bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender‐Related Differences in Acetazolamide‐Induced Cerebral Vasodilatory Response: A Transcranial Doppler Study
Authors: Oláh Lászlò , Valikovics Attila , Bereczki Dániel , Fülesdi Bèla , Munkácsy Csaba , Csiba Lászlò
Published: February 2016

Cerebrovascular reactivity, cerebrovascular reserve capacity, and velocity acceleration can be easily and reliably assessed by measuring acetazolamide‐induced changes using transcranial Doppler. The authors' aim was to determine whether there are gender‐related differences in these parameters. Fifty‐six healthy subjects (27 males, 29 females) were examined using transcranial Doppler. Velocities in the middle cerebral artery on both sides were recorded before and at 5, 10, 15, and 20 minutes after intravenous administration of 1 g acetazolamide. The baseline mean flow velocity in the middle cerebral artery was significantly higher in women than in men (p < 0.02). After acetazolamide administration, significantly higher cerebrovascular reactivity, cerebrovascular reserve capacity, and velocity acceleration were observed in females than in males (p < 0.001 in all cases). Subgroup analysis showed that women before menopause responded with higher cerebrovascular reserve capacity and velocity acceleration than age‐matched men (p < 0.01 and p < 0,001, respectively), but no significant difference was found between females after menopause and men of similar age.
Regional Cerebral Distribution of [Tc‐99m] Hexylmethylpropylene Amineoxine in Patients With Progressive Aphasia
Authors: Newberg Andrew B. , Mozley P. David , Sadek Ahmed H. , Grossman Murray , Alavi Abass
Published: February 2016

Progressive aphasia is a prominent clinical feature of several neurodegenerative disorders. This study used hexylmethylpropylene amineoxine (HMPAO) single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) to estimate blood flow in areas of the brain that mediate language in patients with progressive aphasia and matched control subjects. The patient population consisted of four men and 12 women with a mean ± SD age of 69.1 ± 7.6. Of these, eight were classified as having a nonfluent form of aphasia, whereas the other eight had a fluent form. The patients were compared to 16 healthy volunteers who were studied with an identical protocol. The SPECT images of the brain were acquired with 740 MBq (20 mCi) of Tc‐99m‐labeled HMPAO on a triple‐headed γ camera equipped with fan beam collimators. The images were analyzed with a set of standardized templates. Mean counts per pixel in 33 regions of interest were compared to the mean counts in the whole supratentorial brain. A laterality index was determined for homotopic regions using the equation 100 x (R ‐ L)/(1/2 x (R ‐ L)). Patients with progressive aphasia had several regions of significantly decreased HMPAO uptake in the left cortex when compared to the homotopic regions on the right. The most prominent deficit in the nonfluent group, as determined by the laterality index, were found in the left dorsolateral prefrontal region (p < 0.05), whereas the most prominent deficits in the group with fluent aphasia were found in the left temporal and parietal language centers (p < 0.05). The left subcortical nuclei were differentially affected, particularly in patients with nonfluent aphasia. The HMPAO SPECT indicates that multiple regions of the left hemisphere are dysfunctional in patients with progressive aphasia. The pattern of perfusion deficits in patients with fluent aphasia appears to be distinct from the pattern in patients with nonfluent aphasia.
Three‐Dimensional Transcranial Color‐Coded Sonographyforthe Examination of the Arteries of the Circle of Willis
Authors: Schminke Ulf , Motsch Lillian , von Smekal Ulrich , Griewing Bernd , Kessler Christof
Published: February 2016

Because examinations of the intracranial vessels using conventional transcranial color‐coded sonography (TCCS) lack spatial orientation and reproducibility, development of a threedimensional (3‐D) imaging technique is required. Three patients with middle cerebral artery (MCA) stenosis, three with suspected intracranial aneurysm, two with vascular malformation, and one healthy volunteer were investigated by 3‐D TCCS using a magnetic spatial positioning sensor mounted on the transducer for simultaneous recording of the probe coordinates to create a volumetric data set. Three‐dimensional transcranial color‐coded sonography enabled good visualization of intracranial aneurysms and MCA stenoses. However, it failed to detect morphological details in vascular malformations. In conclusion, 3‐D TCCS is a promising technique that opens new perspectives in depicting intracranial vessels and provides volume measurement of intracranial aneurysms.
Emergency Endovascular Treatment of Cerebral Sinus Thrombosis With a Rheolytic Catheter Device
Authors: Gomez Camilo R. , Misra Vijay K. , Terry John B. , Tulyapronchote Roekchai , Campbell Morgan S.
Published: February 2016

Severe thrombosis of the superior sagittal, transverse, and straight sinuses developed in a 53‐year‐old woman. This resulted in extensive multifocal hemorrhagic venous infarction and severe intracranial hypertension refractory to intensive management. Endovascular therapy using a rheolytic catheter device in combination with a small amount of fibrinolytic agent led to rapid normalization of the intracranial pressure, allowing optimization of the cerebral perfusion pressures and was followed by steady, albeit protracted, clinical improvement. The patient not only survived but also left the hospital with minimal neurologic deficit. The rheolytic catheter endovascular treatment is, in the opinion of the authors, the treatment of choice for patients with life‐threatening cerebral sinus thrombosis.
Dural Cavernous Angioma Mimicking a Meningioma and Causing Facial Pain
Authors: Shen Wu‐Chung , Chenn Cha‐An , Hsue Chau‐Tien , Lin Tze‐Yi
Published: February 2016

An 18‐year‐old girl who had severe headaches in the left temporal and facial regions was found to have a small enhanced dural‐based parietal convexity mass. On magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), this mass was homogeneously enhanced with “dural tail sign,” and was similar to a meningioma. This mass was completely removed surgically, and pathology proved it to be a cavernous angioma without previous hemorrhages. The patient's facial pain was dramatically relieved after surgery. A small dural mass causing severe facial pain is an unusual situation. The lack of hemosiderin in the extra‐axial cavernous angioma often leads to the preoperative diagnosis of meningioma.
Shunt‐Responsive Dementia in Sarcoid Meningitis: Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Cisternography
Authors: Scott Thomas F. , Brillman Jon
Published: February 2016

The authors report a patient with progressive cognitive and gait decline in association with sarcoid meningitis. The patient had evidence of active inflammation as determined by cerebrospinal fluid examination and was steroid dependent. Magnetic resonance imaging and radionucleotide cisternography were complementary in establishing the diagnosis of communicating hydrocephalus, and suggested that the patient would be shunt responsive.
Midbrain ptosis Caused by Periaqueductal Infarct Following Cardiac Catheterization: Early Detection With Diffusion‐Weighted Imaging
Authors: Mihaescu Mihaela , Brillman Jon , Rothfus William
Published: February 2016

Isolated infarcts in the periaqueductal region are rare but have been reported after cardiac catheterization . The authors report a case of dorsal midbrain infarct which caused bilateral ptosis, partial upgaze paresis, and internuclear ophthalmoplegia imaged within eight hours with diffusionweighted imaging (DWI). The lesion was later confirmed on T2‐weighted images. Diffusion‐weighted imaging can rapidly confirm the diagnosis of this rare brainstem infarct.
Acute Effects of Smoking on Human Cerebral Blood Flow: A Transcranial Doppler Ultrasonography Study
Authors: Boyajian Robert A. , Otis Shirley M.
Published: February 2016

Middle cerebral artery (MCA) flow velocity was continuously monitored during smoking in an observational study (n = 14) using transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasonography. Cerebral autoregulatory vasodilator capacitance under inspired C02 challenge was also measured before smoking and at peak smoking effect. Several puffs on a single lighted cigarette over a period of five minutes acutely increased MCA mean flow velocity in every subject (group mean increase: 19%, individual increases ranged 2ߝ64%) with a response onset and offset detectable within several seconds of beginning and ending smoking. The mechanism for the increase in MCA flow velocities appeared to be independent of the C02 autoregulatory mechanism. Gender subgroup analysis showed smoking acutely suppressed the C02 vasodilator capacitance by 56% in men but only by 5% in women (p = 0.05). The magnitude of the acute smokinginduced increases in MCA flow velocities appeared to be independent of the estimated cigarette yields for nicotine, carbon monoxide, and “tar.” Smoking in healthy subjects acutely increased MCA mean flow velocity, which may reflect a global increase in cerebral blood flow via complex influences on the cerebral autoregulation.
Transcranial Harmonic Power Duplex Sonography for the Evaluation of Cerebral Arteries
Authors: Seidel Günter , Christoph Arnd , Algermissen Christian , Katzer Tobias , Claasen Lars , Vidai‐Langwasser Marion
Published: February 2016

Harmonic power‐based duplex sonography is a new ultrasound method that improves the signal‐to‐noise ratio of extracranial vascular imaging. The authors evaluated this new method for transtemporal imaging of the basal cerebral arteries. Fundamental power‐based duplex sonography (p‐TCCS) and harmonic power‐based duplex sonography (HI‐p‐TCCS) in combination with a novel perfluoropropane‐containing ultrasound contrast agent (Optison) were investigated for the evaluation of the basal cerebral arteries in 12 healthy volunteers. The number of identified vascular segments and the blood flow velocities in the middle and posterior cerebral arteries were determined for p‐TCCS and for two doses of Optison (0.5 and 1.5 mL) using Hl‐p‐TCCS. Furthermore, the authors determined the time course of signal enhancement after Optison bolus injections. The results were compared using Friedman two‐way ANOVA test. Significantly more arterial segments were visualized using Hl‐p‐TCCS with enhancement of either 0.5 ml or 1.5 ml Optison (p < 0.01, each) than using p‐TCCS. The spatial resolution was markedly increased with Hl‐p‐TCCS, resulting in a striking difference in the detection of distal arterial segments and cortical and parenchymal branches. Except for the diastolic blood flow velocities (BFVs) in the M 1 segment, the BFVs did not differ significantly between p‐TCCS and Hl‐p‐TCCS. Comparing Hl‐pTCCS with 0.5 ml and 1.5 ml Optison, the authors found a small but significant reduction of the latency period (18.2 vs. 15.9 seconds, respectively; p < 0.01), a significant increase of the blooming phase (62.7 vs. 99.8 seconds, respectively; p < 0.0006) and a significant prolongation of the diagnostically useful signal enhancement (233.7 vs. 427.6 seconds, respectively; p < 0.004).
Palatal Myoclonus Secondary to Vertebral Artery Compression of the Inferior Olive
Authors: Meyer Michael A. , David Carlos E. , Chahin Nizar S.
Published: February 2016

A 47‐year‐old male with a 5‐year history of palatal myoclonus was found on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exa mination to have an ectatic dominant left vertebral artery that compressed the left inferior olive. Microvascular decompression effectively eliminated his symptoms. This case and a similar case presented here with an ectatic vertebral‐basilar system illustrate the value of standard MRI in conjunction with magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) in evaluating palatal myoclonus, and they suggest a potential role for decompressive surgery when persistent, highly symptomatic inferior olivary ischemia or compression occurs.
Hyperechoic Middle Cerebral Artery: Acute Occlusion Detected by Transcranial Duplex Ultrasonography
Authors: Kadimi Srinath , Terry John B. , Gomez Camilo R.
Published: February 2016

The authors describe the appearance of acute thromboembolic occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) using transcranial duplex ultrasonography. Acute occlusion of the MCA commonly leads to severe cerebral infarction. In patients with acute MCA occlusion, secondary edema and elevated intracranial pressure are major causes of increased morbidity and mortality. Thus, the prompt detection of occlusion influences early therapy, including thrombolysis and increased control of intracranial pressure. The hyperdense appearance of the acutely occluded MCA as seen using computed tomography (CT) has been extensively reported in the literature. However, its appearance using transcranial duplex ultrasonography has not been reported. The authors report four patients who had clinical features of ischemia throughout the MCA territory. All patients were studied with CT and transcranial duplex ultrasonography within 6 hours of the onset of symptoms. Head CT of all fou r patients showed a hyperdense MCA sign with infarction of t he MCA territory. Transcranial duplex studies using either pulsed Doppler or color Doppler sonography displayed a hyperechoic MCA with no evidence of flow. Subsequent duplex ultrasonography and magnetic resonance angiography showed all four patients had ipsilateral occlusion of the internal carot id artery. Transcranial duplex ultrasonography assists in the early diagnosis of acute MCA occlusion. The affected vessel is displayed as a hyperechoic structure associated with no flow using Doppler examination.
Evolution of Temporal Lobe Hypoperfusion in Transient Global Amnesia: A Serial Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography Study
Authors: Jovin Tudor G. , Vitti Richard A. , McCluskey Leo F.
Published: February 2016

Previous functional neuroimaging studies performed during transient global amnesia (TGA) have not answered the central question regarding the etiology of TGA. namely: whether the observed hypoperfusion in the mesial temporal lobe structures reflects a primarily ischemic process or whether it represents a secondary phenomenon resulting from locally decreased metabolism. The authors performed Tc 99‐m‐bicisate brain single photon‐emission computed tomography (SPECT) scanning in a 66‐year‐old man during an episode of TGA, 24 hours after the episode and 3 months after the episode. To the authors' knowledge, this is the only reported study in which a follow‐up SPECT scan was performed within 24 hours. The initial study showed bilateral mesial temporal lobe hypoperfusion that partially resolved after 24 hours and returned to normal at 3 months. Resolution of the SPECT scan abnormalities correlated well with resolution of the memory loss. These findings agree with previously reported SPECT, positronemission tomography (PET), and diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies that indicate the mesial temporal lobe structures as the major site of pathology in TGA. The authors suggest that a process causing decreased local metabolism, such as cortical spreading depression, constitutes the primary pathophysiologic mechanism in this case.
Reduction of Carotid Arterial Blood Flow in Ventricular Septal Defect Associated With Severe Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Kojo Masanobu , Yamada Katsuhiko , Akiyoshi Shinnosuke , Maeda Miwako , Sato Keisuke , Izumi Tatsuro
Published: February 2016

After diagnosing abnormality of cardiac and carotid‐cerebral circulation in an infant with isolated ventricular septal defect (VSD) associated with severe congestive heart failure, the authors measured the carotid arterial blood flow volume (CABF). At 3 months, the patient was not thriving and had dyspnea because of severe congestive heart failure. The authors measured the VSD size/body surface area (BSA) ratio relative to the predicted value of the left ventricular end‐diastolic dimension (%LVEDd), left‐to‐right shunt ratio (Qp/Qs), and the small stroke volume (SV)/BSA using echocardiography and cardiac catheterization. The mean, maximum, and minimum CABF (mean CABF, maxCABF, and minCABF) among R‐R intervals on electrocardiogram were measured by Doppler flowmetry in this patient and 5 healthy age‐matched control children. The patient had a large VSD size/BSA ratio (37.9 mm/m2 ), %LVEDd (164%), and Qp/Qs (3.8), and a small SV/BSA ratio (18 mUm2 ). The mean CABF, maxCABF, and minCABF were significantly lower than those of control children (VSD patient vs. controls; 2.7 ± 0.4vs. 4.5 ± 0.6, 6.1 ± 0.9 vs. 12.0 ± 2.1, 1.2 ± 0.2 vs. 1.7 ± 0.4 mL sec (mean ± S.D.)), respectively (p < 0.01 ). The authors' results showed abnormal cardiac and carotid‐cerebral circulation in an infant with large VSD associated with severe congestive heart failure.
Effect of prosthetic restoration on masticatory function in patients with shortened dental arches: a multicentre study
Authors: Fueki K. , Igarashi Y. , Maeda Y. , Baba K. , Koyano K. , Sasaki K. , Akagawa Y. , Kuboki T. , Kasugai S. , Garrett N. R.
Published: February 2016

The aim of this multicentre study was to investigate the effect of prosthetic restoration for missing posterior teeth on mastication in patients with shortened dental arches (SDAs). Partially dentate patients who had an intact teeth in anterior region and missed distal molar(s) (2–12 missing occlusal units) classified as Kennedy Class I or Class II were recruited from seven university‐based dental hospitals in Japan. Of the 125 subjects who underwent baseline (pre‐treatment) and follow‐up/post‐treatment evaluation, 53 chose no replacement of missing teeth and 72 chose treatment with removable partial dentures (n = 53) or implant‐supported fixed partial dentures (n = 19). Objective masticatory performance (MP) was evaluated using a gummy jelly test. Perception of chewing ability (CA) was rated using a food intake questionnaire. In the no‐treatment group, mean MP and CA scores at baseline were similar to those at follow‐up evaluation (P > 0·05). In the treatment group, mean MP after treatment was significantly greater than the pre‐treatment mean MP (P < 0·05). However, the mean perceived CA in the treatment groups was similar at pre‐ and post‐treatment (P > 0·05). In a subgroup analysis of subjects in the treatment group, subjects with lower pre‐treatment CA showed a significant CA increase after treatment (P = 0·004), but those with higher pre‐treatment CA showed a significant decrease in CA (P = 0·001). These results suggest that prosthetic restoration for SDAs may benefit objective masticatory performance in patients needing replacement of missing posterior teeth, but the benefit in subjective chewing ability seems to be limited in subjects with perceived impairment in chewing ability before treatment.
An In Vitro Comparison of the Marginal Adaptation Accuracy of CAD/CAM Restorations Using Different Impression Systems
Authors: Shembesh Marwa , Ali Ala , Finkelman Matthew , Weber Hans‐Peter , Zandparsa Roya
Published: February 2016

Purpose

To compare the marginal adaptation of 3‐unit zirconia fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) obtained from intraoral digital scanners (Lava True Definition, Cadent iTero), scanning of a conventional silicone impression, and the resulting master cast with an extraoral scanner (3Shape lab scanner).

Materials and Methods

One reference model was fabricated from intact, non‐carious, unrestored human mandibular left first premolar and first molar teeth (teeth #19 and 21), prepared for a three‐unit all‐ceramic FDP. Impressions of the reference model were obtained using four impression systems (n = 10), group 1 (PVS impression scan), group 2 (stone cast scan), group 3 (Cadent iTero), and group 4 (Lava True Defintion). Then the three‐unit zirconia FDPs were milled. Marginal adaptation of the zirconia FDPs was evaluated using an optical comparator at four points on each abutment. The mean (SD) was reported for each group. One‐way ANOVA was used to assess the statistical significance of the results, with post hoc tests conducted via Tukey's HSD. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. All analyses were done using SPSS 22.0.

Results

The mean (SD) marginal gaps for the recorded data from highest to lowest were silicone impression scans 81.4 μm (6.8), Cadent iTero scan 62.4 μm (5.0), master cast scan 50.2 μm (6.1), and Lava True definition scan 26.6 μm (4.7). One‐way ANOVA revealed significant differences (p < 0.001) in the mean marginal gap among the groups. The Tukey's HSD tests demonstrated that the differences between all groups (silicone impression scan, master cast scan, Lava True definition scan, iTero Cadent scan) were statistically significant (all p < 0.001). On the basis of the criterion of 120 μm as the limit of clinical acceptance, all marginal discrepancy values of all groups were clinically acceptable.

Conclusions

Within the confines of this in vitro study, it can be concluded that the marginal gap of all impression techniques was within the acceptable clinical limit (120 μm). Group 4 (Lava True Defintion) showed the lowest average gap among all groups followed by group 2 (stone cast scan), group 3 (Cadent iTero), and group 1 (PVS impression scan); these differences were statistically significant.
Effects of different lipid sources on intake, digestibility and purine derivatives in hair lambs
Authors: Pereira E. S. , Pereira M. W. F. , Arruda P. C. L. , Cabral L. S. , Oliveira R. L. , Mizubuti I. Y. , Pinto A. P. , Campos A. C. N. , Gadelha C. R. F. , Carneiro M. S. S.
Published: February 2016

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of different lipid sources on the nutrient intake, digestibility and purine derivative excretion of lambs. Thirty‐five 60‐day‐old, male, non‐castrated Santa Ines lambs with an initial average body weight (BW) of 13.00 ± 1.80 kg were used in a randomized complete block design with seven blocks and five treatments. The experimental treatments consisted of a control diet without supplemental lipids and four test diets with different lipid supplements, selected according to the degree of ruminal protection from hydrogenation: supplementation, being supplementation with whole cottonseed (WC), supplementation with cashew nut meal (CNM), supplementation with both cottonseed and cashew nut meal (WC‐CNM) and supplementation with calcium salts of long‐chain fatty acids (Ca‐LCFA). The lambs were slaughtered after reaching 28 kg average BW for each treatment. The ether extract intake (EEI) was higher (p < 0.01) for the lipid supplemented compared to control diet lambs. Supplementation with WC decreased the digestibility of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and total carbohydrate (TC) (p < 0.01), whereas supplementation with CNM, WC‐CNM and Ca‐LCFA reduced non‐fibrous carbohydrate (NFC) digestibility (p < 0.01). The ether extract (EE) digestibility coefficient was higher with CNM, followed by Ca‐LCFA and WC, when compared to WC‐CNM and control diets. Nitrogen balance (NB) was not influenced (p > 0.05) by the different lipid sources. A lower purine derivative (PD) excretion and thus lower microbial protein supply (MPS) was observed for animals supplemented with Ca‐LCFA (p < 0.01) compared to the WC‐CNM and control diets. In conclusion, WC, CNM and WC‐CNM supplementation did not have negative effects on MPS, although negative effects have been observed on nutrient digestibility.
Skeletal response to diet with soya bean seeds used as primary source of protein in growing broiler chickens
Authors: Olkowski B. , Charuta A. , Radzki R. , Bieńko M. , Toczko R.
Published: February 2016

The study was conducted using 120 commercial broiler chicks (Ross 308) randomly allocated to two experimental groups. The experimental diets, differing only in protein source, either solvent‐extracted soya bean meal (SBM) or traditional (non‐genetically modified) full‐fat soya bean seeds (FFS), were prepared using practical corn‐based formulation designed to meet nutritional requirements of broilers. Performance parameters were monitored weekly. Also, the subjects were evaluated daily for overt changes in skeletal anatomy and gait physiology. Randomly selected chickens from each group (seven males and seven females) were euthanized at 2, 3, 4 and 6 weeks of age, and bone specimens were collected for further study. Bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC) were determined in tibiotarsal bones. Broilers fed FFS diet showed retarded growth rate and decreased feed intake (both p < 0.001). Both BMD and BMC parameters were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in bones of chickens from the FFS group in comparison with the SBM group. The chickens fed the FFS diet showed higher incidence of skeletal pathology including angular deformities and torticollis (both p < 0.01). Of note, cases of torticollis were observed only in FFS group. In many cases, skeletal abnormalities resulted in considerable changes in gait pattern, and in some instances, the pathology of leg bones was so advanced that the affected individuals were unable to walk, but this deformity was not seen in SBM group. From this study, it can be inferred that raw soya beans contain factors that have some specific detrimental effects on skeletal system of chickens.
Effects of quebracho tannin extract and activated charcoal on nutrient digestibility, digesta passage and faeces composition in goats
Authors: Al‐Kindi A. , Schiborra A. , Buerkert A. , Schlecht E.
Published: February 2016

Irrigation agriculture of hot climates suffers from rapid soil organic carbon (C) turnover, high nitrogen (N) leaching and gaseous losses. In this context, we explored the possibility of supplementing ruminants with activated charcoal (AC) and condensed tannins (CT) to increase faecal concentration of long‐lived C and slowly decomposable N. For this purpose, we fed AC and quebracho tannin extract (QTE, source of CT) to goats and determined nutrient digestibility, digesta passage and composition of faeces. The feeding trial comprised three periods, with 24 male goats assigned to five treatments and a control. On dry matter (DM) basis, the basal diet (control) consisted of 50% hay, 46.5% crushed maize and 3.5% soya bean meal. Treatment diets contained (on DM basis) 2% and 4% QTE (QTE2, QTE4), 1.5% and 3.0% AC (AC1.5, AC3.0) and a mixture of 2% QTE plus 1.5% AC (QTEAC). Samples of feed, refusals and faeces were analysed for chemical constituents; digesta passage was computed with a one‐compartment Gamma‐2 model from pulse‐dose application of ytterbium‐mordanted fibre and quantitative collection of faeces during 7 days. Compared to the control, organic matter and N digestibility were reduced with QTE2 and QTE4 (p ≤ 0.001), that of neutral and acid detergent fibre (NDFom, ADFom) decreased with QTE4, QTEAC and both AC treatments (p ≤ 0.001). Ruminal particle passage ranged from 0.051 h−1 (QTEAC) to 0.056 h−1 (control; p > 0.05). Apart from the correlation between total tract mean retention time and faecal C/N ratio (r = −0.35), passage parameters did not affect faeces quality. While faecal N concentration was not altered by both additives, AC enhanced faecal NDFom, ADFom and C concentrations (p ≤ 0.001). Whereas feeding up to 3% AC might slow down the decomposition of manure in the field without negatively affecting the digestive physiology of goats, including QTE seems not advantageous from a physiological and nutrient recycling perspective.
Phylogeny and diversification of Chinese Araliaceae based on nuclear and plastid DNA sequence data
Authors: Li Rong , Wen Jun
Published: February 2016

Chinese Araliaceae consist of 20 genera and ca. 175 species. To assess the evolutionary relationships of Araliaceae and their biogeographic diversification in China, the phylogeny of Chinese Araliaceae was constructed by sampling 96 accessions representing 20 genera and 50 species of Chinese Araliaceae and 45 closely related taxa using sequences of the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and six plastid regions (the ndhF gene, the trnL‐trnF region, the rps16 intron, the atpB‐rbcL intergenic spacer, the rpl16 intron, and the psbA‐trnH intergenic spacer). Phylogenetic analyses of the combined plastid and ITS data supported the results of the previously studies that the Chinese members of Araliaceae were scattered within the Asian Palmate group and the Aralia‐Panax group with Osmoxylon at the base of core Araliaceae. The generic status of Pentapanax and Tupidanthus is not supported. Our analysis clearly places them in Aralia and Asian Schefflera, respectively. In a broader phylogenetic framework of Araliaceae, based on the fossil‐calibrated Bayesian dating, Chinese Araliaceae was inferred to have originated in Asia and underwent a rapid radiation in its evolutionary history. Its diversification is hypothesized to have been driven largely by the orogenies in Asia during the Cenozoic. In China, the distribution pattern of the phylogenetic diversity of Araliaceae corresponds with its taxonomic diversity across the entire region.
Improved Tests for Forecast Comparisons in the Presence of Instabilities
Authors: Martins Luis Filipe , Perron Pierre
Published: February 2016

Of interest is comparing the out‐of‐sample forecasting performance of two competing models in the presence of possible instabilities. To that effect, we suggest using simple structural change tests, sup‐Wald and UDmax for changes in the mean of the loss differences. It is shown that Giacomini and Rossi () tests have undesirable power properties, power that can be low and non‐increasing as the alternative becomes further from the null hypothesis. On the contrary, our statistics are shown to have higher monotonic power, especially the UDmax version. We use their empirical examples to show the practical relevance of the issues raised.
A Bayesian Non‐Parametric Dynamic AR Model for Multiple Time Series Analysis
Authors: Nieto‐Barajas Luis E. , Quintana Fernando A.
Published: February 2016

In this article, we propose a Bayesian non‐parametric model for the analysis of multiple time series. We consider an autoregressive structure of orderpfor each of the series and borrow strength across the series by considering a common error population that is also evolving in time. The error populations (distributions) are assumed non‐parametric whose law is based on a series of dependent Polya trees with zero median. This dependence is of orderqand is achieved via a dependent beta process that links the branching probabilities of the trees. We study the prior properties and show how to obtain posterior inference. The model is tested under a simulation study and is illustrated with the analysis of the economic activity index of the 32 states of Mexico.
Gluten‐Free Bread Prepared with Fresh and Freeze‐Dried Rice Sourdough‐Texture and Sensory Evaluation
Authors: Różyło Renata , Rudy Stanisław , Krzykowski Andrzej , Dziki Dariusz , Siastała Monika , Polak Renata
Published: February 2016

New possibilities for using freeze‐dried rice sourdoughs in the processing of gluten‐free bread (GFB) are demonstrated in this study. Fresh and freeze‐dried (at temperatures of 20 and 40C) rice sourdoughs were added in the amounts of 10, 20, 30 and 40% of the total flour content. Significant and beneficial changes in the texture (elasticity and cohesiveness) of bread under the influence of different quantities of fresh and freeze‐dried sourdough addition were observed. In most cases, there were no significant differences between the firmness and cohesiveness of bread made with fresh or freeze‐dried sourdough. A lower degree of crumb staling was obtained for bread produced with a 10% addition of fresh sourdough and sourdough freeze‐dried at 40C. The best overall sensory assessment was achieved by bread with 10 and 20% rice sourdough. At these levels of sourdough addition, there were no significant changes in the assessment of bread made with either fresh or lyophilized sourdough. Sensory evaluation of texture was positively correlated with other physical properties: pore area, firmness, elasticity and cohesiveness of crumb (r = 0.869; 0.836; 0.596; 0.848, respectively) and negatively correlated with bread pH values (r= −0.801).

Practical Application

The results have important significance, as the use of freeze‐dried rice sourdough may improve the process of the production of natural GFB. Freeze‐dried rice sourdoughs used directly in processing eliminate the requirement for a long period of fermentation of the sourdough. Freeze‐dried rice sourdough, in an amount of 10 or 20%, may be a good substitute for fresh sourdough. An increase in heating plate temperature from 20 to 40C caused a decrease in drying time of about 25%; therefore, to produce this sourdough, a freeze‐drying temperature of 40C is suggested. The bread is distinguished by a favorable qualitative assessment. Also, the reduced pH value has a beneficial influence on extending bread durability and freeze‐dried rice sourdough can be used as a natural preservative.
Resistance to thrombomodulin is associated with de novo portal vein thrombosis and low survival in patients with cirrhosis
Authors: La Mura Vincenzo , Tripodi Armando , Tosetti Giulia , Cavallaro Flaminia , Chantarangkul Veena , Colombo Massimo , Primignani Massimo
Published: February 2016

Background & Aims

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is frequently observed in cirrhosis and may be a clinically important complication. In vitro assays for endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) demonstrated that in cirrhosis plasma has intrinsic resistance to the anticoagulant action of thrombomodulin (TM‐R). This study retrospectively explores the association of TM‐R with de novo PVT and its clinical impact on cirrhosis.

Methods

Fifty‐three patients with cirrhosis were tested for ETP‐ratio with/without thrombomodulin. Clinical, endoscopic variables, presence/absence of PVT by Doppler‐US and/or CT examination were collected at baseline and up to 4 years from baseline. The de novo PVT was the primary clinical end‐point. Portal hypertension (PHT)‐related complications and transplantation free survival were secondary end‐points. ETP‐ratio higher than the 95° percentile of the distribution in 173 healthy controls defined TM‐R.

Results

During 48 months of follow‐up, 11 patients developed de novo PVT, with preference for the 36 patients with TM‐R after adjusting for Child–Pugh class (HR: 8.354; 90%CI:1.475 ‐ 47.305; P = 0.009). Seventeen patients experienced PHT‐related complications, 23 either died or underwent liver transplantation. PHT complications and transplantation free survival were associated with TM‐R, but were independently predicted by Child–Pugh class, only. Same results were obtained by considering the MELD score.

Conclusions

Owing to PVT results from the pro‐coagulant imbalance occurring in patients with advanced cirrhosis, TM‐R might serve as a predictor and could possibly be a biological mediator of adverse outcome in patients with advanced cirrhosis.
Gatekeepers as Care Providers: The Care Work of Patient‐centered Medical Home Clerical Staff
Authors: Solimeo Samantha L. , Ono Sarah S. , Stewart Kenda R. , Lampman Michelle A. , Rosenthal Gary E. , Stewart Greg L.
Published: February 2016

International implementation of the patient‐centered medical home (PCMH) model for delivering primary care has dramatically increased in the last decade. A majority of research on PCMH's impact has emphasized the care provided by clinically trained staff. In this article, we report our ethnographic analysis of data collected from Department of Veterans Affairs staff implementing PACT, the VA version of PCMH. Teams were trained to use within‐team delegation, largely accomplished through attention to clinical licensure, to differentiate staff in providing efficient, patient‐centered care. In doing so, PACT may reinforce a clinically defined culture of care that countermands PCMH ideals. Such competing rubrics for care are brought into relief through a focus on the care work performed by clerks. Ethnographic analysis identifies clerks’ care as a kind of emotional dirty work, signaling important areas for future anthropological study of the relationships among patient‐centered care, stigma, and clinical authority.
Prevalence and anatomic site ofCrassicaudasp. infection, and its use in species identification, in kogiid whales from the mid‐Atlantic United States
Authors: Keenan‐Bateman Tiffany F. , McLellan William A. , Harms Craig A. , Piscitelli Marina A. , Barco Susan G. , Thayer Victoria G. , Lovewell Gretchen N. , Clark Karen L. , Doshkov Paul K. , Rotstein David S. , Potter Charles W. , Pabst D. Ann
Published: February 2016

The parasitic nematodeCrassicaudasp. was initially described in kogiid whales from specimens collected within cervical tissues, uncommon sites of infection for this parasite.Crassicaudasp. has only been reported inKogia brevicepsto date, but no study has yet investigated a large sample of both kogiid species. A 15 yr record of 104 kogiid strandings (K. sima,n= 40;K. breviceps,n= 64) in North Carolina and Virginia, U.S.A. was used to determine the prevalence ofCrassicaudasp. across species, within species across sex, and within sex across length and life history categories.Crassicaudasp. was confirmed to be a species‐specific parasite among kogiids infecting onlyK. breviceps(prevalence = 45%). WithinK. breviceps, prevalence was similar (45%) in both immature and mature males, but increased from 10% in immature to 76% in mature females. This study confirmed the cervico‐thoracic distribution of the parasite, and identified a novel site of infection in a previously undescribed exocrine gland associated with the pigmented “false gill slit.” The species‐specific nature ofCrassicaudasp. infection, the exocrine gland, and the distinct features of the false gill slit pigmentation associated with the gland, are all useful characters to identify kogiid species in the field.
Micronutrient status and intake in the UK – where might we be in 10 years' time?
Authors: Miller R. , Spiro A. , Stanner S.
Published: February 2016

Poor dietary choices not only manifest in obesity, which is currently the main public health focus in the UK, but can also lead to inadequate micronutrient intakes, with implications for health. Recent dietary survey data and measurements of status biomarkers have highlighted folate, vitamin D, calcium, iron and iodine to be amongst the micronutrients of most concern for particular subgroups of the UK population. Those most vulnerable to inadequate intakes of these micronutrients include adolescents, ethnic minorities and lower socio‐economic groups. Teenage girls and women of childbearing age are of particular concern because of their high requirements for some micronutrients and the impact poor micronutrient intakes can have on the health of their offspring. Yet, compared to other food concerns, relatively little importance seems to be given by consumers to the micronutrient density of foods. This review explores different factors that may influence micronutrient intakes and status over the following decade and beyond. Over the next few years, it is likely that the micronutrients of concern remain similar, although continuation of dietary trends could result in further decreases in iron and calcium intakes. In an obesogenic and sedentary environment, where many people are being encouraged to reduce their energy intakes, increasing the micronutrient density of the diet is essential to prevent a concurrent decrease in micronutrient intake. Investment in fortification policies/practices or sustained government programmes aimed at raising awareness of micronutrients of most concern or encouraging supplementation, for example focusing on folate and vitamin D, could considerably improve population micronutrient intakes. Over the longer term, with sufficient investment in research and support from healthcare professionals and the food industry, adequate micronutrient intakes could be achieved across the UK population. However, global food security issues, including retaining food supply in response to an increase in demand for food, energy and water, and changing climate, could potentially hamper these efforts.
Increasing prevalence of membranous nephropathy in patients with primary glomerular diseases: A cross‐sectional study in China
Authors: Tang Lijun , Yao Jing , Kong Xianglei , Sun Qing , Wang Zunsong , Zhang Ying , Wang Ping , Liu Yipeng , Li Wenbin , Cui Meiyu , Zhen Junhui , Xu Dongmei
Published: February 2016

Aim

Primary glomerular disease (PGD) remains the most common renal disease in China. A limited number of single centre studies show that the frequency of membranous nephropathy (MN) has increased; however, IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is still the most common PGD. To the best of our knowledge, there has been no multi‐centre study in China that has explored the changes in PGD spectrum. To further investigate the changes in renal histopathological spectrum, we performed the cross‐sectional study.

Method

From June 2010 to May 2015, 5935 patients from 37 hospitals in Shandong Province were involved in this retrospective study. The study was divided into five periods according to 1‐year intervals. The patients were divided into four age groups (≤18 years, 19–44 years, 45–59 years and ≥60 years).

Result

Among the 5935 qualified specimens, 4855 (81.8%) were diagnosed with PGD. MN (43.3%) became the most common PGD instead of IgA (34.1%) (P < 0.001). The frequency of MN was increased from 30.7% in period 1 to 53.5% in period 5 (P < 0.001). The prevalence of MN tended to increase in every age section. IgA was the main cause of PGD in periods 1 and 2; however, its proportion decreased significantly from 41.8% in period 2 to 25.2% in period 5 (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Primary glomerular disease remains the most common renal disease in our study. For the first time, this cross‐sectional study suggests that MN, in place of IgAN, has grown to be the first leading pathological type of PGD.
Rechargeable anticandidal denture material with sustained release in saliva
Authors: Malakhov A , Wen J , Zhang B‐X , Wang H , Geng H , Chen X‐D , Sun Y , Yeh C‐K
Published: February 2016

Objective

Candida‐induced denture stomatitis is a common debilitating problem among denture wearers. Previously, we described the fabrication of a new denture material that released antifungal drugs when immersed in phosphate buffered saline. Here, we use more clinically relevant immersion conditions (human saliva; 37°C) and measure miconazole release and bioactivity.

Materials and Methods

Disks were prepared by grafting PNVP [poly(N‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidinone)] onto PMMA [poly(methylmethacrylate)] using plasma initiation (PMMA‐g‐PNVP) and then loaded with miconazole. Drug‐loaded disks were immersed in 10–100% human saliva (1–30 days). Miconazole release was measured and then tested for bioactivity vs miconazole‐sensitive and miconazole‐resistant Candida isolates.

Results

HPLC was used to quantify miconazole levels in saliva. Miconazole‐loaded disks released antifungal drug for up to 30 days. Higher drug release was found with higher concentrations of saliva, and, interestingly, miconazole solubility was increased with higher saliva concentrations. The released miconazole retained its anticandidal activity. After immersion, the residual miconazole could be quenched and the disks recharged. Freshly recharged disks displayed the same release kinetics and bioactivity as the original disks. Quenched disks could also be charged with chlorhexidine that displayed anticandidal activity.

Conclusions

These results suggest that PMMA‐g‐PNVP is a promising new denture material for long‐term management of denture stomatitis.
Interconnections between Left Atrial Ganglionic Plexi: Insights from Minimally Invasive Maze Procedures and Their Outcomes
Authors: SHARMA PARIKSHIT S. , KASIRAJAN VIGNESHWAR , ELLENBOGEN KENNETH A. , KONERU JAYANTHI N.
Published: February 2016

Background

Ganglionic plexi (GPs) have been implicated as triggers of atrial fibrillation (AF) and are known to have functional interconnections. Understanding these connections could result in a more effective ablation. The objective of this study is to assess relationships between right‐ and left‐sided GPs in patients undergoing mini‐maze (MM) surgery. We also analyzed the impact of these findings on AF recurrence.

Methods

The GPs were accessed thoracoscopically right side first (group 1) or left side first (group 2). GPs were identified by high‐frequency stimulation at 20 predetermined sites and ablation of GPs was performed using a selective or an empiric anatomic approach. Ganglionic plexus (GP) activity was then assessed on the contralateral side and ablated.

Results

Sixty‐seven patients underwent MM (45 patients in group 1 and 22 in group 2). Fewer patients with active left GPs (LGP) were noted in group 1 (13, 29%) as compared to group 2 (18, 82%). The number of active LGP was also lower (0.6 ± 1.2) in group 1 compared to group 2 (4.7 ± 2.7); P < 0.0001. No significant differences were noted in the frequency of identifiable right GPs (RGP) between groups 1 and 2 (P > 0.05). There were no differences in atrial tachyarrhythmia (AT)/AF recurrence rates between groups 1 and 2 (P = 0.21). However, group 1 patients who underwent selective GP ablation alone had higher recurrence rates (P = 0.016).

Conclusion

Mapping and ablation of RGPs first decreased identifiable LGP activity. With selective GP ablation, patients who underwent RGP ablation first had higher AT/AF recurrence.
Contact Force‐Guided Deep Engagement with a Steerable Sheath in the Distal Great Cardiac Vein: A Case Report
Authors: KUMAGAI YU , ARIMOTO TAKANORI , IWAYAMA TADATERU , HASHIMOTO NAOAKI , WATANABE TETSU , KUBOTA ISAO
Published: February 2016

Ablation of ventricular tachycardia originating from the great cardiac vein involves the difficult step of deep engagement with an ablation catheter. The catheter and a steerable sheath (MobiCath, Biosense Webster, Diamond Bar, CA, USA) were advanced alternately only when the contact force vector was parallel to the coronary venous system. Deep engagement with a steerable sheath ensured a powerful backup force during ablation.
High‐density molecular characterization and association mapping in Ethiopian durum wheat landraces reveals high diversity and potential for wheat breeding
Authors: Mengistu Dejene Kassahun , Kidane Yosef Gebrehawaryat , Catellani Marcello , Frascaroli Elisabetta , Fadda Carlo , Pè Mario Enrico , Dell'Acqua Matteo
Published: February 2016

Durum wheat (Triticum turgidum subsp. durum) is a key crop worldwide, and yet, its improvement and adaptation to emerging environmental threats is made difficult by the limited amount of allelic variation included in its elite pool. New allelic diversity may provide novel loci to international crop breeding through quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping in unexplored material. Here, we report the extensive molecular and phenotypic characterization of hundreds of Ethiopian durum wheat landraces and several Ethiopian improved lines. We test 81 587 markers scoring 30 155 single nucleotide polymorphisms and use them to survey the diversity, structure, and genome‐specific variation in the panel. We show the uniqueness of Ethiopian germplasm using a siding collection of Mediterranean durum wheat accessions. We phenotype the Ethiopian panel for ten agronomic traits in two highly diversified Ethiopian environments for two consecutive years and use this information to conduct a genome‐wide association study. We identify several loci underpinning agronomic traits of interest, both confirming loci already reported and describing new promising genomic regions. These loci may be efficiently targeted with molecular markers already available to conduct marker‐assisted selection in Ethiopian and international wheat. We show that Ethiopian durum wheat represents an important and mostly unexplored source of durum wheat diversity. The panel analysed in this study allows the accumulation of QTL mapping experiments, providing the initial step for a quantitative, methodical exploitation of untapped diversity in producing a better wheat.