bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BAD knockout provides metabolic seizure resistance in a genetic model of epilepsy with sudden unexplained death in epilepsy
Authors: Foley Jeannine , Burnham Veronica , Tedoldi Meghan , Danial Nika N. , Yellen Gary
Published: November 2017

Metabolic alteration, either through the ketogenic diet (KD) or by genetic alteration of the BAD protein, can produce seizure protection in acute chemoconvulsant models of epilepsy. To assess the seizure‐protective role of knocking out (KO) the Bad gene in a chronic epilepsy model, we used the Kcna1−/− model of epilepsy, which displays progressively increased seizure severity and recapitulates the early death seen in sudden unexplained death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Beginning on postnatal day 24 (P24), we continuously video monitored Kcna1−/− and Kcna1−/− Bad−/− double knockout mice to assess survival and seizure severity. We found that Kcna1−/− Bad−/− mice outlived Kcna1−/− mice by approximately 2 weeks. Kcna1−/− Bad−/− mice also spent significantly less time in seizure than Kcna1−/− mice on P24 and the day of death, showing that BadKO provides seizure resistance in a genetic model of chronic epilepsy.
Structural plasticity mediates distinct GAP‐dependent GTP hydrolysis mechanisms in Rab33 and Rab5
Authors: Majumdar Soneya , Acharya Abhishek , Prakash Balaji
Published: November 2017

The classical GTP hydrolysis mechanism, as seen in Ras, employs a catalytic glutamine provided in cis by the GTPase and an arginine supplied in trans by a GTPase activating protein (GAP). The key idea emergent from a large body of research on small GTPases is that GTPases employ a variety of different hydrolysis mechanisms; evidently, these variations permit diverse rates of GTPase inactivation, crucial for temporal regulation of different biological processes. Recently, we unified these variations and argued that a steric clash between active site residues (corresponding to positions 12 and 61 of Ras) governs whether a GTPase utilizes the cis‐Gln or the trans‐Gln (from the GAP) for catalysis. As the cis‐Gln encounters a steric clash, the Rab GTPases employ the so‐called dual finger mechanism where the interacting GAP supplies a trans‐Gln for catalysis. Using experimental and computational methods, we demonstrate how the cis‐Gln of Rab33 overcomes the steric clash when it is stabilized by a residue in the vicinity. In effect, this demonstrates how both cis‐Gln‐ and trans‐Gln‐mediated mechanisms could operate in the same GTPase in different contexts, i.e. depending on the GAP that regulates its action. Interestingly, in the case of Rab5, which possesses a higher intrinsic GTP hydrolysis rate, a similar stabilization of the cis‐Gln appears to overcome the steric clash. Taken together with the mechanisms seen for Rab1, it is evident that the observed variations in Rab and their GAP partners allow structural plasticity, or in other words, the choice of different catalytic mechanisms.
The roles of CSFs on the functional polarization of tumor‐associated macrophages
Authors: Jeannin Pascale , Paolini Léa , Adam Clement , Delneste Yves
Published: November 2017

Macrophages have a central role in numerous physiological processes, such as immune defense, maintenance of tissue homeostasis, wound healing, and inflammation. Moreover, in numerous severe disorders, such as cancer or chronic inflammation, their functions can be profoundly affected. Macrophages continuously sense their environment and adapt their phenotypes and functions to the local requirements; this process is called plasticity. In addition to stress signals, metabolites, and direct cell‐contact interactions with surrounding cells, numerous cytokines play a central role in controlling macrophage polarization. In this review, we will focus on three human macrophage differentiation factors: macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (M‐CSF), IL‐34, and granulocyte M‐CSF. These CSFs allow human monocyte survival, promote their differentiation into macrophages, and control macrophage polarization as they give rise to cells with different phenotype and functions. Based on recent observations, the role of granulocyte CSF on macrophage polarization is also addressed. Finally, our current knowledge on the expression of these growth factors in tumor microenvironment and their impact on the generation and polarization of tumor‐associated macrophages are summarized.
Notched marble plates under tension: Detecting prefailure indicators and predicting entrance to the “critical stage”
Authors: Kourkoulis S.K. , Pasiou E.D. , Dakanali I. , Stavrakas I. , Triantis D.
Published: November 2017

The potentialities of the pressure stimulated currents technique to be used as a continuous structural health monitoring tool in applications related to stone monuments are assessed experimentally. The data gathered by this technique from experiments with notched marble plates submitted to direct tension are considered in juxtaposition to the respective ones provided by the acoustic emissions technique, a well‐founded and widely used sensing tool. The time evolution of the pressure stimulated currents produced provides clearly distinguishable fingerprints of upcoming fracture well before visible cracking is macroscopically observed. These fingerprints are in good qualitative agreement with similar ones provided by the acoustic emissions, and therefore, they can be considered as safe prefailure indicators designating entrance to a “critical stage.” Thus, the use of the pressure stimulated currents technique as an alternative structural health monitoring system appears quite promising, taking also into account the low cost and the small size of the respective sensors.
An experimental and theoretical comparison of CCNBD and CCNSCB specimens for determining mode I fracture toughness of rocks
Authors: Wei M.‐D. , Dai F. , Liu Y. , Xu N.‐W. , Zhao T.
Published: November 2017

The cracked chevron notched Brazilian disc (CCNBD) specimen, suggested by the International Society for Rock Mechanics for testing mode I fracture toughness of rocks, usually yields rather conservative toughness measurements, and the reasons have not been fully explored. In this study, the CCNBD method is compared with the cracked chevron notched semicircular bending (CCNSCB) method in the fracture process zone (FPZ) and its influence on the fracture toughness measurement. Theoretical analysis reveals that the FPZ is longer in the CCNBD specimen than in the CCNSCB specimen using a relatively large support span, the toughness measurement using the former is affected more seriously by the presence of FPZ, and thus the CCNBD method is usually, more or less, conservative compared with the CCNSCB method. These inferences are further validated by experimental results, which indicate that the CCNBD test indeed produces much lower fracture toughness values and even the results of 75‐mm radius CCNBD specimens are still lower than those of 25‐mm radius CCNSCB specimens. Consequently, due to smaller FPZ, the CCNSCB specimen with a relatively large span is more likely to produce comparably accurate or representative toughness value, and it may be more suitable than the CCNBD specimen for the engineering applications that require more representative or less conservative fracture toughness.
Dielectric and piezoelectric performance of gadolinium‐doped lead lanthanum zirconate titanate
Authors: Mansour Salwa , Eid Ahmed , Abd El‐Latif Lamyaa , Rashad Mohamed , Afifi Mohamed , Turner Joseph
Published: November 2017

In this article, polycrystalline samples of Gd3+ ion‐modified lead lanthanum zirconate titanate PLGZT: (Pb0.94‐xGdxLa0.06)(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3; x = 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8% have been prepared by the sol‐gel autocombustion strategy. The structural properties of the prepared samples were analyzed by X‐ray diffraction profile (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectra (FT‐IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The samples were assigned to pure PZT perovskite tetragonal structure. Ag electrodes were made on both sides of the disks for measurements of electrical and dielectric properties at different temperatures ranging from 30 to 500°C at various frequencies. The maximum dielectric constant, Curie temperature (TC), dielectric loss at TC, and the piezoelectric charge coefficient d33 ranges of the investigated samples were found to be 1850 to 2420, 350 to 399°C, 0.023 to 0.026, and 299 to 532 pC/N, respectively. Higher coefficients were reached for the 4 % Gd substitution. Finally, the obtained results indicate that these materials can be good candidates for ultrasonic transducers.
Extracurricular activities of Dutch University students and their effect on employment opportunities as perceived by both students and organizations
Authors: Nuijten Marleen P. J. , Poell Rob F. , Alfes Kerstin
Published: November 2017

Research on biographical data suggests that recruiters draw inferences about candidates' abilities and attributes based on résumé information. However, few studies have explored students' attributions with regard to the experiences that are relevant in enhancing employment opportunities. The aim of the present study is to fill this gap by analyzing the effect of university students' extracurricular activities (ECAs) on their perceived employment opportunities. Specifically, we combine a large sample of students with recruiters from a wide range of sectors in the Netherlands. Students completed a questionnaire, while recruiters participated in an experiment and semi‐structured interviews. Students' expectations about the value of ECAs for their employment opportunities were found to be misaligned with recruiters' viewpoints. Students expected academic performance to be more relevant for employment opportunities than ECAs, whereas recruiters stated the opposite. Students expected an internship to be the most valued ECA, whereas most recruiters prioritized a board year and emphasized students' motivation and ability to demonstrate the learning gained from ECAs in general. Implications for further biodata research are discussed.
Educational nurse‐led lifestyle intervention for persons with mental illness
Authors: Rönngren Ylva , Björk Annette , Audulv Åsa , Enmarker Ingela , Kristiansen Lisbeth , Haage David
Published: November 2017

Although persons with severe mental illness face an increased risk of mortality and of developing negative health outcomes, research has shown that lifestyle interventions can sufficiently support their health. In response, this study examined a nurse‐led lifestyle intervention developed in cooperation with members of municipal and county councils to gauge its impact on the quality of life, cognitive performance, walking capacity, and body composition of persons with severe mental illness. Lasting 26 weeks and involving 38 persons with severe mental illness, the intervention prioritised two components: the interpersonal relationships of persons with severe mental illness, staff, and group leaders and group education about physical and mental health. Pre–post intervention measurements of quality of life collected with the Manchester Short Assessment of Quality of Life, cognitive performance with the Frontal Systems Behaviour Scale, walking capacity with a 6‐min walk test, and body composition in terms of waist circumference and body mass index were analysed using a nonparametric test Wilcoxon signed‐rank test. Results suggest that the intervention afforded significant improvements in the health‐related variables of quality of life, cognitive performance, walking capacity, and waist circumference for persons with severe mental illness. However, long‐term studies with control groups and that examine parameters related to cardiovascular risk factors are essential to ensure the sustained impact of the intervention.
Evaluation of three experimental in vitro models for the assessment of the mechanical cleansing efficacy of wound irrigation solutions
Authors: Klasinc Romana , Augustin Lee Ann , Below Harald , Baguhl Romy , Assadian Ojan , Presterl Elisabeth , Kramer Axel
Published: November 2017

The aim of this study was to compare different wound‐rinsing solutions to determine differences in the efficiency and to evaluate three different in vitro models for wound cleansing. Different wound‐rinsing solutions (physiological saline solution, ringer lactate solution for wound irrigation, water and a solution containing polihexanide and the surfactant undecylenamidopropyl‐betain) were applied on standardised test models (one‐ and three‐chamber model, flow‐cell method and a biofilm model), each challenged with three different standardised wound test soils. In the one‐chamber model saline showed a better effect on decontaminating proteins than the ringer lactate solution. In the flow‐cell method, water performed better than physiological saline solution, whereas ringer lactate solution demonstrated the lowest cleansing effect. No obvious superiority between the two electrolyte‐containing solutions was detectable in the biofilm model. Unfortunately, it was not possible to assess the protein decontamination qualities of the surfactant‐containing solution because of the interference with the protein measurement. The flow‐cell method was able to detect differences between different rinse solutions because it works at constant flow mechanics, imitating a wound‐rinsing procedure. The three‐chamber and the less‐pronounced modified one‐chamber method as well as the biofilm model had generated inhomogeneous results.
Louisa May Alcott andHospital Sketches: An innovative approach to gender and nursing professionalization
Authors: Choperena Ana , Fairman Julie
Published: November 2017

Aim

To show the development of an emerging nursing profession through the eyes of Louisa May Alcott andHospital Sketches.

Background

InHospital Sketches,Louisa May Alcott recounts her experiences when she worked as a nurse of injured soldiers during the American Civil War, in an autobiographically and masked‐referential way, which allows her to negotiate between transgression and convention. Unlike other reviews, in this paper the relevance of nursing remains highlighted.

Design

Discussion paper.

Data sources

Existing literature in databases, history books and our own reading of facts.

Implications for nursing

Illuminating overlooked meanings hidden in nurses’ personal sources enables to approach their contribution to history, improve their visibility and project the future of nursing. Nursing care, whether domestic or professional, was and remains a catalyst for change.

Conclusion

Through Alcott's words, we understand the transition of nursing care as a gradual extension of the middle‐class woman's domestic role and a progressive definition of nurses’ identity. In particular, we highlight how certain professional nursing nuances which appear in the text are compatible with the gradual extension of the boundaries of women's domesticity. Furthermore, Alcott's use of literary devices reveals the delicate balance between women's domestic role and some new nursing professional features, which anticipates nursing professionalization.
Impact of weight loss on ablation outcome in obese patients with longstanding persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Mohanty Sanghamitra , Mohanty Prasant , Natale Veronica , Trivedi Chintan , Gianni Carola , Burkhardt J. David , Sanchez Javier E. , Horton Rodney , Gallinghouse G. Joseph , Hongo Richard , Beheiry Salwa , Al‐Ahmad Amin , Di Biase Luigi , Natale Andrea
Published: November 2017

Aims

This study investigated the impact of weight loss in longstanding persistent (LSPAF) patients undergoing catheter ablation (CA).

Methods

Ninety consecutive obese LSPAF patients were approached; 58 volunteered to try weight loss interventions for up to 1 year (group 1), while 32 patients declined weight loss interventions and were included as a control (group 2). Both groups remained on antiarrhythmic drugs. If they continued to experience AF, CA was performed. Body weight was measured at 6‐month intervals and arrhythmia status was assessed by event recorder, electrocardiogram (ECG), and Holter monitoring. Symptom severity and quality of life (QoL) were evaluated by AFSS and SF‐36 survey, respectively. A scoring algorithm with two summary measures, physical component score (PCS) and mental component score (MCS), was prepared for QoL analysis.

Results

Significant reduction in body weight (median −24.9 (IQR −19.1 to −56.7) kg, P < 0.001) was observed in the group 1 patients, while no such change was seen in group 2. The PCS and MCS scores improved significantly in group 1 only, with a change from baseline of 8.4 ± 3 (P = 0.013) and 12.8 ± 8.2 (P < 0.02). However, AF symptom severity remained unchanged from baseline in both groups (P = 0.84). All 90 patients eventually underwent CA and received PVAI+ posterior wall+ non‐PV triggers ablation. At 1‐year follow‐up after single procedure, 37 (63.8%) in group 1 and 19 (59.3%) patients in group 2 remained arrhythmia‐free off AAD (P = 0.68).

Conclusion

In this prospective analysis, in LSPAF patients weight loss improved QoL but had no impact on symptom severity and long‐term ablation outcome.
Sex‐related relationships between uric acid and target organ damage in hypertension
Authors: Maloberti Alessandro , Maggioni Simone , Occhi Lucia , Triglione Nicola , Panzeri Francesco , Nava Stefano , Signorini Stefano , Falbo Rosanna , Casati Marco , Grassi Guido , Giannattasio Cristina
Published: November 2017

Heterogeneous results have been obtained in the relationship between serum uric acid (SUA) and target organ damage (TOD) in patients with hypertension. Clinic blood pressure, SUA, and cardiac, arterial (carotid and aortic), and renal TOD were assessed in 762 consecutive patients with hypertension. Hyperuricemia was defined as an SUA >7.0 in men and >6.0 mg/dL in women. Men with hyperuricemia compared with those with normal SUA showed lower estimated glomerular filtration rates and E/A ratios and a higher prevalence of carotid plaques. Women with hyperuricemia showed lower estimated glomerular filtration rates and E/A ratios and a higher intima‐media thickness. Except for pulse wave velocity, all TODs significantly correlated with SUA. However, at multivariate analysis, only estimated glomerular filtration rate was significantly determined by SUA. Our data provide evidence on the role of SUA in the development of TOD only in the case of renal alteration. It is likely that SUA may indirectly act on the other TODs through the increase in blood pressure and the decrease in glomerular filtration rate.
The association between paternal depressogenic cognitive styles during pregnancy and offspring depressogenic cognitive styles: an 18‐year prospective cohort study
Authors: Lewis Gemma , Wen Siying , Pearson Rebecca M. , Lewis Glyn
Published: November 2017

Background

Preventing the development of depressogenic or negative cognitive styles could also prevent the development of depression, a leading public health problem worldwide. Maternal negative cognitive styles are a modifiable risk factor for the development of negative cognitive styles in offspring. However, evidence on the role of paternal negative cognitive styles is inconclusive and there have only been a few small studies, which may also have lacked statistical power.

Methods

We used data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) to investigate the association between paternal negative cognitive styles, measured when mothers were 18 weeks pregnant, and offspring negative cognitive styles 18 years later (N = 6,123). Associations were calculated using linear regression models, before and after adjustment for confounders including maternal negative cognitive styles. We compared associations before and after controlling for depression in parents and offspring, and used multiple imputation to reduce biases that may have arisen due to missing data.

Results

A two‐standard deviation increase in paternal negative cognitive style was associated with a 3‐point increase in offspring negative cognitive style (95% CI 1.36–4.37). This association remained after adjustment for confounders and was independent of depression in both parents and offspring. The effect size was equivalent to that of maternal negative cognitive style, and was also independent of maternal negative cognitive style.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that fathers should be included in individual‐ and family‐based interventions designed to prevent the development of depressogenic cognitive styles in adolescent offspring. This could possibly also prevent the development of depression.
Incidence rate and patient characteristics of severe hypoglycemia in treated type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in Japan: Retrospective Diagnosis Procedure Combination database analysis
Authors: Ikeda Yuika , Kubo Takekazu , Oda Eisei , Abe Machiko , Tokita Shigeru
Published: November 2017

Aims/Introduction

To evaluate the incidence rate of and identify factors associated with severe hypoglycemic episodes in patients with treated type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Materials and Methods

Using Diagnosis Procedure Combination hospital‐based medical database, we carried out a retrospective cohort study to assess the incidence rate of severe hypoglycemia in treated type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. We evaluated the associations between severe hypoglycemia and age, sex, complications, and current use of insulin or sulfonylurea (SU) in a nested case–control study.

Results

Of 166,806 eligible patients, 1,242 had episodes of severe hypoglycemia during the observational period. The incidence rate of the first hypoglycemic events was 3.70/1,000 patient years. Based on the nested case–control analysis, age was associated with hypoglycemic events with adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of 1.64 or 65–74‐year‐old patients and 3.79 for ≥75‐year‐old patients in comparison with 20–64‐year‐old patients. Comorbidities, such as cognitive impairment, cancer, macrovascular disease and diabetic complications (retinopathy, nephropathy and neuropathy), were associated with severe hypoglycemia, with adjusted ORs ranging from 1.25 to 3.80. Severe hypoglycemic events also increased in patients with current use of both SU and insulin, either SU or insulin, with adjusted ORs of 18.36, 6.31 or 14.07, respectively, compared with patients with other antihyperglycemic agents. In patients with an SU glimepiride, adjusted ORs increased dose‐dependently from 3.65 (≤1 mg) to 13.34 (>2 mg).

Conclusions

The incidence rate of severe hypoglycemia in this cohort was 3.70/1,000 patient years. Age, cognitive impairment, cancer, diabetic complications, current use of insulin + SU and SU dosage were identified as risk factors for severe hypoglycemia.
A clinical study comparing digital radiography and near‐infrared transillumination in caries detection
Authors: Berg Stephen C. , Stahl Jonathan Miles , Lien Wen , Slack Casey M. , Vandewalle Kraig S.
Published: November 2017

Objective

The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of detecting proximal carious lesions utilizing a new near‐infrared transillumination (NIRTI) system (CariVu, Dexis) to traditional digital bitewing radiography (BWXR).

Materials and methods

Thirty patients received four posterior BWXRs and all premolars and molars were individually imaged with the NIRTI device. Sixty‐seven proximal carious lesions were classified based on their depth into enamel or dentin for both BWXR and NIRTI images.

Results

The caries depth classification between the two systems were strongly correlated (rs = 0.66; Spearman range: 0.60–0.79 = strong) and significant (P < .001) with a median score of 3 for NIRTI and 2 for BWXR.

Conclusions

The new NIRTI system (CariVu) may serve as an adjunct to BWXR in the diagnosis of proximal caries.

Clinical significance

The NIRTI system could serve as an adjunct diagnostic system that could be used in high‐caries risk programs where patients are closely monitored with regimented follow‐up appointments. NIRTI could also be beneficial with pregnant or pediatric patients, and in situations where radiography may not be available such as remote humanitarian missions.
Layperson's perception of axial midline angulation in asymmetric faces
Authors: Silva Bruno Pereira , Jiménez‐Castellanos Emilio , Stanley Kyle , Mahn Eduardo , Coachman Christian , Finkel Sivan
Published: November 2017

Objective

Asymmetric facial features such as a deviated nose and chin are common and known to affect smile esthetics. When presented with these asymmetries, the clinician must consider the impact they will have on the smile design parameters—especially the placement and angulation of the dental midline, which is a common starting point for a case involving smile design. The purpose of this article is to determine if the nose and chin deviations affect the perception of dental midline angulation.

Materials and Methods

An asymmetric facial model (AFM) was created from a digital symmetric facial model, used in a previous study by digitally deviating the nose and chin to the same side. Eight different pictures of this AFM were created, each with different degrees of maxillary midline angulation (both in and against the direction of the deviated nose and chin). Using a visual Likert scaled delivered via Websurvey in the private practice setting, one hundred and ninety‐six randomly selected laypersons were asked to evaluate each image according to their own notions of beauty.

Results

A minor axial dental midline angulation of 3.5° can be perceived independently of the direction of the cant. All pictures where the midline was canted pointing in the opposite direction of nose and chin deviations presented lower rating mean values.

Conclusions

Off‐center noses and chins can influence the perceived attractiveness of a smile with a canted dental midline. The degree and direction of a canted midline can influence the harmony between the smile and overall face, with canting in the same direction of the asymmetric features being rated as more attractive.

Clinical Significance

The dental midline should be as vertically straight as possible. If a midline cant is present, however, it is more favorable to have a dental midline angulation which points in the same direction as nose and chin deviations, rather than in the opposite direction.
A Microsporidian Infection in Phoronids (Phylum Phoronida): Microsporidium phoronidi n. sp. from a Phoronis embryolabi
Authors: Temereva Elena N. , Sokolova Yuliya Y.
Published: November 2017

Microsporidia‐like spores (2.0–3.0 × 1.3–1.5 μm) were discovered upon examination of histological sections taken from Phoronis embryolabi Temereva, Chichvarkhin 2017 found inhabiting burrows of shrimps Nihonotrypeae japonica (Decapoda, Callianassidae) from the Sea of Japan, Russia. Ultrastructural examination of spores revealed one nucleus and a uniform polar filament of 7–11 coils. Representatives of the phylum Phoronida have never been recorded as hosts of microsporidia. Parasites developed in vasoperitoneal tissue and caused formation of multinucleate syncytia. Basing on unique host and fine morphology, we assign the novel finding to Microsporidium phoronidi n. sp. and place provisionally in the collective genus Microsporidium.
Personality traits and maladaptivity: Unipolarity versus bipolarity
Authors: Williams Trevor F. , Simms Leonard J.
Published: November 2017

Objective

Dimensional personality trait models have gained favor as an alternative to categorical personality disorder (PD) diagnosis; however, debate persists regarding whether these traits should be conceptualized as maladaptive at both extremes (i.e., maladaptively bipolar) or just one trait pole (i.e., unipolar).

Method

To inform the debate on maladaptive bipolarity, linear and nonlinear relations between personality traits and dysfunction were examined in a large psychiatric patient sample (N = 365). Participants self‐reported on normal‐range and pathological personality domains, life satisfaction, specific interpersonal problems, and broad psychosocial functioning. In addition, participants were interviewed regarding specific psychiatric symptoms and broad psychosocial functioning.

Results

All traits related moderately to strongly with at least one dysfunction variable. All traits were predominantly correlated with dysfunction at one pole; however, several small linear relations provided some evidence for maladaptively high Extraversion and Agreeableness. None of the significant nonlinear effects provided clear evidence for maladaptivity at both ends of any trait.

Conclusions

Taken together, these results suggest that broad personality traits are predominantly maladaptive at one extreme; however, in limited cases, the opposite extreme may also be maladaptive.
Does water fluoridation affect the prevalence of enamel fluorosis differently among racial and ethnic groups?
Authors: Arora Shivani , Kumar Jayanth V. , Moss Mark Eric
Published: November 2017

Objectives

There are reports showing higher prevalence of enamel fluorosis among African‐American children. This study was conducted to assess whether the effect of water fluoride level on enamel fluorosis is different among different race/ethnicity groups among US school children.

Methods

Data from the National Survey of Oral Health of US School Children 1986‐1987 were analyzed to determine the prevalence of enamel fluorosis among 7‐17 year‐old children. The association between race/ethnicity and enamel fluorosis was examined using logistic regression modeling after controlling for potential confounders age, gender, water fluoridation, other sources of fluoride, and region of residence.

Results

The prevalence of very mild to severe enamel fluorosis was 20.8 (95% CI, 15.4, 26.3) and 25.7 (95% CI, 15.0, 36.5) percent among non‐Hispanic White and non‐Hispanic Black children, respectively. Neither the adjusted odds ratio of 1.3 (0.8, 2.0) for the non‐Hispanic Black group nor the interaction effect between non‐Hispanic Black and water fluoridation were statistically significant.

Conclusions

Enamel fluorosis was not associated with race/ethnicity. Our analysis suggests that exposure to similar levels of fluoride in the water does not appear to place certain race/ethnic groups at a higher risk for developing enamel fluorosis, and lowering the optimal range of drinking water fluoride to a single value of 0.7 ppm will provide a level of protection against enamel fluorosis that will benefit all race/ethnicity groups.
25‐Hydroxy vitamin D3 serum concentration in dogs with acute polyradiculoneuritis compared to matched controls
Authors: Laws E. J. , Kathrani A. , Harcourt‐Brown T. R. , Granger N. , Rose J. H.
Published: November 2017

Objectives

To determine if dogs with acute polyradiculoneuritis have lower serum 25‐hydroxy vitamin D3 concentration compared to a control group of dogs with idiopathic epilepsy.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective case–control study of 21 dogs with acute canine polyradiculoneuritis and 21 control dogs with idiopathic epilepsy matched for year and season of presentation from a referral hospital population in the UK. Serum concentration of 25‐hydroxy vitamin D3 was compared between groups using Student's t‐test.

Results

Dogs with acute canine polyradiculoneuritis had significantly lower (P=0·033) serum 25‐hydroxy vitamin D3 concentration (87·1 nmol/L ±55·4 nmol/L) compared to a control group with idiopathic epilepsy (113 nmol/L ±66·3 nmol/L).

Clinical Significance

The cause and clinical significance of the altered vitamin D status in dogs with acute polyradiculoneuritis are not clear and require further investigation. Our findings pave the way for improved understanding of acute canine polyradiculoneuritis and, potentially, improved clinical management, if a causal role for 25‐hydroxy vitamin D3 is defined.
Sleep restriction and cognitive load affect performance on a simulated marksmanship task
Authors: Smith Carl D. , Cooper Adam D. , Merullo Donna J. , Cohen Bruce S. , Heaton Kristin J. , Claro Pedro J. , Smith Tracey
Published: November 2017

Sleep restriction degrades cognitive and motor performance, which can adversely impact job performance and increase the risk of accidents. Military personnel are prone to operating under sleep restriction, and previous work suggests that military marksmanship may be negatively affected under such conditions. Results of these studies, however, are mixed and have often incorporated additional stressors (e.g. energy restriction) beyond sleep restriction. Moreover, few studies have investigated how the degree of difficulty of a marksmanship task impacts performance following sleep restriction. The purpose of the current experiment was to study the effects of sleep restriction on marksmanship while minimizing the potential influence of other forms of stress. A friend–foe discrimination challenge with greater or lesser degrees of complexity (high versus low load) was used as the primary marksmanship task. Active duty Soldiers were recruited, and allowed 2 h of sleep every 24 h over a 72‐h testing period. Marksmanship tasks, cognitive assessment metrics and the NASA‐Task Load Index were administered daily. Results indicated that reaction times to shoot foe targets and signal friendly targets slowed over time. In addition, the ability to correctly discriminate between friend and foe targets significantly decreased in the high‐cognitive‐load condition over time despite shot accuracy remaining stable. The NASA‐Task Load Index revealed that, although marksmanship performance degraded, participants believed their performance did not change over time. These results further characterize the consequences of sleep restriction on marksmanship performance and the perception of performance, and reinforce the importance of adequate sleep among service members when feasible.
24‐Hour Kinetics of Cardiac Troponin‐T Using a “High‐Sensitivity” Assay in Thoroughbred Chuckwagon Racing Geldings after Race and Associated Clinical Sampling Guidelines
Authors: Shields E. , Seiden‐Long I. , Massie S. , Leguillette R.
Published: November 2017

Background

A “high‐sensitivity” cardiac troponin‐T (hscTnT) assay recently has been validated for use in horses and is a specific biomarker of myocardial damage. Postexercise release kinetics of cTnT utilizing the hscTnT assay have yet to be established in horses.

Objectives

To determine: (1) cTnT release kinetics in racing Thoroughbreds after a high‐intensity 5/8th mile Chuckwagon race; (2) the effects of age on pre‐ and postrace cTnT concentrations; and (3) sampling guidelines for clinicians evaluating horses presenting after exercise.

Animals

Samples were obtained from 38 Thoroughbred geldings aged 5–16 years before racing and immediately, 2, 3, 4, 6, 12, and 24 hour postrace.

Methods

Prospective, observational study with convenience sampling. A fifth‐generation hscTnT assay was used for plasma sample analysis, and concentrations were compared at all time‐points. Correlations were determined between cTnT concentrations and age. Biochemistry analysis was performed to assess rhabdomyolysis, renal failure, and exercise‐induced dehydration.

Results

All horses with measureable cTnT concentrations had significant postexercise increases in cTnT with a median peak (8.0 ng/L) at 3‐hour postrace. All horses had peak postexercise cTnT concentrations 2‐ to 6‐hour postrace ≤ the 99th percentile upper reference limit of 23.2 ng/L, after which all cTnT concentrations decreased until returning to baseline by 12–24 hours. There was no correlation over time between cTnT concentrations and age.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

In racing Thoroughbreds completing short‐duration, high‐intensity Chuckwagon races, cTnT concentrations are expected to be increased 2‐ to 6‐hour postrace and to decrease by 12–24 hours while remaining ≤23.2 ng/L throughout. This study contributes to establishing guidelines for clinical use of the hscTnT assay in exercising horses.
In vitro Inhibition of Canine Complement‐Mediated Hemolysis
Authors: Hernandez D.M. , Goggs R. , Behling‐Kelly E.
Published: November 2017

Background

Immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is the most common hematologic immune‐mediated disease in dogs. Complement fixation on erythrocytes causes hemolysis. Complement inhibition decreases hemolysis in people with the hemolytic disease and also may prove effective in treating IMHA in dogs.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Evaluate the in vitro efficacy of 2 complement inhibitors used in humans against canine complement.

Methods

The inhibitory activity of the C3‐inhibitor compstatin and recombinant human C1‐esterase inhibitor (C1‐INH) was evaluated using an in vitro hemolytic assay and spectrophotometric measurement of released hemoglobin. Dose‐response curves for each inhibitor were generated.

Results

Compstatin decreased approximately 50% of canine complement‐mediated hemolysis in initial experiments. This inhibition largely was lost when a new lot of drug was purchased. C1‐INH showed a dose‐dependent inhibition. The highest concentration of C1‐INH tested (500 μg/mL) decreased >80% of canine complement‐mediated hemolysis, and the lowest concentration tested (31.25 μg/mL) decreased hemolysis >60%.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Human C1‐INH is a robust inhibitor of canine complement‐mediated hemolysis, whereas compstatin was minimally and variably effective. Human C1‐INH may substantially decrease complement‐mediated hemolysis in dogs with IMHA and warrants further investigation.
Comparison of Single, Averaged, and Pooled Urine Protein:Creatinine Ratios in Proteinuric Dogs Undergoing Medical Treatment
Authors: Shropshire S. , Quimby J. , Cerda R.
Published: November 2017

Background

Monitoring urine protein:creatinine ratios (UPC) in dogs with protein‐losing nephropathy (PLN) is challenging because of day‐to‐day variation in UPC results.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Determine whether single, averaged, or pooled samples from PLN dogs receiving medical treatment yield comparable UPCs, regardless of degree of proteinuria.

Animals

Twenty‐five client‐owned PLN dogs receiving medical treatment.

Methods

UPC ratios were prospectively measured in each dog utilizing 3 methods: single in‐hospital sample (day 3), average sample (days 1–3), and pooled sample (equal pooling of urine from days 1–3). Bland‐Altman analysis was performed to evaluate agreement between methods for all dogs, as well as in subgroups of dogs (UPC ≤4 or UPC >4).

Results

For all dogs, Bland‐Altman log‐transformed 95% limits of agreement were −0.07–0.18 (single versus pooled UPC), −0.06–0.16 (single versus average UPC), and −0.06–0.04 (pooled versus average UPC). For dogs with UPC ≤4, Bland‐Altman 95% limits of agreement were −0.42–0.82 (single versus pooled UPC), −0.38–0.76 (single versus average UPC), and −0.27–0.25 (pooled versus average UPC). For dogs with UPC >4, Bland‐Altman 95% limits of agreement were −0.17–2.4 (single versus pooled UPC), −0.40–2.2 (single versus average UPC), and −0.85–0.43 (pooled versus average UPC).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

UPC ratios from all methods were comparable in PLN dogs receiving medical treatment. In PLN dogs with UPC >4, more variability between methods exists likely because of higher in‐hospital results, but whether this finding is clinically relevant is unknown.
Investigation of Known Genetic Mutations of Arabian Horses in Egyptian Arabian Foals with Juvenile Idiopathic Epilepsy
Authors: Aleman M. , Finno C.J. , Weich K. , Penedo M.C.T.
Published: November 2017

Background

The carrier status of lavender foal syndrome (LFS), cerebellar abiotrophy (CA), severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), and occipitoatlantoaxial malformation (OAAM1) in foals with juvenile idiopathic epilepsy (JIE) is unknown.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To determine the carrier status of LFS, CA, SCID, and OAAM1 in foals with JIE.

Animals

Ten foals with JIE.

Materials and Methods

Archived DNA samples were tested for known genetic mutations causing LFS, CA, SCID, and OAAM1. The inclusion criteria consisted of having been diagnosed with JIE by ruling out other causes of seizures in foals and supported by electroencephalographic examination.

Results

Ten Egyptian Arabian horses (5 females and 5 males) were phenotyped as foals with JIE by electroencephalography (EEG). All foals were negative for the genetic mutations that cause LFS, CA, SCID, and OAAM1 except for 1 foal that was a carrier of CA.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Juvenile idiopathic epilepsy of Egyptian Arabian foals and LFS appear to be phenotypically and genetically distinct disorders. There was no apparent association between JIE and LFS, CA, SCID, and OAAM1.
Impact of Bilingualism on Infants’ Ability to Learn From Talking and Nontalking Faces
Authors: Fort Mathilde , Ayneto‐Gimeno Alba , Escrichs Anira , Sebastian‐Galles Nuria
Published: November 2017

To probably overcome the challenge of learning two languages at the same time, infants raised in a bilingual environment pay more attention to the mouth of talking faces than same‐age monolinguals. Here we examined the consequences of such preference for monolingual and bilingual infants’ ability to perceive nonspeech information coming from the eyes or the mouth region of talking faces. Using a learning procedure, we recorded 15‐month‐olds’ and 18‐month‐olds’ gaze while watching, at each trial, a speaker producing a sentence systematically followed by a nonspeech movement (eyebrow raise vs. lip protrusion). Differences were obtained for infants in the eyebrow‐raise condition. While 15‐month‐old monolinguals and 18‐month‐old bilinguals learned to anticipate the eyebrow‐raise movement before its appearance, 15‐month‐old bilinguals did not (i.e., they continued to look at the mouth region). Thus, bilingualism appears to impact not only how infants explore talking faces but also how they learn from them.
Altered fatty acid‐binding protein 4 (FABP4) expression and function in human and animal models of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Thompson Kyle J. , Austin Rebecca Garland , Nazari Shayan S. , Gersin Keith S. , Iannitti David A. , McKillop Iain H.
Published: November 2017

Background and Aims

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer‐related mortality. Risk factors for developing HCC include viral hepatitis, alcohol and obesity. Fatty acid‐binding proteins (FABPs) bind long‐chain free fatty acids (FFAs) and are expressed in a tissue‐specific pattern; FABP1 being the predominant hepatic form, and FABP4 the predominant adipocyte form. The aims of this study were to investigate the expression and function of FABPs1‐9 in human and animal models of obesity‐related HCC.

Methods

FABP1‐9 expression was determined in a mouse model of obesity‐promoted HCC. Based on these data, expression and function of FABP4 was determined in human HCC cells (HepG2 and HuH7) in vitro. Serum from patients with different underlying hepatic pathologies was analysed for circulating FABP4 levels.

Results

Livers from obese mice, independent of tumour status, exhibited increased FABP4 mRNA and protein expression concomitant with elevated serum FABP4. In vitro, FABP4 expression was induced in human HCC cells by FFA treatment, and led to FABP4 release into culture medium. Treatment of HCC cells with exogenous FABP4 significantly increased proliferation and migration of human HCC cells. Patient serum analysis demonstrated significantly increased FABP4 in those with underlying liver disease, particularly non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and HCC.

Conclusions

These data suggest FABP4, an FABP not normally expressed in the liver, can be synthesized and secreted by hepatocytes and HCC cells, and that FABP4 may play a role in regulating tumour progression in the underlying setting of obesity.
Quartz–coesite–stishovite relations in shocked metaquartzites from the Vredefort impact structure, South Africa
Authors: Spray John G. , Boonsue Suporn
Published: November 2017

Coesite and stishovite are developed in shock veins within metaquartzites beyond a radius of ~30 km from the center of the 2.02 Ga Vredefort impact structure. This work focuses on deploying analytical field emission scanning electron microscopy, electron backscattered diffraction, and Raman spectrometry to better understand the temporal and spatial relations of these silica polymorphs. α‐Quartz in the host metaquartzites, away from shock veins, exhibits planar features, Brazil twins, and decorated planar deformation features, indicating a primary (bulk) shock loading of >5 < 35 GPa. Within the shock veins, coesite forms anhedral grains, ranging in size from 0.5 to 4 μm, with an average of 1.25 μm. It occurs in clasts, where it displays a distinct jigsaw texture, indicative of partial reversion to a less dense SiO2 phase, now represented by microcrystalline quartz. It is also developed in the matrix of the shock veins, where it is typically of smaller size (<1 μm). Stishovite occurs as euhedral acicular crystals, typically <0.5 μm wide and up to 15 μm in length, associated with clast–matrix or shock vein margin–matrix interfaces. In this context, the needles occur as radiating or subparallel clusters, which grow into/over both coesite and what is now microcrystalline quartz. Stishovite also occurs as more blebby, subhedral to anhedral grains in the vein matrix (typically <1 μm). We propose a model for the evolution of the veins (1) precursory frictional melting in a microfault (~1 mm wide) generates a molten matrix containing quartz clasts. This is followed by (2) arrival of the main shock front, which shocks to 35 GPa. This generates coesite in the clasts and in the matrix. (3) On initial shock release, the coesite partly reverts to a less dense SiO2 phase, which is now represented by microcrystalline quartz. (4) With continued release, stishovite forms euhedral needle clusters at solid–liquid interfaces and as anhedral crystals in the matrix. (5) With decreasing pressure–temperature, the matrix completes crystallization to yield a microcrystalline quasi‐igneous texture comprising quartz–coesite–stishovite–kyanite–biotite–alkali feldspar and accessory phases. It is possible that the shock vein represents the locus of a thermal spike within the bulk shock, in which case there is no requirement for additional pressure (i.e., the bulk shock was ≃35 GPa). However, if that pressure was not realized from the main shock, then supplementary pressure excursions within the vein would have been required. These could have taken the form of localized reverberations from wave trapping, or implosion processes, including pore collapse, phase change–initiated volume reduction, and melt cavitation.
Chemical and mineralogical characterization of the Mineo (Sicily, Italy) pallasite: A unique sample
Authors: Zucchini A. , Petrelli M. , Frondini F. , Petrone C. M. , Sassi P. , Di Michele A. , Palmerini S. , Trippella O. , Busso M.
Published: November 2017

The Mineo pallasite is characterized here for the first time. The only 42 g still available worldwide is part of the collection of the Department of Physics and Geology, University of Perugia. A multianalytical approach was used, joining field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, Raman analysis, X‐ray powder diffraction, electron‐probe microanalysis, and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Results highlighted that (1) the Mineo pallasite belongs to the Main Group pallasites; (2) the silicate component is essentially olivine, with no pyroxene component; (3) the olivine chemical composition varies in terms of both iron and trace elements; (4) the metal phase is essentially kamacite with the taenite mainly found in the plessite structure; (5) phosphide phases are present as schreibersite and barringerite. The observed compositional variability in olivines as well as their occurrence as both angular and rounded crystals suggest that the Mineo pallasite could have been derived from a large impact of a differentiated parent body with a larger solid body. The resulting pallasite conglomerate consists of the compositionally different olivines, likely coming from different areas of the same differentiated parent body, and the residual molten Fe‐Ni.