bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Apolipoprotein E, brain injury and neurodevelopmental outcome of children
Authors: Korja M. , Ylijoki M. , Lapinleimu H. , Pohjola P. , Matomäki J. , Kuśmierek H. , Mahlman M. , Rikalainen H. , Parkkola R. , Kaukola T. , Lehtonen L. , Hallman M. , Haataja L.
Published: February 2013

Apolipoprotein E plays an important role in neurodegenerative processes in adulthood, whereas its neurodevelopmental role is uncertain. We aimed to study the effect of apolipoprotein E on neurodevelopment in a cohort liable to neurodevelopmental changes. The cohort consisted of very preterm (<32 gestational weeks) and/or very low birth weight (<1500 g) children, and the longitudinal follow‐up protocol included sequential cranial ultrasounds during infancy, brain magnetic resonance imaging at term‐equivalent age, neurological and cognitive assessment (Mental Developmental Index) at the corrected age of 2 years and cognitive and neuropsychological assessments (Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence and Developmental NEuroPSYchological Assessment) at the chronological age of 5 years. Apolipoprotein E genotypes were determined from 322 children. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging data were available for 321 (99.7%) and 151 (46.9%) children, respectively. Neurodevelopmental assessment data were available for 138 (42.9%) to 171 (53.1%) children. Abnormal findings in ultrasounds and magnetic resonance imaging were found in 163 (50.8%) and 64 (42.4%) children, respectively. Mild cognitive delay at the corrected age of 2 years and the chronological age of 5 years was suspected in 21 (12.3%) of 171 and 19 (13.8%) of 138 children, respectively. In the Developmental NEuroPSYchological Assessment, 47 (32.6%) of 144 children had significantly impaired performances in more than one study subtest. No associations between the apolipoprotein E genotypes and imaging findings or measured neurodevelopmental variables were found. Apolipoprotein E genotypes do not appear to have major impact on brain vulnerability or neurodevelopment in children.
Recent advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms of the development and function of Th17 cells
Authors: Kurebayashi Yutaka , Nagai Shigenori , Ikejiri Ai , Koyasu Shigeo
Published: February 2013

IL‐17‐producing T helper (Th17) cells comprise a distinct Th subset involved in epithelial cell‐ and neutrophil‐mediated immune responses against extracellular microbes. At the same time, Th17 cells play significant roles in the development of autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Since the identification of Th17 cells approximately a decade ago, the molecular mechanisms of their differentiation have been intensively studied and a number of signaling cascades and transcription factors have been shown to be involved. Here, we review the current knowledge regarding the function of Th17 cells in vivo as well as several key concepts for the molecular mechanisms of Th17 differentiation. We also discuss the emerging roles of phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K), mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) and hypoxia‐inducible factor 1 (HIF‐1) in the differentiation of Th17 cells.
2. INDIGENOUS POWER IN THE COMANCHE EMPIRE
Authors: REID JOSH
Published: February 2013

Pekka Hämäläinen's The Comanche Empire reflects critical historiographical turns—indigenous power, responses to settler colonialism, and a reorientation of perspective—while uncovering new directions in American Indian history. Moreover, his four‐part framework for understanding power—spatial control, economic control, assimilation, and influence over neighbors—provides a useful model for analyzing indigenous polities in other places and times. However, by not explicitly framing the narrative of the Comanche empire within notions of sovereignty, Hämäläinen leaves open opportunities for other scholars of the Comanche and of Native North America. Future historical studies of Native sovereignty, though, should include tribally specific notions of sovereignty and ways of knowing and remembering the past.
Supporting GP advanced rural skills training
Authors: McKenzie Andrew , Beaton Neil , Hollins Jane , Jukka Clare , Hollins Aaron
Published: February 2013

Objective

The aim of this study was to: investigate doctors' experiences of support during GP advanced rural skills training, and identify strategies to improve support.

Design

The qualitative responses from a cross‐sectional, postal survey are reported.

Setting

Rural vocational training sector.

Participants

Sixty‐one doctors who had completed GP advanced rural skills training (procedural or non‐procedural) in Queensland between 1995 and June 2009 participated in the study.

Main outcome measure

Advanced trained doctors' experiences of support and their strategy recommendations to improve support.

Results

Experiences and strategies to improve support were developed into a framework of support, consisting of three theme areas. Strategies included: provision of training and career advice to allow immediate use of advanced skills; introduction of rural attachments and rural case studies during training to ensure rural orientation; development of GP mentor and peer networks for clinical and non‐clinical support; advocacy to improve understanding and recognition of advanced rural skills training.

Conclusions

Expanded support is required across the pre‐enrolment, training, early practice continuum. A holistic approach to support is required. Training providers, professional bodies, health departments, universities and workforce agencies need to work together to address and resource the support needs of advanced, rural GP trainees before, during and after training.
Predicting progression of bladder urothelial carcinoma using microRNA expression
Authors: Rosenberg Eran , Baniel Jack , Spector Yael , Faerman Alexander , Meiri Eti , Aharonov Ranit , Margel David , Goren Yaron , Nativ Ofer
Published: February 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Recurrence and progression prediction in urothelial cancer is currently based on clinical and pathological factors: tumour grade, tumour stage, number of lesions, tumour size, previous recurrence rate, and presence of concomitant carcinoma in situ. These factors are not specific enough to predict progression and ∼50% of patients diagnosed as high risk in fact do not progress within 3 years. Patient follow‐up is both expensive and unpleasant (frequent invasive cystoscopies). Molecular biomarkers, including microRNAs have been studied to provide additional prognostic information for these patients, but to date no molecular biomarker has become the ‘gold standard’ for patient diagnosis and follow‐up.

We used Rosetta Genomics’ highly specific microRNA expression profiling platforms to study the prognostic role of microRNAs in bladder cancer. Using microdissection we chose specific tumour microRNAs to study in order to avoid background contamination. Tumour progression was associated with altered levels of microRNAs. In particular, high expression levels of miR‐29c* were associated with a good prognosis. The study found that the use of microRNAs for determining progression and invasiveness for patients with urothelial cancer could potentially have a substantial impact on the treatment and follow‐up individual patients.

Objective

To identify microRNAs that could be useful as prognostic markers for non‐muscle‐invasive (NMI) bladder carcinoma.

Patients and Methods

Formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded samples of 108 NMI bladder carcinomas, and 29 carcinomas invading bladder muscle were collected, and microRNA expression levels were measured using microarrays.

For 19 samples, microdissection was performed to compare microRNA expression between the tumour and surrounding tissue.

MicroRNAs that were found to be unrelated to the tumour itself were excluded as potential prognostic markers.

Results

Expression profiles identified microRNAs that were differentially expressed in NMI tumours from patients who later progressed to carcinoma invading bladder muscle compared with NMI tumours from patients that did not progress.

The microRNA profile of tumours invading the bladder muscle was more similar to that of NMI tumours from patients who later progressed, than to that of the same‐stage NMI tumours from patients who did not later progress.

The expression level of one microRNA, miR‐29c*, was significantly under‐expressed in tumours that progressed and could be used to stratify patients with T1 disease into risk groups.

Conclusions

MicroRNAs can be useful biomarkers for prognosis in patients with urothelial carcinoma.

In our study, expression levels of several microRNAs, including miR‐29c* identified high‐ and low‐risk groups. These biomarkers show promise for the stratification of patients with bladder cancer.
Reinforcement Placement in a Concrete Slab Object Using Structural Building Information Modeling
Authors: Cho Young Sang , Lee Seung Il , Bae Jun Seo
Published: February 2013

In recent decades, the use of Reinforced Concrete (RC) structures such as conventional RC structures, flat plate structures, ribbed slabs, waffle slabs, etc. has become common in residential apartment buildings and mixed‐use buildings in the Far East, South East, Middle East, and around the world. Numerous experts work together for the design, construction, and supply of materials. Reinforcement bar configurations are usually designed and specified by structural engineers during the construction document phase without input from the project stakeholders such as rebar detailers, fabricators, and spacers. Rebar detailers use shop drawings to form reinforcement bars for fabrication and placement. The adoption of new technologies such as set‐based design and lean construction can save time and cost and ensure quality and safety during the construction process. This article examines and considers the contribution factors of downstream project stakeholders through their experiences such as rebar detailers, fabricators, and spacers during structural design using the Building Information Modeling (BIM) system. In this article, the novel modeling technology of placing reinforcement bar in the reinforced concrete flat plate floor system has been developed using the parametric design technology of 3D structural BIM, which can be converted into working drawings and shop drawings. The model can also be used for the rebar fabrication with an automatic bar bending and cutting machine. This research examines the interoperability among the structural model, the structural analysis and design results of a concrete flat plate that satisfy minimum thickness requirements and sustained and long‐term deflection criteria. The numerical experiment for the automated concrete flat plate modeling using a 66‐story mixed‐use building in a 3D virtual environment including reinforcement bar modeling using structural BIM has been completed as the part of this study.
Evidence‐Based Practice Process Quality Assessment: EPQA Guidelines
Authors: Lee Mei Ching , Johnson Karen L. , Newhouse Robin P. , Warren Joan I.
Published: February 2013

Background

Nurses are increasingly engaged in evidence‐based practice (EBP) processes to answer significant questions and guide nursing practice. However, there are no criteria to evaluate the rigor and quality of EBP projects, making the decision about whether to implement a recommended practice change questionable.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to achieve consensus among nationally recognized EBP nurse experts on criteria that could be used to appraise the methodological quality of an EBP project as well as to serve as a guideline to plan for an EBP project.

Methods

A modified two‐round Delphi method was used. Twenty‐three nationally known EBP experts were invited by e‐mail to participate in completing a web‐based questionnaire.

Results

Items converged after two rounds (response rate [52% (n = 12/23) for Round 1 and 35% (n = 8/23) for Round 2]) and resulted in the development of the EBP Process Quality Assessment (EPQA) guidelines that include 34 items.

Implications

The EPQA guidelines can be used to guide and evaluate the methodological quality of EBP projects. They can be used in practice settings to critically appraise an EBP project prior to translating recommendations into practice. Educators can use the EPQA guidelines as a rubric to evaluate student EBP projects. EPQA guidelines can be utilized in research to assess interventions and to build or improve EBP capacity.
Didymocarpus dissectus sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae) from Fujian, eastern China
Authors: Wen Fang , Qiu Yan‐Lian , Huang Jie , Zhao Bo , Wei Yi‐Gang
Published: February 2013

A new species of Gesneriaceae, Didymocarpus dissectus Fang Wen, Y. L. Qiu & Y. G. Wei, from Fujian province, China, is described and illustrated. It is similar to D. heucherifolius in flower shape, but can be easily distinguished by leaf blade shape, split extent of calyx and equal calyx lobes, indumentum of corolla and number of staminodes.
Genetic structure of Barbus spp. populations in the Marches Region of central Italy and its relevance to conservation actions
Authors: Livi S. , de Innocentiis S. , Longobardi A. , Cataudella S. , Tancioni L. , Rampacci M. , Marino G.
Published: February 2013

A genetic survey of Barbus spp. populations in the Marches Region (Adriatic River basins), central Italy, was carried out using mitochondrial and nuclear markers (partial D‐loop, cyt b sequences and microsatellite loci) in order to ascertain their systematic position and to address their genetic structure which is key to conservation action planning. Analyses were conducted on sequences obtained from 91 individuals collected from eight sampling sites in five different rivers, from two specimens provided by the Ichthyological Centre of Rome and mitochondrial sequences of Barbus spp. retrieved from GenBank. Presumptive classification based on external morphological characters was not confirmed by genetic analysis, by means of which all specimens collected in the Marches Region were ascribed to Barbus plebejus. Genetic diversity values (h and π) of sampling groups were all different from 0 except the one sample collected from the upper reaches of the River Tenna, above a hydroelectric dam. Population connectivity and colonization patterns of the studied area were inferred from an analysis of molecular variance distribution and evolutionary relationships among haplotypes. The results point to different levels of isolation among sampling groups due to ecological and anthropogenic factors and the effect of an artificial barrier on genetic variability and conservation status of the population. Finally, this study confirms the uncertainty associated with systematic classification of Barbus spp. based on morphological characters due to the phenotypic plasticity of the species.
Within‐lake distribution patterns of fish assemblages: the relative roles of spatial, temporal and random environmental factors in assessing fish assemblages using gillnets in a large and shallow temperate lake
Authors: Specziár A. , György Á. I. , Erős T.
Published: February 2013

In this study, the relative role of spatio‐temporal factors and associated environmental variables (water transparency and temperature) were quantified in relation to gillnet samples of fishes in a large and shallow lake (Lake Balaton, Hungary). Most of the variance (56·1%) in the relative abundance data (%) was related to the vertical segregation of fishes. This gradient substantially affected the catch per unit effort (CPUE) by number of the dominant species, the surface‐oriented bleak Alburnus alburnus and the benthic common bream Abramis brama. It also influenced total CPUE, mean fish mass and species richness and diversity. At the lake level, horizontal habitat heterogeneity (i.e. littoral v. offshore) accounted for only 8·3% of the total variance in relative abundance data, but was important in structuring the CPUE of the ruffe Gymnocephalus cernua and the pikeperch Sander lucioperca. The longitudinal environmental gradient (i.e. lake basin), year and season of sampling, water transparency and temperature had significant effects on relative abundance only at the habitat level, but were also important components of variability of CPUE in some species at the lake level. As sampling schemes need to consider the main gradients in fish assemblage distributions, the use of surface and pelagic gillnets should be more intensively incorporated in the study and monitoring of fish assemblages in shallow lakes and lake habitats.
Spontaneous melanotic lesions in axillary seabream, Pagellus acarne (Risso)
Authors: Ramos P , Victor P , Branco S
Published: February 2013

In this article, we describe spontaneous melanotic lesions in the skin of axillary seabream, Pagellus acarne (Risso), from a defined area of the Portuguese Coast, located in Cabo da Roca and Foz do Arelho. The lesions corresponded to the black pigmentation spots on the skin of the head, fins, lips and conjunctiva and, additionally, black nodules on the skin of the head and lips. In some specimens, the nodular formations in the head changed their anatomical conformation. Histologically, there were melanophores scattered along the basement membrane or forming aggregates in the dermis, infiltrating the subcutaneous tissue but not invading the adjacent muscle tissue. The aim of this study was to characterize the macroscopic and microscopic features of the pigmented lesions. These fish show sessile hyperpigmented lesions (spots) that correspond to proliferative lesions of melanophores in the dermis and nodular lesions that correspond to neoplastic lesions, melanophoromas. The melanophores in such lesions showed high concentration of melanin in the cytoplasm, moderate pleomorphism and compact distribution throughout all of the dermis.
Evaluation of fixation methods for demonstration of Neoparamoeba perurans infection in Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., gills
Authors: Cadoret K , Bridle A R , Leef M J , Nowak B F
Published: February 2013

Formaldehyde‐based fixatives are generally employed in histopathology despite some significant disadvantages associated with their usage. Formaldehyde fixes tissue by covalently cross‐linking proteins, a process known to mask epitopes which in turn can reduce the intensity of immunohistochemical stains widely used in disease diagnostics. Additionally, formaldehyde fixation greatly limits the ability to recover DNA and mRNA from fixed specimens to the detriment of further downstream molecular analyses. Amoebic gill disease (AGD) has been reliably diagnosed from histological examination of gills although complementary methods such as in situ hybridization (ISH) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are required to confirm the presence of Neoparamoeba perurans, the causative agent of AGD. As molecular techniques are becoming more prevalent for pathogen identification, there is a need to adapt specimen collection and preservation so that both histology and molecular biology can be used to diagnose the same sample. This study used a general approach to evaluate five different fixatives for Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., gills. Neutral‐buffered formalin and seawater Davidson's, formaldehyde‐based fixatives commonly used in fish histopathology, were compared to formalin‐free commercial fixatives PAXgene®, HistoChoice™MB* and RNAlater™. Each fixative was assessed by a suite of analyses used to demonstrate AGD including routine histochemical stains, immunohistochemical stains, ISH and DNA extraction followed by PCR. All five fixatives were suitable for histological examination of Atlantic salmon gills, with seawater Davidson's providing the best quality histopathology results. Of the fixatives evaluated seawater Davidson's and PAXgene® were shown to be the most compatible with molecular biology techniques. They both provided good DNA recovery, quantity and integrity, from fixed and embedded specimens. The capacity to preserve tissue and cellular morphology in addition to allowing molecular analyses of the same specimens makes seawater Davidson's and PAXgene® appear to be the best fixation methods for diagnosis and research on AGD in Atlantic salmon gills.
Purification of white spot syndrome virus by iodixanol density gradient centrifugation
Authors: Dantas‐Lima J J , Corteel M , Cornelissen M , Bossier P , Sorgeloos P , Nauwynck H J
Published: February 2013

Up to now, only a few brief procedures for purifying white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) have been described. They were mainly based on sucrose, NaBr and CsCl density gradient centrifugation. This work describes for the first time the purification of WSSV through iodixanol density gradients, using virus isolated from infected tissues and haemolymph of Penaeus vannamei (Boone). The purification from tissues included a concentration step by centrifugation (2.5 h at 60 000 g) onto a 50% iodixanol cushion and a purification step by centrifugation (3 h at 80 000 g) through a discontinuous iodixanol gradient (phosphate‐buffered saline, 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%). The purification from infected haemolymph enclosed a dialysis step with a membrane of 1 000 kDa (18 h) and a purification step through the earlier iodixanol gradient. The gradients were collected in fractions and analysed. The number of particles, infectivity titre (in vivo), total protein and viral protein content were evaluated. The purification from infected tissues gave WSSV suspensions with a very high infectivity and an acceptable purity, while virus purified from haemolymph had a high infectivity and a very high purity. Additionally, it was observed that WSSV has an unusually low buoyant density and that it is very sensitive to high external pressures.
Nitric Oxide Blocks Blue Light‐Induced K+ Influx by Elevating the Cytosolic Ca2+ Concentration in Vicia faba L. Guard Cells
Authors: Zhao Xiang , Li Yuan‐Yuan , Xiao Hui‐Li , Xu Chang‐Shui , Zhang Xiao
Published: February 2013

Ca2+ plays a pivotal role in nitric oxide (NO)‐promoted stomatal closure. However, the function of Ca2+ in NO inhibition of blue light (BL)‐induced stomatal opening remains largely unknown. Here, we analyzed the role of Ca2+ in the crosstalk between BL and NO signaling in Vicia faba L. guard cells. Extracellular Ca2+ modulated the BL‐induced stomatal opening in a dose‐dependent manner, and an application of 5 μM Ca2+ in the pipette solution significantly inhibited BL‐activated K+ influx. Sodium nitroprusside (SNP), a NO donor, showed little effect on BL‐induced K+ influx and stomatal opening response in the absence of extracellular Ca2+, but K+ influx and stomatal opening were inhibited by SNP when Ca2+ was added to the bath solution. Interestingly, although both SNP and BL could activate the plasma membrane Ca2+ channels and induce the rise of cytosolic Ca2+, the change in levels of Ca2+ channel activity and cytosolic Ca2+ concentration were different between SNP and BL treatments. SNP at 100 μM obviously activated the plasma membrane Ca2+ channels and induced cytosolic Ca2+ rise by 102.4%. In contrast, a BL pulse (100 μmol/m2 per s for 30 s) slightly activated the Ca2+ channels and resulted in a Ca2+ rise of only 20.8%. Consistently, cytosolic Ca2+ promoted K+ influx at 0.5 μM or below, and significantly inhibited K+ influx at 5 μM or above. Taken together, our findings indicate that Ca2+ plays dual and distinctive roles in the crosstalk between BL and NO signaling in guard cells, mediating both the BL‐induced K+ influx as an activator at a lower concentration and the NO‐blocked K+ influx as an inhibitor at a higher concentration.
Correlation of Impression Removal Force with Elastomeric Impression Material Rigidity and Hardness
Authors: Walker Mary P. , Alderman Nick , Petrie Cynthia S. , Melander Jennifer , McGuire Jacob
Published: February 2013

Purpose

Difficult impression removal has been linked to high rigidity and hardness of elastomeric impression materials. In response to this concern, manufacturers have reformulated their materials to reduce rigidity and hardness to decrease removal difficulty; however, the relationship between impression removal and rigidity or hardness has not been evaluated. The purpose of this study was to determine if there is a positive correlation between impression removal difficulty and rigidity or hardness of current elastomeric impression materials.

Materials and Methods

Light‐ and medium‐body polyether (PE), vinylpolysiloxane (VPS), and hybrid vinyl polyether siloxane (VPES) impression materials were tested (n = 5 for each material/consistency/test method). Rigidity (elastic modulus) was measured via tensile testing of dumbbell‐shaped specimens (Die C, ASTM D412). Shore A hardness was measured using disc specimens according to ASTM D2240–05 test specifications. Impressions were also made of a custom stainless steel model using a custom metal tray that could be attached to a universal tester to measure associated removal force. Within each impression material consistency, one‐factor ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc analyses (α = 0.05) were used to compare rigidity, hardness, and removal force of the three types of impression materials. A Pearson's correlation (α = 0.05) was used to evaluate the association between impression removal force and rigidity or hardness.

Results

With medium‐body materials, VPS exhibited significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) rigidity and hardness than VPES or PE, while PE impressions required significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) removal force than VPS or VPES impressions. With light‐body materials, VPS again demonstrated significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) hardness than VPES or PE, while the rigidity of the light‐body materials did not significantly differ between materials (p > 0.05); however, just as with the medium‐body materials, light‐body PE impressions required significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) removal force than VPS or VPES. Moreover, there was no positive correlation (p > 0.05) between impression removal force and rigidity or hardness with either medium‐ or light‐body materials.

Conclusions

The evidence suggests that high impression material rigidity and hardness are not predictors of impression removal difficulty.
Evidenced‐Based Criteria for Differential Treatment Planning of Implant Restorations for the Partially Edentulous Patient
Authors: Sadowsky Steven J. , Bedrossian Edmond
Published: February 2013

Evidence‐based criteria for differential implant planning for the partially edentulous patient have been lacking despite the exponential use of implant reconstructions. Anecdotal reports are often the basis for training of dental students and the continuing education of dentists and specialists. Decision‐making metrics for optimal dental treatment are best predicated on a comprehensive assessment of the systemic, local, and patient‐mediated factors evaluated through the lens of the best available evidence. The purpose of this article is to delineate the benefits/risks/alternatives calculus for patients considering implant restorations.
Effect of Core Thickness Differences on Post‐Fatigue Indentation Fracture Resistance of Veneered Zirconia Crowns
Authors: Alhasanyah Abdulrahman , Vaidyanathan Tritala K. , Flinton Robert J.
Published: February 2013

Purpose

Despite the excellent esthetics of veneered zirconia crowns, the incidence of chipping and fracture of veneer porcelain on zirconia crowns has been recognized to be higher than in metal ceramic crowns. The objective of this investigation was to study the effect of selected variations in core thickness on the post‐fatigue fracture resistance of veneer porcelain on zirconia crowns.

Materials and Methods

Zirconia crowns for veneering were prepared with three thickness designs of (a) uniform 0.6‐mm thick core (group A), (b) extra‐thick 1.7 mm occlusal core support (group B), and (c) uniform 1.2‐mm thick core (group C). The copings were virtually designed and milled by the CAD/CAM technique. Metal ceramic copings (group D) with the same design as in group C were used as controls. A sample size of N = 20 was used for each group. The copings were veneered with compatible porcelain and fatigue tested under a sinusoidal loading regimen. Loading was done with a 200 N maximum force amplitude under Hertzian axial loading conditions at the center of the crowns using a spherical tungsten carbide indenter. After 100,000 fatigue cycles, the crowns were axially loaded to fracture and maximum load levels before fracture was recorded. One‐way ANOVA (P < 0.05) and post hoc Tukey tests (α = 0.05) were used to determine significant differences between means.

Results

The mean fracture failure load of group B was not significantly different from that of control group D. In contrast, the mean failure loads of groups A and C were significantly lower than that of control group D. Failure patterns also indicated distinct differences in failure mode distributions. The results suggest that proper occlusal core support improves veneer chipping fracture resistance in zirconia crowns.

Conclusions

Extra‐thick occlusal core support for porcelain veneer may significantly reduce the veneer chipping and fracture of zirconia crowns. This is suggested as an important consideration in the design of copings for zirconia crowns.
Comparative Study of the Cutting Efficiency and Working Life of Carbide Burs
Authors: Di Cristofaro Rebecca G. Riera , Giner Lluis , Mayoral Juan Ricardo
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The aim of this study was to establish the wear and cutting efficiency of tungsten carbide burs from different manufacturers by performing cutting tests with machinable glass ceramic.

Materials and Methods

Cutting tests were performed with 70 tungsten carbide burs from seven manufacturers: (A) Coltene/Whaledent, (B) CEI, (C) Meisinger, (D) Axis, (E) Komet, (F) Kerr, (G) Edenta. All groups were examined under scanning electron microscope (SEM) before and after the cutting efficiency test for similarities and differences. A specially designed cutting device was used. An electric handpiece was operated at 200,000 rpm with a 120 ml/min coolant water supply rate. The burs were tested under a 165 g constant load using 3 mm wide Macor ceramic as substrate. For each bur the cutting procedure involved a total of five cuts of 3 minutes on every cut, with a total cutting time for each bur of 15 minutes. Data were analyzed using one‐way ANOVA at 95.0% confidence level.

Results

Significant differences (p < 0.05) were found in the mean cutting rates of the different groups. Groups A and B showed the highest cutting rates. Higher cutting rates were associated with a longer bur lifespan. SEM photomicrographs of the burs and substrates revealed significant changes on the surfaces after the cutting process.

Conclusions

The morphology characteristics of tungsten carbide burs are related to their effectiveness. The group that presented the worst working life also showed substantial wear on its surface according to the results of SEM.
Influence of Surface Treatments on Adhesion of Porcelain to Titanium
Authors: Elsaka Shaymaa E.
Published: February 2013

Purpose

This study evaluated the effect of etching solution surface treatments on the surface characteristics of titanium and adhesion of titanium/porcelain system by means of strain energy release rate (G‐value, J/m2).

Materials and Methods

Two hundred and forty five specimens of cp Ti plates were prepared. The specimens were divided into five groups in each test according to the surface treatment used; Gr MC (machined control), Gr AP (airborne particle abrasion), Gr E15, Gr E30, and Gr E60 (etching solution applied for 15, 30, and 60 minutes, respectively). The treated surfaces were characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Three types of porcelains (Duceratin, Vita Titankeramik, Ti‐22) were used to test adhesion with cp Ti. Following the four‐point bending interfacial fracture test, the peeled fracture surfaces were examined using SEM. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey HSD test. Statistical significance was set at the 0.05 probability level.

Results

AFM and SEM analyses showed that the surface topography of cp Ti was modified after treatments. Bond strength values were significantly affected by surface treatment and by type of porcelain (p < 0.05). The cp Ti/Duceratin (E30 and E60 minutes) groups showed the highest G‐value among the groups. Modes of failure were mixed and interfacial adhesive.

Conclusions

Adhesion between cp Ti and porcelain could be enhanced by the use of experimental hot etching solution prior to porcelain firing as an alternative modality to the airborne‐particle abrasion method.
Effect of Complete Dentures on Craniofacial Growth of an Ectodermal Dysplasia Patient: A Clinical Report
Authors: Bhalla Gaurav , Agrawal Kaushal Kishor , Chand Pooran , Singh Kamleshwar , Singh Balandra Pratap , Goel Prachi , Alvi Habib Ahmed
Published: February 2013

The aim of this clinical report was to observe the effect of complete dentures on craniofacial growth and development of an ectodermal dysplasia (ED) patient. A complete anodontia patient diagnosed with ED was successfully rehabilitated with conventional complete dentures at the ages of 5, 8, and 10 years. Three sets of complete dentures were made with age‐appropriate denture teeth and a bilaterally balanced lingualized occlusal scheme. Periodic follow‐up and adjustment when needed was done to maintain proper oral function and esthetics. Serial cephalometric analysis exhibited a marked restriction of forward growth at the anterior nasal spine (ANS) point between 5 and 10 years of age, although there was little change from average in the anteroposterior length of the mandibular body and the height of the mandibular ramus. So, while maxillary growth was reduced, mandibular growth did not significantly change. Cast analysis showed that the increase in arch length was greater than in arch width for both the maxilla and mandible. There was little increase in alveolar ridge height in the anterior region but a considerable increase in the height of the alveolar ridge in the middle and the posterior region. Our findings concluded that the absence of teeth did not affect the growth of the jaws, and it is probable that the denture flange did not arrest the jaw growth, but rather improved the masticatory function by providing good denture stability and retention.
Evaluation of Packing Attributes of Orange Juice on Consumers' Intention to Purchase by Conjoint Analysis and Consumer Attitudes Expectation
Authors: Gadioli Izabel Lucena , Pineli Lívia de Lacerda de Oliveira , Rodrigues Juliana Da Silva Quintiliano , Campos Alinne Bezerra , Gerolim Isadora Queiroz , Chiarello Marileusa D.
Published: February 2013

Besides the sensory quality of food, other factors are related to the formation of expectations and selection process for a product. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the major information found on packages of ready‐to‐drink orange juices marketed in Brazil on purchase intention of this product, using the conjoint analysis technique, and also associate the information defined to the attitudes of the participants regarding general health and their interest in natural/nonindustrialized products. Four factors were used, each one with two levels: nutritional information on vitamin C (rich in vitamin C × without information), sense of natural/industrialized product (homemade – with juicy bits × orange flavor added), information on preservative (without information × without added preservative) and price (high or low). Sixteen packages were designed and evaluated by 144 consumers segmented into three groups. Low price level was considered with the greatest positive impact, among all information for cluster 1. Cluster 2 just gave importance to “homemade – with juicy bits.” Only cluster 3 has more interest in general health than in natural products. Information rich in vitamin C, “homemade – with juicy bits,” without added preservative and low price grouped the ideal packaging of orange juice for most participants.

Practical Applications

Consumer expectations and what are their interests when buying food are important factors that should be known to improve the food industry because a continuous change has been noticed in eating habits and search for products that are healthier even with the current lifestyle of the twenty‐first century. In order to reach a larger number of accessions to the industrialized foods, the packages' contents deserve to be developed in accordance with the public that it wants to achieve. Therefore, additional research on what information must appear on food labels needs to be done frequently in order to adapt the package of products consumed, and seek to produce food with better nutritional quality to get the consumers' healthy expectations.
Perfume Odor Categorization: To What Extent Trained Assessors and Consumers Agree?
Authors: Veramendi Mily , Herencia Pilar , Ares Gastón
Published: February 2013

The perfume industry is increasingly interested in developing perfume classification systems based on their odor character profile to improve consumer shopping experience. However, concerns have been raised regarding the external validity of the classifications performed by experts and trained assessors. In this context, the aim of the present work was to evaluate the influence of training on perfume odor characterization based on a sorting task, by comparing sensory maps of perfumes and descriptions provided by trained assessors and consumers. Fifteen commercially fine female perfumes were evaluated by trained assessors and consumers using a sorting task, followed by a description phase. Trained assessors and consumers provided similar sample configurations. However, there was no perfect agreement in their classifications and some differences in the conclusions regarding similarities and differences between samples were identified. Although the descriptions provided by trained assessors and consumers to characterize the odor profile of the perfumes were different, the most frequently mentioned terms were similar and were used in a similar way.

Practical Applications

Results from the present work showed that training affected to some extent the way in which perfumes are categorized and described, which suggests that consumer perception could be a valuable complementary tool when developing classification systems as well as perfume descriptions for marketing or communication purposes.
Pelvic Radiotherapy and Sexual Function in Men and Women
Authors: Incrocci Luca , Jensen Pernille Tine
Published: February 2013

Introduction

Despite the decrease in overall cancer incidence and mortality rates in developed countries since the early 1990s, cancer remains a major public health problem. Sexual dysfunction is one of the more common consequences of cancer treatment.

Aim

To shortly review the literature and level of evidence on sexual dysfunction in men and women following pelvic radiotherapy.

Main Outcome Measures

Male and female sexual dysfunction.

Methods

Literature review.

Results

Sexual dysfunction in cancer patients is multidimensional and may result from biological, psychological, and social factors. Anatomic changes caused by surgery and/or radiotherapy, physiological changes following hormonal manipulation, and the secondary effect of medical intervention may impede or preclude sexual functioning, even when sexual desire is intact. Pelvic irradiation constitutes the primary or adjuvant treatment for a large number of both female and male cancers. No randomized controlled trials could be identified regarding the effect of radiotherapy on sexual dysfunction. However, prospective and clinical controlled trials all demonstrated a severe negative effect on sexual functioning in men and women following radiotherapy for a pelvic cancer.

Following pelvic radiotherapy for prostate cancer, a positive effect of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors on erectile dysfunction has been demonstrated, whereas no significant effect on female sexuality was found. Few studies evaluated treatment of female sexual dysfunction following radiotherapy; hormone replacement therapy and the use of vaginal dilator in combination with psycho-educational support is recommended.

Conclusion

Pelvic radiotherapy plays a significant negative role in the complex scenario of male and female sexual dysfunction. The literature has focused on sexual dysfunction and intervention in prostate and cervical cancer patients. Sexual dysfunction following pelvic radiotherapy for cancer in other pelvic organs, e.g., bladder, rectum, and anus, requires more attention in future studies. Health care providers should pay attention to and provide psychological and medical support regarding sexual dysfunction to all patients who have received pelvic radiotherapy.
Physical and Psychological Effects of Treatment on Sexual Functioning in Colorectal Cancer Survivors
Authors: Breukink Stephanie O. , Donovan Kristine A.
Published: February 2013

Introduction

As a result of advances in surgical techniques and (neo)adjuvant therapy, mortality rates for colorectal cancer (CRC) have declined significantly in the last two decades. In general, CRC survivors report good health-related quality of life in survivorship. However, many survivors, including those who describe their quality of life as good, also report sexual problems that persist long after treatment is completed.

Aims

In this article, we review the effects of different treatment modalities for CRC on sexual functioning in men and women. We highlight both the physical and psychological aspects of CRC treatment and discuss the management of common sexual problems in CRC survivors.

Methods

The authors reviewed the existing available published articles regarding this topic.

Results

Our review of the evidence suggests that surgical treatment and (neo)adjuvant therapy for CRC are commonly associated with a wide range of sexual problems.

Conclusions

Sexual functioning is an important functional outcome after CRC treatment and is influenced by a myriad of clinical and patient factors, including an individual’s physical and psychological well-being after a diagnosis of CRC. As such, the assessment and management of sexual functioning in men and women with CRC should begin prior to the initiation of treatment and continue throughout treatment and survivorship.
Developing Age Appropriate Psychosexual Support for Adolescent Cancer Survivors: A Discussion Paper
Authors: Kelly Daniel
Published: February 2013

Introduction

Cancer in adolescence raises unique challenges for all involved. In healthy populations, the transition from childhood to adulthood is seen as a normal phase of the human life course focused primarily on the process of identity formation. For young people diagnosed with cancer, there are specific, negative impacts to consider. In this paper, the impact on intimacy, body image, and sexuality are discussed and the need for innovative supportive solutions highlighted.

Aim

Based on a presentation given at the ISSM conference in Washington, DC, the paper describes the challenges in providing effective supportive care in relation to sexuality in young people surviving cancer.

Main Outcome Measures

Discussion of key issues involved when developing psychosexual interventions for this age group.

Methods

A scan of available evidence was combined with examples of recent service and research developments.

Results

The limited amount of available research belies the complexity of providing effective supportive care in relation to sexuality for young people both during and after cancer. As the number of long-term survivors of cancer during childhood and adolescence increases, there will be increasing demand for attention to be paid to the supportive care needs of this population; including issues of relationships and sexuality. Two examples of novel interventions are presented.

Conclusions

Services provided for cancer survivors must consider the unique challenges facing different age groups. For young people diagnosed during adolescence and young adulthood there is a need to enhance the evidence base, and to apply this evidence in practice contexts. Locating the need for further developments within a Complex Intervention Framework may assist in the development of interventions that can be developed and tested in a logical, step-wise fashion.
Complementary laboratory indices for predicting the disease status of patients with hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Chen F. , He J. L. , Zheng M. , Zhu H. H. , Li S. P. , Wang K. , Zhang X. X. , Zhao Y. R. , Wu S. S. , Chen Z.
Published: February 2013

To identify complementary laboratory indices for determining the disease status of patients with hepatitis B virus. Subjects were divided into six groups: hepatitis B virus carrier, mild chronic hepatitis B, moderate chronic hepatitis B, severe chronic hepatitis B, fulminant hepatitis B and healthy controls. Serum alanine aminotransferase, total bilirubin and direct bilirubin were measured by an automatic analyser. The levels of T‐cell immunoglobulin domain and mucin‐domain‐containing molecule‐3, macrophage inflammatory protein 2, neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin and inducible nitric oxide synthase were measured by ELISA. T‐cell immunoglobulin domain, mucin‐domain‐containing molecule‐3, macrophage inflammatory protein 2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase levels were significantly higher in patients with severe chronic hepatitis B compared with those in patients with mild and moderate chronic hepatitis B or fulminant hepatitis B (P < 0.05). When normal or abnormal alanine aminotransferase was present, significant differences between macrophage inflammatory protein 2 and T‐cell immunoglobulin domain and mucin‐domain‐containing molecule‐3 levels between patients with mild, moderate, severe chronic hepatitis B or fulminant hepatitis B were observed (P < 0.05). Our results suggest that T‐cell immunoglobulin domain and mucin‐domain‐containing molecule‐3 and macrophage inflammatory protein 2 could serve as alanine aminotransferase, direct bilirubin or total bilirubin complementary indices for determining the status of patients with hepatitis B.
Haemophilus influenzae acquires vitronectin via the ubiquitous Protein F to subvert host innate immunity
Authors: Su Yu‐Ching , Jalalvand Farshid , Mörgelin Matthias , Blom Anna M. , Singh Birendra , Riesbeck Kristian
Published: February 2013

Acquisition of the complement inhibitor vitronectin (Vn) is important for the respiratory tract pathogen nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) to escape complement‐mediated killing. NTHi actively recruits Vn, and we previously showed that this interaction involves Protein E (PE). Here we describe a second Vn‐binding protein, a 30 kDa Yersinia YfeA homologue designated as Protein F (PF). An isogenic NTHi 3655Δhpf mutant devoid of PF displayed a reduced binding of Vn, and was consequently more sensitive to killing by human serum compared with the wild type. Surface expression of PF on Escherichia coli conferred binding of Vn that resulted in a serum resistant phenotype. Molecular analyses revealed that the N‐terminal of PF (Lys23‐Glu48) bound to the C‐terminal of Vn (Phe352‐Ser374) without disrupting the inhibitory role of Vn on the membrane attack complex. The PF–Vn complex actively delayed C9 deposition on PF‐expressing bacteria. Comparative studies of binding affinity and multiple mutants demonstrated that both PE and PF contribute individually to NTHi serum survival. PF was highly conserved and ubiquitously expressed in a series of randomly selected NTHi clinical isolates (n = 18). In conclusion, the multifaceted binding of Vn is beneficial for NTHi survival in serum and may contribute to successful colonization and consequently infection.