TMA. Statistical analysis showed almost perfect agreement between IQFISH and FISH (99.3%, κ = 0.98). The only discordant case was an equivocal one with an HER2/CEP17 ratio near the ASCO/CAP cut‐off.

Conclusions

The highly concordant data support IQFISH as a useful alternative to FISH, allowing reliable assessment of HER2 status. Use of this method could lead to reporting of HER status to the oncologist within a day.
Characterisation of zero‐trans margarine fats produced from camellia seed oil, palm stearin and coconut oil using enzymatic interesterification strategy
Authors: Ruan Xia , Zhu Xue‐Mei , Xiong Hua , Wang Shen‐qi , Bai Chun‐qing , Zhao Qiang
Published: August 2013

Zero‐trans interesterified fats were produced from camellia seed oil (CSO), palm stearin (PS) and coconut oil (CO) with three weight ratios (CSO/PS/CO, 50:50:10, 40:60:10 and 30:70:10) using Lipozyme TL IM. Results showed that the interesterified products contained palmitic acid (34.28–42.96%), stearic acid (3.96–4.72%), oleic acid (38.73–47.95%), linoleic acid (5.92–6.36%) and total medium‐chain fatty acids (MCFA)s (∑MCFAs, 5.03–5.50%). Compared with physical blends, triacylglycerols of OOO and PPP were decreased and formed new peaks of equivalent carbon number (ECN) 44 in the interesterified products. The product CPC3′ showed a slip melting point of 36.8 °C and a wide plastic range of solid fat content (SFC) (45.8–0.4%) at 20–40 °C. Also, the major β′ form was determined. These data indicated that the zero‐trans interesterified fats would have a potential functionality for margarine fats. Subsequently, the antioxidative stabilities of interesterified products with the addition of α‐tocopherol (α‐TOH) and ascorbyl palmitate (AP) were investigated. The results indicated that AP had a dose‐dependent effect at concentrations of 100, 200 and 400 ppm.
Microbiota signalling through MyD88 is necessary for a systemic neutrophilic inflammatory response
Authors: Karmarkar Dipti , Rock Kenneth L.
Published: August 2013

In the present study, we have found that intestinal flora strongly influence peritoneal neutrophilic inflammatory responses to diverse stimuli, including pathogen‐derived particles like zymosan and sterile irritant particles like crystals. When germ‐free and flora‐deficient (antibiotic‐treated) mice are challenged with zymosan intraperitoneally, neutrophils are markedly impaired in their ability to extravasate from blood into the peritoneum. In contrast, in these animals, neutrophils can extravasate in response to an intraperitoneal injection of the chemokine, macrophage inflammatory protein 2. Neutrophil recruitment upon inflammatory challenge requires stimulation by microbiota through a myeloid differentiation primary response gene (88) (MyD88) ‐dependent pathway. MyD88 signalling is crucial during the development of the immune system but depending upon the ligand it may be dispensable at the time of the actual inflammatory challenge. Furthermore, pre‐treatment of flora‐deficient mice with a purified MyD88‐pathway agonist is sufficient to restore neutrophil migration. In summary, this study provides insight into the role of gut microbiota in influencing acute inflammation at sites outside the gastrointestinal tract.
Medial Ridge Elevation Wedge Trochleoplasty for Medial Patellar Luxation: A Clinical Study in 5 Dogs
Authors: Fujii Koichi , Watanabe Toshifumi , Kobayashi Takayuki , Hayashi Kei
Published: August 2013

Objective

To develop a surgical technique to elevate the medial trochlear ridge for surgical correction of medial patellar luxation, and to evaluate clinical outcome.

Study Design

Case series.

Animals

Dogs (n = 5) with Grade 3 medial patellar luxation.

Methods

An asymmetrical wedge was removed from the trochlear groove, rotated 180°, and placed in the recess to create an elevated medial trochlear ridge. Postoperative radiography, CT scan, and subjective evaluation of clinical outcomes were performed.

Results

Surgical procedure and postoperative recovery were uncomplicated. There was no recurrence of spontaneous luxation and subjectively, gait improved in all dogs. Postoperative radiographs and CT images confirmed the elevated medial trochlear ridge, a significantly increased groove depth/patellar thickness ratio (P < .01), and seating of the patella in the trochlear groove.

Conclusion

Elevating the medial trochlear ridge, instead of deepening the groove, can be considered a viable surgical technique to stabilize luxating patellae.
Low‐Cost, Damage‐Free Patterning of Lead Zirconate Titanate Films
Authors: Welsh Aaron J. , Wilke Rudeger H. T. , Hickner Michael A. , Trolier‐McKinstry Susan
Published: August 2013

The ability to pattern piezoelectric thin films without damage is crucial for the development of microelectromechanical systems. Direct patterning of complex oxides through microcontact printing was explored as an alternative to subtractive patterning. This process utilized an elastomeric stamp to transfer a chemical solution precursor of a piezoelectric material onto a substrate in a desired pattern. Polyurethane‐based stamps improved wetting of polar solutions on the stamp. This allowed for high‐fidelity patterning over multiple stamping cycles. Microcontact printing deposited patterned PbZr0.52Ti0.48O3 layers from 0.1 to 1 μm in thickness. The lateral feature sizes attained varied from 5 to 500 μm. Upon crystallization at 700°C, the features formed phase‐pure perovskite PZT. The printed features had comparable electrical and electromechanical properties to those of continuous PZT films of similar thicknesses. For example, 1 μm thick PZT features had a permittivity of 1050 and a loss tangent of 0.02 at 10 kHz. The remanent polarization was 30 μC/cm2, and the coercive field was 45 kV/cm. The piezoelectric coefficient e31,f was −7 C/m2. These values indicated that the microcontact printing process did not adversely affect the PZT crystallization or properties for the thicknesses explored in this work.
Admixture analysis in relation to pedigree studies of introgression in a minorityBritish cattle breed: theLincolnRed
Authors: Bray T.C. , Hall S.J.G. , Bruford M.W.
Published: August 2013

Investigation of historic population processes using molecular data has been facilitated by the use of approximate Bayesian computation (ABC), which enables the consideration of multiple alternative demographic scenarios. The Lincoln Red cattle breed provides a relatively simple example of two well‐documented admixture events. Using molecular data for this breed, we found thatstructuredid not resolve very low (<5% levels) of introgression, possibly due to sampling limitations. We evaluated the performance of twoABCapproaches (2BADandDIYABC) against those of two earlier methodologies,ADMIXandLEADMIX, by comparing their interpretations with the conclusions drawn from herdbook analysis. TheABCmethods gave credible values for the proportions of theLincolnRed genotype that are attributable toAberdeenAngus andLimousin, although estimates of effective population size and event timing were not realistic. We suggestABCmethods are a valuable supplement to pedigree‐based studies but that the accuracy of admixture determination is likely to diminish with increasing complexity of the admixture scenario.
Grandchild of the NBAS: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale (NNNS)
Authors: Tronick Ed , Lester Barry M.
Published: August 2013

A review of the research on the NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale (NNNS) is presented. The NNNS has good psychometric properties and reliability. Standardized norms are available for it. It was found to be sensitive to a wide variety of medical, exposure, and demographic variables and has robust predictive validity. It will be useful for nurses for detecting neurobehavioral problems and management of the young infant.
The Competent Newborn and the Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale: T. Berry Brazelton's Legacy
Authors: Nugent J. Kevin
Published: August 2013

This article celebrates Berry Brazelton's extraordinary contribution to our understanding of child development by focusing on two representative themes. The first is that newborns are competent and organized from the very beginning and that the neonate is in a dynamic rather than passive relationship with the environment. The second is the recognition that the newborn period is an extremely sensitive stage in the transition to parenthood and as such may be the intervention “touchpoint” par excellence for professionals who are dedicated to giving children and families the best possible start in life.
Conditionality, Communication and Compliance: The Effect of Monitoring on Collective Labour Rights in Candidate Countries
Authors: Kahn‐Nisser Sara
Published: August 2013

This article presents findings of an empirical analysis which show that the level of candidate countries' compliance with the accession conditionality is positively associated with the extent of annual pre‐accession monitoring. Focusing on conditionality and labour rights in 11 post‐communist CEE candidate countries, in the period between 1998 and 2009, the study analyzes the relationship between the extent of annual monitoring and the post‐communist CEE candidate countries' labour rights scores, two years later. A positive, statistically significant association between the two variables is found. The article proposes an explanation of the findings based on discursive institutionalism, and integrates this with the theory of conditionality. According to discursive institutionalism, monitoring supported conditionality through strategic, normative and communicative mechanisms. It strengthened certainty regarding rewards and sanctions, reduced domestic costs of compliance and supported normative convergence.
Hemoglobin A1c values are affected by hemoglobin level and gender in non‐anemic Koreans
Authors: Bae Ji Cheol , Suh Sunghwan , Jin Sang‐Man , Kim Se Won , Hur Kyu Yeon , Kim Jae Hyeon , Min Yong‐Ki , Lee Myung‐Shik , Lee Moon Kyu , Jeon Won Seon , Lee Won Young , Kim Kwang‐Won
Published: August 2013

Aims/Introduction

To evaluate whether hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels are affected by hemoglobin level and gender.

Materials and Methods

A cross‐sectional analysis was carried out in a sample of 87,284 non‐diabetic Koreans without anemia who participated in comprehensive health check‐ups between January and December 2009 at the Kangbuk Samsung Hospital Total Healthcare Center in Seoul, Korea. We categorized men and women separately according to fasting plasma glucose and hemoglobin level to carry out the analysis.

Results

HbA1c increased steadily with increasing fasting plasma glucose level. Both men and women with lower hemoglobin had significantly higher HbA1c at a given fasting glucose level, and this result was consistent across the fasting glucose quintiles within the non‐diabetic range. Women had a lower mean hemoglobin value compared with men, and women had higher HbA1c levels at a given fasting glucose level consistently across the fasting glucose deciles. There was also a gender‐specific association between age and HbA1c (P < 0.001 for interaction).

Conclusions

HbA1c values were affected by hemoglobin level and gender in non‐anemic Koreans. Thus, hemoglobin level and gender should be considered in the diagnosis of diabetes using HbA1c.
Hepatitis B virus‐associated nephropathy in a patient with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Zou Qing‐Ling , Wei Gui‐Na , Chen Jia‐Xi , Ye Qin , Shan Peng‐Fei
Published: August 2013

Hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐associated nephropathy is not a rare manifestation of HBV infection; this could result in diagnostic confusion and the possible misidentification of a diabetic patient with albuminuria. We present the first published case of a HBV‐associated nephropathy occurring in a patient with diabetes. The patient was a 24‐year‐old man who was admitted to hospital with 4 days of generalized swelling and oliguria. He had a 3‐year history of weight loss, and a 1‐year history of polydipsia and polyuria before the symptoms of generalized swelling and oliguria appeared. Laboratory tests showed a fasting blood sugar of 15.1 mmol/L and glycated hemoglobin of 18.1%. The 24‐h urine protein excretion was 2807.8 mg and serum albumin was 19.1 g/L. The diagnosis of HBV‐associated nephropathy was confirmed by serological evaluations of HBV antigen and antibodies, immunohistochemical evidence of HBV‐related antigens, and immune complexes in renal biopsies. The decreased proteinuria was observed after antiviral therapy.
Factors influencing infant‐feeding choices selected by HIV‐infected mothers: Perspectives from Zimbabwe
Authors: Marembo Joan , Zvinavashe Mathilda , Nyamakura Rudo , Shaibu Sheila , Mogobe Keitshokile Dintle
Published: August 2013

Aim

To assess factors influencing infant‐feeding methods selected by HIV‐infected mothers.

Methods

A descriptive quantitative study was conducted among 80 mothers with babies aged 0–6 months who were randomly selected and interviewed. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the findings.

Results

Factors considered by women in choosing the infant‐feeding methods included sociocultural acceptability (58.8%), feasibility and support from significant others (35%), knowledge of the selected method (55%), affordability (61.2%), implementation of the infant‐feeding method without interference (62.5%), and safety (47.5%). Exclusive breast‐feeding was the most preferred method of infant feeding. Disclosure of HIV status by a woman to her partner is a major condition for successful replacement feeding method, especially within the African cultural context. However, disclosure of HIV status to the partner was feared by most women as only 16.2% of the women disclosed their HIV status to partners.

Conclusion

The factors considered by women in choosing the infant‐feeding option were ability to implement the options without interference from significant others, affordability, and sociocultural acceptability. Knowledge of the selected option, its advantages and disadvantages, safety, and feasibility were also important factors. Nurses and midwives have to educate clients and support them in their choice of infant‐feeding methods.
PI3Kγ contributes to MEK1/2 activation in oxidative glutamate toxicity via PDK1
Authors: Ha Jong Seong , Kwon Ki‐Sun , Park Sung Sup
Published: August 2013

The role of phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) in oxidative glutamate toxicity is not clear. Here, we investigate its role in HT22 mouse hippocampal cells and primary cortical neuronal cultures, showing that inhibitors of PI3K, LY294002, and wortmannin suppress extracellular hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) generation and increase cell survival during glutamate toxicity in HT22 cells. The mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitor U0126 also reduced glutamate‐induced H2O2 generation and inhibited phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2. LY294002 was seen to abolish phosphorylation of both ERK1/2 and Akt. A small interfering RNA (siRNA) study showed that PI3Kβ and PI3Kγ, rather than PI3Kα and PI3Kδ, contribute to glutamate‐induced H2O2 generation and cell death. PI3Kγ knockdown also inhibited glutamate‐induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation, whereas transfection with the constitutively active form of human PI3Kγ (PI3Kγ‐CAAX) triggered MEK1/2 and ERK1/2 phosphorylation and H2O2 generation without glutamate exposure. This H2O2 generation was reduced by inhibition of MEK. Transfection with kinase‐dead 3‐phosphoinositide‐dependent protein kinase 1 (PDK1‐KD) reduced glutamate‐induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation and H2O2 generation. Accordingly, cotransfection of cells with PDK1‐KD and PI3Kγ‐CAAX suppressed PI3Kγ‐CAAX‐triggered ERK1/2 phosphorylation and H2O2 generation. These results suggest that activation of PI3Kγ induces ERK1/2 phosphorylation, leading to extracellular H2O2 generation via PDK1 in oxidative glutamate toxicity.

image

Glutamate induces extracellular H2O2 generation by NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4), leading to cell death in neurons. Our experiments, using siRNAs and chemical inhibitors, showed the PI3Kγ‐PDK1‐MEK axis but not Akt1, mTOR, or S6K to be involved in the glutamate‐induced H2O2 generation and the subsequent toxicity in neurons.
Mapping Hedonic Data: A Process Perspective
Authors: Ennis Daniel M. , Ennis John M.
Published: August 2013

Multivariate analyses are commonly used to study differences among items in a multidimensional space and to relate these findings to hedonic assessments of the same items. But there are numerous methods in use and the purpose of this article is to review these methods from a process standpoint. Specifically, this article considers the process assumptions behind several of the popular methods for multivariate mapping of hedonic data and argues that experimenters should consider how their data arise so that they can correctly interpret their findings. Among the methods considered in this article are models based on the hedonic continuum, internal and external preference mapping, and deterministic and probabilistic unfolding of preference and liking.

Practical Applications

Multivariate mapping of hedonic data has led to improved consumer products and a better understanding of consumer liking and choice. In this article, practitioners will find guidance in their choice of methods through a consideration of the processes that generate their data. Without a process‐based perspective, practitioners will not be able to optimally interpret results from the wide variety of available multivariate mapping methods.
Enteropathogens in pups from pet shops and breeding facilities
Authors: Dupont S. , Butaye P. , Claerebout E. , Theuns S. , Duchateau L. , Van de Maele I. , Daminet S.
Published: August 2013

Objectives

To evaluate faecal and clinical scores and presence of several enteropathogens possibly implicated in the development of diarrhoea in pups aged between 6 and 16 weeks independently of their health status.

Methods

Pups were selected from pet shops and breeding facilities and assigned a faecal and clinical score. Standard isolation methods were used to determine presence of parasites, viruses and bacteria in faecal samples. ForEscherichia coli, virulence genes were assessed by multiplex polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Fifty‐six pups were included in this study. Eighteen had no diarrhoea, 22 had no significant clinical signs related to gastroenteritis. Samples were positive forToxocara canis(n=29),Giardia duodenalis(n=35),Cystoisospora(n=22),E. coli(n=47) andClostridium perfringens(n=20). In fourE. colipositive samples, genes were detected that correlate with pathogenicity in other animal species. A significant positive correlation between the presence ofT. canisand faecal score was found.

Clinical Significance

Puppies obtained from a pet shop or breeding facility have a high risk of gastrointestinal disease. Furthermore, infectious agents may be present independently of faecal or clinical score. The identification of possible pathogenicE. colistrains suggests that their role in diarrhoea warrant further investigation.