bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
UK rates of occupational skin disease attributed to rubber accelerators, 1996–2012
Authors: Warburton Katharine L. , Urwin Rachel , Carder Melanie , Turner Susan , Agius Raymond , Wilkinson S. Mark
Published: February 2015

Background

Natural and synthetic rubbers containing rubber accelerators are well‐known causes of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). Latex contact urticaria (CU) has been widely reported, especially when powdered latex glove use was commonplace. Consequently, interventions to reduce latex exposure by altering glove manufacture were introduced.

Objective

This study aimed to analyse trends in UK‐reported incidence of occupational skin disease associated with rubber accelerators.

Method

We analysed cases reported to EPIDERM (part of The Health and Occupation Research network) of occupational ACD caused by natural and synthetic rubber products, between 1996 and 2012.

Results

For the studied period, a decreasing incidence of ACD associated with rubber products was found, with an average annual change of −1.2% [95% confidence interval (CI) −3.1 to 0.7]. The number of cases of latex CU (n = 580) significantly declined. The number of cases of ACD caused by mercapto mix and mercaptobenzothiazole (n = 177) and thiuram mix (n = 603) also declined. Reports of ACD associated with carba mix and its constituents (n = 219) increased significantly, by an average annual percentage of 10.1% (95%CI: 6.1–14.2). Twenty‐six cases of ACD caused by rarer rubber compounds were identified, highlighting skin disease attributable to less widely recognized chemicals.

Conclusions

These data show a falling reported incidence of occupational ACD attributed to rubber chemicals, but within this a significant rise attributable to the constituents of the carba mix. Clinicians should recognize the changing diversity of chemicals used in rubber manufacturing, and consider including carba mix in their baseline series and testing beyond this in suspect cases to avoid false‐negative results.
Contact allergy to reactive diluents and related aliphatic epoxy resins
Authors: Aalto‐Korte Kristiina , Kuuliala Outi , Henriks‐Eckerman Maj‐Len , Suuronen Katri
Published: February 2015

Background

Diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A resin (DGEBA‐R) is the most common sensitizer in epoxy systems, but a minority of patients also develop contact allergy to reactive diluents.

Objectives

To analyse the frequency and clinical relevance of allergic reactions to different epoxy reactive diluents and related aliphatic epoxy resins.

Methods

Test files (January 1991 to June 2014) were screened, and the clinical records of patients with allergic reactions were analysed for occupation, concomitant allergic reactions, and exposure.

Results

A total of 67 patients reacted to at least one of the compounds. The largest numbers of allergic reactions were to phenyl glycidyl ether (PGE; n = 41), 1,4‐butanediol diglycidyl ether (BDDGE; n = 34), and p‐tert‐butylphenyl glycidyl ether (PTBPGE; n = 19). Ten of the patients did not have contact allergy to DGEBA‐R. The reactions of 5 of these were related to the use of BDDGE‐containing products. We found no significant exposure to PGE or PTBPGE in patients sensitized to them, but some of the patients had used cresyl glycidyl ether‐containing products.

Conclusions

Allergic reactions to reactive diluents and related aliphatic epoxy resins usually occurred together with reactions to DGEBA‐R. BDDGE was the clinically most significant compound, and was the sole cause of occupational allergic contact dermatitis in 3 patients.
Ecological Functions and Functionings: Towards a Senian Analysis of Ecosystem Services
Authors: Forsyth Tim
Published: February 2015

Ecosystem services are part of a growing trend within environment and development to analyse environmental change within the context of socially valued outcomes. Yet, ecosystem services‐based policies and analyses are increasingly criticized for failing to connect with, or even for restricting, development outcomes. This article seeks to connect environmental analysis with development outcomes better by applying the capability approach of Amartya Sen and others. It demonstrates how scientific analysis of ecosystem services sometimes conflates pathways of ecosystem management with development outcomes, but that it can be reconfigured to include more diverse values and objectives. The article argues that ecosystem services should be identified more as ‘functionings’ (in the Senian sense of valued development outcomes) rather than ‘functions’ (in the sense of biophysical, apolitical ecosystem properties) in order to indicate that ‘services’ always reflect social values, and that values and scientific explanations of underlying biophysical properties evolve together. Environmental science for socially valued outcomes such as ecosystem services is therefore an important site of political inclusion and exclusion. The article illustrates this analysis with examples of ecosystem‐based adaptation to climate change from the World Bank and government of Bangladesh, and in contrast to differing approaches from the field of sustainability science.
Two distinct roles of the yorkie/yap gene during homeostasis in the planarian Dugesia japonica
Authors: Hwang Byulnim , An Yang , Agata Kiyokazu , Umesono Yoshihiko
Published: February 2015

Adult planarians possess somatic pluripotent stem cells called neoblasts that give rise to all missing cell types during regeneration and homeostasis. Recent studies revealed that the Yorkie (Yki)/Yes‐associated protein (YAP) transcriptional coactivator family plays an important role in the regulation of tissue growth during development and regeneration, and therefore we investigated the role of a planarian yki‐related gene (termed Djyki) during regeneration and homeostasis of the freshwater planarian Dugesia japonica. We found that knockdown of the function of Djyki by RNA interference (RNAi) downregulated neoblast proliferation and caused regeneration defects after amputation. In addition, Djyki RNAi caused edema during homeostasis. These seemingly distinct defects induced by Djyki RNAi were rescued by simultaneous RNAi of a planarian mats‐related gene (termed Djmats), suggesting an important role of Djmats in the negative regulation of Djyki, in accordance with the conservation of the functional relationship of these two genes during the course of evolution. Interestingly, Djyki RNAi did not prevent normal protonephridial structure, suggesting that Djyki RNAi induced the edema phenotype without affecting the excretory system. Further analyses revealed that increased expression of the D. japonica gene DjaquaporinA (DjaqpA), which belongs to a large gene family that encodes a water channel protein for the regulation of transcellular water flow, promoted the induction of edema, but not defects in neoblast dynamics, in Djyki(RNAi) animals. Thus, we conclude that Djyki plays two distinct roles in the regulation of active proliferation of stem cells and in osmotic water transport across the body surface in D. japonica.
Characterizing the genetic risk for Type 2 diabetes in a Malaysian multi‐ethnic cohort
Authors: Abdullah N. , Abdul Murad N. A. , Attia J. , Oldmeadow C. , Mohd Haniff E. A. , Syafruddin S. E. , Abd Jalal N. , Ismail N. , Ishak M. , Jamal R. , Scott R. J. , Holliday E. G.
Published: February 2015

Aims

To characterize the association with Type 2 diabetes of known Type 2 diabetes risk variants in people in Malaysia of Malay, Chinese and Indian ancestry who participated in the Malaysian Cohort project.

Methods

We genotyped 1604 people of Malay ancestry (722 cases, 882 controls), 1654 of Chinese ancestry (819 cases, 835 controls) and 1728 of Indian ancestry (851 cases, 877 controls). First, 62 candidate single‐nucleotide polymorphisms previously associated with Type 2 diabetes were assessed for association via logistic regression within ancestral groups and then across ancestral groups using a meta‐analysis. Second, estimated odds ratios were assessed for excess directional concordance with previously studied populations. Third, a genetic risk score aggregating allele dosage across the candidate single‐nucleotide polymorphisms was tested for association within and across ancestral groups.

Results

After Bonferroni correction, seven individual single‐nucleotide polymorphisms were associated with Type 2 diabetes in the combined Malaysian sample. We observed a highly significant excess in concordance of effect directions between Malaysian and previously studied populations. The genetic risk score was strongly associated with Type 2 diabetes in all Malaysian groups, explaining from 1.0 to 1.7% of total Type 2 diabetes risk variance.

Conclusion

This study suggests there is substantial overlap of the genetic risk alleles underlying Type 2 diabetes in Malaysian and other populations.
Estimation of human leptin concentration in the subcutaneous adipose and skeletal muscle tissues
Authors: Sendlhofer Gerald , Brunner Gernot , Schaupp Lukas , Wutte Andrea , Ellmerer Martin , Pieber Thomas R
Published: February 2015

Background

Interstitial leptin concentrations in subcutaneous adipose and skeletal muscle tissues were determined by open‐flow microperfusion.

Method

In 12 lean male subjects (age: 25·6 ± 1·1 years), a zero flow rate experiment using different flow rates was applied. Recovery was determined by urea as an internal reference. In the no‐net‐flux experiments, catheters were perfused with five solutions containing different concentrations of leptin. Concentrations of interstitial leptin were calculated by applying linear regression analysis to perfusate as opposed to sampled leptin concentrations.

Results

The zero flow rate protocol showed significantly higher concentrations of leptin in the interstitial fluid of subcutaneous adipose compared to skeletal muscle tissue [36·8 ± 10·32 vs. 7·1 ± 2·5% of the corresponding plasma level (P = 0·018)]. The recovery of urea in the samples was comparable for all catheters [79·4 ± 6·8 vs. 83·0 ± 5·8 of the corresponding plasma level, flow rate of 0·3 μL/min; (P = ns)] and was higher when compared to leptin. In the no‐net‐flux protocol, the concentration of leptin in subcutaneous adipose tissue was almost identical to plasma [90. 5 ± 7·0%] and the skeletal muscle tissue concentration of leptin was 23·7 ± 2·5% of the corresponding plasma level.

Conclusion

Open‐flow microperfusion enables the estimation of leptin concentrations in subcutaneous adipose and skeletal muscle tissues in humans in vivo. This is the first documentation on the use of open‐flow microperfusion to demonstrate that relevant amounts of leptin are also found in skeletal muscle tissue.
The sight of an adult brood parasite near the nest is an insufficient cue for a honeyguide host to reject foreign eggs
Authors: Tong Wenfei , Horrocks Nicholas P. C. , Spottiswoode Claire N.
Published: February 2015

Hosts of brood‐parasitic birds typically evolve anti‐parasitism defences, including mobbing of parasitic intruders at the nest and the ability to recognize and reject foreign eggs from their clutches. The Greater Honeyguide Indicator indicator is a virulent brood parasite that punctures host eggs and kills host young, and accordingly, a common host, the Little Bee‐eater Merops pusillus frequently rejects entire clutches that have been parasitized. We predicted that given the high costs of accidentally rejecting an entire clutch, and that the experimental addition of a foreign egg is insufficient to induce this defence, Bee‐eaters require the sight of an adult parasite near the nest as an additional cue for parasitism before they reject a clutch. We found that many Little Bee‐eater parents mobbed Greater Honeyguide dummies while ignoring barbet control dummies, showing that they recognized them as a threat. Surprisingly, however, neither a dummy Honeyguide nor the presence of a foreign egg, either separately or in combination, was sufficient to stimulate egg rejection.
Geographical origin of dabbling ducks wintering in Iberia: sex differences and implications for pair formation
Authors: Parejo Manuel , Navedo Juan G. , Gutiérrez Jorge S. , Abad‐Gómez José M. , Villegas Auxiliadora , Corbacho Casimiro , Sánchez‐Guzmán Juan M. , Masero José A.
Published: February 2015

Natural and anthropogenic Iberian wetlands in southern Europe are well known for supporting large numbers of migratory Palaearctic waterbirds each winter. However, information on the geographical origin of dabbling ducks overwintering in these wetlands is scarce and mostly limited to data from ringing recoveries. Here, we used intrinsic isotopic markers to determine the geographical origin of male and female Northern Pintails Anas acuta and Eurasian Teal Anas crecca in Extremadura, inland Iberia, a key site for overwintering dabbling ducks. Additionally, we fitted six Northern Pintails with GPS‐GSM tags to complement the data derived from stable isotope analysis. Most (> 70%) first calendar‐year Northern Pintails were assigned to regions above 55°N, flying 2600–5600 km from their main natal regions to Extremadura. Mean values of δ2Hf varied significantly between male and female Northern Pintails, suggesting that the sexes had different geographical origins. Data from tagged adult Northern Pintails supported the isotopic data, one male flying more than 5000 km to the coast of the Pechora Sea (Russia). Most (> 70%) first calendar‐year Eurasian Teal were assigned to the region between 48° and 60°N, travelling 1500–4500 km to arrive in Extremadura. Male and female Eurasian Teal showed marginal differences in mean values of δ2Hf. In migratory dabbling ducks, pairing typically occurs on the wintering grounds, and ducks in their first winter can breed the following spring. For Northern Pintails, pair formation in Extremadura could occur between individuals with different geographical origins, which could contribute to the genetic variability of their offspring.
Influence of Different Alumina Precursors on Structural Properties and Morphology of ZnO‐Al2O3 Nanocomposite Powder
Authors: Tajizadegan Hamid , Torabi Omid , Heidary Azam , Golabgir Mohammad‐Hosein , Siampour Farzaneh
Published: February 2015

The effect of different alumina precursors (aluminum nitride, aluminum hydroxide, and aluminum oxide) on morphology and the structural properties of ZnO‐Al2O3 nanocomposite prepared via chemical precipitation using urea hydrolysis was studied. The synthesized nanocomposites were systematically characterized by X‐ray diffraction, thermal gravimetric, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, surface area analysis, and UV–vis absorption. In the case of aluminum hydroxide and aluminum oxide, a core‐shell structure consisting of the ZnO nanoflakes on Al2O3 particles was obtained. Aluminum nitrate precursor resulted in the ZnAl2O4 spinel as the only crystalline phase. The characteristics of the synthesized nanocomposites strongly depend on the alumina sources.
Fabrication and Ablation Studies of 4D C/SiC Composite Nozzle Under Liquid Propulsion
Authors: Kumar Suresh , Kumar Anil , Mala Ramesh Babu , Mokhasunavisu Raghvendra Rao
Published: February 2015

4D C/SiC composite nozzle was fabricated using LSI and characterized for mechanical, thermal, and ablation properties. Average flexural and compressive strengths in the Z‐direction were found to be 119 and 110 MPa, while in the U‐, V‐ and W‐directions, they were 99 and 55MPa, respectively. Coefficient of thermal expansion was found to be varied in the range 0–1.5 × 10−6/°C (25–1050°C), while thermal diffusivity was 40–5 mm2/s (25–1200°C). Ablation behavior of the nozzle was evaluated under UH25/N2O4 propulsion system for 30 s. The overall mass erosion rate and the linear ablation rate were found to be 0.119 kg/m2s and 0.05 mm/s, respectively.
Common paths, divergent patterns: The social protection by other means approach in Australia and Japan
Authors: Hwang Gyu‐Jin
Published: February 2015

This article reports on a study of the welfare reform trajectories of two countries that are often identified in the literature as having institutional patterns of the ‘social protection by the other means’ approach. It is questioned in the article whether these two countries have undergone a converging reform trajectory against the increasing forces of economic liberalisation and whether their distinct ways of doing social policy have now come to an end. It argues that while both Australia and Japan have followed a similar neoliberal path in their social policy reform direction, the forms and patterns they have taken to follow have been distinct, largely aligned with the existing structure of social protection in each. Distinctive strategies of welfare adopted by each country have led to a divergent pattern in their way of doing social policy.
Identification of Uranyl Minerals Using Oxygen K‐Edge X‐Ray Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Ward Jesse D. , Bowden Mark , Resch C. Tom , Smith Steven , McNamara Bruce K. , Buck Edgar C. , Eiden Gregory C. , Duffin Andrew M.
Published: February 2015

Although most of the world's uranium exists as pitchblende or uraninite, this mineral can be weathered to a great variety of secondary uranium minerals, most containing the uranyl cation. Anthropogenic uranium compounds can also react in the environment, leading to spatial–chemical alterations that could be useful for nuclear forensics analyses. Soft X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) has the advantages of being non‐destructive, element‐specific and sensitive to electronic and physical structure. The soft X‐ray probe can also be focused to a spot size on the order of tens of nanometres, providing chemical information with high spatial resolution. However, before XAS can be applied at high spatial resolution, it is necessary to find spectroscopic signatures for a variety of uranium compounds in the soft X‐ray spectral region. To that end, we collected the near edge X‐ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectra of a variety of common uranyl‐bearing minerals, including uranyl carbonates, oxyhydroxides, phosphates and silicates. We find that uranyl compounds can be distinguished by class (carbonate, oxyhydroxide, phosphate or silicate) based on their oxygen K‐edge absorption spectra. This work establishes a database of reference spectra for future spatially resolved analyses. We proceed to show scanning X‐ray transmission microscopy (STXM) data from a schoepite particle in the presence of an unknown contaminant.
Commentary: Should we move away from an attachment framework for understanding disinhibited social engagement disorder (DSED)? A commentary on Zeanah and Gleason (2015)
Authors: Lyons‐Ruth Karlen , Zeanah Charles H. , Gleason Mary Margaret
Published: February 2015

Zeanah and Gleason have contributed a very informative and comprehensive review of the considerable recent advances in understanding reactive attachment disorder (RAD) and disinhibited social engagement disorder (DSED). Research in the past 15 years has grounded these diagnoses in a solid evidence base, due to the sophisticated work carried out by investigators of the ERAS and BEIP studies, as well as other efforts. The authors do an elegant job of synthesizing this new evidence and highlighting the questions and current controversies that emerge from so much new information. Given the scope of their task, they had limited space to elaborate on underlying etiological and conceptual models for these disorders and, in particular, the conceptual controversy underlying the recent DSM‐5 decision to relabel Reactive Attachment Disorder‐ Indiscriminate Type to Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder. That change essentially turns on whether DSED should be considered a disorder of attachment or a disorder with a nonattachment‐related etiology. This is an important controversy that will define research agendas for future studies and that goes to the heart of how to mount effective interventions for DSED. Thus, it is important to clarify the conceptualizations of etiological mechanisms that might underlie DSED.
Commentary: ‘Diseases of the world’: from epidemiology to etiology of child and adolescent psychopathology – a commentary on Polanczyk et al. (2015)
Authors: Jane Costello E.
Published: February 2015

If you are an epidemiologist, professionally interested in patterns of the distribution of disease in time and space, the first question you will be asked is ‘how many?’ What is the ‘prevalence rate’ of ADHD? How many children have autism? The second question will be ‘are there more nowadays?’ Is there an epidemic of childhood depression? Is the rate of conduct disorder increasing? This seems to be the main use that clinicians and clinical researchers make of epidemiology. So epidemiology is seen as important for some purposes but, somehow, not scientifically relevant to the real job of treatment. According to this view, epidemiology's value lies in telling us how bad a problem is (the ‘burden of disease’), how many affected people are getting treatment, and what the likely costs are. All useful stuff, but not getting us any nearer to the holy grail of understanding causes and cures of the ‘diseases of the world’. In their ‘meta‐analysis of the worldwide prevalence of mental disorders in children and adolescents’, Polanczyk and colleagues (Polanczyk et al., 2015, this issue) demonstrate just how partial and mistaken this view of epidemiology is. Polanczyk et al. have indeed provided a most valuable and thorough review of the descriptive issues that bureaucrats obsess about. But in the process they have illuminated several areas that are of real importance for the etiologic questions that scientists need to have answered if we are to make breakthroughs in the treatment and prevention of child and adolescent psychopathology.
Xerosis is associated with asthma in men independent of atopic dermatitis and filaggrin gene mutations
Authors: Engebretsen K.A. , Linneberg A. , Thuesen B.H. , Szecsi P.B. , Stender S. , Menné T. , Johansen J.D. , Thyssen J.P.
Published: February 2015

Background

Epidermal filaggrin deficiency due to common filaggrin gene (FLG) mutations causes xerosis and strongly increases the risk of atopic dermatitis and even asthma. However, it is unknown whether xerosis independent of FLG mutations could also increase the risk of asthma.

Objective

To evaluate whether generalized xerosis was associated with asthma, independent of atopic dermatitis and common FLG mutations in a cross‐sectional study on adult Danes.

Methods

A total of 3396 adults from the general population participated in a health examination. Lung function and serum‐specific IgE levels to inhalant allergens were measured and information on xerosis and atopic diseases was obtained by means of a questionnaire. Participants were genotypes for the three most common FLG mutations in Northern Europeans: R501X, 2282del4 and R2447X.

Results

Fully adjusted logistic regression analyses showed that asthma (either current or at some point in life) was significantly associated with reporting generalized xerosis (OR 1.32; 95% CI 1.02–1.72). The association was stronger in men (OR 1.79; 95% CI 1.13–2.84) when compared to women (OR 1.18; 95% CI 0.86–1.62). Furthermore, a significant association was observed between xerosis and ‘allergic asthma’ in men (OR 2.13; 95% CI 1.08–4.19).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate an association between xerosis and asthma in men independent of atopic dermatitis and FLG mutations. Both facilitated allergen sensitization and secondary degradation of filaggrin following T‐helper cell 2 inflammation might be key elements to understanding this relationship.
Property loss compensation mechanism of flood risk in China
Authors: Ge Y. , Li X. , Li B. , Xing H.
Published: February 2015

Natural disasters cause disastrous losses of life and property in China. The most serious losses come from floods which represent more than 1% of the notional gross domestic product. Currently, there is no effective compensation mechanism to counteract the impact of floods. The existing mechanism mainly relies on guidance from the national government with cooperation from local governments. The value of compensation from government is less than 10% of the value of lost property. Worldwide, the two main mechanisms to compensate for losses caused by flood are government allocations and commercial markets, and insurance is the most popular commercial instrument to deal with flood losses. In this paper, we explore whether China could adopt a commercial approach to compensation. Three provinces are used as an example to demonstrate that China could rely on commercial mechanisms to compensate for flood losses.
Evidence for the Involvement of Dopamine in Stress‐Induced Suppression of Reproduction in the Cichlid Fish Oreochromis mossambicus
Authors: Chabbi A. , Ganesh C. B.
Published: February 2015

In the present study, we examined whether stress‐induced suppression of reproduction is mediated through the catecholaminergic neurotransmitter dopamine (DA) in the female cichlid fish Oreochromis mossambicus. In the first experiment, application of antibody against tyrosine hydroxylase (TH; a marker for DA) in brain sections revealed the presence of intensely stained TH immunoreactive cells in the preoptic area (POA) and nucleus preopticus (NPO) during the previtellogenic phase. These cells showed weak immunoreactivity during the vitellogenic and prespawning phases concomitant with darkly stained luteinising hormone (LH) immunoreactive content in the proximal pars distalis (PPD) of the pituitary gland and fully ripened follicles (stage V) in the ovary of control fish. However, in fish exposed to aquacultural stressors, TH secreting cells remained intensely stained in POA and NPO regions during the prespawning phase, indicating increased synthetic and secretory activity, which was reflected by a significantly higher DA content compared to controls. Increased DA activity as a result of stress was associated with a decrease in the LH immunoreactive content in the PPD and an absence of stage V follicles in the ovary. In the second experiment, administration of DA caused effects similar to those in stressed fish, whereas DA receptor antagonist domperidone (DOM) treatment significantly increased the LH content in the PPD and the number of stage V follicles in unstressed fish. On the other hand, treatment of stressed fish with DOM resulted in dark accumulations of LH immunoreactive content in the PPD accompanied by the presence of stage V follicles in the ovary. Taken together, these results suggest an additional pathway for the inhibitory effects of stress through dopaminergic neurones along the reproductive axis.
Melatonin‐mediated Bim up‐regulation and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) down‐regulation enhances tunicamycin‐induced apoptosis in MDA‐MB‐231 cells
Authors: Woo Seon Min , Min Kyoung‐jin , Kwon Taeg Kyu
Published: February 2015

Melatonin is involved in many physiological functions, and it has differential effects on apoptosis in normal and cancer cells. However, the mechanism of its antitumor roles is not well understood. In this study, we show that melatonin enhances tunicamycin‐induced apoptosis in human breast carcinoma MDA‐MB‐231 cells. Melatonin up‐regulates pro‐apoptotic protein Bim expression at the transcriptional levels in the presence of tunicamycin. Melatonin inhibits tunicamycin‐induced COX‐2 expression in MDA‐MB‐231 cells. Furthermore, inhibition of COX‐2 activity using the COX‐2 inhibitor, NS398, increases tunicamycin‐induced apoptosis. Interestingly, these effects were not associated with melatonin receptor signal pathways. Pertussis toxin (a general Gi protein inhibitor) or luzindole (a nonspecific melatonin receptor antagonist) did not reverse the effect of melatonin. In addition, melatonin blocked tunicamycin‐induced NF‐κB transcriptional activity, p65 nuclear translocation, and p38 MAPK activation. Melatonin‐mediated p38 MAPK inhibition contributed to decreased COX‐2 mRNA stability. Taken together, our results suggest that melatonin enhances antitumor function through up‐regulation of Bim expression and down‐regulation of COX‐2 expression in tunicamycin‐treated MDA‐MB‐231 cells.
The effect of orally administered probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri‐containing tablets in peri‐implant mucositis: a double‐blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Flichy‐Fernández A. J. , Ata‐Ali J. , Alegre‐Domingo T. , Candel‐Martí E. , Ata‐Ali F. , Palacio J. R. , Peñarrocha‐Diago M.
Published: February 2015

Background and Objectives

Probiotics create a biofilm and protect the oral tissues against the action of periodontal pathogenic bacteria. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the oral probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri Prodentis upon the peri‐implant health of edentulous patients with dental implants and peri‐implant mucositis, establishing comparisons vs implants without peri‐implant disease.

Material and Methods

A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, prospective cross‐over study was made. The patients were all edentulous and were divided into two groups, (A) no peri‐implant disease, and (B) peri‐implant mucositis affecting one or more implants. Patients with peri‐implantitis were excluded. The dosage was one tablet every 24 h over 30 d. All patients in both groups initially received the oral probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri Prodentis, followed by placebo. Patients started with probiotic treatment during 30 d, followed by a 6 mo washout period and the administration of placebo for the same period. The following parameters were studied: crevicular fluid volume, modified plaque index, probing depth, modified gingival index, and concentrations of interleukin 1β, interleukin 6 and interleukin 8.

Results

A total of 77 implants were evaluated in 34 patients. Group A involved 22 patients with 54 implants without peri‐implant alterations, and group B, 12 patients with mucositis affecting one or more implants (23 implants). After treatment with the probiotic, both the patients with mucositis and the patients without peri‐implant disease showed improvements in the clinical parameters, with reductions in cytokine levels. In contrast, no such changes were observed with placebo.

Conclusions

After treatment with the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri in patients with implants presenting mucositis, the clinical parameters improved, and the cytokine levels decreased – in contraposition to the observations in the placebo group. Probiotic administration may be regarded as a good alternative for both the treatment of peri‐implant mucositis and its prevention, as it also improved clinical parameters in the healthy individuals. Further studies involving larger patient series are needed regarding the effects of probiotics upon peri‐implant health.
Warfarin Treatment and Outcomes of Patients With Atrial Fibrillation in Rural and Urban Settings
Authors: Avgil Tsadok Meytal , Jackevicius Cynthia A. , Essebag Vidal , Eisenberg Mark J. , Rahme Elham , Pilote Louise
Published: February 2015

Background

Warfarin is an effective agent in the prevention of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, it requires close monitoring with regular visits to health care facilities. To date, it is unknown whether there is a difference in warfarin utilization and outcomes between urban and rural settings.

Methods

We used administrative databases to compare warfarin utilization patterns and stroke and major bleeding outcomes in rural and urban settings in a population‐based cohort study of patients ≥ 65 years admitted to hospital with a diagnosis of AF in the province of Quebec, Canada, from 1999 to 2007. Patients’ postal codes were used to differentiate between rural and urban settings.

Results

The cohort comprised 18,198 rural (21.8%) and 65,315 urban (78.2%) patients, with similar mean age of 79 years and a similar burden of comorbidities. Overall, there was marked underutilization of warfarin in both rural and urban settings. Warfarin‐filled prescription rates were slightly higher in the rural setting (adjusted OR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.12‐1.20). In multivariable Cox regression analyses, the risk for stroke and major bleeding in rural settings was similar to that in urban settings (stroke: adjusted HR: 1.01, 95% CI: 0.95‐1.09; major bleeding: adjusted HR: 1.03, 95% CI: 0.95‐1.12).

Conclusions

Patients in rural settings were slightly more likely to fill a prescription for warfarin, but they experienced similar stroke and major bleeding rates to their urban counterparts.
Shell‐shape and morphometric variability in Mytilus galloprovincialis from micro‐tidal environments: responses to different hydrodynamic drivers
Authors: Moschino Vanessa , Bressan Monica , Cavaleri Luigi , Da Ros Luisa
Published: February 2015

Tidal conditions differently influence inter‐tidal organisms in terms of general physiological and metabolic responses. In this study we investigated the morphological response in shells of Mytilus galloprovincialis native to different micro‐tidal coastal environments in the Northern Adriatic Sea. Our purpose was to highlight the ecophenotypic variability across tidal levels and to elucidate how tidal currents and waves produced by anthropogenic activities may play a part in modulating shell morphology. Three sampling sites were selected: an open‐sea area 15 km off‐shore and two sites within the lagoon of Venice, the first near one of its three inlets, and the other one in the proximity of Venice city centre. At each sampling site, organisms were seasonally collected at different depths within their vertical zonation, either in the inter‐tidal zone – i.e. at both the highest and lowest tide zonation limits, and subtidally. The mussel shells were analysed by investigation of their morphometric relationships (height/length and width/length ratios) and by elliptic Fourier analysis of the shell contours. Shell thickness and condition index were also evaluated for a better comprehension of energy allocation/partitioning. Estimates based on long‐term measurements, visual observation, wind statistics and wave growth laws allowed an evaluation of the forces acting on shells. At the open‐sea site, the observed phenotypic variability of both shell shape and thickness was clearly related to the tidal vertical zonation. At the two lagoon sites, the currents generated by tidal flow through the inlet and the waves caused by the frequent passage of boats influenced both shell shape and thickness. A trade‐off between protection and growth was apparent along the tide gradient, as emphasized by the differences in the partitioning and allocation of energy between shell and flesh production.
Estimating the temporal and spatial extent of gene flow among sympatric lizard populations (genusSceloporus) in the southern Mexican highlands
Authors: Grummer Jared A. , Calderón‐Espinosa Martha L. , Nieto‐Montes de Oca Adrián , Smith Eric N. , Méndez‐de la Cruz Fausto R. , Leaché Adam D.
Published: February 2015

Interspecific gene flow is pervasive throughout the tree of life. Although detecting gene flow between populations has been facilitated by new analytical approaches, determining the timing and geography of hybridization has remained difficult, particularly for historical gene flow. A geographically explicit phylogenetic approach is needed to determine the overlap of ancestral populations. In this study, we performed population genetic analyses, species delimitation, simulations and a recently developed approach of species tree diffusion to infer the phylogeographic history, timing and geographic extent of gene flow in lizards of theSceloporus spinosusgroup. The two species in this group,S. spinosusandS. horridus, are distributed in eastern and western portions of Mexico, respectively, but populations of these species are sympatric in the southern Mexican highlands. We generated data consisting of three mitochondrial genes and eight nuclear loci for 148 and 68 individuals, respectively. We delimited six lineages in this group, but found strong evidence of mito‐nuclear discordance in sympatric populations ofS. spinosusandS. horridusowing to mitochondrial introgression. We used coalescent simulations to differentiate ancestral gene flow from secondary contact, but found mixed support for these two models. Bayesian phylogeography indicated more than 60% range overlap between ancestralS. spinosusandS. horriduspopulations since the time of their divergence. Isolation–migration analyses, however, revealed near‐zero levels of gene flow between these ancestral populations. Interpreting results from both simulations and empirical data indicate that despite a long history of sympatry among these two species, gene flow in this group has only recently occurred.
Fusarium falciforme infection in a patient with chronic granulomatous disease: Unique long‐term course of epidural abscess
Authors: Okura Yuka , Kawamura Nobuaki , Okano Motohiko , Toita Nariaki , Takezaki Shunichiro , Yamada Masafumi , Kobayashi Ichiro , Ariga Tadashi
Published: February 2015

Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is a primary immunodeficiency disease characterized by recurrent life‐threatening bacterial and fungal infections with granuloma formation. Species of the genus Fusarium are opportunistic environmental microorganisms that are rarely pathogenic in humans. We report here the first case of X‐linked CGD complicated with epidural abscess caused by Fusarium falciforme infection. The abscesses extended along the dura mater for >7 years and finally resulted in fatal meningitis and cervical myelitis. Early intervention with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation should be considered, especially in patients with severe CGD, before the development of serious infectious complication.
Intestinal neuronal dysplasia‐like histopathology in infancy
Authors: Hirayama Yutaka , Iinuma Yasushi , Numano Fujito , Masui Daisuke , Iida Hisataka , Komatsuzaki Naoko , Nagayama Yosihisa , Naito Shinichi , Nitta Koju
Published: February 2015

The present patient was delivered at a gestational age of 27 weeks. She had abdominal bloating with symptoms of respiratory distress. We suspected Hirschsprung disease (HD) or small intestinal stricture, but examinations were not definitive. Exploratory laparotomy was performed at 97 days of age. Intraoperative findings showed no evidence of small intestinal stricture or changes in intestinal caliber. A transanal drainage tube was inserted, and decompression therapy and intestinal lavage were started. Rectal mucosal biopsy was performed at 184 days of age, and HE and acetylcholinesterase staining showed intestinal neuronal dysplasia (IND)‐like pathological findings. At 15 months, giant ganglia were no longer present on follow‐up rectal mucosal biopsy, and the pathological diagnosis was normoganglionosis. It should be recognized that while the enteric nervous system is developing, IND‐like pathological findings may be seen as a pathological condition during the maturation process.
Rotavirus‐associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for familial HLH
Authors: Park Meerim , Yun Yeong Ju , Woo Sung Il , Lee Jae Wook , Chung Nack‐Gyun , Cho Bin
Published: February 2015

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a life‐threatening disorder of immune regulation. HLH consists of two forms: familial and acquired, the latter which occurs in association with infection, malignancy, rheumatic disease and acquired immune deficiency. Herein, we report a case of acquired HLH in a child who had received allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for familial HLH with UNC13D mutation. Based on microbiology, only rotavirus was identified as a possible organism triggering HLH. The patient's fulminant clinical course included acute respiratory failure, a sepsis‐like pattern, disseminated intravascular coagulopathy, and rhabdomyolysis, leading to multiorgan failure and death from septic shock.
Disagreements: Anscombe, Geach, Wittgenstein
Authors: Diamond Cora
Published: February 2015

My essay explains and examines Anscombe's disagreement with Wittgenstein about what the Tractatus supposedly excludes. I also discuss her apparent disagreement with Geach about propositions that lack an intelligible negation. My discussion of these disagreements leads to the topic of Anscombe on the relation between the “business of thinking” and truth. I suggest that she takes the business of thinking to include thinking that helps to keep thinking on track. Since there is a tie between thinking truly and the business of thinking being done well and since helping to keep thinking on track belongs to the business of thinking, helpings‐of‐thinking can (if done well) be described as true.
Task complexity modulates pilot electroencephalographic activity during real flights
Authors: Di Stasi Leandro L. , Diaz‐Piedra Carolina , Suárez Juan , McCamy Michael B. , Martinez‐Conde Susana , Roca‐Dorda Joaquín , Catena Andrés
Published: February 2015

Most research connecting task performance and neural activity to date has been conducted in laboratory conditions. Thus, field studies remain scarce, especially in extreme conditions such as during real flights. Here, we investigated the effects of flight procedures of varied complexity on the in‐flight EEG activity of military helicopter pilots. Flight procedural complexity modulated the EEG power spectrum: highly demanding procedures (i.e., takeoff and landing) were associated with higher EEG power in the higher frequency bands, whereas less demanding procedures (i.e., flight exercises) were associated with lower EEG power over the same frequency bands. These results suggest that EEG recordings may help to evaluate an operator's cognitive performance in challenging real‐life scenarios, and thus could aid in the prevention of catastrophic events.
Uncertainty Assessment in the Quantification of Risk Rates of Occupational Accidents
Authors: Papazoglou Ioannis A. , Aneziris Olga , Bellamy Linda , Ale B. J. M. , Oh Joy I. H.
Published: February 2015

Occupational risk rates per hour of exposure have been quantified for 63 occupational accident types for the Dutch working population. Data were obtained from the analysis of more than 9,000 accidents that occurred over a period of six years in the Netherlands and resulted in three types of reportable consequences under Dutch law: (a) fatal injury, (b) permanent injury, and (c) serious recoverable injury requiring at least one day of hospitalization. A Bayesian uncertainty assessment on the value of the risk rates has been performed. Annual risks for each of the 63 occupational accident types have been calculated, including the variability in the annual exposure of the working population to the corresponding hazards. The suitability of three risk measures—individual risk rates, individual annual risk, and number of accidents—is examined and discussed.
A Farm Transmission Model for Salmonella in Pigs, Applicable to E.U. Member States
Authors: Hill Andrew A. , Simons Robin R. L. , Kelly Louise , Snary Emma L.
Published: February 2015

The burden of Salmonella entering pig slaughterhouses across the European Union is considered a primary food safety concern. To assist E.U. member states with the development of national control plans, we have developed a farm transmission model applicable to all member states. It is an individual‐based stochastic susceptible‐infected model that takes into account four different sources of infection of pigs (sows, feed, external contaminants such as rodents, and new stock) and various management practices linked to Salmonella transmission/protection (housing, flooring, feed, all‐in‐all‐out production). A novel development within the model is the assessment of dynamic shedding rates. The results of the model, parameterized for two case study member states (one high and one low prevalence) suggest that breeding herd prevalence is a strong indicator of slaughter pig prevalence. Until a member state's’ breeding herd prevalence is brought below 10%, the sow will be the dominant source of infection to pigs raised for meat production; below this level of breeding herd prevalence, feed becomes the dominant force of infection.
Comparison of Veterinary Student Ability to Learn 1‐Handed and 2‐Handed Techniques for Surgical Knot Tying
Authors: Thomas Angharad C.J. , Hayes Graham M. , Demetriou Jackie L.
Published: February 2015

Objective

To determine which type of surgical hand‐tie trainee surgeons learn most readily in a laboratory setting, using a combination of audiovisual demonstration and one‐on‐one teaching.

Study Design

Randomized controlled learning trial.

Sample Population

Year 4 veterinary students in their 1st year of clinical training (n = 58).

Methods

Veterinary students entering clinical rotations were randomly allocated to 2 learning groups: 1‐handed (28 students) or 2‐handed (30 students) surgical ties. Knot tying technique was taught followed by three 15‐minute practice sessions with student progress recorded by filming each student tying a square knot (2 throws). All 3 knot tying attempts were scored for technique and knot formation. Data on potential confounding factors between groups, including age and gender, were recorded.

Results

There were no significant differences between group scores for each attempt (1st attempt P = .5; 2nd P = .2; 3rd P = .19). Initially, scores indicated more rapid learning in the 1‐handed group but fewer individuals achieved a perfect technique and knot after 60 minutes of learning (29/30 for 2‐handed; 24/28 for 1‐handed group). The 1‐handed group was the most error‐prone (after 45 minutes P < .01; after 60 min P < .01).

Conclusions

Over 95% of students in the 2‐handed group performed the technique and knot perfectly after 60 minutes learning time; were significantly less error‐prone and fewer students continued to make corrected errors after 60 minutes. This evidence indicates that the 2‐handed technique allows students to achieve success in a manageable teaching time.
Fuzzy Speed Control of Networked Motion Control Systems
Authors: Zhang Shangmin , Zhao Dezong , Li Chunwen , Stobart Richard
Published: February 2015

This paper proposed an integrated scheme for the modeling and control of induction motors in the networked environment. The networked control system (NCS) is built in hierarchical structure, which consists of a networked speed controller and a local controller. In the networked speed controller, fuzzy gain scheduling is applied to guarantee the robustness against communication constraints. Furthermore, a state predictor is designed to compensate the time delay occurred in data transmission from the sensor to the controller, as a component of the networked speed controller. Simulation and experimental results are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.