bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanoceramics: Issues and Opportunities
Authors: Van der Biest Omer
Published: April 2013

The goal of this study is to review developments in nanoceramics as discussed during presentations on the subject during the International Ceramic Congress (ICC4) held in Chicago on July 2012. As nanotechnology is such a broad subject affecting many industrial sectors, some presentations in other sessions were included as well. The study has been organized according to the dimensions of the nanoscale material starting with nanoscale entities or particulates followed by nanothin films and finally bulk nanoceramics where the nanoscale character lies in the structure. Developments on hybrid nanocomposites containing at least one ceramic compound were often included in the presentations and are discussed in a separate section. The promise of nanotechnology is also to discover materials with totally new properties or combinations of properties. One such example presented in depth at the conference is presented. The study concludes with a section on issues and opportunities. In general, it can be said that the very large investments that were made more than a decade ago into nanotechnology start to pay off dividends. Products are appearing on the market and can have a substantial impact there. Other commercial applications are on the horizon. Because of the wide scope of the technology, there are still plenty of opportunities for research and development. A particular issue that was mentioned by a number of speakers is that of upscaling, which can be understood literally as interfacing the nanostructure with the micro‐, meso‐, and macroworld. However, often one means the implementation on the factory floor of processes that have been developed within the laboratory.
Nanoscale Ceramics: Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Implications
Authors: Johnson Sylvia M. , Madsen Lynnette D. , Freiman Stephen
Published: April 2013

Part of the symposium on Nanostructured Materials at the Fourth International Congress on Ceramics (ICC4) dealt with health aspects related to these materials. Major issues discussed included definitions and measurements of nanoparticles, best test protocols, collaboration and communication between, for example, materials scientists and biologists, and the plethora of information and regulations (that is sometimes even conflicting). Emerging opportunities were identified in terms of obtaining uniformity of nomenclature and testing standards, education and training of a new generation of multidisciplinary researchers, and understanding and then fully exploiting the positive aspects of nanomaterials, including improvements to human health.
Effects of A‐Site Sm Substitution and Textured Structure on Electric Properties of CaBi2Nb2O9‐Based High‐Curie‐Temperature Ceramics
Authors: Chen Huanbei , Guo Xiangxin , Cui Zhonghui , Zhai Jiwei
Published: April 2013

CaBi2Nb2O9 ceramic is a promising candidate for high‐temperature piezoelectric applications due to its high Curie temperature. However, extremely low piezoelectric properties hinder its application. A combination of Sm3+ donor doping and texturing was applied to address this problem. Piezoelectric coefficient, Tc, and resistivity of textured Ca0.95Sm0.05Bi2Nb2O9 ceramics (d33 = 23pC/N, Tc = 941°C, ρ = 4.1 × 105Ω cm at 600°C) were obviously higher than those of pure random CaBi2Nb2O9 ceramics (d33 = 6, Tc = 930°C, ρ=0.6 × 105Ω cm at 600°C). Furthermore, it had excellent resistance to depolarization property, with kp of about 5.9% until 600°C.
Evaluation of death pathway genes FAS and FASL polymorphisms in chronic HBV infection
Authors: Zamani A. G. , Barlas I. O. , Durakbasi‐Dursun G. , Ural O. , Erdal E. , Yildirim M. S.
Published: April 2013

This study was designed to determine the possible asssociation between selected FAS and FASLG polymorphisms and Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. FAS‐670 G/A, FAS‐1377 G/A, FASLG‐844 T/C and FASLG IVS2nt‐124 A/G polymorphisms were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP). A total of age and sex matched 108 controls and a hundred chronic HBV patients were recruited to conduct a case–control study. FAS‐670 polymorphism was associated with chronic HBV infection (P = 0.03) FAS‐1377 GG, GA and AA genotypes among the cases (90%, 5% and 5%, respectively) were significantly different from those among the controls (68%, 31.5% and 5.6%; P = 0.00). FASLG‐844 allele distribution was similar between the groups (P = 0.17) but TC genotype (67.3%) was frequent in chronic HBV patients, while CC genotype was found significantly higher (29.6%) in controls. No association between FASLG IVS2nt‐124 polymorphism and chronic HBV infection could be identified (P = 0.55). FAS‐670 polymorphism is associated with chronic HBV infection, while FASLG IVS2nt‐124 A/G polymorphism is not. The FAS‐1377G/A and FASLG‐844 T/C genotypes are likely to play a substantial role in HBV infection. Further studies evaluating polymorphisms in other genes related with apoptosis are needed to elucidate the role of genetic variation in HBV infection.
Community knowledge, behaviours and attitudes about the 2009 H1N1 Influenza pandemic: a systematic review
Authors: Tooher Rebecca , Collins Joanne E. , Street Jackie M. , Braunack‐Mayer Annette , Marshall Helen
Published: April 2013

Background

Effectiveness of pandemic plans and community compliance was extensively researched following the H1N1 pandemic. This systematic review examined community response studies to determine whether behavioural responses to the pandemic were related to level of knowledge about the pandemic, perceived severity of the pandemic and level of concern about the pandemic.

Methods

Literature databases were searched from March 2009 to August 2011 and included cross‐sectional or repeated population surveys undertaken during or following the H1N1 pandemic which reported on community response to the pandemic. Studies using population subgroups and other respiratory diseases were excluded, as were mathematical modelling and qualitative studies.

Results

Nineteen unique studies were included. Fourteen reported pandemic knowledge, 14 reported levels of concern and risk perception and 18 reported pandemic behaviours. Awareness of the pandemic was high, and knowledge was moderate. Levels of concern and risk were low moderate and precautionary behavioural actions lower than intentions. The most commonly reported factors influencing adopting recommended behaviours were increased risk perception and older age, increased pandemic knowledge and being female.

Conclusions

Important implications for future pandemic planning were identified. A remarkable lack of intercountry variability in responses existed; however, differences between populations within a single country suggest one‐size‐fits‐all plans may be ineffective. Secondly, differences between reported precautionary intentions and preventive behaviours undertaken may be related to people's perceived risk of infection.
The relative importance of drift causes for stream insect herbivores across a canopy gradient
Authors: Hammock Bruce G. , Wetzel William C.
Published: April 2013

A key attribute of riverine food webs is the downstream movement of invertebrates via the water column, or invertebrate drift. Causes of drift include benthic predation, food limitation, and perhaps passive entry, which may occur when invertebrates lose their purchase on stream substrate. However, the relative importance of drift causes is unknown, as is whether the relative importance of drift causes varies across space. Combining observational data on invertebrate herbivore and predator guild densities with in‐stream experiments, we evaluated the relative importance of benthic predation, food limitation, and passive entry as proximate causes of drift for the herbivore guild across the canopy gradient of a montane stream. We found that 1) benthic predation and food limitation were both more important as causes of herbivore drift than passive entry; 2) drift caused by food limitation did not vary with riparian canopy, whereas herbivore density decreased with increasing riparian canopy, and 3) per capita drift increased linearly with increasing density, while per capita drift decreased in a negative hyperbolic fashion with increasing food, indicating that herbivore drift is proportional to herbivore density, and inversely proportional to food. We conclude that invertebrate herbivore drift was overwhelmingly an active process to improve fitness, and that herbivore food did not vary across the canopy gradient, likely because increased herbivory from larger herbivore populations at sunnier sites prevented food from accumulating.
Pharmacokinetic Interaction Between Prasugrel and Ritonavir in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Ancrenaz Virginie , Déglon Julien , Samer Caroline , Staub Christian , Dayer Pierre , Daali Youssef , Desmeules Jules
Published: April 2013

The new anti‐aggregating agent prasugrel is bioactivated by cytochromes P450 (CYP) 3A and 2B6. Ritonavir is a potent CYP3A inhibitor and was shown in vitro as a CYP2B6 inhibitor. The aim of this open‐label cross‐over study was to assess the effect of ritonavir on prasugrel active metabolite (prasugrel AM) pharmacokinetics in healthy volunteers. Ten healthy male volunteers received 10 mg prasugrel. After at least a week washout, they received 100 mg ritonavir, followed by 10 mg prasugrel 2 hr later. We used dried blood spot sampling method to monitor prasugrel AM pharmacokinetics (Cmax, t1/2, tmax, AUC0–6 hr) at 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 4 and 6 hr after prasugrel administration. A ‘cocktail’ approach was used to measure CYP2B6, 2C9, 2C19 and 3A activities. In the presence of ritonavir, prasugrel AM Cmax and AUC were decreased by 45% (mean ratio: 0.55, CI 90%: 0.40–0.7, p = 0.007) and 38% (mean ratio: 0.62, CI 90%: 0.54–0.7, p = 0.005), respectively, while t1/2 and tmax were not affected. Midazolam metabolic ratio (MR) dramatically decreased in presence of ritonavir (6.7 ± 2.6 versus 0.13 ± 0.07) reflecting an almost complete inhibition of CYP3A4, whereas omeprazole, flurbiprofen and bupropion MR were not affected. These data demonstrate that ritonavir is able to block prasugrel CYP3A4 bioactivation. This CYP‐mediated drug–drug interaction might lead to a significant reduction of prasugrel efficacy in HIV‐infected patients with acute coronary syndrome.
Fluoxetine Attenuates Chronic Methamphetamine‐induced Pulmonary Arterial Remodelling: Possible Involvement of Serotonin Transporter and Serotonin 1B Receptor
Authors: Liu Ming , Wang Yun , Wang Han‐ming , Bai Yang , Zhang Xin‐hua , Sun Ying‐xian , Wang Huai‐liang
Published: April 2013

Epidemiological data have shown that methamphetamine (MA) abuse significantly increases the risk of developing pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). To investigate whether MA could induce PAH and its possible mechanism, rats were exposed daily to MA for 5 weeks in the absence or presence of fluoxetine. The results showed that the pulmonary arterial pressure was not significantly increased, but the pulmonary arterial remodelling was markedly developed in the MA exposure group. The protein expressions of the serotonin transporter (5‐HTT) and 5‐HT1B receptor were increased in the lungs and in the pulmonary arteries of MA‐treated rats. Fluoxetine attenuated the pulmonary arterial remodelling and down‐regulated the protein expression of 5‐HTT and 5‐HT1B receptor in pulmonary arteries of MA‐treated rats. These findings suggest that fluoxetine has a novel potential suppressive effect on the chronic MA‐induced pulmonary vascular remodelling and also suggest that 5‐HTT and 5‐HT1B receptor may be involved as part of its mechanism.
Apatite Chlorine Concentration Measurements by LA‐ICP‐MS
Authors: Chew David M. , Donelick Ray A. , Donelick Margaret B. , Kamber Balz S. , Stock Michael J.
Published: April 2013

Apatite incorporates variable and significant amounts of halogens (mainly F and Cl) in its crystal structure, which can be used to determine the initial F and Cl concentrations of magmas. The amount of chlorine in the apatite lattice also exerts an important compositional control on the degree of fission‐track annealing. Chlorine measurements in apatite have conventionally required electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS) is increasingly used in apatite fission‐track dating to determine U concentrations and also in simultaneous U‐Pb dating and trace element measurements of apatite. Apatite Cl measurements by ICP‐MS would remove the need for EPMA but the high (12.97 eV) first ionisation potential makes analysis challenging. Apatite Cl data were acquired using two analytical set‐ups: a Resonetics M‐50 193 nm ArF Excimer laser coupled to an Agilent 7700× quadrupole ICP‐MS (using a 26 μm spot with an 8 Hz repetition rate) and a Photon Machines Analyte Excite 193 nm ArF Excimer laser coupled to a Thermo Scientific iCAP Qc (using a 30 μm spot with a 4 Hz repetition rate). Chlorine concentrations were determined by LA‐ICP‐MS (1140 analyses in total) for nineteen apatite occurrences, and there is a comprehensive EPMA Cl and F data set for 13 of the apatite samples. The apatite sample suite includes different compositions representative of the range likely to be encountered in natural apatites, along with extreme variants including two end‐member chlorapatites. Between twenty‐six and thirty‐nine isotopes were determined in each apatite sample corresponding to a typical analytical protocol for integrated apatite fission track (U and Cl contents) and U‐Pb dating, along with REE and trace element measurements. 35Cl backgrounds (present mainly in the argon gas) were ~ 45–65 kcps in the first set‐up and ~ 4 kcps in the second set‐up. 35Cl background‐corrected signals ranged from ~ 0 cps in end‐member fluorapatite to up to ~ 90 kcps in end‐member chlorapatite. Use of a collision cell in both analytical set‐ups decreased the low mass sensitivity by approximately an order of magnitude without improving the 35Cl signal‐to‐background ratio. A minor Ca isotope was used as the internal standard to correct for drift in instrument sensitivity and variations in ablation volume during sessions. The 35Cl/43Ca values for each apatite (10–20 analyses each) when plotted against the EPMA Cl concentrations yield excellently constrained calibration relationships, demonstrating the suitability of the analytical protocol and that routine apatite Cl measurements by ICP‐MS are achievable.
IFRS FOR SMEs: THE IASB'S DUE PROCESS
Authors: Ram Ronita , Newberry Susan
Published: April 2013

This study explores the role of the International Accounting Standards Board's (IASB) due process in developing its International Financial Reporting Standards for Small and Medium‐sized Entities (IFRS or SMEs) standard. There were tensions between the IASB's desire to minimise divergence from full IFRS and preserve recognition and measurement principles, and the primary reasons for undertaking the project – to meet the needs of users of financial statements of SMEs and to reduce the financial reporting burden on SMEs. Examination of events during the development of the project reveals much that was not apparent from material in the public domain. Most significantly, the IASB recognised that the final title of the standard, IFRS for SMEs, does not necessarily describe the scope of the standard. This paper also shows that the due process followed in the case of the IFRS for SMEs project barely reflected the ‘will of people’ but was more inclined towards acting as a communicative function for the IASB without any commitment to change its stance on the SME standard.
Case treated with triple therapy of lamivudine, interferon‐β and prednisolone for acute exacerbation of chronic hepatitis B during pregnancy
Authors: Koh Maki , Shinohara Jun , Hongo Yasushi , Okazaki Tadashi , Takitani Kimitaka , Tamai Hiroshi
Published: April 2013

We herein report a case of a pregnant Chinese woman who suffered an acute exacerbation of hepatitis B. The patient's liver enzymes became elevated toward the end of the first trimester. She was treated with lamivudine, interferon (IFN)‐β and steroids early in the second trimester. After this treatment regimen was initiated, aminotransferase levels rapidly normalized within 4 weeks. IFN‐β and steroids were administrated for 2 weeks in the second trimester, while the administration of lamivudine continued until delivery. The spontaneous delivery of a female baby weighing 2984 g occurred at 37 weeks of gestation. A neonatal examination revealed no congenital anomalies, and fetal growth was found to be within normal reference ranges. The infant received simultaneous active and passive hepatitis B virus immunization within 12 h of delivery and completed the hepatitis B vaccine schedule at 2, 3 and 5 months of age. The infant was successfully prevented from contracting hepatitis B virus. This case suggests that combination therapy with lamivudine, IFN‐β and steroids may be safely used during the second trimester to treat acute exacerbations of hepatitis B.
Percutaneous transportal outflow‐vessel‐occluded sclerotherapy for gastric varices unmanageable by balloon‐occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration
Authors: Kawai Nobuyuki , Minamiguchi Hiroki , Sato Morio , Ikoma Akira , Sanda Hiroki , Nakata Kouhei , Tanaka Takami , Nakai Motoki , Sonomura Tetsuo
Published: April 2013

In this report we introduce percutaneous transportal outflow‐vessel‐occluded sclerotherapy (PTOS) for gastric varices unmanageable by balloon‐occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration (BRTO) in two cases and evaluate its safety and efficacy. The PTOS is a technique which could obstruct gastric varices subsequent to the occlusion of the outflow route, being based on the rationale of BRTO. In the PTOS procedure, coil embolization of the outflow vessel is first conducted through a microcatheter advanced beyond the gastric varices via the percutaneous transhepatic approach; sclerosing agent (5% ethanolamine oleate) is then injected into the gastric varices after confirmation of static blood flow in the varices. Two patients underwent initial BRTO that eventually failed because of the presence of numerous fine and abruptly angled outflow vessels (case 1), and the presence of a tortuous and elongated outflow vessel accompanied by numerous small collateral outflows that could not be occluded (case 2). Cases 1 and 2 received PTOS using 5% ethanolamine oleate (15 mL and 10 mL, respectively). Portal venous pressure following PTOS showed an increase from 29 to 34 mmHg in case 1 and remained at 24 mmHg in case 2. No major complication was encountered in either patient. One‐year follow‐up gastroendoscopy showed no recurrence of gastric varices in either patient. Although PTOS is slightly more invasive than BRTO, PTOS can be used as an alternative catheter treatment procedure for gastric varices that are unmanageable by BRTO.
Percutaneous transhepatic sclerotherapy for recurrent bleeding ileal varices diagnosed by capsule endoscopy and computed tomography during percutaneous transhepatic venography
Authors: Hashimoto Yoshimasa , Amano Hajime , Fukumoto Akira , Amano Mio , Sagami Shintaro , Yamao Kentaro , Iiboshi Tomohiro , Onogawa Seiji , Hirano Naomichi , Hanada Keiji , Hino Fumiaki
Published: April 2013

We report a case of acute uncontrolled gastrointestinal bleeding in a patient with liver cirrhosis. A 64‐year‐old man was admitted to our hospital for further investigation of blood in stools. Preliminary examination by computed tomography (CT) as well as upper and lower endoscopy could not detect the bleeding source. Exploratory laparotomy was considered difficult due to potential easy bleeding and adhesions caused by past abdominal surgery. The hemoglobin level was normalized by blood transfusion. Capsule endoscopy (CE) identified ileal varices. The top of these ileal varices was red, prompting their identification as the source of bleeding. Percutaneous transhepatic venography (PTV) confirmed the presence of many varices in the branch of the superior mesenteric vein, although the bleeding source could not be identified. CT during PTV identified varices protruding into the ileal lumen, which were managed subsequently by percutaneous transhepatic sclerotherapy (PTS). The procedure stopped the bleeding completely. CE proved less invasive and effective in detecting obscure gastrointestinal bleeding. CT during PTV followed by PTS is suitable for diagnosis and treatment of bleeding varices in patients with portal hypertension.
A qualitative review of migrant women's perceptions of their needs and experiences related to pregnancy and childbirth
Authors: Balaam Marie‐Clare , Akerjordet Kristin , Lyberg Anne , Kaiser Barbara , Schoening Eva , Fredriksen Anne‐Mari , Ensel Angelica , Gouni Olga , Severinsson Elisabeth
Published: April 2013

Aim

A synthesis of the evidence of migrant women's perceptions of their needs and experiences in relation to pregnancy and childbirth.

Background

Despite the fact that all European Union member states have ratified human rights‐based resolutions aimed at non‐discrimination, there is a relationship between social inequality and access to pre‐, intra‐, and postpartum care.

Design

A qualitative systematic review of studies from European countries.

Data sources

A search was made for relevant articles published between January 1996–June 2010.

Review methods

Data were analysed by means of thematic synthesis.

Results

Sixteen articles were selected, analysed, and synthesized. One overall theme; ‘Preserving one's integrity in the new country’ revealed two key aspects; ‘Struggling to find meaning’ and ‘Caring relationships’. ‘Struggling to find meaning’ comprised four sub‐themes; ‘Communication and connection’, ‘Striving to cope and manage’, ‘Struggling to achieve a safe pregnancy and childbirth’, and ‘Maintaining bodily integrity’. ‘Caring relationships’ was based on the following three sub‐themes: ‘Sources of strength’, ‘Organizational barriers to maternity care’, and ‘The nature and quality of caring relationships’.

Conclusion

The results of this review demonstrate that migrant women are in a vulnerable situation when pregnant and giving birth and that their access to health services must be improved to better meet their needs. Research is required to develop continuity of care and improve integrated maternal care.
Dental follicle progenitor cells responses to Porphyromonas gingivalis LPS
Authors: Chatzivasileiou Kyriaki , Lux Cornelia A. , Steinhoff Gustav , Lang Hermann
Published: April 2013

Periodontitis is a bacterially induced chronic inflammatory disease. Dental follicle progenitor cells (DFPCs) have been proposed as biological graft for periodontal regenerative therapies. The potential impact of bacterial toxins on DFPCs properties is still poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate whether DFPCs are able to sense and respond to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from Porphyromonas gingivalis, a major periopathogenic bacterium. Specifically, we hypothesized that LPS could influence the migratory capacity and IL‐6 secretion of DFPCs. DFPCs properties were compared to bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), a well‐studied class of adult stem cells. The analysis by flow cytometry indicated that DFPCs, similar to BMSCs, expressed low levels of both toll‐like receptor (TLR) 2 and 4. The TLR4 mRNA expression was down‐regulated in response to LPS in both cell populations, while on protein level TLR4 was significantly up‐regulated on BMSCs. The TLR2 expression was not influenced by the LPS treatment in both DFPCs and BMSCs. The migratory efficacy of LPS‐treated DFPCs was evaluated by in vitro scratch wound assays and found to be significantly increased. Furthermore, we assayed the secretion of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), a potent stimulator of cell migration. Interestingly, the levels of IL‐6 secretion of DFPCs and BMSCs remained unchanged after the LPS treatment. Taken together, these results suggest that DFPCs are able to sense and respond to P. gingivalis LPS. Our study provides new insights into understanding the physiological role of dental‐derived progenitor cells in sites of periodontal infection.
Nutritional intake according to injury extent in ulcerative colitis patients
Authors: Urbano A. P. S. , Sassaki L. Y. , Dorna M. S. , de Barros Leite Carvalhaes M. A. , Martini L. A. , Ferreira A. L. A.
Published: April 2013

Background

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is often associated with nutritional deficiency, which appears to contribute to the progression of UC severity. The present study aimed to evaluate nutritional status and dietary intake in UC remission patients.

Methods

The present study comprised a cross‐sectional study in which variables such as extent of disease (distal colitis, left‐sided colitis, pancolitis), remission period, sex and age were recorded. Extent of disease was assessed by the results of a colonoscopy and dietary intake was evaluated by using 3‐day, 24‐h recalls. A Kruskall–Wallis test was used to compare the intake of macro‐ and micronutrients among the three study groups. The analysis was complemented by the Mann–Whitney test. A logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictive factors of extent of disease (pancolitis versus left‐sided colitis versus distal colitis).

Results

The median (range) age of the 59 patients was 49.0 (37.0–63.0) years and 53.3% were female. Twenty‐six (44.1%) patients had distal colitis, 11 (18.6%) patients had left‐sided colitis and 22 (37.3%) patients had pancolitis. A high probability of an inadequate intake of fibre (100%), fat soluble vitamins (>40% for vitamin A and >95% for vitamin E), vitamin C (>34%), calcium (>90%) and magnesium (>50%) was identified in the study group. Vitamin D intake (odds ratio = 0.60; 95% confidence interval = 0.39–0.94; P < 0.05) was significantly associated with increased intestinal damage.

Conclusions

A large number of individuals showed an inadequate intake of nutrients. In addition, the consumption of vitamin D was significantly associated with extent of disease.
Understanding the Impact of Health Reform on the States: Expansion of Coverage through Medicaid and Exchanges
Authors: RICHARDSON LILLIARD E. , YILMAZER TANSEL
Published: April 2013

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) expands Medicaid coverage and creates subsidized state health insurance exchanges. The implementation of the ACA will impact the states and consequently the state residents differently. We discuss the factors contributing to the variation in uninsured rates and the Medicaid population, and we predict that these underlying economic, demographic factors and state policies will continue to affect health insurance coverage. Using data from the March 2010 Current Population Survey (CPS), we examine health care coverage at the state level prior to the ACA and forecast the percentage of state residents eligible for expanded Medicaid and the exchanges. Our results suggest the percentage of state population eligible for expanded Medicaid and subsidized exchanges will vary considerably, especially for adults. Further, we show that current state Medicaid eligibility rules, the percentage of employers offering health insurance and poverty rates will continue to shape the variation in projected health insurance coverage across the states. Finally, we discuss the potential impact of the Supreme Court decision that allowed states to opt‐out of Medicaid expansion.
Agreement between photographic and clinical examinations in detecting developmental defects of enamel in infants
Authors: Chen Yao , Lee Wonik , Ferretti Gerald A. , Slayton Rebecca L. , Nelson Suchitra
Published: April 2013

Objectives

This study assesses the reliability of photographic method with clinical examinations in detecting developmental defects of enamel (DDE) in the anterior primary teeth of infants.

Methods

The study sample was a part of an ongoing longitudinal study to assess risk factors for early childhood caries, and consisted of 138 and 238 infants who had scheduled follow‐up visits at approximately 8 and 18‐20 months corrected age, respectively. The modified DDE Index was used to record enamel defects (opacity, hypoplasia, and all types of defects) on anterior primary teeth by trained dentist examiners. Photographs of the teeth were taken using a digital camera. Statistical analysis included Cohen's Kappa for reliability, and McNemar test and paired t‐test for comparison between photographic and clinical examinations.

Results

The level of agreement between clinical and photographic methods was fair to moderate with Kappa values ranging from 0.252 to 0.514. The photographic examination detected significantly more DDE than the clinical examination regardless of age group and type of DDE. The intra‐ and inter‐examiner reliability of the photographic method was excellent with Kappa values ranging from 0.638 to 0.927.

Conclusions

Within the limitation of this study, the photographic method can be a sound approach for verifying the diagnosis of DDE.
Association between maternal education and diet of children at 9 months is partially explained by mothers' diet
Authors: Lioret Sandrine , Cameron Adrian J. , McNaughton Sarah A. , Crawford David , Spence Alison C. , Hesketh Kylie , Campbell Karen J.
Published: April 2013

Infants of mothers of low educational background display consistently poorer outcomes, including suboptimal weaning diets. Less is known about the different causal pathways that relate maternal education to infants' diet. The present study aimed to test the hypothesis that the relationship between maternal education and infants' diet is mediated by mothers' diet. The analyses included 421 mother–infant pairs from the Melbourne Infant Feeding Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT) Program. Dietary intakes were collected from mothers when infants were aged 3 months, using a validated food frequency questionnaire relating to the past year, and in infants aged 9 months using 3 × 24‐h recalls. Principal component analysis was used to derive dietary pattern scores, based on frequencies of 55 food groups in mothers, and intakes of 23 food groups in infants. Associations were assessed with multivariable linear regression. We tested the product ‘ab’ to address the mediation hypothesis, where ‘a’ refers to the relationship between the predictor variable (education) and the mediator variable (mothers' diet), and ‘b’ refers to the association between the mediator variable and the outcome variable (infants' diet), controlling for the predictor variable. Maternal scores on the ‘Fruit and vegetables’ dietary pattern partially mediated the relationships between maternal education and two infant dietary patterns, namely ‘Balanced weaning diet’ [ab = 0.11; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.04; 0.18] and ‘Formula’ (ab = −0.08; 95%CI: −0.15; −0.02). These findings suggest that targeting pregnant mothers of low education level with the aim of improving their own diet may also promote better weaning diets in their infants.
Hybrid sensor kinase PA1611 in Pseudomonas aeruginosa regulates transitions between acute and chronic infection through direct interaction with RetS
Authors: Kong Weina , Chen Lin , Zhao Jieqiong , Shen Tuo , Surette Michael G. , Shen Lixin , Duan Kangmin
Published: April 2013

Pseudomonas aeruginosa causes serious acute and chronic infections in humans. Major differences exist in disease pathogenesis, clinical treatment and outcomes between acute and chronic infections. P. aeruginosa acute infection characteristically involves the type III secretion systems (T3SS) while chronic infection is often associated with the formation of biofilms, a major cause of difficulties to eradicate chronic infections. The choice between acute and chronic infection or the switch between them by P. aeruginosa is controlled by regulatory pathways that control major virulence factors and genes associated with biofilm formation. In this study, we characterized a hybrid sensor kinase PA1611 that controls the expression of genes associated with acute and chronic infections in P. aeruginosa PAO1. Expression of PA1611 completely repressed T3SS and swarming motility while it promoted biofilm formation. The protein PA1611 regulates two small RNAs (sRNAs), rsmY and rsmZ which in turn control RsmA. Independent of phosphate relay, PA1611 interacts directly with RetS in vivo. The positive effect of RetS on factors associated with acute infection could presumably be restrained by PA1611 when chronic infection conditions are present. This RetS–PA1611 interaction, together with the known RetS–GacS interaction, may control disease progression and the lifestyle choice of P. aeruginosa.
Genetic regulation of glucoraphanin accumulation in Beneforté® broccoli
Authors: Traka Maria H , Saha Shikha , Huseby Stine , Kopriva Stanislav , Walley Peter G , Barker Guy C , Moore Jonathan , Mero Gene , van den Bosch Frans , Constant Howard , Kelly Leo , Schepers Hans , Boddupalli Sekhar , Mithen Richard F
Published: April 2013

Diets rich in broccoli (Brassica oleracea var italica) have been associated with maintenance of cardiovascular health and reduction in risk of cancer. These health benefits have been attributed to glucoraphanin that specifically accumulates in broccoli. The development of broccoli with enhanced concentrations of glucoraphanin may deliver greater health benefits.

Three high‐glucoraphanin F1 broccoli hybrids were developed in independent programmes through genome introgression from the wild species Brassica villosa. Glucoraphanin and other metabolites were quantified in experimental field trials. Global SNP analyses quantified the differential extent of B. villosa introgression

The high‐glucoraphanin broccoli hybrids contained 2.5–3 times the glucoraphanin content of standard hybrids due to enhanced sulphate assimilation and modifications in sulphur partitioning between sulphur‐containing metabolites. All of the high‐glucoraphanin hybrids possessed an introgressed B. villosa segment which contained a B. villosa Myb28 allele. Myb28 expression was increased in all of the high‐glucoraphanin hybrids. Two high‐glucoraphanin hybrids have been commercialised as Beneforté® broccoli.

The study illustrates the translation of research on glucosinolate genetics from Arabidopsis to broccoli, the use of wild Brassica species to develop cultivars with potential consumer benefits, and the development of cultivars with contrasting concentrations of glucoraphanin for use in blinded human intervention studies.
Role of nuclear factor kappa‐B in phenytoin‐induced gingival overgrowth
Authors: Arabaci T , Köse O , Kizildağ A , Albayrak M , Çiçek Y , Kara A
Published: April 2013

Objective

This study investigates the expression of transcription factor nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) and its relation to various cellular mediators that act in the pathogenesis of phenytoin‐induced gingival overgrowth.

Materials and methods

Eighteen epileptic patients had phenytoin‐induced gingival overgrowth (PHT‐GO), 20 patients with plaque‐induced gingivitis (Gingivitis), and 20 periodontally and systemically healthy individuals (Control) were included in this study. The expression of activated NF‐κB subunits (p50 and p65), IL‐1β, TNF‐α and TGFβ‐1 levels were examined in the gingival sections obtained from each participant.

Results

The results demonstrated a significantly higher expression of p65 in fibroblasts in PHT‐GO group with respect to Gingivitis (P < 0.05) and control groups (P < 0.01). However, we found no statistically significant differences between PHT‐GO and Gingivitis groups according to the immunohistochemical staining in macrophages (P > 0.05). Immune‐reactive TGFβ‐1 levels in the gingival connective tissue cells were statistically higher in PHT‐GO group with respect to Gingivitis group(P < 0.05). Statistically significant correlations were found between the HI and activated TGFβ‐1 and p65 levels in PHT‐GO group.

Conclusion

The results of this study showed that NF‐κB is activated in PHT‐related gingival overgrowth. This study may provide a basis for future research into specific NF‐κB inhibition for preventing of the side effects of this drug.
Effects of Intra‐Operative Ketamine Administration on Postoperative Catheter‐Related Bladder Discomfort: A Double‐Blind Clinical Trial
Authors: Shariat Moharari Reza , Lajevardi Mahbod , Khajavi Mohammadreza , Najafi Atabak , Shariat Moharari Gazelle , Etezadi Farhad
Published: April 2013

Purpose

Urinary catheterization during surgery frequently leads to unfavorable signs and symptoms (ie urgency, discomfort, frequency) during recovery. These signs and symptoms are collectively called catheter‐related bladder discomfort (CRBD). We hypothesized that preemptive IV ketamine administration prior to intra‐operative catheterization would reduce the incidence of CRBD in the postoperative period when compared to placebo.

Methods

The study consisted of 114 adult patients undergoing elective nephrectomy. They were randomized to 2 equal groups of 57 subjects. In the intervention group, IV ketamine (0.5 mg/kg) was administered directly after induction of anesthesia, but before urinary catheterization. The control group received an injection of 2 mL of normal saline. The study evaluated the incidence and severity of CRBD at 0, 1, 2, and 6 hours after commencement of the recovery period. The study also compared the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, hallucinations, sedation, and respiratory depression in the 2 groups.

Results

At the 0‐ and 1‐hour evaluations, the incidence and severity of CRBD were lower in the intervention group; however, at the 2‐ and 6‐hour evaluations, there were no significant differences in incidence and severity of CRBD between the 2 groups. A decreased incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) was observed at 2‐ and 6‐hour visits in the intervention group. Also, a higher occurrence of sedation was seen at the 0‐hour checkup in the intervention group.

Conclusion

Preemptive administration of IV ketamine (0.5 mg/kg) can reduce incidence and severity of CRBD in the early postoperative period
Ret transgenic mouse model of spontaneous skin melanoma: focus on regulatory T cells
Authors: Umansky Viktor , Sevko Alexandra
Published: April 2013

Ret transgenic mouse model of skin malignant melanoma is characterized by the overexpression of the human ret transgene in melanin‐containing cells. Transgenic mice spontaneously develop skin tumors with metastases in lymph nodes, lungs, liver, brain, and the bone marrow. Tumor lesions show typical melanoma morphology and express melanoma‐associated antigens. Although transgenic mice demonstrate an accumulation of melanoma antigen‐specific memory and effector T cells, their anti‐tumor effects could be blocked by highly immunosuppressive leukocytes enriched in the tumor microenvironment and in the periphery. Here, we discuss the role of one of the most potent immunosuppressive subset, regulatory T cells, in the melanoma progression in this model.
Counting Things
Authors: Eveling Stanley
Published: April 2013

This paper argues that it is part of the concept of the positive integers that they are for the sake of numbering things (what Benacerraf calls transitive counting). Numbers are necessarily associated with standard, conventionally established counting sets constituted by the Peano axioms; they cannot be specified independently of a paradigm counting stock, any more than lengths can be part of a system of assessment without appeal to some standard object. Scepticism deriving from Kripke and Salmon is countered by acknowledgement that the paradigms themselves are among the means by which the terms of the system get applied and adjudicated.
In the Beginning Was the Deed
Authors: Cockburn David
Published: April 2013

Winch's readings of Wittgenstein and Weil call for a significant rethinking of the relation between “metaphysics” and “ethics.” But there are confusions, perhaps to be found in all three of these writers, that we may slip into here. These are linked with the tendency to see idealist tendencies in Wittgenstein, and with his remark that giving grounds comes to an end, not in a kind of seeing on our part, but in our acting. The sense that we think we see in this suggestion is dependent on a distorted conception of “justification.” Getting clear about this involves coming to appreciate just how much of our nature as ethical beings is engaged when we do philosophy.
An effective hair removal algorithm for dermoscopy images
Authors: Toossi Mohammad Taghi Bahreyni , Pourreza Hamid Reza , Zare Hoda , Sigari Mohamad‐Hoseyn , Layegh Pouran , Azimi Abbas
Published: April 2013

Background/purpose

Dermoscopy is one of the major imaging modalities used in the diagnosis of pigmented skin lesions. Due to the difficulty and subjectivity of human interpretation, computerized image analysis techniques have become important tools in this research area. Hair removal from skin lesion images is one of the key problems for the precise segmentation and analysis of the skin lesions. In this study, we present a new scheme that automatically detects and removes hairs from dermoscopy images.

Methods

The proposed algorithm includes two steps: firstly, light and dark hairs and ruler marking are segmented through adaptive canny edge detector and refinement by morphological operators. Secondly, the hairs are repaired based on multi‐resolution coherence transport inpainting.

Results

The algorithm was applied to 50 dermoscopy images. To estimate the accuracy of the proposed hair detection algorithm, quantitative analysis was performed using TDR, FPR, and DA metrics. Moreover, to evaluate the performance of the proposed hair repaired algorithm, three statistical metrics namely entropy, standard deviation, and co‐occurrence matrix were used.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm is highly accurate and able to detect and repair the hair pixels with few errors. In addition, the segmentation veracity of the skin lesion is effectively improved after our proposed hair removal algorithm.
Consistent Identification of CFRP Viscoelastic Models from Creep to Dynamic Loadings
Authors: Berthe J. , Brieu M. , Deletombe E. , Portemont G. , Lecomte‐Grosbras P. , Deudon A.
Published: April 2013

Rate‐dependent models require creep or mechanical tests at various strain rates in order to be identified and validated. Different geometries coexist for creep and static tests (normative geometry) and for dynamic tests. Therefore, due to geometrical sample considerations, experimental results could be inconsistent for identification or validation procedures, inducing, for example, differences on the shear modulus only due to the change of geometry.

The objective of this work is to present an improved sample geometry that allows to obtain consistent mechanical tests results at various strain rates highlighting the rate dependencies of laminates. In particular, a complete mechanical validation of the sample geometry for dynamic tests is successfully performed in order to avoid inconsistency. Results of static and dynamic tests on the validated geometry are analysed, and the rate dependency of the elastic properties of the UD T700GC/M21 mesoscopic ply is highlighted on a wide strain rate range (10−3 to 102 s−1). Finally, the identification of a non‐linear viscoelastic model is performed on dynamic and creep tests results in order to obtain a representative model for dynamic, static and creep loadings, and to demonstrate the importance of introducing the improved geometry for the dynamic tests.
The Emergence and Consolidation of the Urban‐Rural Region: Migration Patterns around Copenhagen 1986–2011
Authors: Fertner Christian
Published: April 2013

In recent decades, urbanisation in Europe has been characterised by the development and expansion of functionally integrated urban regions. Areas around Copenhagen, Denmark, have also experienced continuous urbanisation and a considerable in‐migration, which has contributed to the development of a wider metropolitan region. Most recently, however, a shift of migration towards the urban centre has occurred. Was the emergence of the urban‐rural region just an ephemeral phenomenon? Migration patterns are used to analyse urban‐rural relationships. Generally, in‐migration was concentrated in areas located at medium to long‐distances from the city centre from 1996–2005, while in the years since 2006, this trend has been reversed. However, a differentiated view on migration shows a very diverse and non‐linear development. We focus on three migration types, Ex‐urbanisation, Displaced urbanisation and Anti‐urbanisation and compare their development since 1986 in three time periods. Each type shows a different behaviour, partially unstable over time.
Poverty in Peripheral Informal Settlements in Mexico City: The Case of Magdalena Contreras, Federal District
Authors: Aguilar Adrián G. , Guerrero Flor López
Published: April 2013

The aim of this paper is to discuss the relationship between the difficult economic situation in Mexico over recent years and the increasing disadvantages in irregular settlements that are found on the periphery of the Federal District. The focus is on informal settlements in the Magdalena Contreras Delegation, a peripheral municipality where the research team applied 719 questionnaires to the inhabitants. The results offer an up‐to‐date socio‐economic analysis of the population. We are also in a position to suggest answers to the following questions: to what extent communal lands with a high ecological value act as territorial reserves for irregular settlements?; how do poverty levels in these settlements affect the consolidation process in terms of housing quality and access to public services?; how much heterogeneity is there inside irregular settlements and what is the level of poverty in these settlements and how grave is the situation?
Mutation of the GATA site in the erythroid cell–specific regulatory element of the ABO gene in a Bm subgroup individual
Authors: Nakajima Tamiko , Sano Rie , Takahashi Yoichiro , Kubo Rieko , Takahashi Keiko , Kominato Yoshihiko , Tsukada Junichi , Takeshita Haruo , Yasuda Toshihiro , Uchikawa Makoto , Isa Kazumi , Ogasawara Kenichi
Published: April 2013

Background

The ABO blood group is important in blood transfusion. Recently, an erythroid cell–specific regulatory element has been identified in the first intron of ABO using luciferase reporter assays with K562 cells. The erythroid cell–specific regulatory activity of the element was dependent upon GATA‐1 binding. In addition, partial deletion of Intron 1 including the element was observed in genomic DNAs obtained from 111 Bm and ABm individuals, except for one, whereas the deletion was never found among 1005 individuals with the common phenotypes.

Study Design and Methods

In this study, further investigation was performed to reveal the underlying mechanism responsible for reduction of B antigen expression in the exceptional Bm individual. Peptide nucleic acid–clamping polymerase chain reaction was carried out to amplify the B‐related allele, followed by sequence determination. Electrophoretic mobility assays and promoter assays were performed to examine whether a nucleotide substitution reduced the binding of a transcription factor and induced loss of function of the element.

Results

Sequence determination revealed one point mutation of the GATA motif in the element. The electrophoretic mobility shift assays showed that the mutation abolished the binding of GATA transcription factors, and the promoter assays demonstrated complete loss of enhancer activity of the element.

Conclusion

These observations suggest that the mutation in the GATA motif of the erythroid‐specific regulatory element may diminish the binding of GATA transcription factors and down regulate transcriptional activity of the element on the B allele, leading to reduction of B antigen expression in erythroid lineage cells of the Bm individual.