bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of an intra‐oral photographic caries assessment with an established visual caries assessment method for use in dental epidemiological studies of children
Authors: Boye Uriana , Willasey Angela , Walsh Tanya , Tickle Martin , Pretty Iain A.
Published: April 2013

Objectives

A cross‐sectional study was conducted to compare a visual dental examination method developed by the British Association for the Study of Community Dentistry with assessment of intra‐oral photographs as means of detecting dental caries in 5‐year‐olds and 10‐ to 11‐year‐olds.

Method

130 5‐year‐olds and 140 10‐ to 11‐year‐olds were visually examined by five trained and calibrated examiners. The children also had intra‐oral photographs of their teeth taken. The same five examiners assessed the photographs for caries. Both photographic and visual assessments were undertaken at ‘caries into dentine’ level.

Results

Weighted kappas for the outcome DMFT/dmft as a measure of intra‐examiner reliability for the visual examinations ranged from 0.94 to 0.98 (median = 0.98) in the 5‐year‐olds and 0.80 to 1.00 (median = 0.93) in the 10‐ to 11‐year‐olds. Weighted kappas as a measure of intra‐examiner reliability for the photographic assessments ranged from 0.83 to 1.00 (median = 0.93) in the 5‐year‐olds and 0.69 to 0.95 (median = 0.81) in the 10‐ to 11‐year‐olds. Sensitivity values for the photographic assessment method as compared to the gold standard of the visual examination scores of a benchmark examiner ranged from 87.8% to 95.8% in the 5‐year‐olds and 58.5% to 71.7% in the 10‐ to 11‐year‐olds.

Conclusion

There was good intra‐examiner reliability for both the visual and the photographic methods for all the examiners. There are no clinically significant differences between the photographic scores and the visual assessments using any of the metrics described. The photographic approach is therefore equivalent in diagnostic utility to the visual system and confers considerable advantages in terms of examiner bias reduction, remote scoring and archiving. These advantages must be weighed against the modest costs of the cameras and the increase time required to acquire the images.
Interaction of copolymer‐1‐activated T cells and microglia in retinal ganglion cell protection
Authors: Qian Shaohong , Tang Yating , Cheng Lina , Sun Xinghuai , Tian Jie , Zhou Chuandi
Published: April 2013

Background

The interaction of copolymer‐1‐activated T cells and microglia on retinal ganglion cells survival in vitro was explored.

Methods

Copolymer‐1‐specific T cells were made by repeated copolymer‐1 stimulation of T cells, microglia were isolated from the retinas of newborn rats, and then, they were co‐cultured (the experimental group) for 48 h. Retinal ganglion cells were collected from the retinas of adult rats, purified, and then, the supernatants from different groups were added. After 72 h, terminal‐deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated d‐UTP nick end labelling analysis was used to observe retinal ganglion cell apoptosis, and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to test messenger RNA expression of Caspase‐3 and Caspase‐8. The levels of cytokines, including insulin‐like growth factor‐1, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor, tumour necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐10, in the supernatants were examined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay to explore the possible mechanisms undergoing.

Results

After 72 h, the mean retinal ganglion cell apoptosis rate in the experimental group was the lowest (25.36%) among the groups. The messenger RNA expression of Caspase‐3 and Caspase‐8 in this group was significantly lower than that of the control groups (both P < 0.05). The secretion of interlekin‐10 and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor, insulin‐like growth factor‐1 and tumour necrosis factor‐α in the supernatant of the experimental group were higher than that of the control groups (both P < 0.05) after co‐culture.

Conclusions 

The interaction of copolymer‐1‐specific T cells with microglia could reduce retinal ganglion cell apoptosis. The related immune mechanisms were complicated. Upregulation of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor and insulin‐like growth factor‐1, and the balance of some pro‐inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory cytokines may be involved in this protective autoimmunity.
Corneal thickness and elevation measurements using swept‐source optical coherence tomography and slit scanning topography in normal and keratoconic eyes
Authors: Jhanji Vishal , Yang Bingzhi , Yu Marco , Ye Cong , Leung Christopher KS
Published: April 2013

Background

To compare corneal thickness and corneal elevation using swept source optical coherence tomography and slit scanning topography.

Design

Prospective study.

Participants

41 normal and 46 keratoconus subjects.

Methods

All eyes were imaged using swept source optical coherence tomography and slit scanning tomography during the same visit. Mean corneal thickness and best‐fit sphere measurements were compared between the instruments.

Main outcome measures

Agreement of measurements between swept source optical coherence tomography and scanning slit topography was analyzed. Intra‐rater reproducibility coefficient and intraclass correlation coefficient were evaluated.

Results

In normal eyes, central corneal thickness measured by swept source optical coherence tomography was thinner compared with slit scanning topography (p < 0.0001) and ultrasound pachymetry (p = < .0001). Ultrasound pachymetry readings had better 95% limits of agreement with swept source optical coherence tomography than slit scanning topography. In keratoconus eyes, central corneal thickness was thinner on swept source optical coherence tomography than slit scanning topography (p = 0.081) and ultrasound pachymetry (p = 0.001). There were significant differences between thinnest corneal thickness, and, anterior and posterior best‐fit sphere measurements between both instruments (p < 0.05 for all). Overall, reproducibility coefficients and intraclass correlation coefficients were significantly better with swept source optical coherence tomography for measurement of central corneal thickness, anterior best‐fit sphere and, posterior best‐fit sphere (all p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Corneal thickness and elevation measurements were significantly different between swept source optical coherence tomography and slit scanning topography. With better reproducibility coefficients and intraclass correlation coefficients, swept source optical coherence tomography may provide a reliable alternative for measurement of corneal parameters.
Intermediate frequency magnetic field and chick embryotoxicity
Authors: Nishimura Izumi , Tanaka Keiko , Negishi Tadashi
Published: April 2013

Intermediate frequency magnetic fields (MFs) have widely been used in industrial machines and home appliances, such as induction heating cookers, although toxicity studies to evaluate the potential health risks of such fields are insufficient. In induction heating cookers, the MF source (i.e. hobs), is located near the abdominal position of a person cooking. Hence, developmental effects on the fetus may be a concern in case the person is a pregnant woman. Fertile White Leghorn eggs (60/group) were either exposed to 20 kHz, 1.1 mT(rms) or 60 kHz, 0.11 mT(rms) sinusoidal MFs for 19 days during embryogenesis. The same number of eggs served as a control group. In addition, a sham‐sham experiment was conducted to validate the equality between exposure and control facilities. After exposure, embryos were examined for mortality rate and stage. Live embryos were evaluated for developmental stage and gross and skeletal anomalies. Length of upper beak and leg digits was also measured. Examinations were conducted in a blinded fashion to ensure quality assurance; experiments were triplicated for each frequency to confirm the outcome reproducibility. Mortality rate and stage, incidence of malformed embryos, and developmental variables in live embryos were found to be similar between the MF‐exposed and corresponding control group. Incidence of gross anomalies such as mandibular edema and skeletal anomalies such as coccyx defects were low across the experiments, and no significant group differences were noted. In conclusion, exposure to 20 kHz or 60 kHz MF did not produce any significant teratogenic developmental effects in chick embryos.
Children and Society Policy Review: Health Policy Affecting Children and Young People
Authors: Simkiss Doug
Published: April 2013

The Health and Social Care Act comes into force in April 2013. It changes the organisation of the health service and accelerates the integration of health and social care. New relationships between primary and secondary healthcare will develop and the culture of clinical and cost effectiveness will expand into social care; work on children in public care is in the vanguard of this change. However, this is not an organisational change designed for children and there are considerable anxieties about how it will impact on the delivery of health care. The issues for children in public care need to stay high on the national agenda and in local fora.
Highly porous hydroxyapatite with and without local harvested bone in sinus floor augmentation: a histometric study in pigs
Authors: Möller Björn , Acil Yahya , Birkenfeld Falk , Behrens Eleonore , Terheyden Hendrik , Wiltfang Jörg
Published: April 2013

Objective

Sinus floor augmentation with autologous bone is an accepted treatment option in dental implantology. In this study, an entirely synthetic, nano‐structured, hydroxyapatite‐based bone substitute material (SBSM, NanoBone®; Artoss, Rostock, Germany) was supplemented with a mixture of locally harvested bone to enhance osteogenesis.

Methods

Bilateral sinus augmentation procedures were performed in eight domestic pigs using the lateral window technique. On the right side (control), 2.6 ml of SBSM was used, and on the left side (test), 2.6 ml of SBSM with additional 15% (390 μl) autologous bone was used. At the time of augmentation, a titanium implant (ITI®) was inserted from a laterocaudal direction. After 3 months, the sites of augmentation were removed and examined in non‐decalcified sections by microradiography and fluorescence microscopy of sequentially labelled specimens and histometry.

Results

On both sides, a significant amount of newly formed bone was observed. However, a statistically significant difference in the bone‐implant contact was observed in the control group (median, 28.9%) compared with the test side with the additional autologous bone (median, 40.6%) (P = 0.01). Different bone density was achieved from the coronal to apical surfaces (medians, 54.6%, 9.6%, and 27.5%) compared with the test side (medians, 55.2%, 40.6%, and 44.2%). The median of augmentation height was 8.6 mm on the control side and 11.5 mm on the test side (P = 0.01). Bone apposition was observed in both groups after 15 days.

Conclusion

The SBSM shows acceptable results in sinus floor augmentation. The additional use of locally harvested autologous bone enhances bone density and osseointegration of the implants.
Correspondence
Authors: Durham Andy
Published: April 2013

See also response by Suthers et al.
Holistic dentistry – pseudoscience in the 21st century
Authors: Dodes John
Published: April 2013

Many American dentists are adopting unproven and disproven diagnostic and treatment techniques. A critical examination of the most popular of these techniques concludes with a warning to both dentists and their patients to be more sceptical.
Association between MIF gene variation and Meniere's disease
Authors: Yazdani N. , Khorsandi Ashtiani M. T. , Zarandy M. M. , Mohammadi S. J. , Ghazavi H. , Mahrampour E. , Amiri P. , Amoli M. M.
Published: April 2013

Several pieces of evidence support the involvement of immune system in Menière's disease (MD). Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) plays a key role in immune‐mediated reactions. Several studies have shown an association between MIF gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to various inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. The aim of this study was to explore the association between MIF‐173 G/C polymorphism and MD in an Iranian population. In this case–control association study, MD cases (N = 72) were recruited and were comprised of definitive MD (N = 58) and probable MD (N = 14) subjects. Normal healthy subjects (N = 100) were also included. Genotyping for MIF‐173 G/C polymorphism was carried out using PCR‐RFLP technique. There was a significant increase in genotype GG in patients with MD compared with the control group. (GG vs. GC + CC, P = 0.02, OR = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.02–4.3). This was more significant when definitive MD was stratified and compared with the controls (GG vs. GC + CC, P = 0.009, OR = 2.6, 95% CI = 1.19–6.18). This study's result indicates the potential role of MIF in MD of which further evaluation is required. Also, the more significant association between MIF gene polymorphism and definitive MD designates the involvement of specific pathogenic mechanisms which may be considered as a marker for diagnosis.
Enhanced genetic algorithms for a bi‐objective bus driver rostering problem: a computational study
Authors: Respício Ana , Moz Margarida , Vaz Pato Margarida
Published: April 2013

In this work, the bus driver rostering problem is considered in the context of a noncyclic rostering, with two objectives representing either the company or the drivers’ interests. A network model and a proof of the NP‐hardness of the problem are presented, along with a bi‐objective memetic algorithm that combines a specific decoder with a utopian/lexicographic elitism, a strength Pareto fitness evaluation, and a local search procedure. By taking real and benchmark instances the computational behavior of the memetic algorithm is compared with simpler versions to assess the effects of the embedded components. The developed algorithm is a valuable tool for bus companies’ planning departments insofar as it yields at low computing times a pool of good quality rosters that reconcile contradictory objectives. This study shows that simple enhancements in standard bi‐objective genetic algorithms may improve the results for this difficult combinatorial problem.
Influence of Ln3+ and B3+ Ions Co‐Substitution on Thermophysical Properties of LnMB11O19‐type Magnetoplumbite LaMgAl11O19 for Advanced Thermal Barrier Coatings
Authors: Haoran Lu , Chang‐An Wang , Chenguang Zhang
Published: April 2013

Lanthanum hexaaluminate is a promising competitor to establish yttria partially stabilized zirconia as a thermal barrier coating material for Ni‐based superalloy due to its relative low intrinsic thermal conductivity and low sinterability at temperatures exceeding 1100°C. Sr2+ and Ti4+ were selected as two dopants to partially substitute the La3+ and Al3+ in LaMgAl11O19, respectively. The variation in thermal conductivity with Sr2+ and Ti4+ fractions was analyzed based on structure information provided by X‐ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. The average crystal size of LaMgAl11O19 sintered at 1600°C for 10 min by spark plasma sintering is in nanoscale. The fully dense La1−xSrxMgAl11−xTixO19 solid solution showed a minimum thermal conductivity value (λ = 1.12 W/(m K)−1,T = 1273 K) at the composition of La0.5Sr0.5MgAl10.5Ti0.5O19,which possibly reduces from the enhanced phonon scattering due to mass and strain fluctuations at the Ln3+ and B3+ sites.
Hypoinnervation is an early event in experimental myocardial remodelling induced by pressure overload
Authors: Mühlfeld Christian , Schipke Julia , Schmidt Albrecht , Post Heiner , Pieske Burkert , Sedej Simon
Published: April 2013

Structural and functional remodelling of cardiomyocytes, capillaries and cardiac innervation occurs in left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and heart failure (HF) in response to pressure‐induced overload. However, the onset, time course and the extent of these morphological alterations remain controversial. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that the progression from hypertrophy to HF is accompanied by changes in the innervation (hyper‐ or hypoinnervation). Left ventricles of wild‐type murine hearts subjected to pressure overload‐induced hypertrophy by transverse aortic constriction (TAC) were investigated by morphometric and design‐based stereological methods at 1 and 4 weeks after TAC and compared with sham‐operated mice. Mice developed compensated LVH at 1 week and typical signs of HF, such as left ventricular dilation, reduced ejection fraction and increased relative lung weight at 4 weeks post‐TAC. At the (sub‐)cellular level, cardiomyocyte myofibrillar and mitochondrial volume increased progressively in response to mechanical overload. The total length of capillaries was not significantly increased after TAC, indicating a misrelationship between the cardiomyocyte and the capillary compartment. The myocardial innervation decreased already during the development of LVH and did not significantly decrease further during the progression to HF. In conclusion, our study suggests that early loss of myocardial innervation density and increased heterogeneity occur during pressure overload‐induced hypertrophy, and that these changes appear to be independent of cardiomyocyte and capillary remodelling.
“Salience network” dysfunction hypothesis in autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Toyomaki Atsuhito , Murohashi Harumitsu
Published: April 2013

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, as well as repetitive and stereotyped patterns of behavior. Although most patients with ASD show sensory abnormalities such as hyperesthesia and hypoesthesia, its relation to social cognition has not been well studied. Recently, a salience network (SN) dysfunction hypothesis of ASD has been proposed. This neuroscientific hypothesis might explain how a SN integrating external sensory stimuli with internal states mediates interactions between large‐scale networks involved in externally and internally oriented cognitive processing. In the brain of patients with ASD, areas of the SN, including the anterior insula, become dysfunctional, which results in difficulty in operating social cognition and self‐referential processing. Here we discuss the controversial points and future directions of this hypothesis.
Maternal hepatitis B surface antigen status and incidence of pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Lao T. T. , Sahota D. S. , Cheng Y. K. Y. , Law L. W. , Leung T. Y.
Published: April 2013

The relationship between chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection with atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disorders remains unclear, and the impact of maternal HBV infection on the development of pregnancy‐induced hypertension (PIH) and pre‐eclampsia (PE) is also controversial. This retrospective cohort study was conducted to examine the relationship between maternal hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) status with PIH and PE in singleton pregnancies that delivered at 24 weeks of gestation and beyond. Among the 86 537 cases in the cohort, 10% were HBsAg positive, and overall 2.0% had PIH, of whom 56.3% developed PE. HBsAg‐positive women had higher weight and body mass index (BMI), but lower incidences of advanced age, nulliparity, PIH (1.6% vs 2.0%, P = 0.007) and PE (0.8% vs 1.1%, P = 0.005). On multiple logistic regression analysis adjusting for the effects of nulliparity, advanced age, high BMI, and underlying renal, cardiac and autoimmune diseases, HBsAg carriage was associated with significantly reduced incidence of PIH (aOR 0.79, 95% CI 0.66–0.95) and PE (aOR 0.71, 95% CI 0.56–0.91). Our results indicate that maternal HBsAg carriage is independently associated with reduced PE. As chronic HBV infection alters the immune response of the individual, our observation could be related to enhanced maternal immunotolerance of the foetus and hence a reduction in the incidence of PE. The implications of our findings on the long‐term health outcome of the infected women, from cardiovascular morbidity to malignancies, warrant further studies.
The role of the hepatitis viruses in cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Ralphs S. , Khan S. A.
Published: April 2013

Cholangiocarcinoma is the second most common liver cancer in the world. The aetiology of the disease is diverse incorporating a variety of conditions leading to biliary stasis, biliary and liver inflammation, but a large number of cases still occur in the absence of established risk factors. Its incidence and mortality is increasing, which has intensified the search for alternative aetiological agents and pathogenetic mechanisms. Chronic infection with hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses are the primary risk factor for hepatocellular cancer. This review focuses on the epidemiological evidence of a role for these viruses in cholangiocarcinoma and the pathogenetic mechanisms that might be involved.
Feeding in natricines: relationships among feeding morphology, behavior, performance and preferred prey type
Authors: Hampton P. M.
Published: April 2013

The diversity of feeding mechanisms among predators reflects phenotypic modifications that may improve feeding performance on a preferred prey type. I compared trophic morphology, feeding performance (time and upper‐jaw walks) and behavior (initial bite and ingestion directions) among three species of natricine snakes that were fed fish and frogs over a broad range of relative prey sizes. Feeding behavior was influenced by prey type but did not differ among the snake species. Both bite and ingestion directions influenced the number of upper‐jaw movements (lateral excursions and protractions) required to consume fish, but only initial bite position significantly affected the number of upper‐jaw movements required to ingest frogs. Within snake species, feeding performance did not differ between fish and frogs for Nerodia fasciata and Nerodia rhombifer; however, Thamnophis proximus consumed fish with fewer upper‐jaw movements. Feeding time differed significantly among snake species when fed both fish and frogs. Trophic morphology did not significantly affect ingestion costs for fish but did influence ingestion when fed frogs. In general, differences in trophic morphology among the three species are not correlated to handling and ingestion performance.
Place attachment and community activism at the coast: The case of Ngunguru, Northland
Authors: Collins Damian , Kearns Robin
Published: April 2013

The politics of place precipitated by a development proposal for a privately owned sandspit in Ngunguru, Northland, is examined in this article. It centres on residents' place attachment and the ways in which this helped to inform community resistance to development. A framing analysis of 23 stakeholder interviews conducted in 2008–2009 was carried out by the authors. Place attachment was centred on holistic appreciation of the sandspit's special values. A widespread view that exercise of private property rights over the site was deeply problematic was informed by this appreciation. Community ties were enhanced by shared perceptions of a threat to the sandspit.
Pole to Pole. Archaeology and Adaptation in the Middle Pleistocene at Opposite Ends of the Acheulean World
Authors: McNabb John
Published: April 2013

The concept of cultural evolution in the Acheulean is linked to a number of important anatomical, phylogenetic, adaptive, cultural and cognitive research questions. Yet there are very few studies which are able to demonstrate advancements in material culture (technological and/or conceptual) supported by large bodies of empirical data. Derek Roe's work at Olduvai Gorge is one of the few exceptions and here, in my opinion, raw material considerations affect the evidence of increasing diachronic sophistication (Leakey and Roe 1994). Otherwise, evidence for such material culture evolution is largely anecdotal. This study takes large bodies of handaxe data from South Africa and Britain, and using dated assemblages, wherever possible, explores the idea of hominins paying increasing attention to shape and morphological regularity (not symmetry) over time. The results give no reason to believe such a diachronic trend exists. These data are set against the latest research in chronostratigraphic studies and hominin taxonomy.
A Double Bone Comb from Karamattepe, The Nif Mountain Excavation
Authors: Peker Müjde
Published: April 2013

A miniature double bone comb was found in the excavations at Karamattepe in 2009 in the context of the Nif (Olympos) Mountain Research and Excavation Project. A new interpretation of its function is proposed here in light of both its find context in the residential area of the site and its socket for a handle, a feature not found on other comparable examples. This paper presents new suggestions about the purpose and date of this and other such combs.
The Sarmatians: The Creation of Archaeological Evidence
Authors: Mordvintseva Valentina
Published: April 2013

According to the general modern view the steppes of the northern Black Sea region, from the Danube to the Ural valleys, in the period from the third century BC to the mid‐third century AD, were inhabited by Sarmatian tribes using a burial mound rite. Several consecutive waves of Sarmatian peoples came to this territory from the East, conquering the local population. This view is based on the paradigmatic explanatory model, which has its roots in the history of the Russian Empire. However, the archaeological culture of the Volga–Don and Ural steppes, known as the ‘Sarmatian Motherland’, is apparently not related to the Sarmatians of the written sources. In addition, the culture of the northern Black Sea region features various kinds of archaeological monuments (settlements, votive depositions, kurgans, flat necropolises), which are characteristic of different cultural‐economic types. This demonstrates the complexity and diversity of the culture in the region, which could be influenced by many factors: the presence of Greek settlers on the northern shore of the Black Sea, the expansion of the Roman Empire, the pressure of nomadic tribes from the East, the advance of the Celtic–Thracian peoples from the West, changing environmental conditions, etc.
Accuracy of the CNAP™ monitor, a noninvasive continuous blood pressure device, in providing beat‐to‐beat blood pressure readings in pediatric patients weighing 20–40 kilograms
Authors: Kako Hiromi , Corridore Marco , Rice Julie , Tobias Joseph D.
Published: April 2013

Background

During perioperative care, the continuous measurement of blood pressure (BP) provides superior physiologic monitoring to intermittent techniques. However, such monitoring requires placement of an intraarterial catheter, which may be time‐consuming or associated with adverse events and technical difficulty. A noninvasive, continuous BP monitoring device has been studied in the adult population. This study prospectively assesses its accuracy in pediatric patients, weighing 20–40 kg.

Methods

The technology evaluated is the CNAP™ Monitor 500, developed by CNSystems AG (Graz, Austria). The study cohort included pediatric patients weighing between 20 and 40 kg, scheduled for surgery for which arterial line (AL) placement was planned. Systolic (sBP), diastolic (dBP), and mean arterial (MAP) blood pressure readings were captured from the AL and the CNAP™ device every minute during anesthetic care.

Results

The study cohort consisted of 20 patients (11 weighing between 30 and 40 kg and 9 weighing between 20 and 29.9 kg) with a mean age of 9.8 ± 3.4 years (range, 6–16 years) and weight of 29.8 ± 6.1 kg (range, 20.9–38.7 kg). There were a total of 1076 pairs each of sBP, dBP, and MAP values in the 20–29.9 kg group. The absolute difference between the sBP, dBP, and MAP was 9.8 ± 8.5, 6.8 ± 5.3, and 6.7 ± 6.2 mmHg, respectively. The correlation coefficient between the AL and the CNAP™ device was 0.48, 0.60, and 0.64 for the sBP, dBP, and MAP, respectively. The CNAP™ values (sBP, dBP, MAP) were ≤5 mmHg from the AL values in 38.6%, 48.5%, and 55.0% of the values, respectively. In the 30–40 kg group, there were a total of 2737 pairs of sBP, dBP, and MAP values. The absolute difference between the sBP, dBP, and MAP was 11.5 ± 9.3, 7.5 ± 5.3, and 7.9 ± 6.6 mmHg, respectively. The correlation coefficient between the arterial cannula and the CNAP™ device was 0.48, 0.45, and 0.51 for the sBP, dBP, and MAP, respectively. CNAP™ readings were ≤5 mmHg from the AL values (sBP, dBP, MAP) in 29.0%, 41.9%, and 40.5% of the values, respectively.

Conclusion

Although some variation in its accuracy was noted, the CNAP™ device provides a noninvasive and continuous blood pressure reading which appears to be within clinically useful limits. It may be that modification of the finger cuffs is needed to improve its absolute accuracy as our clinical experience demonstrated that achieving an effective fit with the cuffs was at times difficult.
Shade Provision for Toddlers at Swimming Pools in Melbourne
Authors: Gies Peter , Makin Jennifer , Dobbinson Suzanne , Javorniczky John , Henderson Stuart , Guilfoyle Robert , Lock Jordan
Published: April 2013

This study assessed the UVR protection provided by shade structures over toddler pools at swimming pool centers in Melbourne. The UVR protection was measured using a combination of UV sensitive polysulfone film to derive an average value during the middle of the day (1–2 P.M.) and handheld UV meters to derive the time variability in UV protection between 11 A.M. and 3 P.M. The amount of UVR protection provided by the shade structures depended upon a number of factors such as location, size, and materials used, but generally ranged from a protection factor (PF) of 2 to ~ 16. The higher PFs were generally for larger structures or where the shade had other structures nearby. The handheld UV meter measurements showed the UV protection varied with position under the shade structure as well as with time of day. While provision of shade structures is becoming more widespread around Australia, improving the shade availability at the pool centers overall, the application of recommendations regarding the provision of shade has been followed to a varying degree by many of the pools visited in this study. In many cases, continued further improvements can be made to provide more adequate protection and further reduce UV exposures.
Successful Treatment for Subinvolution of Placental Sites in the Bitch with Low Oral Doses of Progestagen
Authors: Voorhorst MJ , van Brederode JC , Albers‐Wolthers CHJ , de Gier J , Schaefers‐Okkens AC
Published: April 2013

Contents

Subinvolution of placental sites (SIPS) is the major cause of persistent sanguineous vaginal discharge after parturition in the bitch. Spontaneous remission is common but may take several months, and hence, medical therapy to end the discharge is often requested. In this retrospective study, we evaluated the effect of treatment for SIPS with low oral doses of a progestagen. Nine bitches with SIPS, but otherwise clinically healthy, were found in the computer database of the Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals. Seven of these bitches were treated with low oral doses of a progestagen (megestrol acetate, 0.1 mg/kg body weight (bw) once daily for the 1st week, then 0.05 mg/kg bw once daily for the 2nd week). The other two bitches were untreated. Treatment results were evaluated by a telephone questionnaire. Progestagen treatment was successful in all of the treated dogs; sanguineous vaginal discharge stopped within the treatment period. One of the two untreated dogs remained symptomatic until the next oestrus, approximately 120 days after parturition, and the other remained symptomatic until 6 weeks before the start of the next pro‐oestrus, 270 days after parturition. No side effects of the progestagen treatment were observed. Subsequent gestations, parturitions and puerperal periods of 5 mated bitches were uneventful. One bitch did not become pregnant after mating. In conclusion, the results of this study indicate that oral administration of low doses of progestagen for 2 weeks is effective in stopping persistent sanguineous vaginal discharge in bitches with SIPS, with neither side effects nor reduced subsequent fertility.
The phatic finger: Public gesture and shared meaning on the highways of the Australian Outback
Authors: Peace Adrian
Published: April 2013

This paper explores the cultural significance of ephemeral public greetings on the highways of Australia's Northern Territory. Despite the exceptional speed at which vehicles pass one another and the fact that such salutations are mostly between travellers who have no acquaintance with one another, few drivers fail to acknowledge the co‐presence of others on the highway. The main concern of this account is to detail how this greeting system works, including the diverse meanings which can be attached to participation in it. In conclusion, it is suggested that this is a form of phatic communication which, as Malinowski (1923) said, eschews engagement with weighty economic and political issues, but contributes significantly to a sense of community between those involved.
Sizing of Molybdenum Nanoparticles Using Time-Resolved Laser-Induced Incandescence
Authors: Sipkens T. , Joshi G. , Daun K. J. , Murakami Y.
Published: April 2013

Aerosolized metal nanoparticles have numerous existing and emerging applications in materials science, but their functionality in these roles is strongly size-dependent. Very recently, time-resolved laser-induced incandescence (TiRe-LII) has been investigated as a candidate for sizing aerosolized metal nanoparticles, which requires an accurate model of the heat transfer through which the laser-energized particles re-equilibrate with the bath gas. This paper presents such a model for molybdenum nanoparticles, which is then used to analyze experimental TiRe-LII data made on aerosols of molybdenum nanoparticles in helium, argon, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. While it is possible to estimate the particle size distribution width, recovering particles sizes requires independent knowledge of the thermal accommodation coefficient, which is presently unknown.
In situ Auger probe enabling epitaxy composition control of alloys by elemental surface analysis
Authors: Laws Calley W. , Greenlee Jordan D. , Henderson Walter E. , Lowder Jonathan , Moseley Michael W. , Alan Doolittle W. , Staib Philippe G.
Published: April 2013

An in situ Auger probe (AP) is employed to monitor changes in growth surface chemistry of the component elements of Terfenol-D, a completely miscible alloy of DyFe2 and TbFe2. The AP's surface sensitivity is quantified by depositing Dy onto a layer of Tb in 0.01 monolayer increments. The AP is able to distinguish surface coverage changes as small as 2% of a monolayer when elements with similar Auger spectra are used. The AP also allowed the identification of oxygen contamination in the system. Additionally, the glancing angle incidence primary electrons result in enhanced surface sensitivity compared to a more traditional Auger electrons spectroscopy configuration.
On the feasibility of optical‐CT imaging in media of different refractive index
Authors: Rankine Leith , Oldham Mark
Published: April 2013

Purpose:

Achieving accurate optical‐CT 3D dosimetry without the use of viscous refractive index (RI) matching fluids would greatly increase convenience.

Methods:

Software has been developed to simulate optical‐CT 3D dosimetry for a range of scanning configurations including parallel‐beam, point, and converging light sources. For each configuration the efficacy of three refractive media was investigated: air, water, a fluid closely matched to PRESAGE®, and perfect matching (RI = 1.00, 1.33, 1.49, and 1.501 respectively). Reconstructions were performed using both filtered backprojection (FBP) and algebraic reconstruction technique (ART). The efficacy of the three configurations and the two algorithms was evaluated by calculating the usable radius (i.e., the outermost radius where data were accurate to within 2%), and gamma (Γ) analysis. This definition recognizes that for optical‐CT imaging, errors are greatest near the edge of the dosimeter, where refraction can be most pronounced. Simulations were performed on three types of dose distribution: uniform, volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT), and brachytherapy (Cs‐137).

Results:

For a uniformly irradiated dosimeter the usable radius achieved with filtered backprojection was 68% for water‐matching and 31% for dry‐scanning in air. Algebraic reconstruction gave usable radii of 99% for both water and air (dry‐scanning), indicating greater recovery of useful data for the uniform distribution. FBP and ART performed equally well for a VMAT dose distribution where less dose is delivered near the edge of the dosimeter. In this case, the usable radius was 86% and 53% for scanning in water and air, respectively. For brachytherapy, the usable radius was 99% and 98% for scanning in water and air, respectively using FBP, and a major decrease was seen with ART. Point source geometry provided 1%–2% larger usable radii than parallel geometry. Converging geometry recovered less usable dosimetry data (up to 10% reduced usable radii) than point and parallel geometries. A further disadvantage of converging geometry was an increased requirement on detector size by up to 18°.

Conclusions:

For applications where dose information is not required in the periphery of the dosimeter, some dry and low‐viscous matching configurations may be feasible. For all three dose distributions (uniform, VMAT, brachytherapy) the point source geometry produced slightly more favorable results (an extra 1%–2% usable radii) than parallel and converging. When dosimetry is required on the periphery, best results were obtained using close refractive matching and ART. A concern for water or dry‐scanning is the increase in required detector size, introducing potential cost penalties for manufacturing.
Neuregulin-1 Type I: A Hidden Power Within Schwann Cells for Triggering Peripheral Nerve Remyelination
Authors: Krishnan Anand
Published: April 2013

Loss of axonal contact stimulates Schwann cells to produce an autocrine signal that promotes remyelination.
The Streptococcal Cysteine Protease SpeB Is Not a Natural Immunoglobulin-Cleaving Enzyme
Authors: Persson Helena , Vindebro Reine , von Pawel-Rammingen Ulrich
Published: April 2013

The human bacterial pathogen
Streptococcus pyogenes
has developed a broad variety of virulence mechanisms to evade the actions of the host immune defense. One of the best-characterized factors is the streptococcal cysteine protease SpeB, an important multifunctional protease that contributes to group A streptococcal pathogenesis
in vivo
. Among many suggested activities, SpeB has been described to degrade various human plasma proteins, including immunoglobulins (Igs). In this study, we show that SpeB has no Ig-cleaving activity under physiological conditions and that only Igs in a reduced state, i.e., semimonomeric molecules, are cleaved and degraded by SpeB. Since reducing conditions outside eukaryotic cells have to be considered nonphysiological and IgG in a reduced state lacks biological effector functions, we conclude that SpeB does not contribute to
S. pyogenes
virulence through the proteolytic degradation of Igs.
Characterization of the Pneumocystis carinii Histone Acetyltransferase Chaperone Proteins PcAsf1 and PcVps75
Authors: Pupaibool Jakrapun , Kottom Theodore J. , Bouchonville Kelly , Limper Andrew H.
Published: April 2013

Rtt109 is a lysine acetyltransferase that acetylates histone H3 at lysine 56 (H3K56) in fungi. This acetylation event is important for proper DNA replication and repair to occur. Efficient Rtt109 acetyltransferase activity also requires a histone chaperone, vacuolar protein sorting 75 (Vps75), as well as the major chaperone of the H3-H4 dimer, anti-silencing factor 1 (Asf1). Little is known about the role of these proteins in the opportunistic fungal pathogen
Pneumocystis carinii
. To investigate the functions of Asf1 and Vps75 in
Pneumocystis carinii
, we cloned and characterized both of these genes. Here, we demonstrate that both genes,
P. carinii asf1
(
Pcasf1
) and
Pcvps75
, function in a fashion analogous to their
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
counterparts. We demonstrate that both
P. carinii
Asf1 (PcAsf1) and PcVps75 can bind histones. Furthermore, when
Pcasf1
is expressed heterologously in
S. cerevisiae asf1
Δ cells, PcAsf1 can restore full H3 lysine acetylation. We further demonstrated that the
Pcasf1
cDNA expressed in
asf1
Δ
S. cerevisiae
cells can restore growth to wild-type levels in the presence of genotoxic agents that block DNA replication. Lastly, we observed that purified PcAsf1 and PcVps75 proteins enhance the ability of PcRtt109 to acetylate histone H3-H4 tetramers. Together, our results indicate that the functions of the Rtt109-Asf1-Vps75 complex in the acetylation of histone H3 lysine 56 and in DNA damage response are present in
P. carinii
DNA and cell cycle progression.
Key Role for the Alternative Sigma Factor, SigH, in the Intracellular Life of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis during Macrophage Stress
Authors: Ghosh Pallab , Wu Chia-wei , Talaat Adel M.
Published: April 2013

Mycobacterium avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
causes Johne's disease, an enteric infection in cattle and other ruminants, greatly afflicting the dairy industry worldwide. Once inside the cell,
M. avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
is known to survive harsh microenvironments, especially those inside activated macrophages. To improve our understanding of
M. avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
pathogenesis, we examined phagosome maturation associated with transcriptional responses of
M. avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
during macrophage infection. Monitoring cellular markers, only live
M. avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
bacilli were able to prevent phagosome maturation and reduce its acidification. On the transcriptional level, over 300
M. avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
genes were significantly and differentially regulated in both naive and IFN-γ-activated macrophages. These genes include the sigma factor H (
sigH
) that was shown to be important for
M. avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
survival inside gamma interferon (IFN-γ)-activated bovine macrophages. Interestingly, an
sigH
-knockout mutant showed increased sensitivity to a sustained level of thiol-specific oxidative stress. Large-scale RNA sequence analysis revealed that a large number of genes belong to the
sigH
regulon, especially following diamide stress. Genes involved in oxidative stress and virulence were among the induced genes in the
sigH
regulon with a putative consensus sequence for SigH binding that was recognized in a subset of these genes (
n
= 30), suggesting direct regulation by SigH. Finally, mice infections showed a significant attenuation of the Δ
sigH
mutant compared to its parental strain, suggesting a role for
sigH
in
M. avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
virulence. Such analysis could identify potential targets for further testing as vaccine candidates against Johne's disease.
Reversible myocarditis after spider bite
Authors: Kara Hasan , Ak Ahmet , Bayir Aysegul , Avci Ahmet
Published: April 2013

Black widow spiders (Latrodectus tredecimguttatus) are poisonous spiders endemic in Turkey.Latrodectusbites may cause myocarditis with increased cardiac enzymes. We treated two men (aged 20 and 33 years) who had myocarditis after black spider bites with leucocytosis and elevated levels of troponin I, creatine kinase and creatine kinase-MB fraction. Both patients had normal results on an ECG, and one patient had abnormal echocardiography with minimal left ventricular wall movement disorder. Both patients were hospitalised in the intensive care unit and treated with intravenous fluids, analgesics, spasmolytic drugs, tetanus prophylaxis and cardiac monitoring. The levels of troponin I, creatine kinase and creatine kinase-MB fraction improved, and the patients were discharged home on the third and fifth hospital day without complications. Myocarditis after aLatrodectusbite is rare, but may be associated with serious complications. Therefore, in regions endemic withLatrodectusspiders, prudent treatment of spider bites may include cardiac evaluation and monitoring.
Intra-arterial reperfusion strategies in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Jadhav Ashutosh P , Jovin Tudor G
Published: April 2013

Untreated large vessel occlusions lead to high rates of mortality and morbidity in ischemic stroke. The ‘recanalization hypothesis’ posits that timely restoration of flow in the ischemic area leads to improved clinical outcomes by salvaging the underperfused and threatened tissue (penumbra). Intravenous thrombolysis is the first-line treatment for reperfusion but recanalization can be slow and incomplete, particularly for proximal occlusions. Intra-arterial approaches have evolved from the local delivery of pharmacological agents to the employment of mechanical devices. While the first-generation approaches (intra-arterial thrombolytic agents, Merci, Penumbra) showed higher rates of recanalization than intravenous treatment, recently published randomized clinical trials failed to show a benefit of intra-arterial over intravenous treatment alone. A new generation of flow restoration devices (Solitaire, Trevo) has been shown in randomized trials to be far superior to the Merci device with respect to both recanalization rates and speed of recanalization translating into significant differences in clinical outcomes. These promising approaches require level I evidence of clinical efficacy compared with medical treatment in order to become standard of care across large patient populations.
OPEN PROBLEMS IN VETO THEORY
Authors: CHESSA MICHELA , FRAGNELLI VITO
Published: April 2013

The issue of veto may play an important role in an approval situation, mainly in political science, where several scholars dealt with this topic. In this survey we want to update the state-of-the-art, paying particular attention to the open problems that various authors pointed out in their research fields.
SOCIAL CHOICE AND COOPERATIVE GAME THEORY: VOTING GAMES AS SOCIAL AGGREGATION FUNCTIONS
Authors: MARTIN MATHIEU , SALLES MAURICE
Published: April 2013

We consider voting games as procedures to aggregate individual preferences. We survey positive results on the nonemptiness of the core of voting games and explore other solutions concepts that are basic supersets of the core such as Rubinstein's stability set and two types of uncovered sets. We consider cases where the sets of alternatives are 'ordinary' sets, finite sets and infinite sets with possibly a topological structure.
MODELING THE HUMAN BLINK: A COMPUTATIONAL MODEL FOR USE WITHIN HUMAN–ROBOT INTERACTION
Authors: FORD C. C. , BUGMANN G. , CULVERHOUSE P.
Published: April 2013

This paper describes findings from a Human-to-Human Interaction experiment that examines human communicative non-verbal facial behaviour. The aim was to develop a more comfortable and effective model of social human-robot communication. Analysis of the data revealed a strong co-occurrence between human blink production and non-verbal communicative behaviours of own speech instigation and completion, interlocutor speech instigation, looking at/away from the interlocutor, facial expression instigation and completion, and mental communicative state changes. Seventy-one percent of the total 2007 analysed blinks co-occurred with these behaviours within a time window of +/- 375 ms, well beyond their chance co-occurrence probability of 23%. Thus between 48% and 71% of blinks are directly related to human communicative behaviour and are not simply "physiological" (e.g., for cleaning/humidifying the eye). Female participants are found to blink twice as often as male participants, in the same communicative scenario, and have a longer average blink duration. These results provide the basis for the implementation of a blink generation system as part of a social cognitive robot for human-robot interaction.