bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comments on challenging the rational project environment
Authors: Kreiner Kristian
Published: September 2012

Purpose

Kristian Kreiner is one of the co‐authors of Projektledning i en ofulständig värld. The purpose of this paper (commentary) is to reiterate and update a few of the fundamental tenets on which the original text was based. The purpose is also to argue that the need to challenge conventional project management thinking is still pressing today.

Design/methodology/approach

This commentary highlights two ideas and makes one plea for future research.

Findings

Project managers must bridge two notions of a project: one focussing on some desired future state which can guide current, contingent action, and the other one focussing on the conscious design and planning of social action to enable efficient, collaborative achievements. In practice, project managers face a dilemma in having to encourage both behavioural flexibility (adaptability) and behavioural rigidity (discipline). Secondly, project managers face conditions of complexity, uncertainty, and ambiguity. Conventionally, such conditions are made to signal poor project management, but they are often managerial premises rather than problematic outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

We need to theorize project management under imperfect, but realistic circumstances in which complexity, uncertainty, and ambiguity are central. One way to start may be to reject the notion that good project management is equivalent to good planning of processes and responsibilities. Rather, we should search for intelligent ways of using plans which necessarily will be rendered inadequate and imperfect by change and turbulence.

Originality/value

The plea delivered in the paper is to change our academic focus from devising optimal ways of planning and organizing projects to a search for more intelligent ways of exploiting plans and organizational forms that are, by definition, inadequate and imperfect.
Health and safety maturity in project business cultures
Authors: Roberts Aeli , Kelsey John , Smyth Hedley , Wilson Adam
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between health and safety (H&S) and organisational culture in project business, in particular to explore the validity of current cognitive emphases of linear organisational maturity towards a “safety culture”, and normative models and prescriptions.

Design/methodology/approach

An interpretative methodology is employed, informed by ethnography (Douglas' cultural theory) and clinical consultative (Schein's model) approaches, using case‐based analysis comprising seven project business organisations.

Findings

The cases were characterized by diverse organisational cultures and diverse H&S practices informed by habits and intuitive behaviour, as well as cognitive strategies and decisions for implementation. H&S was not the top priority for these cases. Good performance related to alignment with the prevailing culture rather than pursuit of a “safety culture”.

Research limitations/implications

The term “safety culture” is misdirected; greater attention on what is, rather than normative models and prescription, is necessary. Generalisation is limited by the case‐based approach.

Practical implications

Practitioners need to pay more attention to organisational culture and alignment of H&S practices, to the unintended consequences of prescriptions, and robust systems.

Social implications

The way activities are conducted requires awareness of the prevailing culture in order to align the structure and processes to the culture for effective operations. These implications are general, and within project business and management, Failure to do so carries increased risk of failing to satisfy business and broader stakeholder interests.

Originality/value

Anomalies in H&S research and practice are challenged, especially “safety culture” and normative approaches. The contribution is the combination employment of the Schein and Douglas models to understand organisational culture and H&S cultural alignment.
Diabetes exacerbates amyloid and neurovascular pathology in aging‐accelerated mice
Authors: Currais Antonio , Prior Marguerite , Lo David , Jolivalt Corinne , Schubert David , Maher Pamela
Published: September 2012

Mounting evidence supports a link between diabetes, cognitive dysfunction, and aging. However, the physiological mechanisms by which diabetes impacts brain function and cognition are not fully understood. To determine how diabetes contributes to cognitive dysfunction and age‐associated pathology, we used streptozotocin to induce type 1 diabetes (T1D) in senescence‐accelerated prone 8 (SAMP8) and senescence‐resistant 1 (SAMR1) mice. Contextual fear conditioning demonstrated that T1D resulted in the development of cognitive deficits in SAMR1 mice similar to those seen in age‐matched, nondiabetic SAMP8 mice. No further cognitive deficits were observed when the SAMP8 mice were made diabetic. T1D dramatically increased Aβ and glial fibrillary acidic protein immunoreactivity in the hippocampus of SAMP8 mice and to a lesser extent in age‐matched SAMR1 mice. Further analysis revealed aggregated Aβ within astrocyte processes surrounding vessels. Western blot analyses from T1D SAMP8 mice showed elevated amyloid precursor protein processing and protein glycation along with increased inflammation. T1D elevated tau phosphorylation in the SAMR1 mice but did not further increase it in the SAMP8 mice where it was already significantly higher. These data suggest that aberrant glucose metabolism potentiates the aging phenotype in old mice and contributes to early stage central nervous system pathology in younger animals.
Limitations of the risk factor based approach in early neonatal sepsis evaluations
Authors: Flidel‐Rimon Orna , Galstyan Sophie , Juster‐Reicher Ada , Rozin Ilya , Shinwell Eric S
Published: September 2012

Aim:  Guidelines for detection of early neonatal sepsis employ a risk factor approach combined with laboratory parameters. In an era of increasing intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP), we re‐assessed the approach as a whole and each of the risk factors individually.

Method:  This retrospective study included infants with risk factors for sepsis or those treated with antibiotics or who had documented early sepsis. Safety of the protocol was assessed by the number of cases of either missed or partially treated late sepsis or meningitis and the sepsis‐related mortality rate. Predictive value of each clinical and laboratory factor was calculated.

Results:  Of the 22 215 neonates, 2096 were assessed. IAP among infants with risk factors rose from 68% in 2005 to 78% in 2008 (p = 0.001). A total of 1662 asymptomatic infants had risk factors, 635 received antibiotics and one (0.06%) had sepsis. A total of 434 symptomatic infants were treated with antibiotics and of these 234 had risk factors and 20 (4.6%) had sepsis. No cases of partially treated or missed sepsis were detected. Poor predictive value was found for all risk factors except prematurity and leukopenia.

Conclusion:  The risk factor based approach in asymptomatic infants cannot be justified. In‐hospital observation of asymptomatic infants for 2–3 days with antibiotic treatment being reserved only for symptomatic infants may be a reasonable alternative.
Multi‐walled carbon nanotubes translocate into the pleural cavity and induce visceral mesothelial proliferation in rats
Authors: Xu Jiegou , Futakuchi Mitsuru , Shimizu Hideo , Alexander David B. , Yanagihara Kazuyoshi , Fukamachi Katsumi , Suzui Masumi , Kanno Jun , Hirose Akihiko , Ogata Akio , Sakamoto Yoshimitsu , Nakae Dai , Omori Toyonori , Tsuda Hiroyuki
Published: September 2012

Multi‐walled carbon nanotubes have a fibrous structure similar to asbestos and induce mesothelioma when injected into the peritoneal cavity. In the present study, we investigated whether carbon nanotubes administered into the lung through the trachea induce mesothelial lesions. Male F344 rats were treated with 0.5 mL of 500 μg/mL suspensions of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes or crocidolite five times over a 9‐day period by intrapulmonary spraying. Pleural cavity lavage fluid, lung and chest wall were then collected. Multi‐walled carbon nanotubes and crocidolite were found mainly in alveolar macrophages and mediastinal lymph nodes. Importantly, the fibers were also found in the cell pellets of the pleural cavity lavage, mostly in macrophages. Both multi‐walled carbon nanotube and crocidolite treatment induced hyperplastic proliferative lesions of the visceral mesothelium, with their proliferating cell nuclear antigen indices approximately 10‐fold that of the vehicle control. The hyperplastic lesions were associated with inflammatory cell infiltration and inflammation‐induced fibrotic lesions of the pleural tissues. The fibers were not found in the mesothelial proliferative lesions themselves. In the pleural cavity, abundant inflammatory cell infiltration, mainly composed of macrophages, was observed. Conditioned cell culture media of macrophages treated with multi‐walled carbon nanotubes and crocidolite and the supernatants of pleural cavity lavage fluid from the dosed rats increased mesothelial cell proliferation in vitro, suggesting that mesothelial proliferative lesions were induced by inflammatory events in the lung and pleural cavity and likely mediated by macrophages. In conclusion, intrapulmonary administration of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes, like asbestos, induced mesothelial proliferation potentially associated with mesothelioma development.
Development of an early induction model of medulloblastoma in Ptch1 heterozygous mice initiated with N‐ethyl‐N‐nitrosourea
Authors: Takahashi Miwa , Matsuo Saori , Inoue Kaoru , Tamura Kei , Irie Kaoru , Kodama Yukio , Yoshida Midori
Published: September 2012

Mice heterozygous for the ptch1 gene (ptch1 mice) are known as a valuable model of medulloblastoma, a common brain tumor in children. To increase the incidence and reduce the time required for tumor development, allowing for evaluation of modifier effects on medulloblastoma in a short time, we attempted to develop an early induction model of medulloblastoma in ptch1 mice initiated with N‐ethyl‐N‐nitrosourea (ENU). Ptch1 mice and their wild‐type littermates received a single intraperitoneal injection of ENU (10, 50 or 100 mg/kg) on postnatal day 1 (d1) or 4 (d4), and histopathological assessment of brains was conducted at 12 weeks of age. The width of the external granular layer (EGL), a possible origin of medulloblastoma, after injection of 100 mg ENU on d1 or d4 was measured in up to 21‐day‐old mice. Cerebellar size was apparently reduced at the 50 mg dose and higher regardless of genotype. Microscopically, early lesions of medulloblastomas occurred with a high incidence only in ptch1 mice receiving 10 mg on d1 or d4, but a significant increase was not observed in other groups. Persistent EGL cells and misalignment of Purkinje cells were increased dose‐dependently. Although EGL was strikingly decreased after ENU injection, strong recovery was observed in mice of the d1‐treated group. In summary, neonatal treatment with ENU is available for the induction of medulloblastoma in ptch1 mice, and 10 mg of ENU administered on d1 appeared to be an appropriate dose to induce medulloblastoma.
Contribution of GATA1 dysfunction to multi‐step leukemogenesis
Authors: Shimizu Ritsuko , Yamamoto Masayuki
Published: September 2012

In mammals, hematopoietic homeostasis is maintained by a fine‐tuned balance among the self‐renewal, proliferation, differentiation and survival of hematopoietic stem cells and their progenies. Each process is also supported by the delicate balance of the expression of multiple genes specific to each process. GATA1 is a transcription factor that comprehensively regulates the genes that are important for the development of erythroid and megakaryocytic cells. Accumulating evidence supports the notion that defects in GATA1 function are intimately linked to hematopoietic disorders. In particular, the somatic mutation of the GATA1 gene, which leads to the production of N‐terminally truncated GATA1, contributes to the genesis of transient myeloproliferative disorder and acute megakaryoblastic leukemia in infants with Down syndrome. Similarly, a mutation in the GATA1 regulatory region that reduces GATA1 expression is involved in the onset of erythroid leukemia in mice. In both cases, the accumulation of immature progenitor cells caused by GATA1 dysregulation underlies the pathogenesis of the leukemia. This review provides a summary of multi‐step leukemogenesis with a focus on GATA1 dysfunction. (Cancer Sci, doi: 10.1111/cas.12007, 2012)
Area‐under‐the‐HbA1c‐curve above the normal range and the prediction of microvascular outcomes: an analysis of data from the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial
Authors: Maple‐Brown L. J. , Ye C. , Retnakaran R.
Published: September 2012

Aims  In the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial, mean updated HbA1c accounted for most of the differential risk of microvascular complications between intensive and conventional insulin therapy. We hypothesized, however, that a more precise measure of chronic hyperglycaemic exposure may be the incremental area‐under‐the‐HbA1c‐curve above the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial‐standardized normal range for HbA1c (iAUCHbA1c>norm).

Methods  Using the Principal Diabetes Control and Complications Trial data set, we compared the following three measures of chronic glycaemic exposure for their capacity to predict retinopathy, nephropathy and neuropathy during the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial: mean updated HbA1c, iAUCHbA1c>norm, and total area‐under‐the‐HbA1c‐curve (tAUCHbA1c). For each outcome, models using each of these three glycaemic measures were compared in the following three ways: hazard or odds ratio, χ2 statistic, and Akaike information criterion.

Results  The three glycaemic measures did not differ in their prediction of neuropathy. iAUCHbA1c>norm was modestly superior to mean updated HbA1c for predicting nephropathy (χ2P = 0.017, Akaike P = 0.032). In contrast, for predicting retinopathy, both iAUCHbA1c>norm (χ2P = 0.0005, Akaike P = 0.0005) and tAUCHbA1c (χ2P = 0.004, Akaike P = 0.004) were significantly better than mean updated HbA1c. Varying its HbA1c threshold incrementally between 37 and 53 mmol/mol (5.5–7.0%), inclusive, did not improve the prediction of retinopathy by iAUCHbA1c>threshold beyond that of tAUCHbA1c,consistent with the concept of a continuous relationship between glycaemia and retinopathy, with no glycaemic threshold.

Conclusions  Both iAUCHbA1c>norm and tAUCHbA1c were superior to mean updated HbA1c for predicting retinopathy. Optimal assessment of chronic glycaemic exposure as a determinant of retinopathic risk may require consideration of both the degree of hyperglycaemia and its duration.
Protein tyrosine phosphatases in health and disease
Authors: Hendriks Wiljan J. A. J. , Elson Ari , Harroch Sheila , Pulido Rafael , Stoker Andrew , den Hertog Jeroen
Published: September 2012

Protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) represent a super‐family of enzymes that play essential roles in normal development and physiology. In this review, we will discuss the PTPs that have a causative role in hereditary diseases in humans. In addition, recent progress in the development and analysis of animal models expressing mutant PTPs will be presented. The impact of PTP signaling on health and disease will be exemplified for the fields of bone development, synaptogenesis and central nervous system diseases. Collectively, research on PTPs since the late 1980's yielded the cogent view that development of PTP‐directed therapeutic tools is essential to further combat human disease.
Diagnosis of active tuberculosis using MPB64, a specific antigen of Mycobacterium bovis
Authors: Tamada Yasuko , Kanda Seiji , Yoshidome Atsuko , Hayashi Itoko , Miyake Mari , Nishiyama Toshimasa
Published: September 2012

Because the incidence of tuberculosis (TB) is still high in developing countries, an inexpensive and rapid diagnostic test for this infection is needed. To develop a screening test for TB, MPB64 antigen was produced by recombinant technology and purified with a polyhistidine tag. Next, serum and urine samples from patients with TB and uninfected individuals were examined by the dot‐blot assay method using this purified antigen. Serum samples from patients with TB reacted more strongly with MPB64 antigen than did those from uninfected individuals. In addition, serum samples from TB patients with active infection reacted more strongly with the antigen than did samples from patients with inactive TB. When urine samples were assessed using this assay, similar results were obtained. Correlations between the data obtained from serum and urine samples were analyzed for all subjects, including uninfected individuals, and a strong positive correlation between the results of serum and urine tests (n = 36, r = 0.672) was found. The sensitivity and specificity of this assay for serum samples was 85.7 % and 85.0 %, and for urine samples 75.0 % and 85.0 %, respectively. These results suggest that dot‐blot assay with MPB64 antigen could be a useful screening test for active TB. Because urine samples can be obtained more easily than serum samples and because urine is less contagious, urine testing should probably be employed for screening purposes.
Critical role of Toll‐like receptor 2 in Bacteroides fragilis‐mediated immune responses in murine peritoneal mesothelial cells
Authors: Kim Tae‐Hyoun , Lee Kyung‐Bok , Kang Min‐Jung , Park Jong‐Hwan
Published: September 2012

In this study, the role of Toll‐like receptor 2 (TLR2) in immune responses of murine peritoneal mesothelial cells against Bacteroides fragilis was investigated. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure cytokines and chemokines. Activation of nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB‐α) and mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAP kinases) was investigated by western blot analysis. B. fragilis induced production of interleukin‐6, chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) ligand 1 (CXCL1) and chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2) in wild type peritoneal mesothelial cells; this was impaired in TLR2‐deficient cells. In addition, in response to B. fragilis, phosphorylation of inhibitory NF‐κB‐α and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) was induced in wild type mesothelial cells, but not in TLR2‐deficient cells,. Inhibitor assay revealed that NF‐κB and MAPKs are essential for B. fragilis‐induced production of CXCL1 and CCL2 in mesothelial cells. These findings suggest that TLR2 mediates immune responses in peritoneal mesothelial cells in response to B. fragilis.
Exercise and chronic fatigue syndrome: maximize function, minimize post‐exertional malaise
Authors: Chu Lily , Friedberg Fred , Friedman Kenneth J. , Littrell Nereida , Stevens Staci , Vallings Ros
Published: September 2012

Eur J Clin Invest 2012; 42 (12): 1362
Health‐related quality of life, anxiety and depression related to mammography screening in Norway
Authors: Hafslund Bjorg , Espehaug Birgitte , Nortvedt Monica Wammen
Published: September 2012

Aim and objectives.  To measure health‐related quality of life, anxiety and depression ahead of mammography screening and to assess any differences in health‐related quality of life compared to reference population.

Background.  The study of health‐related quality of life among attendees prior to mammography screening has received little attention, and increased knowledge is needed to better understand the overall health benefits of participation.

Design.  A two‐group cross‐sectional comparative study was performed.

Methods.  The samples comprised 4,249 attendees to mammography screening and a comparison group of 943 women. We used the SF‐36 Health Survey to assess health‐related quality of life. Linear regression was used to study any differences between the groups with adjustment for age, level of education, occupation, having children and smoking status. Other normative data were also used. Anxiety and depression were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale.

Results.  Attendees scored statistically significant higher on the SF‐36 than the comparison group but were in line with normative data. Attendees had anxiety mean 4·1 and depression mean 2·6.

Conclusions.  The majority of the attendees have a high health‐related quality of life, low anxiety and depression ahead of screening. Anxiety and depression were less than shown in normative data from Norway. Despite a high health‐related quality of life, low anxiety and depression among the majority, healthcare workers should pay special attention to the few women who are anxious and depressed, and have a lower health‐related quality of life. Omitted from mammography screening may be women who are unemployed, have lower socioeconomic status, are anxious and are depressed. Further research should be performed with non‐attendees and subgroups to improve the screening programme.

Relevance to clinical practice.  It is important to identify which patients have the greatest need for support and caring in an organised mammography screening and who may be overlooked.
High‐Order Solutions and Generalized Darboux Transformations of Derivative Nonlinear Schrödinger Equations
Authors: Guo Boling , Ling Liming , Liu Q. P.
Published: September 2012

By means of certain limit technique, two kinds of generalized Darboux transformations are constructed for the derivative nonlinear Schrödinger equations (DNLS). These transformations are shown to lead to two solution formulas for DNLS in terms of determinants. As applications, several different types of high‐order solutions are calculated for this equation.
Exposure to acute electromagnetic radiation of mobile phone exposure range alters transiently skin homeostasis of a model of pigmented reconstructed epidermis
Authors: Simon D. , Daubos A. , Pain C. , Fitoussi R. , Vié K. , Taieb A. , de Benetti L. , Cario‐André M.
Published: September 2012

Synopsis

Exposure to electromagnetic radiations (EMR) produced by mobile phone concerns half the world's population and raises the problem of their impact on human health. In this study, we looked at the effects of mobile phone exposure (GSM basic, 900 MHz, SAR 2 mW g−1, 6 h) on a model of pigmented skin. We have analysed the expression and localization of various markers of keratinocyte and melanocyte differentiation 2, 6, 18 and 24 h after EMR exposure of reconstructed epidermis containing either only keratinocytes or a combination of keratinocytes and melanocytes grown on dead de‐epidermized dermis, using histology, immunohistochemistry and Western blot. No changes were found in epidermal architecture, localization of epidermal markers, presence of apoptotic cells and the induction of p53 in both types of epidermis (with or without melanocytes) after exposure to EMR. In pigmented reconstructs, no change in the location and dendricity of melanocytes and in melanin transfer to neighbouring keratinocytes was detected after EMR exposure. Loricrin, cytokeratin 14 were significantly decreased at 6 h. The level of all markers increased at 24 h as compared to 6 h post‐EMR exposure, associated with a significant decrease of the 20S proteasome activity. Our data indicate that exposure to 900 MHz frequency induces a transient alteration of epidermal homoeostasis, which may alter the protective capacity of the skin against external factors. Presence or absence of melanocytes did not modify the behaviour of reconstructs after EMR exposure.
Nitric oxide (NO): a key player in the senescence of Medicago truncatula root nodules
Authors: Cam Yvan , Pierre Olivier , Boncompagni Eric , Hérouart Didier , Meilhoc Eliane , Bruand Claude
Published: September 2012

Nitric oxide (NO) is a signalling and defence molecule involved in diverse plant developmental processes, as well as in the plant response to pathogens. NO has also been detected at different steps of the symbiosis between legumes and rhizobia. NO is required for an optimal establishment of the Medicago truncatula–Sinorhizobium meliloti symbiotic interaction, but little is known about the role of NO in mature nodules. Here, we investigate the role of NO in the late steps of symbiosis.

Genetic and pharmacological approaches were conducted to modulate the NO level inside root nodules, and their effects on nitrogen fixation and root nodule senescence were monitored.

An increase in endogenous NO levels led to a decrease in nitrogen fixation and early nodule senescence, characterized by cytological modifications of the nodule structure and the early expression of a specific senescence marker. By contrast, a decrease in NO levels led to a delay in nodule senescence.

Together, our results strongly suggest that NO is a signal in developmental as well as stress‐induced nodule senescence. In addition, this work demonstrates the pivotal role of the bacterial NO detoxification response in the prevention of early nodule senescence, and hence the maintenance of efficient symbiosis.
Knoop Hardness and Effectiveness of Dual‐Cured Luting Systems and Flowable Resin to Bond Leucite‐Reinforced Ceramic to Enamel
Authors: Prieto Lúcia Trazzi , José Souza‐Junior Eduardo , Pimenta Araújo Cíntia Tereza , Lima Adriano Fonseca , dos Santos Dias Carlos Tadeu , Maffei Sartini Paulillo Luis Alexandre
Published: September 2012

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the Knoop microhardness and microshear bond strength (MSBS) of dual‐cured luting systems and flowable resin bonded to leucite‐reinforced ceramics and enamel.

Materials and Methods: Eighty bovine incisors were randomly divided into four groups per test (microhardness and microshear; n = 10) according to the bonding procedure: Excite DSC/Variolink, Clearfil SE Bond/Panavia F, Adper Scotchbond Multi‐Purpose Plus/RelyX ARC, and Adper Single Bond 2/Filtek Z350 Flow. For the KHN measurement, the cement was applied on the enamel surface and light‐cured through a ceramic disk (5 mm diameter × 1.2 mm thick). Five indentations were performed in each specimen and measured at HMV‐2. For the microshear test, two cylinders of a leucite‐reinforced ceramic (1 mm diameter × 2 mm height) were bonded to the enamel substrate in accordance with the bonding procedures previously established. One cylinder was tested 24 hours after cementation, and the other was subjected to thermocycling (2000 cycles) and then submitted to an MSBS test. The data from the hardness and bond strength tests were subjected to one‐ and two‐way repeated‐measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), respectively, and to Tukey's test (α= 0.05).

Results: Scotchbond/RelyX ARC presented higher values of bond strength, while Single Bond/Z350 Flow showed lower values. The thermocycling promoted a reduction in the bond strength values for all groups. Panavia F presented higher values of KHN, and the flowable resin presented the lowest. RelyX ARC and Variolink presented intermediate values on hardness evaluation.

Conclusions: For ceramic cementation, dual‐cured resin luting systems promoted more reliable bonding and microhardness values than the flowable resin.
Maintenance of Implant Hybrid Prostheses: Clinical and Laboratory Procedures
Authors: Drago Carl , Gurney Lynn
Published: September 2012

Fixed implant hybrid prostheses have been used for the last 40+ years in the treatment of edentulous patients. These prostheses have provided long‐term masticatory function for thousands of patients. The original treatment protocol included fabrication of cast metal frameworks that fit accurately on the restorative platforms or abutments and/or endosseous implants. Frameworks were designed to splint implants together; they also provided retention and support for the functional and esthetic portions of the fixed hybrid prostheses. Initially, edentulous patients were treated with maxillary complete dentures and mandibular fixed, hybrid prostheses. Denture teeth were used in both prostheses. Over the span of many years, occlusal surfaces of the denture teeth in the mandibular prostheses exhibited signs of occlusal abrasion and wear, sometimes completely abrading the teeth and denture bases, resulting in framework exposures. Ultimately, this resulted in decreased chewing efficiency and loss of vertical facial height. Patients would then return to clinicians and ask for retreatment. In certain instances, the underlying frameworks would have to be remade. This involved replicating the original series of appointments and significant additional expense to patients and clinicians alike. The protocol presented in this article avoids having to remake the most expensive portion of fixed implant prostheses—the frameworks. The protocol identifies the clinical and laboratory procedures involved in using existing frameworks and replacing preexisting denture bases and denture teeth, with minimal inconvenience to patients.
Crystal and Electronic Structure Analyses on Bi2SiO5‐Added SrBi2(Ta1−xNbx)2O9 by Using Pulsed Neutron and Synchrotron X‐Ray Sources
Authors: Idemoto Yasushi , Muroi Ryo , Kitamura Naoto , Itoh Takanori
Published: September 2012

In this work, we prepared SrBi2(Ta1−xNbx)2O9 (x = 0, 0.5, 1.0) and Bi2SiO5‐added SrBi2(Ta1−xNbx)2O9, and then investigated their ferroelectric properties, crystal, and electronic structures. P‐E hysteresis‐loop and dielectric‐constant measurements demonstrated that the Nb substitution and the Bi2SiO5 addition increased the remanent polarization and the Curie temperature although these composition changes made the coercive field higher slightly by the substitution and the addition. The Rietveld analyses using the neutron diffraction data indicated that the Nb substitution induced higher tilting angles of the (Ta,Nb)‐O6 and distorted the octahedra. Larger distortions within the perovskite layer were also expected from electron‐density distributions visualized by the maximum‐entropy method using synchrotron X‐ray diffraction. These structure changes can be considered as one of the reasons for improvement of the electric properties.
Effect of Polymerization on Antioxidant and Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitory Potential of Sea Buckthorn (H. rhamnoides) Proanthocyanidins
Authors: Arimboor Ranjith , Arumughan C.
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  Inhibitory potential of sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L) seed proanthocyanidins against oxidative stress and xanthine oxidase activity was evaluated. Composition of antioxidant proanthocyanidins was profiled by analyzing the cleavage products obtained by the acid catalyzed hydrolysis in the presence of phloroglucinol. Catechin, epicatechin, gallocatechin, and epigallocatechin were found as the extension and terminal subunits of proanthocyanidins with an average degree of polymerization (ADP) of 14.7. Seed proanthocyanidins showed considerably high antioxidant and xanthine oxidase inhibitory potentials. Antioxidant and xanthine oxidase inhibitory capacity evaluation of proanthocyanidin fractions with varying ADP showed that proanthocyanidins with lower molecular size were more effective as superoxide anion (ADP ≤ 4.2) and hydroxyl radical (ADP ≤ 5.9) scavengers and xanthine oxidase (ADP ≤ 3.1) inhibitors. ADP of the studied proanthocyanidin fractions did not show significant influence on their DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging and ferric reduction capacities.
Determination of Trimethylamine in Spinach, Cabbage, and Lettuce at Alkaline pH by Headspace Solid‐Phase Microextraction
Authors: Shim Jae‐Ean , Hee Baek Hyung
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  Trimethylamine (TMA) found in some leafy vegetables, such as spinach, cabbage, and lettuce, at alkaline pH was identified and quantified using headspace solid‐phase microextraction and gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (HS‐SPME and GC‐MS). HS‐SPME conditions were optimized at an adsorption temperature of 50 °C, equilibration time of 5 min, and adsorption time of 5 min with 65 μm of polydimethylsiloxane/divinylbenzene fiber. The TMA that was formed from spinach, cabbage, and lettuce was assayed at pH 7 to 11 for 0 to 4 h at 50 °C using HS‐SPME. The results showed that the amount of TMA formed was dependent on pH. The amount of TMA formed increased dramatically at a pH greater than 9. TMA was not formed at a pH lower than 7. Spinach produced a higher amount of TMA than cabbage or lettuce. TMA was formed at alkaline pH from choline, betaine, and carnitine, which are TMA precursors. To confirm the SPME results, TMA was quantitated using the AOAC official method. Data obtained from chemical analysis were in good agreement with the SPME data. The formation mechanism of TMA is thought to be the Hofmann elimination reaction, which generates amine compounds at alkaline pH.

Practical Application:  Fishy off‐flavor in foods is associated with trimethylamine (TMA), which is frequently found in fish and seafood. In this study, TMA was identified for the first time in some leafy vegetables, such as spinach, cabbage, and lettuce, at alkaline pH. The presence of TMA in leafy vegetables under certain circumstances such as high pH and temperature may affect the sensory properties of foods containing these vegetables.
Chemical Components and Antioxidant Activity of the Peels of Commercial Apple‐Shaped Pear (Fruit of Pyrus pyrifolia cv. pingguoli)
Authors: Ma Jian‐Nan , Wang Su‐Le , Zhang Ke , Wu Zhi‐Gang , Hattori Masao , Chen Gui‐Lin , Ma Chao‐Mei
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  The apple‐shaped pear, the fruit of the Pyrus pyrifolia cv. pingguoli (Rosaceae) tree, is one of the most popular fruits in the northern part of China. The current study is the 1st report of its bioactive components. We identified 10 metabolites from the peels (exocarp) of apple‐shaped pear and assessed their toxicity. We then compared the anti‐oxidant activity, amount of total phenolic compounds, and total condensed tannin content of the peels and flesh (mesocarp) of apple‐shaped pear. The 6 major components in the peels and flesh of this fruit were quantified with Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography–Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry. Results revealed that the peels possessed stronger anti‐oxidant activity and contained larger amounts of phenolic compounds than the flesh. These results provide insights into the potential health benefits of this fruit and support the use of the fruit peels and products containing peels or peel components.

Practical Application:  The present research provided evidences that the pulp and peel waste from the juice industry of apple‐shaped pear may be a source of useful compounds.
Influence of Gallate and Pyrogallol Moieties on the Intestinal Absorption of (−)‐Epicatechin and (−)‐Epicatechin Gallate
Authors: Tagashira Tomohiko , Choshi Tominari , Hibino Satoshi , Kamishikiryou Jun , Sugihara Narumi
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  The cellular accumulation of individual catechins was measured as an index of intestinal absorption to clarify the interactions among catechins. The cellular accumulation of (−)‐epicatechin (EC) increased in the presence of other catechins. The ability of gallate catechin such as (−)‐epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and (−)‐epicatechin gallate (ECG) to increase the cellular accumulation of EC was greater than that of nongallate catechins. Gallic acid octyl ester (GAO) also increased the cellular accumulation of EC by 426% as compared with that in untreated cells. Conversely, the cellular accumulation of ECG was not influenced by other catechins, but it increased by 54% in the presence of GAO. Experiments using GAO derivatives indicated that the gallate moiety required the presence of a catechol group and a neighboring carbonyl group, whereas the pyrogallol moiety, without a neighboring carbonyl group, required 3 hydroxyl groups to increase the cellular accumulation of EC. Furthermore, gallate esters required long carbon chains to increase the same. The experiment using EGCG, GAO, or their derivatives indicated that the ability of gallate or pyrogallol moiety to increase the cellular accumulation of EC was restricted by their hydrophobicity. These results suggest that the co‐administration of foods containing functional materials such as gallate or pyrogallol moieties, increases the intestinal absorption of catechin.

Practical Application:  The cellular accumulation of (−)‐epicatechin increased by the gallate or pyrogallol moiety in catechin structure. The interaction among catechins appeared to affect intestinal absorption of catechin. The bioavailability of catechin may be improved by co‐administration of functional foods.
Development of Antioxidant Packaging Material by Applying Corn‐Zein to LLDPE Film in Combination with Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Park Hye‐Yeon , Kim Sung‐Jin , Kim Ki Myong , You Young‐Sun , Kim So Yeon , Han Jaejoon
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  Functional active packaging materials were successfully developed by incorporating antioxidant agents into corn‐zein‐laminated linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) film. The minimum effective concentrations of the active compounds (for example, thymol, carvacrol, eugenol) were determined and these compounds were then laminated into LLDPE films to develop corn‐zein‐laminated films with antioxidant agents. The release rate of antioxidant agents in gas and liquid media were determined along with the mechanical and water barrier properties of the films containing these compounds. Tensile strength and percentage elongation at break were reduced in the corn‐zein‐laminated LLDPE films when compared to typical LLDPE film. Furthermore, the ability of the corn‐zein‐laminated films to repel moisture decreased by approximately 12.2%, but was improved by incorporating hydrophobic antioxidant compounds in the corn‐zein layer. Examination of release kinetics in the gas and liquid phases verified that antioxidants were effectively released from the films and inhibited oxidation during testing. Finally, the films were used for fresh ground beef packaging, and effectively inhibited lipid oxidation and had a positive effect on the color stability of beef patties during storage. These results indicate that the developed antioxidant films are a novel active packaging material that can be effectively implemented by the food industry to improve the quality and safety of foods.

Practical Application:  Zein protein, a by‐product of corn processing industry, was laminated into plastic films in combination with natural phenolic compounds to develop antioxidant packaging films. The films demonstrated their efficient release patterns of antioxidant compounds, which are suitable for packaging applications and food protection.
Comparison of EyeCam and anterior segment optical coherence tomography in detecting angle closure
Authors: Baskaran Mani , Aung Tin , Friedman David S. , Tun Tin A. , Perera Shamira A.
Published: September 2012

Purpose:  To compare the diagnostic performance of EyeCam (Clarity Medical Systems, Pleasanton, CA, USA) and anterior segment optical coherence tomography (ASOCT, Visante; Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA, USA) in detecting angle closure, using gonioscopy as the reference standard.

Methods:  Ninety‐eight phakic patients, recruited from a glaucoma clinic, underwent gonioscopy by a single examiner, and EyeCam and ASOCT imaging by another examiner. Another observer, masked to gonioscopy findings, graded EyeCam and ASOCT images. For both gonioscopy and EyeCam, a closed angle in a particular quadrant was defined if the posterior trabecular meshwork was not visible. For ASOCT, angle closure was defined by any contact between the iris and angle anterior to the scleral spur. An eye was diagnosed as having angle closure if ≥2 quadrants were closed. Agreement and area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC) were evaluated.

Results:  The majority of subjects were Chinese (69/98, 70.4%) with a mean age of 60.6 years. Angle closure was diagnosed in 39/98 (39.8%) eyes with gonioscopy, 40/98 (40.8%) with EyeCam and 56/97 (57.7%) with ASOCT. The agreement (kappa statistic) for angle closure diagnosis for gonioscopy versus EyeCam was 0.89; gonioscopy versus ASOCT and EyeCam versus ASOCT were both 0.56. The AUC for detecting eyes with gonioscopic angle closure with EyeCam was 0.978 (95% CI: 0.93–1.0) and 0.847 (95% CI: 0.76–0.92, p < 0.01) for ASOCT.

Conclusion:  The diagnostic performance of EyeCam was better than ASOCT in detecting angle closure when gonioscopic grading was used as the reference standard. The agreement between the two imaging modalities was moderate.
Reproducibility of retinal vessel oxygen saturation measurements in healthy young subjects
Authors: Lasta Michael , Palkovits Stefan , Boltz Agnes , Schmidl Doreen , Kaya Semira , Cherecheanu Alina Popa , Garhöfer Gerhard , Schmetterer Leopold
Published: September 2012

Purpose:  An adequate oxygenation and perfusion is essential for the function of the inner retina. Recently, several techniques for the measurement of retinal oxygen saturation became available. We set out to evaluate reproducibility of the measurements using a modified Retinal Vessel Analyzer.

Methods:  A total of 20 healthy female and male subjects aged between 18 and 35 years (22.9 ± 3.9; mean ± SD) were included. The measurement of retinal oxygen saturation with the retinal oximeter employed in this study is based on optical reflectometry using the different absorption characteristics of oxygenated and deoxygenated haemoglobin. The intraclass correlation coefficients and the coefficients of variation (CV) for test–retest, short‐term as well as day‐to‐day measurements were calculated.

Results:  The intraclass correlation coefficients were between 0.91 and 0.94 for retinal branch arteries and between 0.84 and 0.88 for retinal branch veins. In retinal arteries, we calculated a test–retest CV of 3.24 ± 3.18% for oxygen saturation measurements. In retinal veins, data were slightly less reproducible with a CV of 4.92 ± 3.57%. Short‐term reproducibility of both measurement cycles on each study day was in the same range (CV in retinal arteries: 2.91 ± 2.42% and CV in retinal veins: 4.76 ± 3.14%). The day‐to‐day coefficient of variation was slightly higher (CV in retinal arteries: 3.97 ± 2.87% and CV in retinal veins: 6.18 ± 3.36%).

Conclusion:  The reproducibility of haemoglobin oxygen saturation measurements using the retinal oximeter is acceptable. Further studies on the validity of the obtained results are, however, required.
Biomechanical profile of the cornea in primary congenital glaucoma
Authors: Gatzioufas Zisis , Labiris Georgios , Stachs Oliver , Hovakimyan Marine , Schnaidt Arnulf , Viestenz Arne , Käsmann‐Kellner Barbara , Seitz Berthold
Published: September 2012

Purpose:  The aim of our study was to investigate the biomechanical properties of the cornea in primary congenital glaucoma (PCG) and to identify the potential ocular determinants, which affect the corneal biomechanical metrics.

Methods:  Corneal hysteresis (CH), corneal resistance factor (CRF) and central corneal thickness (CCT) were measured in 26 patients with PCG (40 eyes) with the aid of ocular response analyser. In vivo laser‐scanning confocal microscopy was used for the estimation of stromal keratocyte density (KD) and the evaluation of corneal endothelium. Twenty normal subjects (40 eyes) served as controls. Student’s t‐test and Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used for statistical analysis. p Values <0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results:  Corneal hysteresis, CRF and CCT were significantly reduced in patients with PCG (all p < 0.05). Corneal hysteresis and CRF negatively correlated with the corneal diameter in both groups (r1 = −0.53, r2 = −0.66, p < 0.001 for CH and r1 = −0.61, r2 = −0.69, p < 0.001 for CRF). Moreover, we identified a significant correlation between CH and CRF with CCT in both groups (r1 = 0.51, r2 = 0.48, p < 0.001 for CH and r1 = 0.45, r2 = 0.44, p < 0.001 for CRF). Mean KD was significantly reduced both in the anterior and posterior corneal stroma in patients with PCG (764 ± 162 and 362 ± 112 cells/mm2, respectively) compared with controls (979 ± 208 and 581 ± 131 cells/mm2, respectively) (p < 0.001). There was no significant correlation between the keratocyte density in anterior and/or posterior stroma and CH or CRF in any group (r1 = 0.29, r2 = 0.31, p < 0.06). Mean endothelial cell density was also significantly reduced in PCG group (2920 ± 443 cells/mm2) compared with control group (3421 ± 360 cells/mm2) (p < 0.001). Pleomorphism and polymegalism were significantly increased in corneal endothelium of patients with PCG.

Conclusions:  Our results showed a significant reduction in CH and CRF in PCG. Both CH and CRF were negatively correlated with corneal diameter. A significant correlation of CH and CRF with CCT was identified in both groups. Keratocyte density was decreased in PCG, but did not have a significant impact on CH and CRF. Mean endothelial density was also decreased in PCG. Our results suggest that reduced CCT and increased corneal diameter are major ocular determinants for the modified corneal biomechanical profile in PCG, while cellular alterations in corneal stroma and endothelium have no significant biomechanical impact.
Routine group and save unnecessary for gastric band surgery: a retrospective case review audit of 1018 bariatric patients
Authors: Parker S. , Mahawar K. , Balupuri S. , Boyle M. , Small P.
Published: September 2012

What is already known about this subject

The demand for bariatric surgery is increasing.

NHS Trusts are expected to instigate cost‐efficiency measures.

Previous articles have discussed the need for routine preoperative cross‐match.

What this study adds

No gastric band patient suffered a significant drop in haemoglobin or needed a blood transfusion.

Group and save samples could be safely stored in the laboratory and only sent for analysis if clinically indicated.

Even greater cost savings could be achieved if prudent use of perioperative blood testing and blood transfusion was implemented.

Current guidance at our Trust is that all bariatric surgical patients should have preoperative group and save (G&S) and full blood count (FBC) tests, as well as a FBC check 1 d post‐operatively. Our aim was to investigate blood transfusion requirements of these patients and whether we could reduce the number of investigations requested. 1018 consecutive elective laparoscopic gastric band and laparoscopic Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass patients who were operated on in our bariatric unit from March 2000 until January 2011 were identified. Patients' haemoglobin levels, G&S status and blood transfusion requirements were analyzed using our online pathology system. 607 patients had a laparoscopic gastric band, with 411 undergoing a laparoscopic Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass. None of our gastric band patients required a transfusion; however, nine patients (2.2%) undergoing a gastric bypass needed a transfusion. Two patients required transfusion within 24 h of surgery while six of the remaining seven patients received blood 3–4 d post‐operatively. Costs incurred on FBC and G&S tests during this time were estimated to exceed £15 700.

G&S and post‐operative FBC tests could be abandoned for laparoscopic gastric band patients with significant financial and person‐time savings. However, given that 2.2% of laparoscopic Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass patients needed a blood transfusion, we believe that post‐operative FBC tests are still warranted in this patient group, with a G&S sample stored in pathology. Much greater financial savings could be achieved if prudent use of preoperative investigations, including storing G&S samples in the laboratory, was adopted for all elective operations.