bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Persian version of Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index
Authors: Rezaei Mohammad , Rashedi Vahid , Khedmati Morasae Esmaeil
Published: October 2014

Objective

This study aimed to translate the original English version of the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) into a Persian version and to assess the preliminary psychometric properties of the translated index among a sample of Persian elders.

Material and methods

Twelve items included in GOHAI were first translated into Persian using a back‐translation technique and then were compared with the original version. Four hundred and seventeen elderly subjects who were admitted to a day care centre answered GOHAI and an attached socio‐demographic questionnaire. Internal consistency of the Persian version was measured by Cronbach's alpha. Test–retest reliability was assessed by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and weighted kappa. Factor structure of GOHAI was evaluated by principal component factor analysis.

Results

Mean of GOHAI score was 45.71 (SD: 5.14; range: 27–51). The mean of GOHAI score was higher for the elders who rated their oral and general health as ‘good’. The Cronbach's alpha for GOHAI score was 0.748, indicating a high degree of internal consistency and homogeneity between the GOHAI items. The test–retest correlation for the total GOHAI score using ICC was 0.763 (95% CI = 0.713–0.809). Factor analysis revealed a three‐factor solution that bolstered the theoretical construction of the index. Significant differences in the GOHAI scores were found for income and current number of teeth.

Conclusion

The Persian version of the GOHAI can be used reliably to identify oral health‐related concerns of older Persian speakers, but further research is needed to confirm its cultural consonance in this population.
Hydraulic and hydrochemical properties of deep sedimentary reservoirs of the Upper Rhine Graben, Europe
Authors: Stober I. , Bucher K.
Published: October 2014

Hydraulic and hydrochemical data from several hundred wells mostly drilled by the oil and gas industry within the four deep carbonate and siliciclastic reservoirs of the Upper Rhine Graben area in France and Germany have been compiled, examined, validated and analysed with the aim to characterize fluids and reservoir properties. Due to enhanced temperatures in the subsurface of the Upper Rhine Graben, this study on hydraulic and hydrochemical properties has been motivated by an increasing interest in deep hydrogeothermal energy projects in the Rhine rift valley. The four examined geothermal reservoir formations are characterized by high hydraulic conductivity reflecting the active tectonic setting of the rift valley and its fractured and karstified reservoirs. The hydraulic conductivity decreases only marginally with depth in each of the reservoirs, because the Upper Rhine Graben is a young tectonically active structure. The generally high hydraulic conductivity of the reservoir rocks permits cross‐formation advective flow of thermal water. Water composition data reflect the origin and hydrochemical evolution of deep water. Shallow water to 500 m depth is, in general, weakly mineralized. The chemical signature of the water is controlled by fluid–rock geochemical interactions. With increasing depth, the total of dissolved solids (TDS) increases. In all reservoirs, the fluids evolve to a NaCl‐dominated brine. The high salinity of the reservoirs is partly derived from dissolution of halite in evaporitic Triassic and Cenozoic formations, and partly from the fluids residing in the crystalline basement. Water of all four reservoirs is saturated with respect to calcite and other minerals including quartz and barite.
Clinicopathological characteristics of serum amyloid A‐positive hepatocellular neoplasms/nodules arising in alcoholic cirrhosis
Authors: Sasaki Motoko , Yoneda Norihide , Sawai Yoshiyuki , Imai Yasuharu , Kondo Fukuo , Fukusato Toshio , Yoshikawa Seiichi , Kobayashi Satoshi , Sato Yasunori , Matsui Osamu , Nakanuma Yasuni
Published: October 2014

Aims

To characterize serum amyloid A (SAA)‐positive hepatocellular neoplasms/nodules arising in alcoholic cirrhosis, which are detected as hypervascular hepatocellular nodules resembling hepatocellular carcinoma on imaging.

Methods and results

Fifty‐three hepatocellular nodules were examined with immunostaining for SAA, glutamine synthetase and glypican‐3 in 23 patients (four women and 19 men) with alcoholic cirrhosis. Sixteen nodules were examined with magnetic resonance imaging with gadolinium ethoxybenzyl diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid enhancement (EOB‐MRI). Somatic mutations in IL6ST, GNAS and STAT3 were examined in 19 nodules. Thirty‐six nodules in 18 patients were diagnosed as SAA‐positive hepatocellular neoplasms/nodules, and the remaining 17 nodules in eight patients were SAA‐negative focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH)‐like nodules. SAA‐positive hepatocellular neoplasms/nodules showed significantly more extensive sinusoidal dilatation, inflammatory reaction, abnormally thick arteries and cellular atypia than FNH‐like nodules (P < 0.05). Eight SAA‐positive hepatocellular neoplasms/nodules (67%) showed slight hypointensity in the hepatobiliary phase on EOB‐MRI, whereas all four FNH‐like nodules showed iso‐intensity (P < 0.05). STAT3 mutations were detected in two of 17 SAA‐positive hepatocellular neoplasms/nodules.

Conclusions

This study showed that approximately two‐thirds of hypervascular hepatocellular nodules arising in alcoholic cirrhosis were SAA‐positive hepatocellular neoplasms/nodules, which show different findings on the EOB‐MRI. STAT3 mutations were detected in 11.8% of SAA‐positive hepatocellular neoplasms/nodules, supporting a neoplastic nature.
HLA‐DRA is associated with Parkinson's disease in Iranian population
Authors: Jamshidi J. , Movafagh A. , Emamalizadeh B. , Zare Bidoki A. , Manafi A. , Ghasemi Firouzabadi S. , Shahidi G.‐A. , Kazeminasab S. , Petramfar P. , Fazeli A. , Motallebi M. , Mortazavi‐Tabatabaei S. A. , Kowsari A. , Jafarian Z. , Darvish H.
Published: October 2014

The rs3129882, a noncoding variant in HLA‐DR, was found to be associated with Parkinson's disease (PD) using several genome‐wide association studies. The aim of this replication study was to explore the relationship between this variant and PD in Iranian population. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples, and the rs3129882 SNP was genotyped using a PCR‐RFLP method in 520 PD patients and 520 healthy Iranian controls. Significant differences were found in allele frequencies between patients and controls (χ2 = 4.64, P = 0.031). Under additive and dominant models, the association of the SNP with PD risk is significant, where the A allele was observed to be protective. The results suggest that rs3129882 polymorphism may be a risk factor for PD in Iranian. This is the first study reporting such an association in this population. More replication studies are needed to confirm this data.
Treatment of castration‐resistant prostate cancer and bone metastases with radium‐223 dichloride
Authors: Lien Lise Marie E , Tvedt Birger , Heinrich Daniel
Published: October 2014

Radium‐223 dichloride (Ra‐223) is the first α‐particle emitting radiopharmaceutical to be approved for the treatment of patients with castration‐resistant prostate cancer and associated bone metastases, and the first bone‐targeting agent to significantly improve patient overall survival whilst reducing pain and the symptomatic skeletal events (SSEs) associated with bone metastases. Ra‐223 exhibits a favourable safety profile, with low myelosuppression rates and fewer adverse events than placebo. Compared with other approved radiopharmaceuticals, the α‐particle emitting Ra‐223 has a high biological efficiency and a short penetration range, potentially sparing bone marrow toxicity and limiting unwanted exposure. Ra‐223 has a short half‐life and decays to a stable product, reducing the problem of storage and disposal associated with radiopharmaceuticals. Ra‐223 offers a new treatment option with great potential in this setting. However, concerns remain amongst patients, their families and health care professionals over the use of radiopharmaceuticals. This article, which draws on the experiences of health care workers during the ALSYMPCA (ALpharadin in SYMtomatic Prostate CAncer) study, reviews the clinical development of Ra‐223, highlighting the key issues for the uro‐oncology nurse who has a pivotal role within the multi‐disciplinary team (MDT) to ensure safe and effective treatment to the patient. The role of the uro‐oncology nurse is multifaceted, including patient pre‐assessment and post‐treatment monitoring and coordination of the MDT. In addition, their role in communicating with and educating those involved with Ra‐223 on what to expect from the agent can alleviate fears associated with its use.
Expression of foraging and Gp‐9 are associated with social organization in the fire ant Solenopsis invicta
Authors: Lucas C. , Nicolas M. , Keller L.
Published: October 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate levels of expression of two major genes, the odorant binding protein Gp‐9 (general protein‐9) and foraging, that have been shown to be associated with behavioural polymorphisms in ants. We analysed workers and young nonreproductive queens collected from nests of the monogyne (single reproductive queen per nest) and polygyne (multiple reproductive queens) social forms of Solenopsis invicta. In workers but not young queens, the level of foraging expression was significantly associated with social form and the task performed (ie localization in the nest or foraging area). The level of expression of Gp‐9 was also associated with social form and worker localization. In addition there was a higher level of expression of the Gp‐9b allele compared with the Gp‐9B allele in the heterozygote workers and the young nonreproductive queens. Finally, in the polygyne colonies the level of expression of foraging was not significantly associated with the Gp‐9 genotype for either workers or young nonreproductive queens, suggesting that both genes have independent non‐epistatic effects on behaviour in S. invicta.
Oxygen prescribing practice at Waikato Hospital does not meet guideline recommendations
Authors: Holbourn A. , Wong J.
Published: October 2014

Background

It is the recommendation of the British Thoracic Society oxygen guidelines and the Waikato Hospital prescribing policy that all supplemental oxygen should be prescribed.

Aims

The aim of this audit was to evaluate the current oxygen prescribing practices on different specialty wards in the Waikato Hospital. The secondary aim was to evaluate potential harm from oxygen toxicity of the patients whose oxygen was not prescribed appropriately.

Methods

One hundred and twenty inpatients receiving oxygen therapy were randomly selected between December 2012 and April 2013. Forty patients were selected from each of the respiratory, surgical and other medical subspecialty wards. Their medication charts, clinical records and laboratory results were reviewed regarding their oxygen prescription, smoking history, diagnoses of chronic respiratory diseases and previous documentation of type 2 respiratory failure.

Results

In total, 51.7% of all the patients audited had correct oxygen prescriptions: 77.5% of respiratory, 52.5% of surgical and 25% of other medical specialities. Among the 50 patients whose oxygen was not prescribed, many were classified as having high risk of potential complications of oxygen toxicity: 44% having known chronic respiratory disease, 70% having smoking history and 16% having previous type 2 respiratory failure.

Conclusion

Current oxygen prescription rates and practices in Waikato Hospital are not satisfactory and can in turn put patients at risk of oxygen toxicity. There is a significant discrepancy in prescribing practices between specialities. Better education of oxygen prescription is required to raise the awareness and to improve the prescribing practice across the hospital.
Phagocytosis: receptors, signal integration, and the cytoskeleton
Authors: Freeman Spencer A. , Grinstein Sergio
Published: October 2014

Phagocytosis is a remarkably complex and versatile process: it contributes to innate immunity through the ingestion and elimination of pathogens, while also being central to tissue homeostasis and remodeling by clearing effete cells. The ability of phagocytes to perform such diverse functions rests, in large part, on their vast repertoire of receptors. In this review, we address the various receptor types, their mobility in the plane of the membrane, and two modes of receptor crosstalk: priming and synergy. A major section is devoted to the actin cytoskeleton, which not only governs receptor mobility and clustering but also is instrumental in particle engulfment. Four stages of the actin remodeling process are identified and discussed: (i) the ‘resting’ stage that precedes receptor engagement, (ii) the disruption of the cortical actin prior to formation of the phagocytic cup, (iii) the actin polymerization that propels pseudopod extension, and (iv) the termination of polymerization and removal of preassembled actin that are required for focal delivery of endomembranes and phagosomal sealing. These topics are viewed in the larger context of the differentiation and polarization of the phagocytic cells.
Origin, development, and homeostasis of tissue‐resident macrophages
Authors: Haldar Malay , Murphy Kenneth M.
Published: October 2014

Macrophages are versatile cells of the hematopoietic system that display remarkable functional diversity encompassing innate immune responses, tissue development, and tissue homeostasis. Macrophages are present in almost all tissues of the body and display distinct location‐specific phenotypes and gene expression profiles. Recent studies also demonstrate distinct origins of tissue‐resident macrophages. This emerging picture of ontological, functional, and phenotypic heterogeneity within tissue macrophages has altered our understanding of these cells, which play important roles in many human diseases. In this review, we discuss the different origins of tissue macrophages, the transcription factors regulating their development, and the mechanisms underlying their homeostasis at steady state.
Understanding macrophage diversity at the ontogenic and transcriptomic levels
Authors: Gautier Emmanuel L. , Yvan‐Charvet Laurent
Published: October 2014

Macrophages are phagocytes characterized by high lysosomal activity and are involved in a wide range of biological processes. Consequently, macrophages have long been recognized for their critical roles in development as well as in healthy and pathological states. Our knowledge about macrophage biology has evolved greatly over the past several years. Significantly, it has now been demonstrated that monocytes are not direct precursors for most tissue‐resident macrophages at the steady state. Only few tissue macrophage populations derive from monocytes during homeostasis; rather, monocytes give rise to inflammatory macrophages that infiltrate tissues during inflammation. Tissue‐resident macrophages have recently been characterized at the transcriptional level, which provided the basis to uncover the molecular pathways controlling their functional diversity as well as to identify a core signature. Transcription factors controlling specific tissue‐resident macrophage populations have been described, suggesting that diversity is under the control of specific regulatory programs. In this review, we discuss and summarize several of the new paradigms emerging in the field of macrophage biology. In particular, we emphasize new findings relevant to macrophage ontogeny, similarities and differences observed across macrophage populations, and gene regulatory programs controlling specialized aspects of tissue macrophage functions.
Significance of testing platelet functions in vitro
Authors: HOLMSEN H.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Platelets respond through discrete receptors to a number of physiological agonists and foreign surfaces with a sequence of measurable responses: shape change, aggregation, secretion and arachidonate liberation. Three secretory responses are distinguished: exocytosis of substances from (1) dense granules, (2) α‐granules and (3) lysosomes. Free arachidonate, liberated from phospholipids by phospholi‐pase A2, is rapidly converted (by oxygenation) to prostaglandins and thromboxanes which, together with secreted ADP and close cell contact, will cause further platelet activation through ‘positive feedback’ (autocrine stimulation). Some agonists are classified as ‘weak’ (ADP, vasopressin, platelet‐activating factor [PAF], serotonin) because they depend on autocrine stimulation to promote the full sequence of responses, while others are ‘strong’ agonists (thrombin, collagen) and activate all responses directly without autocrine stimulation. Adrenaline, long thought to be a platelet agonist per se, most probably acts by amplifying the activation brought about by other, proper, agonists. Such synergistic interaction among agonists is very typical for platelet activation and most likely takes place in vivo. Shape change, aggregation and secretion(s) may be tested by flow cytometry or electron microscopy in vitro under conditions that probably reflect the in vivo situation. However, the aggregation response to weak agonists in vitro is dependent on the extracellular [Ca2+], with biphasic aggregation at the low [Ca2+] present when citrate is used as anticoagulant (or in suspension of washed platelets) but not at the physiological [Ca2+] present in platelet‐rich plasma from heparinized blood.
The megakaryocyte platelet system and vascular disease
Authors: BROWN A. S. , MARTIN J. F.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Platelets form a heterogeneous population of cells produced from the uniquely large polyploid cell found in the bone marrow, the megakaryocyte. The platelet megakaryocyte axis forms a dynamic equilibrium varying in normal biology and in disease. Prolonged platelet destruction leads to the production of large platelets from large, high ploidy megakaryocytes. In vivo and ex vivo studies show that such platelets have more haemostatic potential than smaller less dense platelets. The evidence suggesting that prothrombotic changes in the megakaryocyte platelet axis precede coronary artery thrombosis and the importance of platelet reactivity in atherosclerosis will be reviewed.
Adhesive proteins in platelet‐endothelial interactions
Authors: RÖSEN P. , SCHWIPPERT B. , TSCHÖPE D.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Adhesion molecules mediate the interaction between endothelium and platelets as well as other blood cells and the endothelium. The structure and function of some of these molecules will be reviewed and discussed. The expression of these molecules is largely affected by disease states such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiac failure. Determination of adhesion molecules expressed on the surface of endothelial cells and platelets by cytoflowmetry enables a new approach to estimate the activity state of these cells and might be helpful to identify patients with an increased thrombotic risk.
Markers of platelet activation in coronary heart disease patients
Authors: NURDEN A. T. , MACCHI L. , BIHOUR C. , DURRIEU C. , BESSE P. , NURDEN P.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. We have applied flow cytometry to the detection of activated platelets in patients with coronary heart disease. Paraformaldehyde‐fixed platelets were incubated with one of the following monoclonal antibodies (MAbs): Bx‐1 (anti‐GP Ib), AP‐2 (anti‐GP IIb‐IIIa complex), VH10 (anti‐GMP‐140, a glycoprotein of the α‐granule membrane), or PAC‐1 (directed against an activation‐dependent determinant on GP IIb‐IIIa complexes). Bound antibody was quantitated after the addition of FITC‐conjugated anti‐immunoglobulin. This report highlights studies on 16 unstable angina patients undergoing transluminal angioplasty. Blood samples were taken at different periods before and after the angioplasty. Levels of activated platelets were variable, remaining in the 2–4% range of control donors for some, but increasing to 10–30% postangioplasty for others (despite all patients receiving heparin and aspirin). Maximum numbers of activated platelets were detected at 24 or 48 h. Nonetheless, the amount of antibody bound to individual platelets rarely reached the levels seen when control platelets were stimulated with thrombin in vitro. Results with VH10 and PAC‐1 often, but not always, correlated suggesting different pathways of platelet activation.
A Simple and Highly Efficient Method for Synthesis of Ce3+‐Activated Borogermanate Scintillating Glasses in Air
Authors: Sun Xin‐Yuan , Ye Zi‐Piao , Wu Yun‐Tao , Gao Pan , Mao Ri‐Hua , Zhang Zhi‐Jun , Zhao Jing‐Tai
Published: October 2014

Fast Ce3+‐activated borogermanate scintillating glasses with the density of 5.58–5.67 g/cm3 were synthesized by melt quenching method in air atmosphere for the first time. The optical transmittance and X‐ray absorption near edge spectroscopy results confirm that Ce4+ ions can be effectively reduced to Ce3+ ions by adding 0.31 mol% Si3N4 as a strong reducing agent during glass synthesis. The luminescence behavior under both ultraviolet and X‐ray excitations indicate that the proposed Ce3+‐activated borogermanate scintillating glasses have a broad emission band centered at 430 nm and a decay time of less than 25 ns. This will be of great interest in high‐energy physics and nuclear physics engineering.
Preparation of Porous Si3N4 Ceramics with Controlled Porosity and Microstructure by Fibrous α‐Si3N4 Addition
Authors: Xu Zhaoyun , Wang Bo , Yang Jianfeng , Zhao Zhongjian
Published: October 2014

Porous silicon nitride ceramics with various porosities were fabricated by liquid phase sintering of mixtures containing fibrous and equiaxed α‐Si3N4 powder with a various content ratios. The effects of the contents of the fibrous α‐Si3N4 powder (0%–100%) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of porous Si3N4 ceramics were studied. As the increase of the fibrous α‐Si3N4 powder content, both the density of green bodies and the linear shrinkage decreased, resulting in increased porosity due to the inhibited densification by the fibrous Si3N4 particle. XRD analysis proved the complete formation of single β‐Si3N4 phase. SEM analysis revealed that the microstructure of the low content of fibrous α‐Si3N4 porous ceramics was almost composed of fine elongated β‐Si3N4 grains with high aspect ratio while numerous coarse elongated β‐Si3N4 grains with low aspect ratio surrounding fine grains were formed as the content of the fibrous α‐Si3N4 powder increased. With the increase in content of the fibrous α‐Si3N4 powder from 0% to 100%, the porosity changed from 47.8% to 56.6%, and the flexural strength decreased from 146 to 62 MPa correspondingly, indicating a flexural adjustment of the porosity and mechanical properties.
Reducing Nitrogen Export from the Corn Belt to the Gulf of Mexico: Agricultural Strategies for Remediating Hypoxia
Authors: McLellan Eileen , Robertson Dale , Schilling Keith , Tomer Mark , Kostel Jill , Smith Doug , King Kevin
Published: October 2014

SPAtially Referenced Regression on Watershed models developed for the Upper Midwest were used to help evaluate the nitrogen‐load reductions likely to be achieved by a variety of agricultural conservation practices in the Upper Mississippi‐Ohio River Basin (UMORB) and to compare these reductions to the 45% nitrogen‐load reduction proposed to remediate hypoxia in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM). Our results indicate that nitrogen‐management practices (improved fertilizer management and cover crops) fall short of achieving this goal, even if adopted on all cropland in the region. The goal of a 45% decrease in loads to the GoM can only be achieved through the coupling of nitrogen‐management practices with innovative nitrogen‐removal practices such as tile‐drainage treatment wetlands, drainage–ditch enhancements, stream‐channel restoration, and floodplain reconnection. Combining nitrogen‐management practices with nitrogen‐removal practices can dramatically reduce nutrient export from agricultural landscapes while minimizing impacts to agricultural production. With this approach, it may be possible to meet the 45% nutrient reduction goal while converting less than 1% of cropland in the UMORB to nitrogen‐removal practices. Conservationists, policy makers, and agricultural producers seeking a workable strategy to reduce nitrogen export from the Corn Belt will need to consider a combination of nitrogen‐management practices at the field scale and diverse nitrogen‐removal practices at the landscape scale.
Describing Damage to Stream Modification Projects in Constrained Settings
Authors: Jones Cidney J. , Johnson Peggy A.
Published: October 2014

Complex relationships between stream functions and processes make evaluation of stream modification projects difficult. Informed by vague objectives and minimal monitoring data, post‐construction project evaluations can often be a subjective attribution of success or failure. This article provides a simple framework to rapidly describe the degree of damage in stream modification projects performed in constrained settings. Based on widely accepted evaluations of physical habitat quality and stream stability, the damage states framework describes a continuum of damage in multiple categories that relate natural stream functions to the often desired state of static equilibrium. Given that channel form is closely related to stream function, it follows that changes to the channel form result in changes in function. The damage states focus on damage to flow hydraulics, sediment transport and channel equilibrium, hydraulic, and geomorphic parameters that describe basic stream functioning and support higher level functions in the modified channel. The damage states can be used in decision making as a systematic method to determine the need for repair and design adjustments.
A Spatially Explicit Model for Mapping Headwater Streams
Authors: Russell Periann P. , Gale Susan M. , Muñoz Breda , Dorney John R. , Rubino Matthew J.
Published: October 2014

Headwater streams are the primary sources of water in a drainage network and serve as a critical hydrologic link between the surrounding landscape and larger, downstream surface waters. Many states, including North Carolina, regulate activity in and near headwater streams for the protection of water quality and aquatic resources. A fundamental tool for regulatory management is an accurate representation of streams on a map. Limited resources preclude field mapping every headwater stream and its origin across a large region. It is more practical to develop a model for headwater streams based on a sample of field data that can then be extrapolated to a larger area of interest. The North Carolina Division of Water Quality has developed a cost‐effective method for modeling and mapping the location, length, and flow classification (intermittent and perennial) of headwater streams. We used a multiple logistic regression approach that combined field data and terrain derivatives for watersheds located in the Triassic Basins ecoregion. Field data were collected using a standard methodology for identifying headwater streams and origins. Terrain derivatives were generated from digital elevation models interpolated from bare‐earth Light Detection and Range data. Model accuracies greater than 80% were achieved in classifying stream presence and absence, stream length and perennial stream length, but were not as consistent in predicting intermittent stream length.
Accounting for unknown foster dams in the genetic evaluation of embryo transfer progeny
Authors: Suárez M.J. , Munilla S. , Cantet R.J.C.
Published: October 2014

Animals born by embryo transfer (ET) are usually not included in the genetic evaluation of beef cattle for preweaning growth if the recipient dam is unknown. This is primarily to avoid potential bias in the estimation of the unknown age of dam. We present a method that allows including records of calves with unknown age of dam. Assumptions are as follows: (i) foster cows belong to the same breed being evaluated, (ii) there is no correlation between the breeding value (BV) of the calf and the maternal BV of the recipient cow, and (iii) cows of all ages are used as recipients. We examine the issue of bias for the fixed level of unknown age of dam (AOD) and propose an estimator of the effect based on classical measurement error theory (MEM) and a Bayesian approach. Using stochastic simulation under random mating or selection, the MEM estimating equations were compared with BLUP in two situations as follows: (i) full information (FI); (ii) missing AOD information on some dams. Predictions of breeding value (PBV) from the FI situation had the smallest empirical average bias followed by PBV obtained without taking measurement error into account. In turn, MEM displayed the highest bias, although the differences were small. On the other hand, MEM showed the smallest MSEP, for either random mating or selection, followed by FI, whereas ignoring measurement error produced the largest MSEP. As a consequence from the smallest MSEP with a relatively small bias, empirical accuracies of PBV were larger for MEM than those for full information, which in turn showed larger accuracies than the situation ignoring measurement error. It is concluded that MEM equations are a useful alternative for analysing weaning weight data when recipient cows are unknown, as it mitigates the effects of bias in AOD by decreasing MSEP.
Early pragmatic language difficulties in siblings of children with autism: implications for DSM‐5 social communication disorder?
Authors: Miller Meghan , Young Gregory S. , Hutman Ted , Johnson Scott , Schwichtenberg A.J. , Ozonoff Sally
Published: October 2014

Background

We evaluated early pragmatic language skills in preschool‐age siblings of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and examined correspondence between pragmatic language impairments and general language difficulties, autism symptomatology, and clinical outcomes.

Methods

Participants were younger siblings of children with ASD (high‐risk, n = 188) or typical development (low‐risk, n = 119) who were part of a prospective study of infants at risk for ASD; siblings without ASD outcomes were included in analyses. Pragmatic language skills were measured via the Language Use Inventory (LUI).

Results

At 36 months, the high‐risk group had significantly lower parent‐rated pragmatic language scores than the low‐risk group. When defining pragmatic language impairment (PLI) as scores below the 10th percentile on the LUI, 35% of the high‐risk group was identified with PLI versus 10% of the low‐risk group. Children with PLI had higher rates of general language impairment (16%), defined as scores below the 10th percentile on the Receptive or Expressive Language subscales of the Mullen Scales of Early Learning, relative to those without PLI (3%), but most did not evidence general language impairments. Children with PLI had significantly higher ADOS scores than those without PLI and had higher rates of clinician‐rated atypical clinical best estimate outcomes (49%) relative to those without PLI (15%).

Conclusions

Pragmatic language problems are present in some siblings of children with ASD as early as 36 months of age. As the new DSM‐5 diagnosis of Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder (SCD) is thought to occur more frequently in family members of individuals with ASD, it is possible that some of these siblings will meet criteria for SCD as they get older. Close monitoring of early pragmatic language development in young children at familial risk for ASD is warranted.
Barrier Properties and Microstructure of Pullulan–Alginate‐Based Films
Authors: Xiao Qian , Lu Kun , Tong Qunyi , Liu Chang
Published: October 2014

In this study, the barrier properties, crystalline structure and morphology of pullulan–sodium alginate‐based films were investigated. Among the tested samples, pure pullulan films exhibited the lowest water vapor permeability and oxygen permeability values (7.053 × 10−6 g.m/Pa.h.m2 and 0.48x10−6 mL.mm/m2day.pa, respectively). Incorporating pullulan into alginate, the absorbance bands of COO− groups shifted significantly to higher wavenumbers (1,640 and 1,413 cm−1, respectively). This could be attributed to the disruption of intermolecular hydrogen bonds present originally between the carboxylic groups caused by added pullulan. The diffractogram of pullulan films indicated that pullulan was a fully amorphous polymer, whereas that of sodium alginate exhibited semi‐crystalline features. Furthermore, the morphology of pullulan–alginate‐based film was studied by atomic force microscopy. Roughness parameter (Rq and Ra) values increased significantly with the incorporation of alginate content into pullulan.

Practical Applications

Because pure pullulan, alginate and their blend film are highly water soluble, transparent, tasteless, odorless and heat sealable and poses low permeability to oxygen, they could potentially be a secondary packaging material for beverage products such as instant coffees and cocoa.
Effects of Instant Pressure Drop Puffing with Super‐Heated Vapor on the Physical Properties of Granny Smith Apple Chips
Authors: An Fengping , Qiu Dongzhao , Song Hongbo , Wu Xiaoqi , Tong Jinhua , Guo Rui
Published: October 2014

A central composite rotatable design of three factors was used to optimize instant pressure drop puffing with super‐heated vapor (IPDPSV) for Granny Smith apple slices. The physical properties of the chips processed by hot‐air drying after IPDPSV, hot‐air drying or freeze drying were analyzed and compared. The results revealed that moisture content, puffing temperature and heating time had significant effects on puffing ratio and color differences. The optimum conditions were 23% moisture content for pre‐dried samples, 122C puffing temperature and 41 s heating time. In these conditions, the puffed slices had a large puffing ratio of 45.137% and a relative small color differences of 4.642. Compared with the chips processed by hot‐air drying or freeze drying, chips processed by hot‐air drying after IPDPSV were brighter in color and had porous structures and suitable hardness. Therefore, IPDPSV is an effective method to improve chips quality.

Practical Applications

Instant pressure drop puffing with super‐heated vapor (IPDPSV) could increase the pore volume in Granny Smith apple tissue. The effects of puffing parameters, including moisture content in sample, puffing temperature and heating time, on puffing ratio and color difference were studied. On optimized conditions, Granny Smith apple could be effectively puffed with less color change. IPDPSV combined with hot‐air drying gave the best physical qualities for Granny Smith apple chips, such as color and hardness, compared with traditional hot‐air drying and freeze drying. This processing method spent shorter time than hot‐air drying and consumed less energy than freeze drying. We may reasonably infer that IPDPSV has the advantages of productivity and economy. IPDPSV will be a helpful technology to produce high‐quality Granny Smith apple chips.
Geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate is crucial for neuronal survival but has no special role in Purkinje cell degeneration in Niemann Pick type C1 disease
Authors: Marschalek Nils , Albert Frank , Afshordel Sarah , Meske Volker , Eckert Gunter P. , Ohm Thomas G.
Published: October 2014

Niemann Pick type C (NPC1) is a rare fatal hereditary cholesterol storage disease associated with a massive Purkinje cells loss. The mechanisms leading to neurodegeneration are still poorly understood. Different laboratories pointed to hypersensitivity to cytotoxic effects of statins (HMG‐CoA reductase inhibitors) in NPC1 and suggested an underlying lack of geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP). GGPP is a non‐sterol isoprenoid essential for cell survival and differentiation. We measured GGPP levels in cerebella of a NPC1 mouse model and of wild‐type littermates and found a physiological increase of GGPP levels between post‐natal days 21 and 49 in wild‐type mice but not in NPC mice. This further supports the hypothesis that Purkinje cell loss may be due to an extremely low level of GGPP. The progressive Purkinje cell loss in NPC starts between p21 and p49. To test the hypothesis, we used long‐term organotypic slice cultures of NPC1 mice that display the natural history of NPC1 disease in vitro and tested if chronic administration of GGPP might prevent Purkinje cell loss. We did not see a beneficial effect. This suggests, in contrast to the expectations, that the relative lack of GGPP may not significantly contribute to mechanisms of Purkinje cell loss in NPC1.

image

We observed a decrease in geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP) levels in Niemann Pick type C1 (NPC1) cerebellum and tested the hypothesis that this decrease may lead to Purkinje cell death. Adding GGPP, however, did not prevent Purkinje cell death. The effect of statins, which arrested GGPP production and subsequently augmented Purkinje cell death, however, could be prevented by adding GGPP. Together, this suggested that despite a lower GGPP level in NPC1 cerebellum, this decrease did not cause Purkinje cell death and adding GGPP cannot prevent the natural history of Purkinje cell death in NPC1.
Comparison of desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol plus spironolactone versus cyproterone acetate/ethinyl estradiol in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Leelaphiwat Supatra , Jongwutiwes Theerayut , Lertvikool Srithean , Tabcharoen Chotika , Sukprasert Matchuporn , Rattanasiri Sasivimol , Weerakiet Sawaek
Published: October 2014

Aim

To compare the effects of ethinyl estradiol (EE) 30 mcg/desogestrel 150 mcg plus spironolactone 25 mg/day (group A) versus EE 35 mcg/cyproterone acetate 2 mg (group B) on hyperandrogenism and metabolism in PCOS.

Methods

This was a randomized clinical study. Eighteen women in groups A and B received medications for three cycles. Acne score, androgens and metabolic parameters were assessed before and after treatment.

Results

One and two women in groups A and B, respectively, were excluded from the study. Both groups had significantly decreased acne score and free androgen index, and increased sex hormone‐binding globulin levels. Cholesterol and high‐density lipoprotein were significantly increased in group B, and androstenedione was significantly decreased in group A. The regular withdrawal bleeding was obtained in both groups.

Conclusion

Both regimens had quite similar efficacy on hyperandrogenism after three cycles of therapy and without any changes in metabolic parameters.
Assessment of osseous morphology of temporomandibular joint in asymptomatic participants with chewing‐side preference
Authors: Jiang H. , Li C. , Wang Z. , Cao J. , Shi X. , Ma J. , Liu H.
Published: October 2014

Chewing‐side preference (CSP) may be associated with temporomandibular disorders. However, little information exists regarding whether CSP will lead to osseous changes of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in asymptomatic participants. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between osseous morphology of TMJ in asymptomatic participants with CSP and without CSP. Of the 121 healthy dentate participants, 35 participants with left CSP, 38 with right CSP and other 48 without CSP were scanned by cone‐beam computed tomography. The dimensions of the reconstructed images of opposing TMJs were compared. Statistical analyses were performed using spss 16.0 software. The results showed that there were no significant differences between the dimensions of bilateral structures of the TMJ (P1 > 0·05) in participants without CSP. However, the posterior–superior, posterior and lateral joint space of the preferred side were smaller than that of the unpreferred side in participants with CSP (P2 < 0·01) and bilateral TMJ in participants without CSP (P3 < 0·01). In addition, width of condylar neck of the unpreferred side both in sagittal and perpendicular to the long axis of condyle views was greater than that of the preferred side in participants with CSP (P2 < 0·01) and bilateral TMJ of participants without CSP (P4 < 0·01). Also, the inclination of articular eminence of the preferred side in view perpendicular to the long axis of condyle was less than that of the unpreferred side (P2 < 0·05). These findings suggest CSP affects osseous morphology of TMJ in asymptomatic participants.
Effect of Veneering Methods on Zirconia Framework—Veneer Ceramic Adhesion and Fracture Resistance of Single Crowns
Authors: Kanat‐Ertürk Burcu , Çömlekoğlu Erhan M. , Dündar‐Çömlekoğlu Mine , Özcan Mutlu , Güngör Mehmet Ali
Published: October 2014

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the fracture resistance (FR) and shear bond strength (SBS) via finite element analysis (FEA) of zirconia framework veneered with different methods.

Materials and Methods

Zirconia frameworks were prepared as crowns for FR and cubic blocks for SBS (N = 60, n = 10). The specimens were veneered with one of the following veneering methods: (a) overcemented file‐splitting (OCF), (b) layering (L), or (c) overpressing (P). For crowns, stainless steel dies (N = 30; chamfer: 1 mm) were scanned using a contrast spray. Bilayered design for OCF and reduced design (1 mm) for both L and P were performed by computer‐aided design and manufacturing. For the SBS test, zirconia blocks were sectioned (4 × 4 × 4 mm3) under water cooling and sintered. Frameworks were veneered with compatible ceramics for each veneering method and subjected to mechanical tests. The milled suprastructures were bonded to zirconia frameworks using a resin composite in Group OCF and photopolymerized. Crowns were cemented to the metal dies with resin modified glass‐ionomer cement. All specimens were stored at 37°C, 100% humidity for 48 hours prior to mechanical tests. Data were statistically analyzed (ANOVA, Bonferroni tests, α = 0.05). Fractured specimens were examined under scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and FEA modeling of the crowns was performed.

Results

Mean FR values (N) were significantly higher with L (6102 ± 1519) and P (4117 ± 1083) than with of OCF (1900 ± 254) (p = 0.01). The mean SBS (MPa) in OCF (24 ± 4) was significantly lower (p < 0.002) than L (35 ± 6) and P (32 ± 6) (p > 0.05). For crown restorations, while only adhesive failures were found in OCF, cohesive failures within veneering ceramic were more frequent in P and L. FEA verified these findings.

Conclusion

Veneering methods based on layering or pressing may reduce ceramic chipping but the overcemented file‐splitting method does not seem to prevent this failure.

Clinical Significance

Layering and overpressing veneering methods on zirconia frameworks with reduced design might decrease chipping compared to overcemented file‐splitting, where in the latter, zirconia framework and feldspathic suprastructure are combined using a resin cement.
Clinical observations in mesh suture treatment for infants of Kasabach–Merritt phenomenon
Authors: Li Kelei , Tai Maozhong , Qin Zhongping , Ge Chunxiao
Published: October 2014

Aim

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and adverse effects of the mesh suture treatment for infants of Kasabach–Merritt phenomenon and to report our treatment experience.

Methods

Of the three patients, two of the cases occurred in the scalp and one occurred in the back of the chest, with platelet counts < 40 × 109/L before the treatment, reduced fibrinogen levels and increased D‐dimer levels. All the three patients underwent the mesh suture treatment of the tumour area. Post‐treatment observations were made regarding the surface colour and texture of the tumours, periodic routine blood examination results, fibrinogen and D‐dimer levels.

Results

After treatment, the degree of swelling on the tumour surface was reduced, surface tension was decreased, the tumour colour turned pale red from dark red and the skin gradually returned to normal. Two days after treatment, the platelet counts increased to 70 × 109/L or higher; the platelet count reached a normal level after 1 week in two cases. The fibrinogen level increased in varying degrees after treatment, whereas the D‐dimer level was reduced. One case showed a small amount of exudate at the suture area, 1 month after the treatment; improvements were observed 3 days after changing the local dressing. All the patients were followed up for 6 months to 1 year, during which the patients showed complete regression of the lesion and relapse, normal platelet counts and normal fibrinogen and D‐dimer levels.

Conclusions

We recommend the mesh suture treatment as the first treatment of choice for paediatric Kasabach–Merritt phenomenon.
Total tooth loss and complete denture use in older adults with intellectual disabilities in Ireland
Authors: Mac Giolla Phadraig Caoimhin , McCallion Philip , Cleary Eimear , McGlinchey Eimear , Burke Eilish , McCarron Mary , Nunn June
Published: October 2014

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to describe the reported dentate status and complete denture use of older people with intellectual disability (ID) and compare with those of older people in the general population in Ireland.

Methods

The first wave of the Intellectual Disability Supplement to The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (IDS‐TILDA) study provides opportunity to measure edentulism and complete denture use in a nationally representative sample of older people with ID in Ireland. Data drawn from the first wave of IDS‐TILDA were matched using propensity score matching with data from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA), a study among older adults in Ireland. All IDS‐TILDA variables showing significant association (P < 0.05) with edentulism were entered into a regression model to identify predictors of edentulism.

Result

The proportion of the 478 IDS‐TILDA participants with no teeth was higher (34.1 percent) than the proportion of participants with no teeth in the 478 matched TILDA participants (14.9 percent). Only age was predictive of edentulism among older adults with ID. Edentulism was prevalent earlier for those with ID. Notably, 61.3 percent of edentulous older people with ID were without dentures.

Conclusion

Older people with ID are more likely to be edentulous than those without ID in Ireland and when they lose their teeth, they are unlikely to use dentures. This suggests a need for targeted measures to maintain the teeth of this group and, in the short term, the provision of replacement teeth in this population, where indicated.
Periconceptional undernutrition modifies endocrine profiles and hepatic gene expression in sheep
Authors: de Brun V. , Meikle A. , Casal A. , Sequeira M. , Contreras‐Solís I. , Carriquiry M. , Forcada F. , Sosa C. , Abecia J.A.
Published: October 2014

This study investigated whether a 22‐day period of undernutrition (half maintenance) could affect maternal endocrine responses and liver gene expression during early pregnancy (day 7). Thirty‐five ewes were fed 1.5 (n = 15) or 0.5 (n = 20) their maintenance requirements and slaughtered on day 7 of the oestrus cycle or pregnancy (oestrus = day 0). Insulin, IGF, leptin and non‐esterified fatty acids (NEFA) were determined on days −14, 0 and 7. Transcripts of the IGF family and adipokines receptors were determined in the liver by real‐time RT‐PCR. Underfed animals presented lower body weight and body condition, greater plasma concentration of NEFA, and lower plasma concentrations of leptin, insulin and IGF1 compared to adequately fed animals. Underfed ewes presented greater hepatic expression of IGFBP2 than well‐fed ewes, but tended to have lesser expression of IGFBP5. While no effect of undernutrition on IGFBP4 and ADIPOR2 mRNA expressions was observed, they were increased by pregnancy in underfed animals. This study shows that undernutrition modifies endocrine profiles and hepatic gene expression of IGFBP2 and 5. The pregnancy status increased hepatic gene expression of IGFBP4 and ADIPOR2 mRNA in undernourished ewes.