bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between rates of attending religious services and oral health in Brazilian adolescents
Authors: Jordão Lidia M. R. , Saraiva Laís M. , Sheiham Aubrey , Freire Maria C. M.
Published: January 2014

Objectives

To determine whether there is a relationship between rates of attending religious services and oral health and oral health‐related behaviors in Brazilian adolescents.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was carried out using clinical examinations and self‐applied questionnaires. Sample was 664 15‐year‐old schoolchildren from public and private schools in the city of Goiânia‐GO, Middle‐West Brazil. Dependent variables were dental caries (DMFT and DMFS), periodontal condition (Plaque Index and bleeding on probing), perceived importance given to the care of the teeth and oral health‐related behaviors (sugar consumption, oral hygiene and pattern of dental attendance). Independent explanatory variable was frequency of attending religious services. Poisson log‐linear regressions were used for statistical analysis of the data.

Results

Oral health status was not associated with attending religious services. Attending religious services was positively associated with oral health behaviors such as pattern of dental attendance for dental checkups and to the importance given to the care of the teeth. These associations remained statistically significant after controlling for sex and social class (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Adolescents' frequency of attending religious services is not associated with their oral health status but is positively related to pattern of dental attendance and perceived importance of care of their teeth.
Different characteristics of high and low transsphincteric fistulae
Authors: van Onkelen R. S. , Gosselink M. P. , van Rosmalen J. , Thijsse S. , Schouten W. R.
Published: January 2014

Aim

Transsphincteric fistulae are classified as high or low. The aim of this observational study was to determine whether or not they have different characteristics.

Method

A consecutive series of 300 patients with a transsphincteric fistula of cryptoglandular origin was studied. Two hundred patients with a high transsphincteric fistula underwent transanal advancement flap repair and 100 patients with a low transsphincteric fistula underwent fistulotomy or ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract at the Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam. Various patient and fistula characteristics were assessed. Data were analysed by means of logistic regression.

Results

Low transsphincteric fistulae occurred more frequently in females (43% low transsphincteric fistulae vs 30% high transsphincteric fistulae; P < 0.05). The internal opening of these fistulae was predominantly located anteriorly (76% vs 18% in high transsphincteric fistulae; P < 0.001). Mean age at surgery was lower in patients with a low transsphincteric fistula (42 vs 47 years; P < 0.001). In these patients an associated abscess was observed in 4% compared with 54% of those patients with a high transsphincteric fistula (P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, the differences between high and low transsphincteric fistulae regarding location of their internal opening and the presence of associated abscesses remained significant (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Although not significant in multivariate analysis, low transsphincteric fistulae occur more frequently in younger patients and more often in females. These fistulae are predominantly located anteriorly and are rarely associated with an abscess. This was significant in univariate and multivariate analysis.
Predicting the invadedness of protected areas
Authors: Iacona Gwenllian D. , Price Franklin D. , Armsworth Paul R.
Published: January 2014

Aim

Invasive species management is an expensive priority on many protected areas but the magnitude of invasion can vary drastically from site to site. Conservation planners must consider this variability when they plan for treatment across multiple protected areas. We examine the scope for predicting site invadedness and management costs from common protected area characteristics, a method that could be used to estimate the future management needs of a protected area network.

Location

Three hundred and sixty‐five protected areas across the state of Florida, USA.

Methods

We use data on invasive plant cover and protected area features to predict invadedness and invasive species management funding allocation in a multiple regression framework. We then examine the relationship between invadedness and funding on a subset of 46 of the protected areas.

Results

Invadedness (relative proportion of a protected area that is covered by invasive plants) was related to the size of a protected area and the number of surrounding households. However, the explained variation (9–50%) depended on the type of species occurrence data used; with models using approximated data on the area infested able to explain more of the variation than those that included data with GIS‐calculated area infested. Cumulative funding investment at a protected area was also predicted by the number of surrounding households and protected area size. Yet, funding and invadedness were not correlated with one another.

Main conclusions

Readily available data on protected area features were statistically related to variation in the invadedness of a protected area and were also associated with past management expenditures. This does not translate into a clear relationship between current invadedness and past expenditures, however. Our results suggest that basing predictions of future costs on current funding may not accurately represent budgetary needs.
When Governance Gets Going: Certifying ‘Better Cotton’ and ‘Better Sugarcane’
Authors: Sneyd Adam
Published: January 2014

As many new certification systems for commodities have been established over the past decade, scholars have devoted sustained attention to the ways that these multi‐stakeholder governance initiatives have transformed the industries in which they were launched. With a few notable exceptions, studies in this area have continued to focus on the development and impacts of new governance mechanisms, and on the sectoral or industrial changes that have ensued. In contrast to these ‘inside‐out’ perspectives on governance innovation and change, this article considers how two prominent yet relatively under‐studied commodity governance initiatives have been shaped by the broader political economic order in which they operate. To offer an ‘outside‐in’ account of the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) and Bonsucro (formerly the Better Sugarcane Initiative), the article details recent changes in what the author terms the ‘world commodity order’, and situates the BCI and Bonsucro within this order. From this vantage point, the author ultimately makes two analytical claims: (i) that the world commodity order has not precluded the differential institutionalization of these initiatives; and (ii) that aspects of the order have circumscribed the potential of the BCI and Bonsucro to deliver pro‐poor business practices.
Ischaemic heart disease in first‐degree relatives to coeliac patients
Authors: Emilsson Louise , James Stefan , Ludvigsson Jonas F.
Published: January 2014

Objective

Coeliac disease (CD) has been linked to an increased risk of ischaemic heart disease (IHD). We examined the risk of IHD in first‐degree relatives and spouses to coeliac patients to ascertain the genetic contribution to IHD excess risk.

Study design and setting

Coeliac disease was defined as having a biopsy‐verified villous atrophy (Marsh grade 3) in 1969–2008 (n = 29 096). Coeliac patients were matched to 144 522 controls. Through Swedish registers, we identified all first‐degree relatives and spouses to coeliac patients and their controls, in total 87 622 unique coeliac relatives and 432 655 unique control relatives. Our main outcome measure was IHD defined according to relevant international classification of disease codes in the Swedish Inpatient Registry or in the Cause of Death Registry. Hazard ratios (HR) and confidence intervals (CI) were estimated through Cox regression adjusted for sex, age‐group and calendar year at study entry of the relative.

Result

During a median follow‐up of 10·8 years, 2880 coeliac relatives and 13 817 control relatives experienced IHD. First‐degree relatives of coeliac patients were at increased risk of IHD (HR = 1·05; 95% CI = 1·00–1·09, P‐value = 0·04), while spouses were at no increased risk (HR = 0·99; 95% CI = 0·87–1·12). The excess risk of IHD in coeliac first‐degree relatives aged 40–59 years was 70/100 000 person‐years.

Conclusion

First‐degree relatives to coeliac patients seem to be at an increased risk of IHD but the excess risk is so small that it has little clinical relevance.
Effects of extreme, fluctuating temperature events on life history traits of the grain aphid,Sitobion avenae
Authors: Jeffs Christopher T. , Leather Simon R.
Published: January 2014

Altered temperatures affect insects’ life history traits, such as development period and fecundity, which ultimately determine population growth rates. Understanding insects’ thermal biology is therefore integral to population forecasting and pest management decision‐making such as when to utilise crop spraying or biological control. Aphids are important crop pests in temperate regions, causing considerable yield losses. The aphid thermal‐biology literature is, however, heavily biased towards the effects of rising mean temperatures, whereas the effects of fluctuating, extreme climatic events (e.g., heat waves and sub‐zero cold periods) are largely overlooked. This study assessed the effects of laboratory‐simulated heat waves and sub‐zero cold periods on the survival, development period, and fecundity of the grain aphid,Sitobion avenae(Fabricius) (Hemiptera:Aphididae:Microsiphini), in addition to assessing maternal effects on the birth weight and development period of the offspring of exposed individuals. Exposure to heat stress periods (total of 16 h at 30 °C) significantly reduced aphid fecundity and increased physiological development period (in day‐degrees) resulting in a reduced population growth rate. Cold exposure (total of 1.33 h at −15 °C) reduced population growth rate due to an elongated development period (in days), but did not affect fecundity or physiological development period (in day‐degrees). Both cold and heat stress significantly reduced aphid survival. Maternal experience of heat stress reduced nymphal birth weight although nymphal development period was not affected by either cold or heat stress. The results suggest that including the effects of fluctuating, extreme temperature events on aphid life history in population forecast models is likely to be of great importance to pest management decision‐making. The demonstration of maternal effects on birth weight also suggests that cross‐generational effects of heat waves on population growth rates could occur.
Identification of rare and novel deletions that cause (δβ)0‐thalassaemia and hereditary persistence of foetal haemoglobin in Indian population
Authors: Mayuranathan Thiyagaraj , Rayabaram Janakiram , Das Reena , Arora Neeraj , Edison Eunice S. , Chandy Mammen , Srivastava Alok , Velayudhan Shaji R.
Published: January 2014

Objectives

Hereditary persistence of foetal haemoglobin (HPFH) and (δβ)0‐thalassaemia are conditions caused by large deletions that involve δ‐ and β‐globin genes in the β‐globin cluster, and they are characterized by increased haemoglobin (HbF) levels in adults. Significant phenotypic diversity is observed between the different mutations that cause these conditions. Molecular characterization of these deletions is important for accurate molecular diagnosis, and they will also provide the information on the cis‐acting genetic regulatory elements present in the β‐globin cluster.

Methods

We performed gap‐PCR, multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA), quantitative fluorescent multiplex PCR (QF‐MPCR) and DNA sequencing to detect and characterize the deletions in the β‐globin cluster.

Results

We characterized six different deletions resulting in (δβ)0‐thalassaemia or HPFH in 51 unrelated families.

Conclusion

With the help of multiple genetic tools, we performed comprehensive genetic analysis of HPFH and (δβ)0‐thalassaemia in Indian population and could define the molecular basis of these conditions in this population. We also identified two novel HPFH mutations, 49.98 kb (HPFH‐9) and 86.7 kb (HPFH‐10) deletions, in this population.
Assessing Governance: The Importance of Evaluating Policy Outcomes in National Mission Areas
Authors: Boardman Craig
Published: January 2014

This commentary responds to Fukuyama's (2013) rejection of “final outputs” as measures of government quality. It argues that public administration research should address policy outcomes in “national mission areas.” But public administration scholars should not simply become policy analysts. Rather, they should become policy analysts for policy areas that can benefit from expertise in organizations and management.
Assessment of the impact of treatment on quality of life of patients with haemophilia A at different ages: insights from two clinical trials on turoctocog alfa
Authors: Santagostino E. , Lentz S. R. , Busk A. K. , Regnault A. , Iorio A.
Published: January 2014

Haemophilia and its treatment interfere with patients' life, so health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) should be assessed when evaluating treatments. This study investigated the HRQoL of patients with haemophilia A treated prophylactically with a new recombinant factor VIII. Two phase 3 trials investigated turoctocog alfa in patients with severe haemophilia A: one in children, one in adults and adolescents. HRQoL was a secondary endpoint assessed by the HAEMO‐QOL age‐specific, self‐administered questionnaires. Parent‐completed versions were also included for parents of children and adolescents. All HAEMO‐QOL questionnaires allow the calculation of domain‐specific and total scores ranging from 0 to 100, lower scores indicating better HRQoL. Mean change in all scores was described for 25 children aged 4–7 years, 21 children aged 8–12 years, 18 adolescents aged 13–18 years and 129 adults, overall, and according to the treatment regimen received prior to the study (on‐demand; prophylaxis; mixed). Mean changes in HAEMO‐QOL total score were 1.4 for children aged 4–7 years, −2.6 for children aged 8–12 years, −5.8 for adolescents and −1.6 for adults. In parent‐completed versions, mean changes in total score were −6.0 for children aged 4–7 years, −4.7 for children aged 8–12 years, and −10.0 for adolescents. Patients receiving on‐demand treatment before the trial showed greater improvement in HRQoL scores than patients already on prophylaxis. HRQoL of patients remained fairly stable over the course of the trials. However, improvements were observed for adolescents. Switching to prophylaxis was identified as a potential driver of improvement of HRQoL in patients with haemophilia A.
Trends in the epidemiology, diagnosed age and mortality rate of haemophiliacs in Taiwan: a population‐based study, 1997–2009
Authors: Chang C.‐Y. , Yeh G.‐C. , Lin S.‐Y. , Tseng I.‐J. , Tsai C.‐H. , Lee Y.‐W.
Published: January 2014

Many studies on epidemiology and mortality in haemophiliacs have been published in Western countries. However, few have been conducted in Asian countries. The purpose of our study was to investigate the nationwide epidemiology and mortality of haemophiliacs in Taiwan. Population‐based data from the National Health Insurance Research Database between 1997 and 2009 were analysed using SAS version 9.3. The annual prevalence of haemophilia A (HA) and haemophilia B (HB) increased steadily to 7.30 and 1.34 cases per 100000 males, respectively, in 2009. The annual crude incidence of HA and HB averaged 8.73 and 1.73 per 100000 male births respectively. During the study period, the proportion of paediatric haemophiliacs decreased from 41.5% to 28.2% and the proportion of geriatric haemophiliacs increased from 2.5% to 5.7%. Among 493 newly diagnosed cases, the peak diagnostic ages were before 3 and between ages 10 and 40. Of the 76 cases of mortality, most patients died between the ages of 18 and 60. However, an increase in the age of mortality was noted after 2005 (P = 0.033). The overall standardized crude death rate of haemophiliacs was 10.2 per 1000 people, and the standard mortality ratio was 1.98. The annual prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus infection in haemophiliacs grossly declined from 1998 to 2009, with an average of 32.2 per 1000 haemophiliacs. This was a rare population‐based study on the epidemiology and mortality of haemophilia in a Chinese population and Asian countries. The 13‐year trends showed advances in haemophilia care in Taiwan.
Evaluation of the activated partial thromboplastin time assay for clinical monitoring of PEGylated recombinant factor VIII (BAY 94‐9027) for haemophilia A
Authors: Gu J‐M. , Ramsey P. , Evans V. , Tang L. , Apeler H. , Leong L. , Murphy J. E. , Laux V. , Myles T.
Published: January 2014

Patients with haemophilia (PWH) are usually monitored by the one‐stage activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) factor VIII (FVIII) assay. Different aPTT activators may affect clotting time (CT) and FVIII:C levels in patients treated with PEGylated FVIII. To evaluate the characteristics of PEGylated FVIII (BAY 94‐9027) in various aPTT clotting assays, and to identify suitable aPTT reagents for monitoring BAY 94‐9027 during the treatment of PWH, BAY 94‐9027 and World Health Organization (WHO) 8th FVIII standards (WHO‐8) were spiked into pooled and individual severe haemophilia A plasma at 1.0, 0.25 and 0.05 IU mL−1. Five commercial aPTT reagents widely used in clinical laboratories were compared and evaluated for BAY 94‐9027 activity in plasma from PWH. BAY 94‐9027 and WHO‐8 bestowed similar CT and excellent precision when ellagic acid (SynthAFax, Dade Actin, and Cephascreen) aPTT reagents were used. In contrast, BAY 94‐9027 showed significantly prolonged CT and poor precision compared with WHO‐8 using silica aPTT reagents (APTT‐SP and STA PTT 5). Furthermore, free 60‐kDa polyethylene glycol (PEG), used for the conjugation of FVIII, showed a dose‐dependent prolongation of CT in the APTT‐SP assay. There was no effect on the SynthAFax‐APTT, prothrombin time, or FXIa‐initiated thrombin generation assay, demonstrating that the PEG moiety on FVIII has no general effect on the coagulation cascade. In summary, ellagic aPTT reagents (SynthAFax, Dade Actin, and Cephascreen) are most suitable for evaluating potency of BAY 94‐9027 and should be the preferred aPTT reagents used in clinical laboratories for monitoring FVIII activity after infusion of BAY 94‐9027 to PWH.
The burden of bleeding in haemophilia: is one bleed too many?
Authors: Gringeri A. , Ewenstein B. , Reininger A.
Published: January 2014

Joint bleeding is the hallmark of haemophilia. Increasingly, the pain, restricted movement and anxiety provoked by even a single haemarthrosis are concerns for patients, families and treating physicians. The aims of this study were to determine whether the current paradigm for prophylaxis requires a shift in focus from reducing the frequency of bleeding episodes to a goal of zero bleeding and to review and discuss the published data from in vitro and animal experiments and clinical studies in patients with haemophilia that describe the impact of joint bleeding. More than two to three bleeding into the same joint may cause irreversible and progressive structural damage that compromise health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). A goal of zero bleeding episodes – or as close to zero as possible – is key to enhancing joint health and HRQoL in children and adults with haemophilia. Achieving this goal requires individualized, outcome‐based, multidisciplinary care to maximize prophylactic efficacy without increasing overall health care costs.
Synthesis and Electrochemical Properties of Co Doped MnO2 Framework with Nanofibrous Structure
Authors: Liu Ruirui , Jin Dalai , Yue Linhai
Published: January 2014

Porous MnO2/Co composites with regular ellipse shape were synthesized through a facile hydrothermal‐decomposition method. Coembedded manganese oxalate precursors were firstly synthesized by a hydrothermal process. Then, Mn2O3/Co composites were obtained by a following precisely controlled decomposition process. After a further oxidation reaction, nanofibrous MnO2/Co composites were formed with well‐retained ellipse microframework inherited from precursors. X‐ray diffractometer (XRD), thermogravimetry and differential thermal analysis (TG‐DTA), field‐emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), and energy dispersive spectroscope (EDS) were used to characterize the composition, structure, and morphology of all the samples. The electrochemical properties of MnO2/Co were studied using cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge–discharge test in 1.0 mol/L Na2SO4 electrolyte. Doping of Co in an appropriate range can improve the electrochemical performance of MnO2.
Using the theory of planned behaviour to develop targets for interventions to enhance patient communication during pharmacy consultations for non-prescription medicines
Authors: Watson Margaret C , Johnston Marie , Entwistle Vikki , Lee Amanda J , Bond Christine M , Fielding Shona
Published: January 2014

Objective

To identify modifiable factors that influence patients' information-giving behaviour about their health during consultations with pharmacy staff.

Methods

A theory of planned behaviour questionnaire was posted to 3000 individuals randomly selected from the Scottish Electoral Register.

Results

The 927 respondents confirmed a low rate of disclosure of information about their health to pharmacy staff during their last pharmacy visit. Individuals who intended to give information about their health during pharmacy consultations were more likely to do so. Those who intended to give information during consultations had higher subjective norms than those who did not (i.e. intentions were associated with beliefs that people who were important to them, e.g. family members, doctors, thought they should give information during these consultations). Control beliefs, e.g. ‘I am confident that I will give information if I have received good advice in the past’, and behavioural beliefs, e.g. ‘If I give information I will be sold an appropriate medicine’, were not associated with intention or behaviour.

Conclusion

Future interventions to promote relevant communication between patients and pharmacy staff should target patients' subjective norms rather than control beliefs or behavioural beliefs.
Impact of 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine and epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate for induction of human regulatory T cells
Authors: Kehrmann Jan , Tatura Roman , Zeschnigk Michael , Probst‐Kepper Michael , Geffers Robert , Steinmann Joerg , Buer Jan
Published: January 2014

The epigenetic regulation of transcription factor genes is critical for T‐cell lineage specification. A specific methylation pattern within a conserved region of the lineage specifying transcription factor gene FOXP3, the Treg‐specific demethylated region (TSDR), is restricted to regulatory T (Treg) cells and is required for stable expression of FOXP3 and suppressive function. We analysed the impact of hypomethylating agents 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine and epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate on human CD4+ CD25− T cells for generating demethylation within FOXP3‐TSDR and inducing functional Treg cells. Gene expression, including lineage‐specifying transcription factors of the major T‐cell lineages and their leading cytokines, functional properties and global transcriptome changes were analysed. The FOXP3‐TSDR methylation pattern was determined by using deep amplicon bisulphite sequencing. 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine induced FOXP3‐TSDR hypomethylation and expression of the Treg‐cell‐specific genes FOXP3 and LRRC32. Proliferation of 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine‐treated cells was reduced, but the cells did not show suppressive function. Hypomethylation was not restricted to FOXP3‐TSDR and expression of master transcription factors and leading cytokines of T helper type 1 and type 17 cells were induced. Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate induced global DNA hypomethylation to a lesser extent than 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycitidine, but no relevant hypomethylation within FOXP3‐TSDR or expression of Treg‐cell‐specific genes. Neither of the DNA methyltransferase inhibitors induced fully functional human Treg cells. 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycitidine‐treated cells resembled Treg cells, but they did not suppress proliferation of responder cells, which is an essential capability to be used for Treg cell transfer therapy. Using a recently developed targeted demethylation technology might be a more promising approach for the generation of functional Treg cells.
The performance of commercial banks based on a context‐dependent range‐adjusted measure model
Authors: Chiu Ching‐Ren , Chiu Yung‐Ho , Fang Chen‐Ling , Pang Rui‐zhi
Published: January 2014

Performance measures play an important role in assisting firms to identify the right business strategies and choose the best firms for benchmarking. The scope of conventional data envelopment analysis (DEA) is limited to performance improvement in the same context. A context‐dependent range‐adjusted measure (RAM) model is proposed for policy makers and bank managers to provide a reliable means of exploring operational performance in different evaluative contexts, taking into consideration negative and undesirable outputs. This empirical research utilizes three inputs and two outputs (a desirable one and an undesirable one) to measure the relative attractiveness and progress of 23 Taiwanese commercial banks in 2008. The results demonstrate the ranking of these banks based on their attractiveness and progress in different evaluative contexts, and indicate their respective market positions. The Wilcoxon matched‐pairs signed‐ranks test shows that there is a tendency to overestimate operational efficiency when banks neglect undesirable outputs. A managerial decision‐making matrix is presented to analyze whether competitive strategies based on attractiveness and progress should be adopted by banks at levels 2 and 3.
Comparison of skin effects of immediate treatment modalities in experimentally induced hydrofluoric acid skin burns
Authors: Songur Meltem K , Akdemir Ovunc , Lineaweaver William C , Cavusoglu Turker , Ozsarac Murat , Aktug Huseyin , Songur Ecmel , Tiftikcioglu Yigit O
Published: January 2014

Hydrofluoric acid (HF) burns cause immediate damage and painful long‐term sequellae. Traditionally, chelating agents have been used as the initial treatment for such burns. We have introduced epidermal growth factor (EGF) into an HF model to compare EGF with Ca2+ and Mg2+ treatments; 40 Sprague Dawley rats were divided into five groups. Each rat suffered a 6 × 4 cm2 burn induced by 40% HF. Group 1 had no treatment, group 2 had saline injected beneath the burn, group 3 received magnesium sulphate injections, group 4 received calcium gluconate and group 5 received EGF. Specimens were evaluated via planimetry and biopsy at intervals of 4, 8, 24 and 72 hours. Fluid losses were significantly less in the Mg2+ and EGF groups. The EGF group had the smallest burn area, least oedema, least polymorphonuclear granulocyte (PMN) infiltration, most angiogenesis and highest fibroblast proliferation of any group (P < 0·005). EGF limited HF damage morphologically and histologically more effectively than Ca2+ or Mg2+. This finding indicates that HF treatment via growth factors may be an improvement over chelation therapy.
Staged Double‐Layer Closure of Palatal Defects in 6 Dogs
Authors: Peralta Santiago , Nemec Ana , Fiani Nadine , Verstraete Frank J.M.
Published: January 2014

Objective

To report a staged approach that includes selective dental extractions before definitive double‐layer hard palate defect closure in dogs.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

Dogs (n = 6) with a palatal defect.

Methods

Dogs had selective maxillary teeth extractions 4–8 weeks before definitive hard palate defect repair by double‐layer local full‐thickness mucosal flaps.

Results

All palatal defects were considered complex. Complete hard palate closure was achieved after initial attempt in 3 dogs; 2 dogs had revision surgery before complete closure, and in 1 dog, closure failed and further treatment was declined. No complications or long‐term consequences were associated with selective dental extractions.

Conclusions

Selective dental extractions before definitive surgical repair using mucosal flaps in a double‐layer approach is an effective alternative when treating complex hard palate defects in dogs.
Environmental Aquatic Resource Sensing: Basic Sciences, Business Education, and Outreach
Authors: Leff Laura G. , Bade Darren L. , Scaffidi Jonathan , Williamson Craig E. , Woolverton Chris
Published: January 2014

Freshwater resources are critical features of the landscape and are threatened by many phenomena (e.g., eutrophication, invasive species, climate change, acid rain). The importance of fresh waters requires that scientists continually improve their tactics and technologies for broader understanding. Increasing use of automated sensors to collect environmental data creates a need for training of environmental scientists. In this paper, we present case studies based on a doctoral training program. For each case study presented, the goals and overall recommendations for adaptation to other programs are discussed. Case studies were selected based on recommendations of external evaluators of the program, the perceived value of the particular case study to the overall program, and the desire to provide case studies that were illustrative of the primary objectives of the project. We conclude that training of scientists in this area requires a consideration of the technology behind the sensors, proper usage of this technology, the technology development process, data management, and technology transfer. In addition to sensor‐specific attributes of our program, we also have gained insight into the process of professional development for graduate students and how students can work across disciplines and universities. Our key suggestion for achieving inter‐disciplinary training is to give students a common problem to tackle and the tools to do so. To ensure that these efforts are successful, identification of a group leader and provision of an opportunity for bonds and relationships to develop is vital.
Studying Nature In Situ: Immersive Education for Better Integrated Water Management
Authors: Dennison William , Oliver Peter
Published: January 2014

The term immersive education is currently used in two educational areas – language education, which involves students being totally immersed in a language and its culture; and virtual education, where teachers use computers and simulation games to immerse learners in a virtual, computer‐generated environment that mimics a real‐world environment and allows learners to interact with it. This paper uses examples from university teaching practices in marine studies and coastal zone management to make a case for a third definition for immersive education in tertiary settings – educating water managers by immersing and guiding them through real‐world situations that involve understanding and managing water, biodiversity, catchments, and people, and the interactions between them. Immersive education of this third kind, and traditional tertiary education approaches such as lectures and demonstrations, are compared, and the advantages of immersive education are discussed. The examples from practice and discussion presented show immersive education as being experiential and real, process‐driven, trans‐disciplinary, collaborative, participatory, and active, encouraging critical thinking and a renegotiation of power in relationships between participants. Such immersive education develops passion and persuasive capacity in students, providing personal experiences that are memorable and potentially life‐changing. Challenges to immersive education in tertiary education, including lack of finances, teacher burn‐out, safety concerns, and inertia to maintain the status quo of traditional education, are highlighted, as are ways to overcome these.
New Lead‐Free (1 − x)(K0.5Na0.5)NbO3–x(Bi0.5Na0.5)ZrO3 Ceramics with High Piezoelectricity
Authors: Wang Zhuo , Xiao Dingquan , Wu Jiagang , Xiao Min , Li Fangxu , Zhu Jianguo
Published: January 2014

For enhancing the piezoelectric properties of ceramics (Bi0.5Na0.5)ZrO3 (BNZ) was used to partially substitute (K0.5Na0.5)NbO3 (KNN). The addition of BNZ changes the symmetry of KNN ceramics from orthorhombic to tetragonal, and finally to rhombohedral phase. A new phase boundary with both rhombohedral–orthorhombic and orthorhombic–tetragonal phase transitions near room temperature is identified for KNN–0.050BNZ ceramics, where optimum electrical properties were obtained: d33 = 360 pC/N, kp = 32.1%, εr = 1429, tanδ = 3.5%, and TC = 329°C. The results indicated a new method for designing high‐performance lead‐free piezoelectric materials.
Characterization of Nickel Ions in Nickel‐Doped Yttria‐Stabilized Zirconia
Authors: Morrissey Amy , Tong Jianhua , Gorman Brian P. , Reimanis Ivar E.
Published: January 2014

The distribution of Ni2+ ions in NiO‐doped 10YSZ powder is examined with Superconducting Quantum Interference Device magnetometry, a technique that is able to distinguish between randomly distributed Ni2+ ions in solid solution and ordered Ni2+ ions within NiO with high precision. Very high purity powders containing 0.01, 0.1, 0.5, and 1.0 mol% NiO in 10YSZ (all levels below the solid solubility limit of NiO in 10YSZ) were made from acetate precursors and a modified EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid)‐citrate synthesis method. The powders were calcined in air at either 873 or 1273 K. The 873 K calcination leads to single phase YSZ particles about 10 nm in diameter, and almost all of the NiO dopant exists in complete solid solution. The 1273 K calcination leads to a larger YSZ particle size (55–95 nm), and also to the formation and/or growth of NiO particles, the amount of which depends on the length of time of calcination. Upon sintering the powders in air (1773 K, 1 h), the NiO dissolves back into 10YSZ. The results demonstrate that particle growth during calcination leads to the exsolution of Ni2+ ions to form NiO. This has important implications for the synthesis of NiO‐doped 10YSZ from chemical precursors.
Species distribution models and mitochondrial DNA phylogeography suggest an extensive biogeographical shift in the high‐intertidal seaweed Pelvetia canaliculata
Authors: Neiva João , Assis Jorge , Fernandes Francisco , Pearson Gareth A. , Serrão Ester A.
Published: January 2014

Aim

Species distributions have been continuously adjusting to changing climatic conditions throughout the glacial–interglacial cycles. In the marine realm, evidence suggests that latitudinal range shifts, involving both spatial expansions and trailing‐edge contractions, may represent a common response to climatic oscillations. The biogeographical histories of coastal organisms, however, have been inferred primarily using molecular markers, potentially overlooking past range dynamics beyond contemporary rear edges. In this study we combined species distribution models (SDMs) and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) data to investigate the biogeographical history of the high‐intertidal seaweed Pelvetia canaliculata. We investigated the hypotheses that its distribution is set by both marine and terrestrial climates and that its range has shifted northwards since the Last Glacial Maximum.

Location

North‐eastern Atlantic intertidal from Portugal to Norway.

Methods

In total, 432 individuals at 27 sites covering the extant range of Pelvetia canaliculata were sampled and sequenced for a c. 500 bp mtDNA intergenic spacer. A niche model was developed using marine and terrestrial variables. Range dynamics were reconstructed based on the geographical patterns of genetic variation and on the SDM projections for the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) and the present.

Results

The best distribution models incorporated both marine and terrestrial variables. LGM projections revealed suitable habitat between southern Morocco and the periglacial shorelines of the Celtic Sea. Pelvetia canaliculata exhibited a highly structured phylogeography, being subdivided into three largely disjunct lineages, two of them endemic to Iberia. The central/northern European lineage exhibited the highest haplotypic diversity and showed a consistent decline in nucleotide diversity and haplotypic richness at higher latitudes.

Main conclusions

Assuming species/climate equilibrium, SDMs supported the hypothesis of a post‐glacial latitudinal range shift. Molecular variation revealed contrasting demographic behaviours in Iberian and periglacial regions. In Iberia the low haplotypic diversity suggested complex range dynamics that are not fully captured by SDM projections. Periglacial regions, identified as the source of poleward colonization, were inferred to have been comparatively more stable. Greater attention should be paid to marine range dynamics at low‐latitude range margins, particularly in genetically structured low‐dispersal species exhibiting southern endemic variation.
Long‐term analysis of osseointegrated implants in non‐smoker patients with a previous history of periodontitis
Authors: Meyle Joerg , Gersok Gero , Boedeker Rolf‐Hasso , Gonzales José Roberto
Published: January 2014

Aim

To evaluate long‐term clinical and radiographic parameters of osseointegrated implants in non‐smoker patients with a previous history of chronic periodontitis.

Materials and Methods

Fifty‐four screw‐type implants with a moderately roughened surface and internal hexagonal implant–abutment connection were placed according to a two‐phase protocol and 40 reference teeth were analysed at baseline, and after 5 and 10 years. Pocket probing depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL) and bleeding on probing were analysed 6x/tooth in all teeth, implants and reference teeth. Radiographic peri‐implant bone level was measured on the mesial and distal surfaces. The prevalence of peri‐implantitis and the survival rate of the implants were assessed at the patient and implant levels. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Mann–Whitney U‐test, and Wald Z‐test, at α = 5%.

Results

In implants, the CAL at 5 years was 0.3 mm higher, and at 10 years 1.2 mm higher in comparison to baseline. The corresponding data for the reference teeth were 0 mm and 0.5 mm respectively. Multilevel testing showed statistical difference for PPD between implants and teeth over time. After 10 years, the mean mesial bone loss was 0.63 ± 0.26 mm, and the mean distal bone loss was 0.56 ± 0.25. The survival rates were 100% and 92.3% for the implants in the mandible and the implants in the maxilla respectively.

Conclusions

Screw‐type implants with internal hexagon placed in patients with a previous history of periodontitis attending a regular maintenance programme demonstrated stable clinical and radiographic results after 5 and 10 years.
In vitro quantitative and relative gene expression analysis of pancreatic transcription factors Pdx‐1, Ngn‐3, Isl‐1, Pax‐4, Pax‐6 and Nkx‐6.1 in trans‐differentiated human hepatic progenitors
Authors: Vishwakarma Sandeep Kumar , Rahamathulla Syed , Bardia Avinash , Tiwari Santosh K , Srinivas Gunda , Raj Avinash , Tripura Chaturvedula , Sandhya Annamaneni , Habeeb Mohammed Aejaz , Khan Aleem A , Pande Gopal , Reddy K Pratap , Reddy P Yugandhar
Published: January 2014

Aims/Introduction

Diabetes is a major health concern throughout the world because of its increasing prevalence in epidemic proportions. β‐Cell deterioration in the pancreas is a crucial factor for the progression of diabetes mellitus. Therefore, the restoration of β‐cell mass and its function is of vital importance for the development of effective therapeutic strategies and most accessible cell sources for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

Materials and Methods

Human fetuses (12–20 weeks gestation age) were used to isolate human hepatic progenitor cells (hHPCs) from fetal liver using a two‐step collagenase digestion method. Epithelial cell adhesion molecule‐positive (EpCAM+ve)‐enriched hHPCs were cultured in vitro and induced with 5–30 mmol/L concentration of glucose for 0–32 h. Pdx‐1 expression and insulin secretion was analyzed using immunophenotypic and chemifluorescence assays, respectively. Relative gene expression was quantified in induced hHPCs, and compared with uninduced and pancreatic cells to identify the activated transcription factors (Pdx‐1, Ngn‐3, Isl‐1, Pax‐4, Pax‐6 and Nkx‐6.1) involved in β‐cell production.

Results

EpCAM+ve cells derived from human fetal liver showed high in vitro trans‐differentiation potential towards the β‐cell phenotype with 23 mmol/L glucose induction after 24 h. The transcription factors showed eminent expression in induced cells. The expression level of transcription factors was found significantly high in 23 mmol/L‐induced hHPCs as compared with the uninduced cells.

Conclusions

The present study has shown an exciting new insight into β‐cell development from hHPCs trans‐differentiation. Relative quantification of gene expression in trans‐differentiated cells offers vast possibility for the production of a maximum number of functionally active pancreatic β‐cells for a future cure of diabetes.
Rare eclogite‐mafic granulite in felsic granulite in Blanský les: precursor of intermediate granulite in the Bohemian Massif?
Authors: Štípská P. , Powell R. , Racek M.
Published: January 2014

Mafic granulite, generated from eclogite, occurs in felsic granulite at Kleť, Blanský les, in the Bohemian Massif. This is significant because such eclogite is very rare within the felsic granulite massifs. Moreover, at this locality, strong interaction has occurred between the mafic granulite and the adjacent felsic granulite producing intermediate granulite, such intermediate granulite being of enigmatic origin elsewhere. The mafic granulite involves garnet from the original eclogite, containing large idiomorphic inclusions of omphacite, plagioclase and quartz, as well as rutile. The edge of the garnet is replaced by a plagioclase corona, with the garnet zoned towards the corona and also the inclusions. The original omphacite–quartz–?plagioclase matrix has recrystallized to coarse‐grained polygonal (‘equilibrium’‐textured) plagioclase‐diopsidic clinopyroxene–orthopyroxene also with brown amphibole commonly in the vicinity of garnet. Somewhat larger quartz grains are embedded in this matrix, along with minor ilmenite, rutile and zircon. Combining the core garnet composition with core inclusion compositions gives a pressure of the order of 18 kbar from assemblage and isopleths on a P−T pseudosection, with temperature poorly constrained, but most likely >900 °C. From this P−T pseudosection, the recrystallization of the matrix took place at ~12 kbar, and from Zr‐in‐rutile thermometry, at relatively hot conditions of 900–950 °C. It is largely at these conditions that the eclogite/mafic granulite interacted with the felsic granulite to make intermediate granulite (see next paper).
Evidence that BDNF regulates heart rate by a mechanism involving increased brainstem parasympathetic neuron excitability
Authors: Wan Ruiqian , Weigand Letitia A. , Bateman Ryan , Griffioen Kathleen , Mendelowitz David , Mattson Mark P.
Published: January 2014

Autonomic control of heart rate is mediated by cardioinhibitory parasympathetic cholinergic neurons located in the brainstem and stimulatory sympathetic noradrenergic neurons. During embryonic development the survival and cholinergic phenotype of brainstem autonomic neurons is promoted by brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). We now provide evidence that BDNF regulates heart rate by a mechanism involving increased brainstem cardioinhibitory parasympathetic activity. Mice with a BDNF haploinsufficiency exhibit elevated resting heart rate, and infusion of BDNF intracerebroventricularly reduces heart rate in both wild‐type and BDNF+/− mice. The atropine‐induced elevation of heart rate is diminished in BDNF+/− mice and is restored by BDNF infusion, whereas the atenolol‐induced decrease in heart rate is unaffected by BDNF levels, suggesting that BDNF signaling enhances parasympathetic tone which is diminished with BDNF haploinsufficiency. Whole‐cell recordings from pre‐motor cholinergic cardioinhibitory vagal neurons in the nucleus ambiguus indicate that BDNF haploinsufficiency reduces cardioinhibitory vagal neuron activity by increased inhibitory GABAergic and diminished excitatory glutamatergic neurotransmission to these neurons. Our findings reveal a previously unknown role for BDNF in the control of heart rate by a mechanism involving increased activation of brainstem cholinergic parasympathetic neurons

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Mice with reduced BDNF levels exhibit elevated heart rate, and infusion of BDNF into the brain normalizes heart rate by a mechanism involving increased brainstem cardioinhibitory parasympathetic activity. Recordings from pre‐motor cholinergic cardioinhibitory vagal neurons (CVNs) in the nucleus ambiguus indicate that BDNF increases CVN activity by increasing excitatory glutamatergic and decreasing inhibitory GABAergic neurotransmission to these neurons. Perhaps factors that increase parasympathetic tone (e.g., exercise) reduce resting heart rate, in part, by a BDNF‐mediated mechanism.
Phosphorylation of the transcription factor Sp4 is reduced by NMDA receptor signaling
Authors: Saia Gregory , Lalonde Jasmin , Sun Xinxin , Ramos Belén , Gill Grace
Published: January 2014

The regulation of transcription factor function in response to neuronal activity is important for development and function of the nervous system. The transcription factor Sp4 regulates the developmental patterning of dendrites, contributes to complex processes including learning and memory, and has been linked to psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Despite its many roles in the nervous system, the molecular mechanisms regulating Sp4 activity are poorly understood. Here, we report a site of phosphorylation on Sp4 at serine 770 that is decreased in response to membrane depolarization. Inhibition of the voltage‐dependent NMDA receptor increased Sp4 phosphorylation. Conversely, stimulation with NMDA reduced the levels of Sp4 phosphorylation, and this was dependent on the protein phosphatase 1/2A. A phosphomimetic substitution at S770 impaired the Sp4‐dependent maturation of cerebellar granule neuron primary dendrites, whereas a non‐phosphorylatable Sp4 mutant behaved like wild type. These data reveal that transcription factor Sp4 is regulated by NMDA receptor‐dependent activation of a protein phosphatase 1/2A signaling pathway. Our findings also suggest that the regulated control of Sp4 activity is an important mechanism governing the developmental patterning of dendrites.

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We show that the neuronal transcription factor Sp4, which regulates the developmental patterning of dendrites, is dephosphorylated at S770 in response to NMDA receptor signaling in cerebellar granule neurons and cortical neurons. Dephosphorylation required the activity of the PP1/PP2A phosphatase. A point mutation at S770 to a phosphomimetic aspartic acid residue impaired Sp4‐dependent pruning of cerebellar granule neuron primary dendrites.