bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical repositioning of a developing maxillary central incisor. A case report
Authors: Spoerri Andreas , Signorelli Caroline , van Waes Hubertus
Published: August 2014

Background

A traumatic injury to the primary dentition can cause damage to the germ of the permanent successor. As a clinical consequence a dilaceration with root deformation, malpositioning and disturbances of eruption can occur. Surgical repositioning of such a dislocated crown of a developing tooth can be a treatment option.

Case Report

A four year old patient was referred to our clinic because of a mobile upper primary central incisor and a radiographically visible displaced dental crown. Her history revealed a traumatic dental injury one year ago. Radiologic examination confirmed an inflammatory root resorption on tooth 61 and a dislocation of the developing tooth 21. In order to avoid further displacement due to the inflammation, 61 was extracted at the first appointment. A radiographic image 7 months later showed no improvement in the malposition of tooth 21. Therefore tooth 21 was surgically repositioned into its correct position. Follow‐up over 3 years confirmed a continued root development and a full eruption of 21 in its correct position.

Conclusion

Early diagnosis and early treatment of a dislocated permanent tooth germ is essential to allow a favorable outcome. Surgical repositioning can be successful in avoiding later malpositioning of the permanent teeth.
Arthroscopic Assessment of Osteochondrosis of the Medial Humeral Condyle Treated With Debridement and Sliding Humeral Osteotomy
Authors: Quinn Robert , Preston Christopher
Published: August 2014

Objective

To document the progression of disease after an unloading procedure when combined with arthroscopic debridement to treat osteochondrosis (OC) lesions affecting the medial humeral condyle in juvenile dogs without medial compartment disease.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

Dogs with medial humeral condyle OC (n = 6).

Methods

Dogs with medial humeral condyle OC (9 elbows) were treated by arthroscopic debridement of the OC lesion and sliding humeral osteotomy (SHO). Outcomes were assessed by radiography (n = 9), 2nd‐look arthroscopy (9) and clinical examination including lameness assessment (9) at 18–28 months after surgery.

Results

Seven elbows had marked progression of pathology affecting the medial compartment, 5 elbows developed subsequent fragmentation of the medial coronoid process of the ulna [FMCP], 2 elbows had fibrocartilaginous infill of the humeral defect without development of coronoid pathology.

Conclusion

This limited case series suggests that medial compartment disease develops despite unloading of the medial compartment using a distal diaphyseal SHO in juvenile dogs with OC.
Injection of the Diaphragmatic Crus With Methylene Blue for Coloration of the Canine Thoracic Duct
Authors: Bayer Benjamin J. , Dujowich Mauricio , Krebs Alexander I. , Leeds Timothy G. , Anderson Gregory M. , Merkley David F.
Published: August 2014

Objective

To describe and compare onset and intensity of thoracic duct (TD) coloration after injection of methylene blue into the diaphragmatic crus and mesenteric lymph node.

Study Design

Experimental study.

Animals

Adult dogs (n = 18).

Methods

Methylene blue (≤0.5 mg/kg 1% solution) was injected into the left (n = 9) or right (n = 9) diaphragmatic crus via right 10th intercostal thoracotomy. TD coloration was graded over 10 minutes. A right paracostal laparotomy was then performed in all dogs, and an equal volume of methylene blue injected into a mesenteric lymph node (n = 18). TD color grading was repeated. Statistical analysis was performed on subject weight, volume of contrast agent injected between left and right crus, and number of successful outcomes between diaphragmatic crus injection and mesenteric lymph node injection.

Results

TD coloration occurred in 6 dogs with left crus injection and 4 dogs with right crus injection with obvious staining present in 2 and 3 dogs, respectively. Successful outcome was noted in all dogs with mesenteric lymph node injection. The number of successful outcomes was significantly greater after mesenteric lymph node injection compared with diaphragmatic crus injection (P < .001).

Conclusions

Methylene blue injected into the diaphragmatic crura and mesenteric lymph node was successful in coloring the TD; however, mean thoracic duct color grade and number of successful outcomes were significantly higher after mesenteric injection.
The Influences of Excess Sodium on Low‐Temperature NaSICON Synthesis
Authors: Bell Nelson S. , Edney Cynthia , Wheeler Jill S. , Ingersoll David , Spoerke Erik D.
Published: August 2014

Controlling the materials chemistry of the solid‐state ion conductor NaSICON is key to realizing its potential utility in emerging sodium‐based battery technologies. We describe here the influence of excess sodium on phase evolution of sol‐gel synthesized NaSICON. Alkoxide‐based sol‐gel processing was used to produce powders of Na3Zr2PSi2O12 NaSICON with 0‐2 atomic % excess sodium. Phase formation and component volatility were studied as a function of temperature. NaSICON synthesis at temperatures between 900‐1100°C with up to 2% excess sodium significantly reduced the presence of zirconia, sodium phosphate, and sodium silicate secondary phases in fired NaSICON powders. Insights into the role of sodium on the phase chemistry of sol‐gel processed NaSICON may inform key improvements in NaSICON development.
Effect of Alumina on the Structure and Mechanical Properties of Spark Plasma Sintered Boron Carbide
Authors: Xie Kelvin Y. , Toksoy Muhammet F. , Kuwelkar Kanak , Zhang Binwei , Krogstad Jessica A. , Haber Richard A. , Hemker Kevin J.
Published: August 2014

Uniform densification of relatively thick (~7 mm) consolidated boron carbide plates at relatively low temperatures (e.g. 1800°C) and low facture toughness are two of the primary challenges for further development of boron carbide applications. This work reports that these two challenges can be overcome simultaneously by adding 5 wt% alumina as a sintering aid. Nearly fully dense (97%), fine grained boron carbide (B4C) samples were produced using spark plasma sintering at 1700°C and above in the B4C‐5 wt% Al2O3 system. The alumina and boron carbide matrix reacted to form an Al5O6BO3 (a mullite‐like phase) during sintering. The Al5O6BO3 phase facilitated uniform densification via liquid phase sintering. This secondary phase is dispersed throughout the intergranular pores, providing obstacles for crack propagation and resulting in tougher boron carbide ceramics.
Beyond competencies: using a capability framework in developing practice standards for advanced practice nursing
Authors: O'Connell Jane , Gardner Glenn , Coyer Fiona
Published: August 2014

Aim

This paper presents a discussion on the application of a capability framework for advanced practice nursing standards/competencies.

Background

There is acceptance that competencies are useful and necessary for definition and education of practice‐based professions. Competencies have been described as appropriate for practice in stable environments with familiar problems. Increasingly competencies are being designed for use in the health sector for advanced practice such as the nurse practitioner role. Nurse practitioners work in environments and roles that are dynamic and unpredictable necessitating attributes and skills to practice at advanced and extended levels in both familiar and unfamiliar clinical situations. Capability has been described as the combination of skills, knowledge, values and self‐esteem which enables individuals to manage change, be flexible and move beyond competency.

Design

A discussion paper exploring ‘capability’ as a framework for advanced nursing practice standards.

Data Sources

Data were sourced from electronic databases as described in the background section.

Implications for Nursing

As advanced practice nursing becomes more established and formalized, novel ways of teaching and assessing the practice of experienced clinicians beyond competency are imperative for the changing context of health services.

Conclusion

Leading researchers into capability in health care state that traditional education and training in health disciplines concentrates mainly on developing competence. To ensure that healthcare delivery keeps pace with increasing demand and a continuously changing context there is a need to embrace capability as a framework for advanced practice and education.
The Roles of the Q (q) Wave in Lead I and QRS Frontal Axis for Diagnosing Loss of Left Ventricular Capture During Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: CAO YUAN‐YUAN , SU YAN‐GANG , BAI JIN , WANG WEI , WANG JING‐FENG , QIN SHENG‐MEI , GE JUN‐BO
Published: August 2014

Roles of Q (q) Wave in Lead I and QRS Axis for Diagnosing Loss of LV Capture During CRT

Introduction

Loss of left ventricular (LV) capture may lead to deterioration of heart failure in patients with cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). Recognition of loss of LV capture in time is important in clinical practice.

Methods and Results

A total of 422 electrocardiograms were acquired and analyzed from 53 CRT patients at 8 different pacing settings (LV only, right ventricle [RV] only, biventricular [BV] pacing with LV preactivation of 60, 40, 20, and 0 milliseconds and RV preactivation of 20 and 40 milliseconds). A modified Ammann algorithm by adding a third step—presence of Q (q, or QS) wave—to the original 2‐step Ammann algorithm and a QRS axis shift method were devised to identify the loss of LV capture. The accuracy of modified Ammann algorithm was significantly higher than that of Ammann algorithm (78.9% vs. 69.1%, P < 0.001). The accuracy of the axis shift method was 66.4%, which was significantly lower than the modified Ammann algorithm (P < 0.001) and similar to the original one (P = 0.412). However, in the ECGs with QRS axis shift, 96.8% were correctly classified. LV preactivation or simultaneous BV activation and LV lead positioned in nonposterior or noninferior wall could elevate the accuracies of the modified Ammann algorithm and the QRS axis shift method.

Conclusions

The accuracy of the modified Ammann algorithm is greatly improved. The QRS axis shift method can help diagnose LV capture. The LV preactivation, or simultaneous BV activation and LV lead positioned in nonposterior or noninferior wall can increase the diagnostic power of the modified Ammann algorithm and QRS axis shift method.
Genetic and environmental contributions to anxiety among Chinese children and adolescents – a multi‐informant twin study
Authors: Chen Jie , Yu Jing , Li Xinying , Zhang Jianxin
Published: August 2014

Background

Child and adolescent anxiety has become a major public health concern in China, but little was known about the etiology of anxiety in Chinese children and adolescents. The present study aimed to investigate genetic and environmental influences on trait anxiety among Chinese children and adolescents. Rater, sex, and age differences on these estimates were also examined.

Methods

Self‐reported and parent‐reported child's trait anxiety was collected from 1,104 pairs of same‐sex twins aged 9–18 years. Genetic models were fitted to data from each informant to determine the genetic (A), shared (C), and non‐shared environmental (E) influences on trait anxiety.

Results

The parameter estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of A, C, E on self‐reported trait anxiety were 50% [30%, 60%], 5% [0%, 24%], 45% [40%, 49%]. For parent‐reported data, the corresponding parameter estimates were 63% [47%, 78%], 13% [1%, 28%], and 24% [22%, 27%], respectively. The heritability of anxiety was higher in girls for self‐reported data, but higher in boys for parent‐reported data. There was no significant age difference in genetic and environmental contributions for self‐reported data, but a significant increase of heritability with age for parent‐reported data.

Conclusions

The trait anxiety in Chinese children and adolescents was highly heritable. Non‐shared environmental factors also played an important role. The estimates of genetic and environmental effects differed by rater, sex and age. Our findings largely suggest the cross‐cultural generalizability of the etiological model of child and adolescent anxiety.
Morphology and fibre‐type distribution in the tongue of the Pogona vitticeps lizard (Iguania, Agamidae)
Authors: Zghikh Leïla‐Nastasia , Vangysel Emilie , Nonclercq Denis , Legrand Alexandre , Blairon Bernard , Berri Cécile , Bordeau Thierry , Rémy Christophe , Burtéa Carmen , Montuelle Stéphane J. , Bels Vincent
Published: August 2014

Agamid lizards use tongue prehension for capturing all types of prey. The purpose of this study was to investigate the functional relationship between tongue structure, both surface and musculature, and function during prey capture in Pogona vitticeps. The lack of a detailed description of the distribution of fibre‐types in the tongue muscles in some iguanian lizards has hindered the understanding of the functional morphology of the lizard tongue. Three methodological approaches were used to fill this gap. First, morphological analyses were performed (i) on the tongue surface through scanning electron microscopy, and (ii) on the lingual muscle by histological coloration and histochemistry to identify fibre‐typing. Secondly, kinematics of prey capture was quantified by using high‐speed video recordings to determine the movement capabilities of the tongue. Finally, electromyography (EMG) was used to identify the motor pattern tongue muscles during prey capture. Morphological and functional data were combined to discuss the functional morphology of the tongue in agamid lizards, in relation to their diet. During tongue protraction, M. genioglossus contracts 420 ± 96 ms before tongue–prey contact. Subsequently, Mm. verticalis and hyoglossus contract throughout tongue protraction and retraction. Significant differences are found between the timing of activity of the protractor muscles between omnivorous agamids (Pogona sp., this study) and insectivorous species (Agama sp.), despite similar tongue and jaw kinematics. The data confirm that specialisation toward a diet which includes more vegetal materials is associated with significant changes in tongue morphology and function. Histoenzymology demonstrates that protractor and retractor muscles differ in fibre composition. The proportion of fast glycolytic fibres is significantly higher in the M. hyoglossus (retractor muscle) than in the M. genioglossus (protractor muscle), and this difference is proposed to be associated with differences in the velocity of tongue protrusion and retraction (5 ± 5 and 40 ± 13 cm s−1, respectively), similar to Chamaeleonidae. This study provides a way to compare fibre‐types and composition in all iguanian and scleroglossan lizards that use tongue prehension to catch prey.
A Pyrrhic Victory? Bank Bailouts and Sovereign Credit Risk
Authors: ACHARYA VIRAL , DRECHSLER ITAMAR , SCHNABL PHILIPP
Published: August 2014

We model a loop between sovereign and bank credit risk. A distressed financial sector induces government bailouts, whose cost increases sovereign credit risk. Increased sovereign credit risk in turn weakens the financial sector by eroding the value of its government guarantees and bond holdings. Using credit default swap (CDS) rates on European sovereigns and banks, we show that bailouts triggered the rise of sovereign credit risk in 2008. We document that post‐bailout changes in sovereign CDS explain changes in bank CDS even after controlling for aggregate and bank‐level determinants of credit spreads, confirming the sovereign‐bank loop.
Efficacy of combination therapy of oral zinc sulfate with imiquimod, podophyllin or cryotherapy in the treatment of vulvar warts
Authors: Akhavan Setareh , Mohammadi Seyed Rahim , Modarres Gillani Mitra , Mousavi Azam Sadat , Shirazi Mahboobeh
Published: August 2014

Aim

Zinc sulfate is beneficial in the treatment of epithelial warts. We conducted this study to compare the efficacy of combination therapy of oral zinc sulfate with conventional treatments in the treatment of vulvar warts.

Material and Methods

This study was a randomized controlled trial. The sample size was 42 in each group. Women aged 20–50 years were placed by the block randomized method into six groups: the podophyllin‐, imiquimod‐ and cryotherapy‐treated groups, and another three groups receiving 8‐week combination therapy of 400 mg oral zinc sulfate with one of the above‐mentioned treatments. Data were analyzed using anova and Fischer's exact test with spss16.

Results

A total of 228 patients were recruited and completed the study in six treatment groups. No significant difference was observed in the response to treatment among these groups. Relapse after 6 months was significantly higher in the podophyllin‐, imiquimod‐ and cryotherapy‐treated patients compared to patients receiving these treatments in combination with oral zinc sulfate (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Combined therapy of oral zinc sulfate with conventional treatments of vulvar warts appears to reduce the relapse rate.
Intravenous infusion of paracetamol for intrapartum analgesia
Authors: Abd‐El‐Maeboud Karim H. I. , Elbohoty Ahmed E. H. , Mohammed Walid E. , Elgamel Hatem M. , Ali Walid A. H.
Published: August 2014

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy and adverse effects of an i.v. infusion of paracetamol during the active phase of labor as compared with sterile water (placebo) as a method for intrapartum analgesia.

Methods

In a triple‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial, 120 low‐risk primiparous women presenting in active labor at Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital, Cairo, Egypt, between August 2011 and October 2012, were allocated to receive either 1000 mg i.v. of paracetamol (n = 60) or sterile water (n = 60). The primary outcomes were the efficacy of the drug to supply adequate analgesia as measured by a change in the visual analog scale (VAS) pain intensity score at various time points after drug administration and the need for additional rescue analgesia. The secondary outcomes included the presence of adverse maternal or fetal events.

Results

Compared to controls, i.v. infusion of paracetamol was associated with significantly lower VAS score 15 and 30 min after the start of medication; also, there was a significantly lower incidence of need for rescue medication (8/57 [14%] vs 49/59 [83.1%], P < 0.001) at 60 min after the start of medication. There were no recorded maternal adverse effects in either group. There were no differences in occurrence of intrapartum fetal distress or neonatal Apgar scores between both groups.

Conclusion

Paracetamol appears to be a safe and effective medicine that can be used during the intrapartum period.
Modalities of fetal evaluation to detect fetal compromise prior to the development of significant neurological damage
Authors: Maeda Kazuo
Published: August 2014

Aims

The aim of this study was to clarify the developmental mechanism underlying fetal heart rate (FHR) long‐term variability (LTV) and acceleration with respect to fetal brain damage.

Material and Methods

The fetal state was deduced from the developmental mechanism of FHR variability analyzed by actocardiogram, animal experiments, and simulations.

Results

LTV develops due to minor fetal movements in the fetal midbrain, moderate LTV by fetal periodic movements and triangular accelerations by large fetal movement bursts. Stimulation of the fetal midbrain by sound and light produces fetal movements that lead to FHR acceleration. Severe hypoxia can result in the loss of LTV and neuronal necrosis that may damage the fetal brain. Therefore, a cesarean section is recommended prior to the loss of LTV, rather than after its loss. The vagal center of the fetal medulla oblongata is excited by hypoxia and produces FHR bradycardia. The heart rate of hypoxic rabbits was found to be closely correlated with the PaO2, thus the impact of hypoxia could be estimated by the hypoxia index, which is calculated from the reciprocal of nadir FHR and bradycardia duration.

Conclusions

Analyzing the development of FHR signs could help to diagnose fetal state. An early cesarean section is recommended before the loss of LTV as indicated by the hypoxia index, which will contribute to prevent fetal brain damage and neurological sequels.
Can platelet count and mean platelet volume during the first trimester of pregnancy predict preterm premature rupture of membranes?
Authors: Ekin Atalay , Gezer Cenk , Kulhan Gözde , Avcı Muhittin Eftal , Taner Cuneyt Eftal
Published: August 2014

Aim

The aim of our study was to evaluate the values of platelet count and mean platelet volume (MPV) obtained from maternal serum during the first trimester to predict subsequent preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM).

Material and Methods

The records of 318 women with PPROM and 384 healthy controls in a single center between 2009 and 2013 were retrospectively evaluated. Platelet count and MPV values between 7 and 14 weeks of gestation were compared. Receiver–operator curve analysis was performed to identify the optimal platelet count and MPV cut‐off levels predicting PPROM.

Results

Compared with controls, women with PPROM had significantly increased levels of platelet count and significantly decreased levels of MPV in the first trimester (P < 0.001). The area under the receiver–operator curve was 0.642 for MPV and 0.579 for platelet count. The cut‐off values of MPV ≤ 8.6 fL and platelet count ≥216 × 103/μL predicted PPROM with a sensitivity of 58% and 65% and specificity of 62% and 44%, respectively.

Conclusion

MPV can be used as a more efficient predictor for an early diagnosis of PPROM than platelet count. However, further research combining other markers is needed to increase the efficiency of prediction.
Outbreak of Rhizopus Rot Caused by Rhizopus oryzae on Seedlings of Grafted Cucumber on Pumpkin Rootstock in South Korea
Authors: Kwon Jin‐Hyeuk , Kang Dong‐Wan , Lee Sang‐Dae , Kim Jinwoo
Published: August 2014

In 2013, an outbreak of Rhizopus rot caused by Rhizopus oryzae occurred in cucumber grafted onto pumpkin rootstock sampled from seedling farms in Changnyeong, South Korea. A water‐soaked appearance of the affected tissue was the first symptom of this soft fungal rot in the seedling stems of grafted cucumber. Lesions at the graft sites softened and rapidly, rotted, and turned brown or dark brown. Measurements and taxonomic characteristics were most similar to R. oryzae. DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the internal transcribed spacer rRNA gene region confirmed that the isolates were indeed R. oryzae. Koch's postulates were supported by pathogenicity tests conducted on healthy plants. Based on mycological characteristics, pathogenicity test, and molecular analysis, the causal fungus was identified as R. oryzae Went & Prinsen Geerligs. To our knowledge, this is the first report of Rhizopus rot caused by R. oryzae in seedlings of grafted cucumber on pumpkin rootstock in South Korea.
Synthesis, in-vitro cytotoxic activity and DNA interactions of new dicarboxylatoplatinum(II) complexes with 2-hydroxymethylbenzimidazole as carrier ligands
Authors: Utku Semra , Özçelik Azime Berna , Gümüş Fatma , Yılmaz Şükran , Arsoy Taibe , Açık Leyla , Çelebi Keskin Ayten
Published: August 2014

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the in-vitro cytotoxic activity of new platinum(II) complexes on the human HeLa (ER−), MCF-7 (ER+) and MDA-MB 231 (ER−) cell lines. Furthermore, we investigated plasmid DNA interactions and inhibition of BamHI and HindIII restriction enzyme activity of the complex 1–4,7.

Methods

Platinum(II) complexes were synthesised from precursor complexes of [PtL2Cl2] and [PtL2I2]. Their cytotoxic activity was tested by MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay. Their plasmid DNA interactions and restriction enzyme activities were also investigated using the agarose gel electrophoresis method.

Key findings

The growth inhibitory effect results showed that the cytotoxicity of complex 2 was found to be the most active complex among the synthesised complexes.

Conclusions

The MTT results showed that complex 2 was found to be cytotoxic equal to cisplatin and higher than carboplatin against the MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. Furthermore, the estrogen or progesterone co-treatment slightly increased the cytotoxicity of complex 2, the cisplatin and carboplatin compared with the complex 2 tested alone in 50 μm concentration. According to plasmid DNA interaction and the restriction studies, complexes 1–4,7 modified the tertiary structure of pBR322 plasmid DNA, and complexes 2–4 prevented enzyme digestion at high concentrations.
Cryptocoryne spiralis, a substitute of Aconitum heterophyllum in the treatment of diarrhoea
Authors: Prasad Satyendra K , Laloo Damiki , Sahu Alakh N , Nath Gopal , Hemalatha Siva
Published: August 2014

Objective

To scientifically validate the traditional substitution of roots of highly expensive Aconitum heterophyllum (AH) with rhizomes of Cryptocoryne spiralis (CS) in the treatment of diarrhoea.

Methods

Different fractions from root/rhizome extract of both the plant were subjected to faecal excretion rate and castor oil-induced diarrhoea models. Further, bioactive fractions from both plants, i.e. chloroform (CAH) from AH at 50 mg/kg p.o. and ethyl acetate (EACS) from CS at 100 mg/kg p.o., were examined for small intestinal transit, intestinal fluid accumulation and PGE2-induced enteropooling models in rats. Biochemical estimations and Na+ and K+ concentration in intestinal fluid were also determined along with antibacterial studies. Phytochemical standardisation of AH and CS was performed by quantifying aconitine for the former and stigmasterol for the latter using HPLC.

Key findings

CAH and EACS illustrated a significant reduction in faecal output rate and demonstrated a protection of 63.068% at CAH 50 and 59.090% at EACS 100 mg/kg p.o. in castor oil-induced diarrhoea model. The fractions also persuaded promising effects in all the other models, restored alterations in biochemical parameters and showed potential antibacterial activity.

Conclusion

The antidiarrhoeal potential of AH and CS may be attributed to an antimotility and antisecretory type of effect.
Pharmacokinetic study for the establishment of bioequivalence of two inhalation treatments containing budesonide plus formoterol
Authors: Grekas Nikolaos , Athanassiou Katerina , Papataxiarchou Katerina , Rizea Savu Simona , Silvestro Luigi
Published: August 2014

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare lung deposition and assess the bioequivalence of two formulations containing budesonide and formoterol and being delivered via Elpenhaler and Turbuhaler, respectively. A pharmacokinetic (PK) study was conducted.

Methods

An open, randomized, two-sequence, two-period, crossover, single-dose study in 100 asthmatic patients under fasting conditions was performed. Wash out period was 6 days. Equivalence in lung deposition was assessed after a single inhalation of each treatment with concomitant oral administration of activated charcoal (40 g) to prevent gastrointestinal absorption of the drugs. Several PK parameters were estimated, the area under the drug concentration in plasma versus time curve (AUC0−t) and the maximum drug concentration in plasma (Cmax) being the primary response variables. Equivalent lung deposition was concluded if the 90% confidence interval (CI) for the Elpenhaler/Turbuhaler geometric mean ratio of AUC0−t and Cmax, for both drug substances fell within the regulatory limits (0.80–1.25).

Key findings

Acceptance criteria were met. Equivalent lung deposition can be concluded. No statistically significant differences between treatments in the incidence of adverse events were found.

Conclusions

The formulations are bioequivalent regarding both rate and extent of absorption. The treatments were also well tolerated by the participating subjects.
Self‐awakening improves alertness in the morning and during the day after partial sleep deprivation
Authors: Ikeda Hiroki , Kubo Tomohide , Kuriyama Kenichi , Takahashi Masaya
Published: August 2014

The ability to awaken at a predetermined time without an alarm is known as self‐awakening. Self‐awakening improves morning alertness by eliminating sleep inertia; however, the effects of self‐awakening on daytime alertness and alertness that has deteriorated as a result of sleep loss are unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of self‐awakening on both morning and daytime alertness after partial sleep deprivation. Fifteen healthy males without the habit of self‐awakening participated in a cross‐over trial including forced awakening and self‐awakening conditions. In each condition, participants' sleep was restricted to 5 h per night in their homes for 4 consecutive days. They completed a psychomotor vigilance task and subjective ratings of sleepiness immediately upon awakening each morning. On the fourth day, participants completed subjective ratings of sleepiness, a psychomotor vigilance task and sleep latency tests in the laboratory seven times at 1‐h intervals during the day. The response speed on the psychomotor vigilance task, in the morning and during the day, was higher in the self‐awakening than the forced awakening condition. Our results showed that self‐awakening improved alertness (assessed by response speeds) by reducing sleep inertia and alleviated daytime sleepiness heightened by partial sleep deprivation.
Caspase‐3 inhibition prevents the development of hepatopulmonary syndrome in common bile duct ligation rats by alleviating pulmonary injury
Authors: Chen Bing , Ning Jiao L. , Gu Jian T. , Cui Jian , Yang Yong , Wang Zhi , Zeng Jing , Yi Bin , Lu Kai Z.
Published: August 2014

Background & Aims

Common bile duct ligation (CBDL) rats is an accepted experimental model of hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS), defined as liver disease and intrapulmonary vascular dilatation and hypoxaemia. Pulmonary Akt and ERK activation followed by angiogenesis in the later stages of CBDL, contribute to the pathogenesis of HPS. However, the mechanisms behind Akt and ERK activation remain undefined. Pulmonary injury induced by increased bilirubin, endotoxin and inflammatory mediators occurs in the early stages of CBDL. We assessed the effects of relieving pulmonary injury on Akt and ERK activation and on the development of HPS following CBDL.

Methods

Pulmonary injury, angiogenesis, arterial oxygenation, cell proliferation and, phospho‐Akt and ERK1 were evaluated in CBDL animals with or without caspase‐3 inhibition (Z‐DEVD‐FMK). Pulmonary injury was assessed by histology and quantifying apoptosis and aquaporin‐1 (AQP1) levels. Lung angiogenesis was assessed by quantifying AQP1 level, vWF‐positive cells and microvessel count.

Results

Pulmonary apoptosis and caspase‐3 activation were markedly increased in the early stages of CBDL. Caspase‐3 inhibition alleviated apoptosis, the reduction in AQP1, phospho‐Akt and ERK1 levels and pulmonary injury 1 week after CBDL. Caspase‐3 inhibition also reduced AQP1, phospho‐Akt and ERK1 levels, vWF‐positive cells, cell proliferation, microvessel count, and microvascular dilatation and improved arterial oxygenation 3 weeks following CBDL.

Conclusions

Caspase‐3 inhibition alleviates pulmonary injury, thereby preventing angiogenesis as well as the development of HPS in CBDL rats. These effects are related to the regulation of the Akt and ERK1 pathways.
ABC inference of multi‐population divergence with admixture from unphased population genomic data
Authors: Robinson John D. , Bunnefeld Lynsey , Hearn Jack , Stone Graham N. , Hickerson Michael J.
Published: August 2014

Rapidly developing sequencing technologies and declining costs have made it possible to collect genome‐scale data from population‐level samples in nonmodel systems. Inferential tools for historical demography given these data sets are, at present, underdeveloped. In particular, approximate Bayesian computation (ABC) has yet to be widely embraced by researchers generating these data. Here, we demonstrate the promise of ABC for analysis of the large data sets that are now attainable from nonmodel taxa through current genomic sequencing technologies. We develop and test an ABC framework for model selection and parameter estimation, given histories of three‐population divergence with admixture. We then explore different sampling regimes to illustrate how sampling more loci, longer loci or more individuals affects the quality of model selection and parameter estimation in this ABC framework. Our results show that inferences improved substantially with increases in the number and/or length of sequenced loci, while less benefit was gained by sampling large numbers of individuals. Optimal sampling strategies given our inferential models included at least 2000 loci, each approximately 2 kb in length, sampled from five diploid individuals per population, although specific strategies are model and question dependent. We tested our ABC approach through simulation‐based cross‐validations and illustrate its application using previously analysed data from the oak gall wasp, Biorhiza pallida.
Unintentional epidural injection of 88 μg·kg−1 of epinephrine
Authors: August David A. , Sui Jinghu , Coté Charles J.
Published: August 2014

We report the effects of 88 μg·kg−1 of epinephrine (1 : 10 000) injected into the caudal epidural space of a 42‐week postconceptual age infant. No long‐term neurological or cardiovascular sequelae occurred. Noninvasive cardiac output (CO) monitoring revealed increased CO, contractility, and stroke volume for about an hour, accompanied by a reduction in peripheral vascular resistance and a modest increase in pulse and blood pressure.
Vertical inhibition of the MAPK pathway enhances therapeutic responses in NRAS‐mutant melanoma
Authors: Rebecca Vito W. , Alicea Gretchen M. , Paraiso Kim H. T. , Lawrence Harshani , Gibney Geoffrey T. , Smalley Keiran S. M.
Published: August 2014

The MEK inhibitor MEK162 is the first targeted therapy agent with clinical activity in patients whose melanomas harbor NRAS mutations; however, median PFS is 3.7 months, suggesting the rapid onset of resistance in the majority of patients. Here, we show that treatment of NRAS‐mutant melanoma cell lines with the MEK inhibitors AZD6244 or trametinib resulted in a rebound activation of phospho‐ERK (pERK). Functionally, the recovery of signaling was associated with the maintenance of cyclin‐D1 expression and therapeutic escape. The combination of a MEK inhibitor with an ERK inhibitor suppressed the recovery of cyclin‐D1 expression and was associated with a significant enhancement of apoptosis and the abrogation of clonal outgrowth. The MEK/ERK combination strategy induced greater levels of apoptosis compared with dual MEK/CDK4 or MEK/PI3K inhibition across a panel of cell lines. These data provide the rationale for further investigation of vertically co‐targeting the MAPK pathway as a potential treatment option for NRAS‐mutant melanoma patients.
The Effects of UV‐B Radiation Intensity on Biochemical Parameters and Active Ingredients in Flowers of Qi Chrysanthemum and Huai Chrysanthemum
Authors: Yao Xiao‐Qin , Chu Jian‐Zhou , He Xue‐Li , Si Chao
Published: August 2014

The article studied UV‐B effects on biochemical parameters and active ingredients in flowers of Qi chrysanthemum and Huai chrysanthemum during the bud stage. The experiment included four UV‐B radiation levels (CK, ambient UV‐B; T1, T2 and T3 indicated a 5%, 10% and 15% increase in ambient UV‐BBE, respectively) to determine the optimal UV‐B radiation intensity in regulating active ingredients level in flowers of two chrysanthemum varieties. Flower dry weight of two cultivars was not affected by UV‐B radiation under experimental conditions reported here. UV‐B treatments significantly increased the rate of superoxide radical production, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) (except for T1) and malondialdehyde concentration in flowers of Huai chrysanthemum and H2O2 concentration in flowers of Qi chrysanthemum. T2 and T3 treatments induced a significant increase in phenylalanine ammonia lyase enzyme (PAL) activity, anthocyanins, proline, ascorbic acid, chlorogenic acid and flavone content in flowers of two chrysanthemum varieties, and there were no significant differences in PAL activity, ascorbic acid, flavone and chlorogenic acid content between the two treatments. These results indicated that appropriate UV‐B radiation intensity did not result in the decrease in flower yield, and could regulate PAL activity and increase active ingredients content in flowers of two chrysanthemum varieties.
Call Center Delay Announcement Using a Newsvendor‐Like Performance Criterion
Authors: Jouini Oualid , Akşin O. Zeynep , Karaesmen Fikri , Aguir M. Salah , Dallery Yves
Published: August 2014

The problem of estimating delays experienced by customers with different priorities, and the determination of the appropriate delay announcement to these customers, in a multi‐class call center with time varying parameters, abandonments, and retrials is considered. The system is approximately modeled as an M( t)/ M/ s( t) queue with priorities, thus ignoring some of the real features like abandonments and retrials. Two delay estimators are proposed and tested in a series of simulation experiments. Making use of actual state‐dependent waiting time data from this call center, the delay announcements from the estimated delay distributions that minimize a newsvendor‐like cost function are considered. The performance of these announcements is also compared to announcing the mean delay. We find that an Erlang distribution‐based estimator performs well for a range of different under‐announcement penalty to over‐announcement penalty ratios.
Validation of a Field Based Chromatin Dispersion Assay to Assess Sperm DNA Fragmentation in the Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)
Authors: Sánchez‐Calabuig M‐J , López‐Fernández C , Martínez‐Nevado E , Pérez‐Gutiérrez JF , de la Fuente J , Johnston SD , Blyde D , Harrison K , Gosálvez J
Published: August 2014

Contents

Over the last two decades, there have been significant advances in the use of assisted reproductive technology for genetic and reproductive management of captive dolphin populations, including evaluation of sperm DNA quality. This study validated a customized sperm chromatin dispersion test (SCDt) for the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) as a means of assessing sperm DNA damage both in the field and in the laboratory. After performing the SCDt, two different sperm morphotypes were identified: (i) sperm with fragmented DNA showed large haloes of dispersed DNA fragments emerging from a compact sperm nucleoid core and (ii) sperm containing non‐fragmented DNA displayed small compact haloes surrounded by a dense core of non‐dispersed DNA and protein complex. Estimates of sperm DNA fragmentation by means of SCDt were directly comparable to results obtained following a two‐tailed comet assay and showed a significant degree of correlation (r = 0.961; p < 0.001). This investigation also revealed that the SCDt, with minor modifications to the standard protocol, can be successfully conducted in the field using a LED florescence microscopy obtaining a high correlation (r = 0.993; p = 0.01) between the data obtained in the laboratory and in the field.
Efficacy of Low‐Dose Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Therapy in Dogs with Spermatogenic Dysfunction: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Kobayashi M , Hori T , Kawakami E
Published: August 2014

Contents

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a glycoprotein used in the treatment of spermatogenic dysfunction. However, previous studies performed in dogs show that repeated administration of large doses of hCG produces antibodies against hCG. In this study, we examined the efficacy of low‐dose injections of hCG in four male dogs with spermatogenic dysfunction and low plasma testosterone (T) levels. We administered 100 IU hCG per animal, five times at 3‐day intervals, and evaluated the changes in semen quality and plasma T levels. The total number of sperm in ejaculate, the percentage of progressively motile sperm and the plasma T levels had increased by 3–5 weeks after the first injection of hCG in three of the four dogs, but were unchanged in the fourth dog. These findings indicate that temporary improvement of the semen quality of dogs with spermatogenic dysfunction and low plasma T levels is possible after five low‐dose injections of hCG.
Influence of Temperament Score and Handling Facility on Stress, Reproductive Hormone Concentrations, and Fixed Time AI Pregnancy Rates in Beef Heifers
Authors: Kasimanickam R , Schroeder S , Assay M , Kasimanickam V , Moore DA , Gay JM , Whittier WD
Published: August 2014

Contents

The objectives were (i) to evaluate the effect of temperament, determined by modified 2‐point chute exit and gait score, on artificial insemination (AI) pregnancy rates in beef heifers following fixed time AI and (ii) to determine the effect of temperament on cortisol, substance‐P, prolactin and progesterone at initiation of synchronization and at the time of AI. Angus beef heifers (n = 967) at eight locations were included in this study. At the initiation of synchronization (Day 0 = initiation of synchronization), all heifers received a body condition score (BCS), and temperament score (0 = calm; slow exit and walk or 1 = excitable; fast exit or jump or trot or run). Blood samples were collected from a sub‐population of heifers (n = 86) at both synchronization initiation and the time of AI to determine the differences in serum progesterone, cortisol, prolactin and substance‐P concentrations between temperament groups. Heifers were synchronized with 5‐day CO‐Synch+ controlled internal drug release (CIDR) protocol and were inseminated at 56 h after CIDR removal. Heifers were examined for pregnancy by ultrasound 70 days after AI to determine AI pregnancy. Controlling for synchronization treatment (p = 0.03), facility design (p = 0.05), and cattle handling facility design by temperament score interaction (p = 0.02), the AI pregnancy differed between heifers with excitable and calm temperament (51.9% vs 60.3%; p = 0.01). The alley‐way with acute bends and turns, and long straight alley‐way had lower AI pregnancy rate than did the semicircular alley‐way (53.5%, 56.3% and 67.0% respectively; p = 0.05). The serum hormone concentrations differed significantly between different types of cattle handling facility (p < 0.05). The cattle handling facility design by temperament group interactions significantly influenced progesterone (p = 0.01), cortisol (p = 0.01), prolactin (p = 0.02) and substance‐P (p = 0.04) both at the initiation of synchronization and at the time of AI. Inter‐ and intra‐rater agreement for temperament scoring were moderate and good (Kappa = 0.596 ± 0.07 and 0.797 ± 0.11) respectively. The predictive value for calm and pregnant to AI was 0.87, and excited and non‐pregnant to AI was 0.76. In conclusion, the modified 2‐point temperament scoring method can be used to identify heifers with excitable temperament. Heifers with excitable temperament had lower AI pregnancy. Further, cattle handling facility design influenced the temperament and AI pregnancy.
Regional Risk Assessment for Point Source Pollution Based on a Water Quality Model of the Taipu River, China
Authors: Yao Hong , Qian Xin , Yin Hong , Gao Hailong , Wang Yulei
Published: August 2014

Point source pollution is one of the main threats to regional environmental health. Based on a water quality model, a methodology to assess the regional risk of point source pollution is proposed. The assessment procedure includes five parts: (1) identifying risk source units and estimating source emissions using Monte Carlo algorithms; (2) observing hydrological and water quality data of the assessed area, and evaluating the selected water quality model; (3) screening out the assessment endpoints and analyzing receptor vulnerability with the Choquet fuzzy integral algorithm; (4) using the water quality model introduced in the second step to predict pollutant concentrations for various source emission scenarios and analyzing hazards of risk sources; and finally, (5) using the source hazard values and receptor vulnerability scores to estimate overall regional risk. The proposed method, based on the Water Quality Analysis Simulation Program (WASP), was applied in the region of the Taipu River, which is in the Taihu Basin, China. Results of source hazard and receptor vulnerability analysis allowed us to describe aquatic ecological, human health, and socioeconomic risks individually, and also integrated risks in the Taipu region, from a series of risk curves. Risk contributions of sources to receptors were ranked, and the spatial distribution of risk levels was presented. By changing the input conditions, we were able to estimate risks for a range of scenarios. Thus, the proposed procedure may also be used by decisionmakers for long‐term dynamic risk prediction.
A Decision Framework for Managing Risk to Airports from Terrorist Attack
Authors: Shafieezadeh Abdollah , Cha Eun J. , Ellingwood Bruce R.
Published: August 2014

This article presents an asset‐level security risk management framework to assist stakeholders of critical assets with allocating limited budgets for enhancing their safety and security against terrorist attack. The proposed framework models the security system of an asset, considers various threat scenarios, and models the sequential decision framework of attackers during the attack. Its novel contributions are the introduction of the notion of partial neutralization of attackers by defenders, estimation of total loss from successful, partially successful, and unsuccessful actions of attackers at various stages of an attack, and inclusion of the effects of these losses on the choices made by terrorists at various stages of the attack. The application of the proposed method is demonstrated in an example dealing with security risk management of a U.S. commercial airport, in which a set of plausible threat scenarios and risk mitigation options are considered. It is found that a combination of providing blast‐resistant cargo containers and a video surveillance system on the airport perimeter fence is the best option based on minimum expected life‐cycle cost considering a 10‐year service period.
A quantitative evaluation method using processed optical images and analysis of age‐dependent changes on nasolabial lines
Authors: Jang Sue Im , Kim Eun Joo , Park Hyeokgon , Kim Hyun Jung , Suk Jang Mi , Kim Beom Joon , Lee John Hwan , Lee Hae Kwang
Published: August 2014

Background/Purpose

Nasolabial lines (NL) and wrinkles of the face are major features of aging. Wrinkles have been studied widely by morphological methods using 3‐dimensional (3D) photographic analysis instrument, but NL were evaluated by visual scoring usually. To evaluate NL quantitatively, another method is needed. This study is purposed to find out quantitative method for evaluation of NL.

Method

One hundred Korean female subjects aged 20 to 60 were recruited in this study. Facial image was taken using light source adjusted VISIA‐CR® and 3‐dimensional wrinkle depth on the NL area was evaluated by Phase shift rapid in vivo measuring of human skin (PRIMOS®). The pixel number of NL area and the angle were obtained using processed images. The severity of NL was assessed by visual score. Skin elasticity was measured by Cutometer®MPA580. Statistical significance was determined at P < 0.05.

Result

The optical images obtained by light source adjusted VISIA‐CR® were easy to distinguish NL and significantly increased age‐dependently. And three parameters of elasticity (R2, R5, and R7) on NL area were gradually decreased with age. The Pearson correlation coefficient was −0.756 (P < 0.01) between R7 parameter and ages. Also the pixel number of NL area, angle, wrinkle depth on the NL area (Ra), and visual score were decreased elasticity‐dependently. The pixel number of NL area was highly related to Ra (r = 0.567, P < 0.01) and visual score (r = 0.647, P < 0.01).

Conclusion

This study has shown that NL severity is related to decrease of dermal elasticity and age using quantitative new method by processing optical images.