bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Clinical Comparative Study of 3‐Dimensional Accuracy between Digital and Conventional Implant Impression Techniques
Authors: Alsharbaty Mohammed Hussein M. , Alikhasi Marzieh , Zarrati Simindokht , Shamshiri Ahmed Reza
Published: February 2018

Purpose

To evaluate the accuracy of a digital implant impression technique using a TRIOS 3Shape intraoral scanner (IOS) compared to conventional implant impression techniques (pick‐up and transfer) in clinical situations.

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐six patients who had two implants (Implantium, internal connection) ranging in diameter between 3.8 and 4.8 mm in posterior regions participated in this study after signing a consent form. Thirty‐six reference models (RM) were fabricated by attaching two impression copings intraorally, splinted with autopolymerizing acrylic resin, verified by sectioning through the middle of the index, and rejoined again with freshly mixed autopolymerizing acrylic resin pattern (Pattern Resin) with the brush bead method. After that, the splinted assemblies were attached to implant analogs (DANSE) and impressed with type III dental stone (Gypsum Microstone) in standard plastic die lock trays. Thirty‐six working casts were fabricated for each conventional impression technique (i.e., pick‐up and transfer). Thirty‐six digital impressions were made with a TRIOS 3Shape IOS. Eight of the digitally scanned files were damaged; 28 digital scan files were retrieved to STL format. A coordinate‐measuring machine (CMM) was used to record linear displacement measurements (x, y, and z‐coordinates), interimplant distances, and angular displacements for the RMs and conventionally fabricated working casts. CATIA 3D evaluation software was used to assess the digital STL files for the same variables as the CMM measurements. CMM measurements made on the RMs and conventionally fabricated working casts were compared with 3D software measurements made on the digitally scanned files. Data were statistically analyzed using the generalized estimating equation (GEE) with an exchangeable correlation matrix and linear method, followed by the Bonferroni method for pairwise comparisons (α = 0.05).

Results

The results showed significant differences between the pick‐up and digital groups in all of the measured variables (p < 0.001). Concerning the transfer and digital groups, the results were statistically significant in angular displacement (p < 0.001), distance measurements (p = 0.01), and linear displacement (p = 0.03); however, between the pick‐up and transfer groups, there was no statistical significance in all of the measured variables (interimplant distance deviation, linear displacement, and angular displacement deviations).

Conclusions

According to the results of this study, the digital implant impression technique had the least accuracy. Based on the study outcomes, distance and angulation errors associated with the intraoral digital implant impressions were too large to fabricate well‐fitting restorations for partially edentulous patients. The pick‐up implant impression technique was the most accurate, and the transfer technique revealed comparable accuracy to it.
Trend and outcome of sepsis in children: A nationwide cohort study
Authors: Yo Chia‐Hung , Hsu Tzu‐Chun , Gabriel Lee Meng‐Tse , Porta Lorenzo , Tsou Po‐Yang , Wang Yu‐Hsun , Lee Wan‐Chien , Chen Szu‐Ta , Lee Chien‐Chang ,   on behalf of National Taiwan University Hospital Health Economics and Outcome Research Group
Published: February 2018

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the trend of incidence and outcome of paediatric sepsis in a population‐based database.

Methods

Children with sepsis were identified from the 23 million nationwide health insurance claims database of Taiwan. Sepsis was defined by the presence of single ICD‐9 code for severe sepsis or septic shock or a combination of ICD‐9 codes for infection and organ dysfunction. We analysed the trend of incidence, mortality and source of infection in three age groups: infant (28 days to 1 year), child (1–9 years) and adolescent (10–18 years).

Results

From 2002 to 2012, we identified 38 582 paediatric patients with sepsis, of which 21.3% were infants, 52.8% were children and 25.8% were adolescents. The incidence of sepsis was 336.4 cases per 100 000 population in infants, 3.3 times higher than in children (101.5/100 000 cases) and 7.3 times higher than in adolescents (46.2/100 000 cases). While sepsis incidence decreased from 598.0 to 336.4 cases per 100 000 people in the infant population, it remained relatively unchanged in children and adolescents. For 90‐day mortality, there were significant decreases in all three age groups (absolute decrease of 5.0% for infants, 3.7% for children and 14.4% for the adolescents). In the infant population, we observed a decrease in the incidence of lower respiratory tract infections, while the incidence of urinary tract infections remained unchanged.

Conclusions

The incidence and mortality of sepsis among paediatric patients have decreased substantially between 2002 and 2012, especially among infants. The widespread use of Haemophilus influenzae and pneumococcal vaccines in infants could be a possible explanation.
EMERGING DISCOURSE INCUBATOR: Delivering Transformational Change: Aligning Supply Chains and Stakeholders in Non‐Governmental Organizations
Authors: Gualandris Jury , Klassen Robert D.
Published: February 2018

Governments and global corporations increasingly both confront and rely on international non‐governmental organizations (INGOs) to identify, design, and deliver interventions that prompt transformational change in societies, industries, and supply chains. ForINGOs, transformational change is defined as a fundamental, long‐lasting reframing of a social or industrial system through synergistically altering the knowledge, practices, and relationships of multiple stakeholder groups. With each intervention, the focalINGOassembles its own complex supply chain of nonprofit organizations and for‐profit firms to provide the necessary resources and skills. While prior supply chain management literature provides a good starting point, with some generalizability to the nonprofit sector, this study begins with several key differences to explore how interventions are delivered, and then, howINGOs’ supply chains must be aligned. In doing so, at least three critical factors must be taken into account to improve alignment: stakeholder‐induced uncertainty; supply chain configuration; and supply chain dynamism. By synthesizing these factors with prior literature and emerging anecdotal evidence, tentative frameworks and research questions emerge about howINGOs can better leverage their supply chains, thereby offering a basis for scholars in supply chain management to build a much richer and more nuanced research understanding ofINGOs.
Zinc Deficiency‐Like Syndrome in Fleckvieh Calves: Clinical and Pathological Findings and Differentiation from Bovine Hereditary Zinc Deficiency
Authors: Langenmayer M.C. , Jung S. , Majzoub‐Altweck M. , Trefz F.M. , Seifert C. , Knubben‐Schweizer G. , Fries R. , Hermanns W. , Gollnick N.S.
Published: February 2018

Background

Zinc deficiency‐like (ZDL) syndrome is an inherited defect of Fleckvieh calves, with striking similarity to bovine hereditary zinc deficiency (BHZD). However, the causative mutation in a phospholipase D4 encoding gene (PLD4) shows no connection to zinc metabolism.

Objectives

To describe clinical signs, laboratory variables, and pathological findings of ZDL syndrome and their utility to differentiate ZDL from BHZD and infectious diseases with similar phenotype.

Animals

Nine hospitalized calves with crusting dermatitis and confirmed mutation in PLD4 and medical records from 25 calves with crusting dermatitis or suspected zinc deficiency.

Methods

Prospective and retrospective case series.

Results

The 9 calves (age: 5–53 weeks) displayed a moderate to severe crusting dermatitis mainly on the head, ventrum, and joints. Respiratory and digestive tract inflammations were frequently observed. Zinc supplementation did not lead to remission of clinical signs in 4 calves. Laboratory variables revealed slight anemia in 8 calves, hypoalbuminemia in 6 calves, but reduced serum zinc concentrations in only 3 calves. Mucosal erosions/ulcerations were present in 7 calves and thymus atrophy or reduced thymic weights in 8 calves. Histologically, skin lesions were indistinguishable from BHZD. Retrospective analysis of medical records revealed the presence of this phenotype since 1988 and pedigree analysis revealed a common ancestor of several affected calves.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

ZDL syndrome should be suspected in Fleckvieh calves with crusting dermatitis together with diarrhea or respiratory tract inflammations without response to oral zinc supplementation. Definite diagnosis requires molecular genetic confirmation of the PLD4 mutation.
Taxon sampling effects on the quantification and comparison of community phylogenetic diversity
Authors: Park Daniel S. , Worthington Steven , Xi Zhenxiang
Published: February 2018

Ecologists are increasingly making use of molecular phylogenies, especially in the fields of community ecology and conservation. However, these phylogenies are often used without full appreciation of their underlying assumptions and uncertainties. A frequent practice in ecological studies is inferring a phylogeny with molecular data from taxa only within the community of interest. These “inferred community phylogenies” are inherently biased in their taxon sampling. Despite the importance of comprehensive sampling in constructing phylogenies, the implications of using inferred community phylogenies in ecological studies have not been examined. Here, we evaluate how taxon sampling affects the quantification and comparison of community phylogenetic diversity using both simulated and empirical data sets. We demonstrate that inferred community trees greatly underestimate phylogenetic diversity and that the probability of incorrectly ranking community diversity can reach up to 25%, depending on the dating methods employed. We argue that to reach reliable conclusions, ecological studies must improve their taxon sampling and generate the best phylogeny possible.
Knowing why
Authors: Cox Ryan
Published: February 2018

In this essay, I argue that we have a non‐inferential way of knowing particular explanations of our own actions and attitudes. I begin by explicating and evaluating Nisbett and Wilson's influential argument to the contrary. I argue that Nisbett and Wilson's claim that we arrive at such explanations of our own actions and attitudes by inference is not adequately supported by their findings because they overlook an important alternative explanation of those findings. I explicate and defend such an alternative explanation of how we can know such explanations in a non‐inferential way, drawing on recent work in the philosophy of self‐knowledge.
Sensory nerve degeneration in a mouse model mimicking early manifestations of familial amyloid polyneuropathy due to transthyretin Ala97Ser
Authors: Kan H.‐W. , Chiang H. , Lin W.‐M. , Yu I.‐S. , Lin S.‐W. , Hsieh S.‐T.
Published: February 2018

Aims

Sensory nerve degeneration and consequent abnormal sensations are the earliest and most prevalent manifestations of familial amyloid polyneuropathy (FAP) due to amyloidogenic transthyretin (TTR). FAP is a relentlessly progressive degenerative disease of the peripheral nervous system. However, there is a lack of mouse models to replicate the early neuropathic manifestations of FAP.

Methods

We established human TTR knock‐in mice by replacing one allele of the mouse Ttr locus with human wild‐type TTR (hTTRwt) or human TTR with the A97S mutation (hTTRA97S). Given the late onset of neuropathic manifestations in A97S‐FAP, we investigated nerve pathology, physiology, and behavioural tests in these mice at two age points: the adult group (8 – 56 weeks) and the ageing group (> 104 weeks).

Results

In the adult group, nerve profiles, neurophysiology and behaviour were similar between hTTRwt and hTTRA97S mice. By contrast, ageing hTTRA97S mice showed small fibre neuropathy with decreased intraepidermal nerve fibre density and behavioural signs of mechanical allodynia. Furthermore, significant reductions in sural nerve myelinated nerve fibre density and sensory nerve action potential amplitudes in these mice indicated degeneration of large sensory fibres. The unaffected motor nerve physiology replicated the early symptoms of FAP patients, that is, sensory nerves were more vulnerable to mutant TTR than motor nerves.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that the hTTRA97S mouse model develops sensory nerve pathology and corresponding physiology mimicking A97S‐FAP and provides a platform to develop new therapies for the early stage of A97S‐FAP.
Living on next to nothing: tree seedlings can survive weeks with very low carbohydrate concentrations
Authors: Weber Raphael , Schwendener Andrea , Schmid Sandra , Lambert Savoyane , Wiley Erin , Landhäusser Simon M. , Hartmann Henrik , Hoch Günter
Published: February 2018

The usage of nonstructural carbohydrates (NSCs) to indicate carbon (C) limitation in trees requires knowledge of the minimum tissue NSC concentrations at lethal C starvation, and the NSC dynamics during and after severe C limitation.

We completely darkened and subsequently released seedlings of two deciduous and two evergreen temperate tree species for varying periods. NSCs were measured in all major organs, allowing assessment of whole‐seedling NSC balances.

NSCs decreased fast in darkness, but seedlings survived species‐specific whole‐seedling starch concentrations as low as 0.4–0.8% per dry matter (DM), and sugar (sucrose, glucose and fructose) concentrations as low as 0.5–2.0% DM. After re‐illumination, the refilling of NSC pools began within 3 wk, while the resumption of growth was delayed or restricted. All seedlings had died after 12 wk of darkness, and starch and sugar concentrations in most tissues were lower than 1% DM.

We conclude that under the applied conditions, tree seedlings can survive several weeks with very low NSC reserves probably also using alternative C sources like lipids, proteins or hemicelluloses; lethal C starvation cannot be assumed, if NSC concentrations are higher than the minimum concentrations found in surviving seedlings; and NSC reformation after re‐illumination occurs preferentially over growth.
Native soils with their microbiotas elicit a state of alert in tomato plants
Authors: Chialva Matteo , Salvioli di Fossalunga Alessandra , Daghino Stefania , Ghignone Stefano , Bagnaresi Paolo , Chiapello Marco , Novero Mara , Spadaro Davide , Perotto Silvia , Bonfante Paola
Published: February 2018

Several studies have investigated soil microbial biodiversity, but understanding of the mechanisms underlying plant responses to soil microbiota remains in its infancy. Here, we focused on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), testing the hypothesis that plants grown on native soils display different responses to soil microbiotas.

Using transcriptomics, proteomics, and biochemistry, we describe the responses of two tomato genotypes (susceptible or resistant to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici) grown on an artificial growth substrate and two native soils (conducive and suppressive to Fusarium).

Native soils affected tomato responses by modulating pathways involved in responses to oxidative stress, phenol biosynthesis, lignin deposition, and innate immunity, particularly in the suppressive soil. In tomato plants grown on steam‐disinfected soils, total phenols and lignin decreased significantly. The inoculation of a mycorrhizal fungus partly rescued this response locally and systemically. Plants inoculated with the fungal pathogen showed reduced disease symptoms in the resistant genotype in both soils, but the susceptible genotype was partially protected from the pathogen only when grown on the suppressive soil.

The ‘state of alert’ detected in tomatoes reveals novel mechanisms operating in plants in native soils and the soil microbiota appears to be one of the drivers of these plant responses.
Mechanisms of glacial‐to‐future atmospheric CO2 effects on plant immunity
Authors: Williams Alex , Pétriacq Pierre , Schwarzenbacher Roland E. , Beerling David J. , Ton Jurriaan
Published: February 2018

The impacts of rising atmospheric CO2 concentrations on plant disease have received increasing attention, but with little consensus emerging on the direct mechanisms by which CO2 shapes plant immunity. Furthermore, the impact of sub‐ambient CO2 concentrations, which plants have experienced repeatedly over the past 800 000 yr, has been largely overlooked.

A combination of gene expression analysis, phenotypic characterisation of mutants and mass spectrometry‐based metabolic profiling was used to determine development‐independent effects of sub‐ambient CO2 (saCO2) and elevated CO2 (eCO2) on Arabidopsis immunity.

Resistance to the necrotrophic Plectosphaerella cucumerina (Pc) was repressed at saCO2 and enhanced at eCO2. This CO2‐dependent resistance was associated with priming of jasmonic acid (JA)‐dependent gene expression and required intact JA biosynthesis and signalling. Resistance to the biotrophic oomycete Hyaloperonospora arabidopsidis (Hpa) increased at both eCO2 and saCO2. Although eCO2 primed salicylic acid (SA)‐dependent gene expression, mutations affecting SA signalling only partially suppressed Hpa resistance at eCO2, suggesting additional mechanisms are involved. Induced production of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) at saCO2 corresponded to a loss of resistance in glycolate oxidase mutants and increased transcription of the peroxisomal catalase gene CAT2, unveiling a mechanism by which photorespiration‐derived ROS determined Hpa resistance at saCO2.

By separating indirect developmental impacts from direct immunological effects, we uncover distinct mechanisms by which CO2 shapes plant immunity and discuss their evolutionary significance.
Clinical comparison between a resin‐reinforced self‐cured glass ionomer cement and a composite resin for direct bonding of orthodontic brackets Part 1: wetting with water
Authors: Cacciafesta V. , Bosch C. , Melsen B.
Published: February 2018

The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical performance of a resin‐reinforced self‐cured glass ionomer cement to a standard composite resin in a split mouth design, by using both systems for direct bonding of orthodontic stainless steel brackets in every patient. Forty eight patients (34 females and 14 males, of which 29 were adults > 18 years of age) with fixed appliances were followed for a mean period of 10 months (range 4–16 months). The performance of 864 stainless steel brackets was evaluated: 404 brackets were bonded with GC Fuji Ortho glass ionomer cement (GC Industrial, Tokyo, Japan) onto teeth soaked with water, and 460 were bonded with System 1 + composite resin (Ormco, Glendora, CA). System 1 + recorded an overall failure rate (18.2%) significantly higher (p < 0.05) than GC Fuji Ortho (7.9%). There were no statistically significant differences (p> 0.05) between the failure rates in the upper and lower arches with either material. Both in the upper and lower arches, System 1 + exhibited a failure rate significantly higher (p < 0.05) than GC Fuji Ortho. When the bonding performance of the six anterior teeth was compared with first and second premolars, no statistically significant differences were found (p> 0.05) between bonding agents in either arch. System 1 + exhibited a failure rate significantly higher (p < 0.05) than GC Fuji Ortho, both in the anterior and posterior segments. Both bonding agents failed mainly at the enamel—adhesive interface, without causing any damage to the enamel.
The anatomy of clinical research
Authors: Antczak-Bouckoms Alexia
Published: February 2018

Until recently clinical decision‐making relied on intuition, unsystematic experiences and ‘pathophysiological rationale. Developments in the understanding of the nature of clinical trials, systematic reviews and techniques to evaluate diagnostic technology over the past 30 years made the evidence‐based clinical practice possible. During this period of evolution it became apparent that not all evidence is equal. Studies that use weak designs tend to estimate a greater treatment effect, whereas strong designs yield a more conservative treatment effect. A good number of orthodontic problems lend themselves to investigations of controlled clinical trials. Reports of early treatment effectiveness of malocclusions contained in this issue demonstrate the point.
Bias and variability in clinical research
Authors: Tulloch J.F. Camilla
Published: February 2018

Two of the practical problems facing investigators attempting to compare alternative orthodontic treatments are bias and variability. Since the subjects receiving treatments are usually different people, observed differences can be due to differences in people rather than differences in the treatments. If the groups being evaluated differ in any systematic way, they are said to be biased. Treatment comparisons between biased groups are difficult to interpret since bias can exaggerate, nullify or reverse true differences. The random assignment of patients to alternative treatments breaks any systematic connection between treatment and any variable that might favor one treatment over another; thus, making it safer to attribute differences in outcome to the treatments given rather than the people studied.
Thoughts on the early treatment of Class II malocclusion
Authors: Moorrees Coenraad F.A.
Published: February 2018

The timing of Class II, division 1 malocclusion treatment is discussed in the context of the development of the dentition within the craniofacial environment. The occlusion of the dentition actually serves as the key that controls and maintains the exact position of the mandible vis‐à‐vis the maxilla during childhood, pubescence and throughout adulthood. Research and clinical evidence suggest that treatment which ‘disturbs’ the interdigitation of teeth in the Class II malocclusion can lead to correction of the distocclusion. This correction can theoretically be undertaken throughout childhood and adolescence, and even thereafter. Treatment at a very young age was thought to normalize the occlusion, and consequently the growth process, leading to more stable results. Re‐examination of this concept shows that, for practical purposes, the presence of the first premolars signals an early indication for treatment of Class II, division 1 malocclusion. The mobility of the deciduous second mandibular molars provides the last opportunity to prevent, whenever possible, a four premolar extraction approach.
Shape of the face and tongue in obstructive sleep apnea patients — Statistical analysis of coordinate data
Authors: Pae Eung-Kwon , Lowe Alan A. , Fleetham John A.
Published: February 2018

In comparisons of the shape of anatomical structures in humans, size variation becomes nothing but statistical noise. Size effect is often so strong that it might mask an underlying biological factor that the study was designed to investigate. A coordinate data analysis technique allowed us to standardize size variation and showed the differences in the shape of anatomical structures between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients and non‐apneic subjects. A set of coordinate data, obtained from 80 pairs of lateral cephalograms taken in the upright and the supine position in the awake state, was utilized to determine the shape difference of the face and tongue of OSA patients, in comparison to those of non‐apneic patients. As symptoms become severe, the hyoid bone and the submental area positioned inferiorly, and the fourth vertebra relocated posteriorly with respect to the lower mandibular border. When subjects changed their body position from the upright to supine, the posterior part of the tongue appeared to sink down, perhaps due to gravitational pull. The study clearly demonstrates that hyoid bone position with respect to the epiglottis‐retrognathion line can distinguish OSA patients from non‐apneic normal subjects in the supine position. Overall, analyses of the data in coordinate form provide a new prospective in OSA study.
The use of linear and angular measurements of maxillo‐mandibular anteroposterior discrepancies
Authors: Ferrario Virgilio F. , Sforza Chiarella , Miani Alessandro , Tartaglia Gianluca M.
Published: February 2018

A new reference plane where the anteroposterior discrepancy between maxilla and mandible could be measured, namely the bisector of the palatal plane to mandibular plane angle, has recently been proposed. The aims of the present investigation were to extend the assessment of the clinical significance of this measurement to a large group of randomly selected patients of both sexes, and to verify the correlation of this measurement to well‐established angular and linear assessments of anteroposterior discrepancy. On the pretreatment lateral cephalograms of 306 orthodontic patients (165 males, 141 females) aged between 6 and 50 years, the following measurements were obtained: ANB angle; corrected ANB* angle (computed as: ANB* = original ANB angle + 0.5 × (81.5°‐SNA angle) + 0.25 × (32°‐SN‐GoMe angle), which compensates for the position of the maxilla and rotation of the mandible relative to the cranial base; Wits appraisal; MM‐Wits: linear distance between the projections of A and B points on the bisector of the palatal plane to mandibular plane angle. The MM‐Wits distance was significantly correlated to two angles (ANB and ANB*), as well as with the Wits appraisal. All the correlations performed did not show sex‐ or age‐characteristic patterns. The correlation to the corrected ANB* was the best among the three, with a correlation coefficient of 0.915, MM‐Wits (mm) = 1.497 × ANB* (degrees) −6.784. From the correlation, reference values for the new measurement have also been estimated, and found to be between −0.65 and −6.85 mm for skeletal Class I individuals. Nevertheless, it is recommended that the diagnosis of orthodontic anomalies should be performed taking into consideration more than a single anteroposterior appraisal.
Patient and parent preferences for orthodontic practices
Authors: Walley E. Kenneth , Silberman Stephen L. , Tuncay Orhan C.
Published: February 2018

This study was designed to identify who chooses an orthodontic office and what factors might induce the attraction. Patients and parents from the lists provided by suburban orthodontic offices were contacted. A mail‐out survey instrument was used to gather the data. Results revealed that the reputation of the practitioner was most important along with the level of caring attitude the office projected. It was also important that the office is located near home. Interestingly, the mother is the most significant decision‐maker in the family in choosing an orthodontic office. Moreover, not the cost of treatment but the payment plan was the critical element in the decision process. The higher income families with three or less children were attracted to office characteristics such as excellence of the orthodontist, attention, and convenience. A marketing strategy based on these elements might provide the best return on the investment.
An in situ caries model to study demineralisation during fixed orthodontics
Authors: Benson P.E. , Pender N. , Higham S.M.
Published: February 2018

The in situ caries model is increasingly used to study de/remineralisation in vivo. It has a number of advantages over other in vivo models. It is non‐invasive and does not affect the patient's treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate de/remineralisation of enamel during the early stages of orthodontic treatment using the in situ caries model. Fifteen orthodontic patients undergoing fixed appliance treatment with extraction of premolar teeth were included in the study. At the initial placement of the appliance, two enamel samples with pre‐formed caries‐like lesions were placed bilaterally, in specially constructed holders on the archwire, near the lower extraction site. One sample was bonded with a small bracket base. The side with the bracketed sample was randomly allocated. After one visit (mean 52 days), the samples were removed and two fresh samples were placed. These were removed after two further visits (mean 90 days). Each sample was sectioned and ground to 100 µm. The samples were microradiographed and compared, using image analysis, with a control that had not been placed in the mouth. The results showed that there was large variability between individuals. The non‐bracketed sample showed statistically significant remineralisation as expressed by the ratio of mineral loss to lesion depth, compared with the control. There was no difference between the dominant and non‐dominant sides. The time the sample was left in situ could not be correlated with any change in the parameters of the lesion. The in situ caries model is a useful method of studying effective regimes that promote remineralisation.
Saliva with reduced calcium and phosphorous concentrations: Effect on erosion dental lesions
Authors: Denucci GC , Mantilla TF , Amaral FLB , Basting RT , França FMG , Turssi CP
Published: February 2018

Objectives

To investigate whether saliva formulations with reduced calcium (Ca) and inorganic phosphorous (Pi) concentration would affect dental erosion caused by hydrochloric acid (HCl).

Methods

Enamel and root dentine bovine slabs were embedded, polished, and measured for surface Knoop microhardness (SMH). After reference areas were created, specimens were exposed to HCl solution (0.01 M; pH 2; 120 s) and immersed in artificial salivas (6 hr) containing three different Ca/Pi concentrations (n = 15), which simulate serum conditions of normo‐, mild, or severe hypocalcemia. The control group was immersed in Ca/Pi‐free saliva. The study protocol was carried out 2×/day for 5 days. Surface loss of enamel and root dentine was assessed using an optical profilometer, and SMH was remeasured for enamel.

Results

One‐way analysis of variance (p < .001) and Tukey’s test showed that enamel loss in groups subjected to artificial salivas that simulated mild or severe hypocalcemia did not differ from that resembling normocalcemia. %SMH was lower when saliva was mildly and normally concentrated in Ca/Pi (p < .001). Root dentine loss was higher in saliva simulating severe hypocalcemia than in those referring to mild, hypo‐, and normocalcemia.

Conclusions

Depending on the dental substrate, salivary formulations resembling serum hypocalcemia affected surface loss due to erosion and rehardening thereof.
Management of post‐traumatic malocclusion: an alternative treatment
Authors: Rozeboom A.V.J. , Dubois L. , Lobbezoo F. , Schreurs R. , Milstein D.M.J. , de Lange J.
Published: February 2018

Post‐traumatic malocclusion is one of the most common complications following closed treatment of condylar fractures. Depending on the severity of the malocclusion, most clinicians choose an orthodontic and/or surgical treatment plan. In this technical note, an alternative non‐surgical procedure for managing malocclusion complications associated with closed treatment of condylar fractures is presented. Four patients with post‐traumatic malocclusion following conservative treatment were referred to our centre in 2013 and 2014. In all these patients, hypomochlions (hypo – small; mochlos – lever) or occlusal stops were used to modulate the feedback mechanism that had developed in patients with a post‐traumatic malocclusion. After removal of the occlusal stops and a period of physiotherapy, a stable functional occlusion was achieved within a timeframe of 6 weeks in all patients. This result indicates that post‐traumatic malocclusion complications following conservative (closed) treatments can be successfully resolved without the need for further invasive surgical procedures.
Micro Perfusion and Quantitative Analysis of the Femoral Head Intraosseous Artery
Authors: Qiu Xing , Cheng Liang‐liang , Wang Ben‐jie , Liu Bao‐yi , Yang Lei , Yu Mingyang , Gu Guishan , Zhao De‐wei
Published: February 2018

The present study investigates the feasibility of micro perfusion of femoral head specimens from femoral neck fracture patients by the inferior retinacular arteries and performing intraosseous artery quantitative analysis of the femoral head. Twelve femoral neck fracture patients who had undergone conventional hip replacement surgery were included in this study. Femoral head specimen arteries were first dissected and exposed and then perfused by the inferior retinacular arteries and all the femoral heads underwent micro‐CT scanning. After micro‐CT scanning, a digital 3‐D model was reconstructed to quantify the femoral head intraosseous arteries for comparison with a normal femoral head. The artery length density, artery volume density, and artery length/volume ratio were calculated separately and compared with normal femoral head parameters. Micro‐CT scanning displayed the epiphyseal arterial network structure and their fine vascular branches in all 12 femoral neck fractures. Blood was supplied from the inferior retinacular artery to the epiphyseal arterial network then to all the fine blood vessels within the femoral head. No statistical differences were observed in femoral heads’ intraosseous artery length densities or volume densities between the normal and femoral neck fracture specimens, while the artery length/volume ratio showed a statistical difference, and the ratio increased from 19 to 46. Micro perfusion of the femoral head by the inferior retinacular arteries is possible and can present the epiphyseal network and their fine arterial branches in pathologic conditions to provide a morphological basis for the study of femoral head disease.
Hydraulics play an important role in causing low growth rate and dieback of aging Pinus sylvestris var. mongolica trees in plantations of Northeast China
Authors: Liu Yan‐Yan , Wang Ai‐Ying , An Yu‐Ning , Lian Pei‐Yong , Wu De‐Dong , Zhu Jiao‐Jun , Meinzer Frederick C. , Hao Guang‐You
Published: February 2018

The frequently observed forest decline in water‐limited regions may be associated with impaired tree hydraulics, but the precise physiological mechanisms remain poorly understood. We compared hydraulic architecture of Mongolian pine (Pinus sylvestris var. mongolica) trees of different size classes from a plantation and a natural forest site to test whether greater hydraulic limitation with increasing size plays an important role in tree decline observed in the more water‐limited plantation site. We found that trees from plantations overall showed significantly lower stem hydraulic efficiency. More importantly, plantation‐grown trees showed significant declines in stem hydraulic conductivity and hydraulic safety margins as well as syndromes of stronger drought stress with increasing size, whereas no such trends were observed at the natural forest site. Most notably, the leaf to sapwood area ratio (LA/SA) showed a strong linear decline with increasing tree size at the plantation site. Although compensatory adjustments in LA/SA may mitigate the effect of increased water stress in larger trees, they may result in greater risk of carbon imbalance, eventually limiting tree growth at the plantation site. Our results provide a potential mechanistic explanation for the widespread decline of Mongolian pine trees in plantations of Northern China.
Genomic structure and expression of alternative oxidase genes in legumes
Authors: Sweetman Crystal , Soole Kathleen L. , Jenkins Colin L.D. , Day David A.
Published: February 2018

Mitochondria isolated from chickpea (Cicer arietinum) possess substantial alternative oxidase (AOX) activity, even in non‐stressed plants, and one or two AOX protein bands were detected immunologically, depending on the organ. Four different AOX isoforms were identified in the chickpea genome: CaAOX1 and CaAOX2A, B and D. CaAOX2A was the most highly expressed form and was strongly expressed in photosynthetic tissues, whereas CaAOX2D was found in all organs examined. These results are very similar to those of previous studies with soybean and siratro. Searches of available databases showed that this pattern of AOX genes and their expression was common to at least 16 different legume species. The evolution of the legume AOX gene family is discussed, as is the in vivo impact of an inherently high AOX capacity in legumes on growth and responses to environmental stresses.
Skeletal growth, body composition, and metabolic risk among North Sudanese immigrant children
Authors: Alasagheirin Mohammad H. , Clark Mary K.
Published: February 2018

Objectives

Children of immigrants and refugees from developing countries are at risk for poor growth that could contribute to adult chronic disease. This study describes the physical growth, bone growth, body composition, metabolic risks, physical activity, and food security of Sudanese children living in the United States.

Design and Sample

Cross‐sectional descriptive study of 64 Sudanese children age 5–18.

Measures

Bone mineral content (BMC), bone density (aBMD), and body composition (fat, lean mass, percent body fat) were measured using DXA. Lipids, insulin, glucose, and hs‐CRP were analyzed using standardized laboratory methods. Food security was assessed with the U.S. Household Food Security Survey. Physical activity was measured through self‐report questionnaire and pedometers.

Results

About 1/3 of children had low BMC and aBMD. Lean mass was low in 46%, and 32% were obese. Cholesterol, triglycerides, and HOMA‐IR were elevated in 23.4%, 32.8%, and 15.6% of children, respectively; only 22% of children were physically active and 40% experienced food insecurity.

Conclusion

Sudanese children may have unique risks related to low bone mass low muscle mass, high percent body fat metabolic biomarkers, inactivity, and food insecurity potentially contributing to adult osteoporosis, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Experience of migrant care and needs for cultural competence training among public health workers in Korea
Authors: Chae Duckhee , Lee Jina , Asami Keiko , Kim Hyunlye
Published: February 2018

Objective

This study explored the experiences of public health workers (PHWs) providing health care for migrants living in Korea and clarified needs for cultural competence training.

Design and Sample

Twenty‐six PHWs from five public health centers in Gwangju city, South Korea, participated in this exploratory qualitative study.

Methods

Five semi‐structured focus group interviews of PHWs were conducted from September to December 2016. A directed content analysis approach was conducted using four categories: perceived characteristics of migrants, interaction between PHWs and migrants, interaction between PHWs and organizations/systems, and cultural competence training needs.

Results

PHWs perceived that migrants lacked autonomy in health decisions and awareness of health behaviors. PHWs experienced difficulties in communicating and in establishing trusting relationships. They found clients hard to reach and easy to miss, a lack of continuity in health care programs, and inadequate human and material resources. They preferred passive teaching methods to activity‐based simulation. PHWs believed essential training should be provided through e‐learning to all PHWs, including management.

Conclusion

PHWs reported experiencing multiple challenges from a lack of preparedness for culturally competent care and their clients’ vulnerability. Development of cultural competence training is suggested through e‐learning that reflects the PHWs’ experiences and provides systematic support.
Quantitative differences detected in the histology of galls induced by the same aphid species in different varieties of the same host
Authors: Martinez J.‐J. I. , Moreno‐González V. , Jonas‐Levi A. , Álvarez R.
Published: February 2018

Plant galls are abnormal growths caused by an inducer that determines their morphology and anatomy. We qualitatively and quantitatively compared the histological anatomy of five aphid species (Paracletus cimiciformis, Forda marginata, Forda formicaria, Baizongia pistaciae and Geoica wertheimae) that induce galls in Pistacia terebinthus shrubs growing in Israel. We also quantitatively compared these galls to those that the aphids create on the same host in Spain.

Histological study was conducted following methods described previously by the authors.

Quantitative differences among the galls were found in five of 12 common anatomical traits: gall thickness, stomatal number in the epidermis‐air, size of vascular bundles, distance of phloem ducts from the lumen and number of intraphloematic schizogenous ducts. Other structures were particular to one or some species: number of cracks in the epidermis–lumen, a sclereid layer, trichomes and microcrystal inclusions. Fisher's tests of combined probabilities showed that the galls induced in Israel were statistically different from those in Spain. In particular, the number of intraphloematic schizogenous ducts was higher in the galls induced in P. terebinthus in Israel. Such differences were also found in other traits related to defence of the gall inhabitant.

In conclusion, while the gall shape and size are determined mainly by the cecidogenic insect, it seems that the host plant also plays an important role in determining the number/size of quantitative traits, in this case mainly protective structures.
Effect of a Matter of Balance programme on avoidance behaviour due to fear of falling in older adults
Authors: Sartor‐Glittenberg Cecelia , Bordenave Elton , Bay Curt , Bordenave Lori , Alexander Jeffrey L.
Published: February 2018

Background

Fear of falling (FOF) is associated with restricted activities, increased risk of falling, and decreased quality of life. A Matter of Balance (AMOB) is an evidence‐based programme designed to decrease FOF. The current study investigated the influence of the AMOB on activity avoidance caused by FOF in older adults using the Fear of Falling Avoidance Behavior Questionnaire (FFABQ), health‐related quality of life, and a question regarding concerns about falling.

Methods

Participants of this quasi‐experimental, one‐group, pretest–post‐test study design were older adults from community sites in the Phoenix, Arizona, metropolitan area. Participants attended the AMOB programme, which consisted of one weekly 2‐h session for 8 weeks. At the beginning and end of the programme, participants completed the standard AMOB assessments, the FFABQ, the Centers for Disease Control Core Healthy Days Measure (CDC HRQOL‐4), and a question regarding concerns about falling.

Results

Sixty‐three participants completed the study; their mean ± SD age was 75.3 ± 7.1 years (range: 60.0–90.0 years), and 84.1% were women. The FFABQ scores decreased from baseline (24.4 ± 12.7 points) to post‐AMOB (20.1 ± 11.9 points; t = 2.62, P = 0.01). No changes in any of the CDC HRQOL‐4 questions were noted (CDC HRQOL‐4 question (Q)1 (z = −1.41, P = 0.16), CDC HRQOL‐4 Q2 and Q3 summary index (z = −1.60, P = 0.11), and CDC HRQOL‐4 Q4 (z = −0.97, P = 0.33)). Concerns about falling decreased from baseline (3.4 ± 0.9 points) to post‐AMOB (2.8 ± 0.8 points; z = −4.09, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Avoidance behaviour caused by FOF, as measured by the FFABQ, and concerns about falling decreased in community‐dwelling older adults who participated in the AMOB. Findings support the efficacy of the AMOB for reducing both avoidance behaviour caused by FOF and concerns about falling through an approach that combines education and exercise.
Suvorexant is associated with a low incidence of delirium in critically ill patients: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Masuyama Tomoyuki , Sanui Masamitsu , Yoshida Naoto , Iizuka Yusuke , Ogi Kunio , Yagihashi Satoko , Nagatomo Kanae , Sasabuchi Yusuke , Lefor Alan K.
Published: February 2018

Background

Benzodiazepine use is a risk factor for the development of delirium in adult intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Suvorexant is an alternative to benzodiazepines to induce sleep, but the incidence of delirium in critically ill patients is unknown. We undertook this retrospective study to investigate the incidence of delirium in patients who receive suvorexant in the ICU.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was conducted in a closed 12‐bed ICU at a tertiary teaching hospital. Patients admitted to the ICU for 72 h or longer between January and June 2015 were evaluated for delirium using the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit tool. We evaluated the incidence of delirium in patients who received suvorexant and those who did not. To adjust for confounding factors, multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted.

Results

Study subjects included 118 patients, with a median age of 72 years and a median Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score of 18 points. Eighty‐two patients (69.5%) were admitted after cardiovascular surgery. In the suvorexant group, there were fewer post‐cardiovascular surgical patients and more medical patients. The duration of mechanical ventilation during ICU stay was longer in the suvorexant group, and sedatives and sleep inducers other than suvorexant were used more frequently in the suvorexant group. The incidence of delirium was 43.8% in the suvorexant group and 58.8% in the non‐suvorexant group (P = 0.149). After adjustment for risk factors using multivariable logistic regression analysis, suvorexant was associated with a lower incidence of delirium (odds ratio = 0.23, 95% confidence interval: 0.07–0.73; P = 0.012).

Conclusions

Suvorexant was associated with decreased odds of transitioning to delirium in critically ill patients. The use of suvorexant may lower the incidence of delirium in ICU patients. Future prospective studies are warranted.
Effect of body condition score and reuse of progesterone‐releasing intravaginal devices on conception rate following timed artificial insemination in Nelore cows
Authors: Pereira LL , Ferreira AP , Vale WG , Serique LR , Neves KAL , Morini AC , Monteiro BM , Minervino AHH
Published: February 2018

Contents

This study had the aim of investigating the efficiency of timed artificial insemination (TAI) through the progesterone‐releasing intravaginal device (PRID), used in new condition and for the second and third times in Nelore cows. The effects of device reuse and body condition score (BCS) on the conception rate (CR) were evaluated in 1,122 multiparous Nelore cows (mean BCS of 2.7 ± 0.4), which were randomly distributed into three groups that received new (n = 330), once (n = 439) and twice used (n = 353) PRID. Among the 1,122 females that underwent TAI, 573 became pregnant, thus representing an overall CR of 51.06%. Cows with BCS between 2.75 and 4.0 had greater (p < .0001) CR (69.75%) than cows with BSC of 2.0–2.5 (32.98%). It was observed that the CR through using PRID was 60.00%, 51.71% and 41.93% for new, once and twice used PRID, respectively, with difference between all groups (p < .0001). Under tropical conditions, animals with BCS greater than 2.5 had a higher CR, and the CR decreased proportionally with the number of times that the PRID had been used.