bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Workforce profile of Australian occupational therapists working with people who are terminally ill
Authors: Hammill Kathrine , Bye Rosalind , Cook Catherine
Published: September 2016

Background/aim

The role played by Australian occupational therapists with clients living with terminal illness has recently been highlighted in the Occupational Therapy Australia () position paper on palliative care. To date, little evidence exists about the work profile of these therapists, the type of clients seen, their practice settings and how long therapists are planning to remain in this clinical role. This paper presents results from a national survey of Australian occupational therapists working with people who are terminally ill.

Methods

The largest ever sample (n = 171) of Australian occupational therapists working with clients who are terminally ill were purposively surveyed in this national mixed‐method study, which was analysed using descriptive statistics and grounded theory.

Results

Results revealed a predominantly full‐time, publicly employed (81%), female (93%) workforce, with an average six years of experience in this setting. Most therapists treated clients in the community (49%), with slightly fewer working in inpatient settings (40%). Many had dual caseloads, employed in palliative care clinical roles, aged care or oncology settings. Neoplasms of varying kinds represented the dominant clinical diagnostic category. The majority of respondents planned to remain in their current role on average seven more years, citing job satisfaction as the main reason for doing so.

Conclusions

Results from this study reveal important data for future workforce planning in this clinical area. The information gathered about client diagnoses and practice contexts will enable more targeted preparation of students for graduation.
Possible Achondroplastic Dwarf Skull from Montevideo, Uruguay
Authors: Hefner Joseph T. , Warren Michael W.
Published: September 2016

Achondroplasia (chondrodystrophia) is an autosomal dominant inherited disorder affecting approximately 1 in 26,000 live births and is the most common cause of dwarfism in humans. Disproportionate short stature and a suite of craniofacial characteristics typify achondroplasia. The literature available for differential diagnosis of the disorder relies primarily on the postcranial skeleton. In this paper, a possible case of achondroplasia is presented. The cranium presents a unique suite of cranial and craniofacial dysmorphologies. The lack of postcranial remains does not permit their use in the analysis. To make a differential diagnosis and to quantify the observed craniofacial dysmorphologies, craniometric data are compared to modern clinical literature and to craniometric data from known achondroplastic dwarfs. Thin‐plate spline analysis is integrated to quantify the differences in degree and magnitude of shape change. This manuscript demonstrates an appropriate methodology for identifying achondroplasia from the cranial skeleton alone.
Layer‐by‐Layer Thin Film of Iron Phthalocyanine as a Simple and Fast Sensor for Polyphenol Determination in Tea Samples
Authors: Maximino Mateus Dassie , Martin Cibely Silva , Paulovich Fernando Vieira , Alessio Priscila
Published: September 2016

Polyphenols have attracted attention due to their antioxidant capacity and beneficial effects to health. Therefore, fast, inexpensive, and efficient methods to discriminate and to quantify polyphenols are of interest for food industry. In this paper, Layer‐by‐Layer films of poly(allylamine hydrochloride) and iron tetrasulfonated phthalocyanine were employed as sensor for determination of polyphenols in green tea (camellia sinensis), and green and roasted mate teas (ilex paraguariensis). The polyphenol sensor was tested in catechol standard solution by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), reaching a limit of detection of 1.76 × 10−7mol/L. The determination of polyphenols in the tea samples was obtained by analytical curve and catechol standard addition using electrochemical techniques. Projection techniques (information visualization) were applied to the DPV results of the tea samples and a pattern of separation following the phenolic content was obtained. The results support the application of the sensor in fast classification of beverages according to their polyphenol content.
Suppression of Psyllium Husk Suspension Viscosity by Addition of Water Soluble Polysaccharides
Authors: Kale Madhuvanti S. , Yadav Madhav P. , Hanah Kyle A.
Published: September 2016

Psyllium seed husk is an insoluble dietary fiber with many health benefits. It can absorb many times its weight in water, forming very viscous suspensions, which have low palatability and consumer acceptance. We report here a novel approach for decreasing its viscosity, involving inclusion of a soluble polysaccharide in the suspension. This leads to a drastic decrease (up to 87%) in viscosity of suspensions, while maintaining the same dosage level of psyllium and also delivering a significant amount of soluble dietary fiber such as corn bio‐fiber gum in a single serving. Four soluble polysaccharides with a range of molecular weights and solution viscosities have been studied for their viscosity suppression effect. Besides improving palatability, another advantage of this approach is that it makes it possible to deliver 2 different dietary fibers in significant quantities, thus offering even greater health benefits.
Effects of Hull Scratching, Soaking, and Boiling on Antinutrients in Japanese Red Sword Bean (Canavalia gladiata)
Authors: Une Satsuki , Nonaka Koji , Akiyama Junich
Published: September 2016

The effects of hull processing, soaking, and boiling on the content or activity of antinutrients in the red sword bean (RSB; Canavalia gladiata) were investigated. RSB seeds were compared with kidney bean (KB; Phaseolus vulgaris) seeds that are starch based and often used as processed products in Japan. RSB seeds had higher weight, thicker hull, and higher protein content, but lower moisture content compared with KB seeds. Because of the strong and thick hull, the relative water absorption of untreated RSB seeds was very low after soaking. Seeds were soaked after dehulling, scratching, and roasting. The results showed that hull scratching was the optimal method for increasing water absorption during soaking compared with dehulling and roasting. After soaking, the water used for soaking was discarded, since it had a high content of polyphenols and bitter taste, and RSB seeds were boiled in fresh water for 20, 40, and 60 min. The results showed that polyphenol and tannin contents, antioxidant activity, and hemagglutinating activity, as well as maltase, sucrase, and trypsin inhibitor activities in scratched RSB seeds decreased significantly after boiling compared with those in raw seeds, whereas amylase inhibitor activity showed no significant change. Overall, it was concluded that the combination of hull scratching, soaking, and boiling in fresh water can reduce thermal‐stable or sensitive antinutrients in RSB and thus, significantly improve its nutritional value.
Characterization and Analysis of Protein Structures in Oat Bran
Authors: Jing Xuelian , Yang Chen , Zhang Liping
Published: September 2016

Globulin, albumin, gluten, and gliadin in oat bran were prepared by the Osborn method using oat bran as starting material. We characterized the secondary and tertiary structures of 4 proteins using circular dichroism, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, and fluorescence spectroscopy in order to analyze the composition and functional mechanisms. The results showed that the amino acid composition in all the 4 proteins was relatively balanced, and the essential amino acid content in albumin and globulin was high. The molecular weights of albumin, globulin, gliadin, and gluten were 19 to 21, 15 to 53, 20 to 38, and 10 to 90 kDa, respectively. The composition of gluten was a little complex compared to those of the other oat bran proteins. The secondary structure distribution of the 4 proteins differed, and increase in the pH resulted in modification of the β‐sheet structure to α‐helical structure. Moreover, the α‐helix content and surface hydrophobicity were negatively correlated (r = –0.988, P < 0.05). The peak position (λmax) and intensity of the fluorescence spectra of 4 proteins were in the order of gliadin > globulin > gluten > albumin, indicating that surface hydrophobicity of gliadin was the strongest and that of albumin was the weakest among the 4 proteins.
Effects of Desolvating Agent Types, Ratios, and Temperature on Size and Nanostructure of Nanoparticles from α‐Lactalbumin and Ovalbumin
Authors: Etorki Abdunnaser M. , Gao Menglu , Sadeghi Rohollah , Maldonado‐Mejia Luis F. , Kokini Jozef L.
Published: September 2016

In this study, we compare the preparation of ovalbumin (OVA) and α‐lactalbumin (α‐LA) nanoparticles using different desolvating agents (ethanol, acetone, and methanol) and water: desolvating agent volume ratios (1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:10, and 1:20). Also the effects of protein solution temperature (25, 50, and 80 ℃) on the size of nanoparticles and the stability of crosslinked nanoparticles for 30 d were studied. OVA and α‐LA were shown to be good candidates for nanoparticulation and nanoparticles in the range of 60 to 230 nm were obtained. The comparison between the 2 proteins offers guidance to optimize OVA and α‐LA nanoparticle fabrication and to efficiently obtain nanoparticles with desired characteristics. The particle sizes of OVA nanoparticles were found to be in the range of 60 to 160 nm, and the particle sizes of α‐LA were between 150 and 230 nm. The sizes varied with different desolvating agents: for OVA, ethanol, and methanol both produced nanoparticles smaller than 100 nm; for α‐LA, methanol produced the smallest nanoparticles. Water: desolvating agent ratios, in the studied range, did not show a significant effect on the particle sizes for both OVA and α‐LA nanoparticles. The size and morphology of the nanoparticles were found to change when the protein solutions were heated up to 50 and 80 ℃ and cooled down before nanoparticulation and most nanoparticles had a smaller diameter.
What a difference a day makes: differences in initial abstinence response during a smoking cessation attempt
Authors: Piper Megan E. , Vasilenko Sara A. , Cook Jessica W. , Lanza Stephanie T.
Published: September 2016

Aims

To (1) identify distinct classes of smokers based on quit day withdrawal symptoms and (2) explore the relations between withdrawal classes and demographics, tobacco dependence, treatment and smoking outcomes.

Design

Secondary data analysis of participants (n = 1504) in a randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled multi‐site smoking cessation trial who provided ecological momentary assessments of withdrawal symptoms on their quit day. Participants received smoking cessation counseling and were randomized to receive placebo or one of five active pharmacotherapies.

Setting

Research offices in Madison and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.

Participants

Adult smokers (n = 1236; 58% female, 86% white), recruited from the community via advertisements, who abstained on their quit day.

Measurements

Demographics and tobacco dependence were assessed at baseline and participants carried palmtop computers to record withdrawal symptoms (craving, negative affect, difficulty concentrating, hunger and anhedonia) on their quit day. Point‐prevalence abstinence and latency to relapse were assessed at 8 weeks and 6 months post‐quit.

Findings

Latent class analysis identified four withdrawal classes [Akaike information criterion (AIC) = 70.09]: Moderate withdrawal (64% of sample), high craving–anhedonia (8% of sample), affective withdrawal (13% of sample) and hunger (15% of sample). The high craving–anhedonia class reported significantly higher dependence (P < 0.01), were less likely to have received combination nicotine replacement, reported lower week 8 abstinence rates and relapsed sooner than those in the moderate withdrawal class (P < 0.05). The affective withdrawal class reported higher levels of baseline negative affect and life‐time psychopathology (P < 0.05) and relapsed more quickly than the moderate withdrawal class (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

While the majority of smokers report typical levels of withdrawal symptoms on their quit day, more than one‐third report extreme craving or extreme negative affective or extreme hunger responses to initial abstinence. These distinct quit‐day withdrawal symptom patterns are related to baseline characteristics, treatment and cessation success.
Construct validity of a novel assessment tool for ultrasound‐guided axillary brachial plexus block
Authors: Ahmed O. M. A. , O'Donnell B. D. , Gallagher A. G. , Breslin D. S. , Nix C. M. , Shorten G. D.
Published: September 2016

The purpose of this study was to examine the construct validity and reliability of a novel metrics‐based assessment tool, previously developed for ultrasound‐guided axillary brachial plexus block. Five expert and eight novice anaesthetists performed a total of 18 ultrasound‐guided axillary brachial plexus blocks on the same number of patients. A trained investigator video‐taped procedures according to a pre‐defined protocol. Two trained consultant anaesthetists independently scored the videos using the assessment tool. Compared with novices, experts completed more steps (mean 41.0 vs. 33.1, p = 0.001), had fewer procedural errors (2.8 vs. 7.9, p < 0.0001), had fewer critical errors (0.8 vs. 1.3, p = 0.030), and fewer total errors (3.5 vs. 9.1, p < 0.0001). The mean inter‐rater reliability for scoring of experts’ performance was 0.91, for novices’ performance was 0.84, and for all performance combined (n = 18) was 0.88. This assessment tool is valid, and discriminates reliably between expert and novice performance for placement of ultrasound‐guided axillary brachial plexus blocks.
Androgen and glucocorticoid production in the male killer whale (Orcinus orca): influence of age, maturity, and environmental factors
Authors: O'Brien J. K. , Steinman K. J. , Fetter G. A. , Robeck T. R.
Published: September 2016

Circulating concentrations of testosterone and its precursor androstenedione, as well as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and the adrenal hormones cortisol and corticosterone were measured at monthly intervals in 14 male killer whales (Orcinus orca) aged 0.8–38 years. Analyses were performed for examination of the relationships of age, sexual maturation status (STATUS), season, and environmental temperature (monthly air ambient temperature, A‐TEMP) with hormone production using a mixed effects linear regression model with animal ID as the random variable. Hormone profiles, derived from enzyme immunoassay procedures validated herein, established that simultaneous up‐regulation of androstenedione and testosterone production occurs at puberty, when males are aged 8–12 years. Androgen (testosterone and androstenedione) production in pubertal and adult males was influenced by season, with highest (p < 0.01) concentrations observed in spring and summer months. A significant effect of STATUS and season on DHEA production was also documented, with higher (p < 0.05) concentrations in pubertal and adult males compared to juvenile males, and higher (p < 0.05) concentrations in the months of summer than the fall. Among adult males (≥13 years), those classified as aged (≥31 years) had concentrations of testosterone and both glucocorticoids that were lower (p < 0.05), and those of androstenedione that were higher (p < 0.05) than their younger counterparts. The cortisol:corticosterone ratio for adult males was 7 : 1, and both glucocorticoids were affected by STATUS (p < 0.05), but not season or A‐TEMP. Results of this research enhance our understanding of reproductive and adrenocortical function in healthy male killer whales and provide baseline profiles of hormone production for use in the species’ health assessment and conservation.
First‐generation phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors dropout: a comprehensive review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Corona G. , Rastrelli G. , Burri A. , Serra E. , Gianfrilli D. , Mannucci E. , Jannini E. A. , Maggi M.
Published: September 2016

The discontinuation rate with phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i) remains very high. The aim of this study was to review and meta‐analyze currently available data regarding dropout of the first‐generation of PDE5i including sildenafil, vardenafil, and tadalafil. An extensive Medline Embase and Cochrane search was performed including the following words: ‘PDE5i’, ‘discontinuation’. All observational studies reporting the dropout rate of PDE5i and its specific causes without any arbitrary restrictions were included. Out of 103 retrieved articles, 22 were included in the study. Retrieved trials included a total of 162,936 patients with a mean age of 58.8 ± 7.9 years. Prevalence of reported comorbid diabetes and hypertension were 27.7% and 36.9%, respectively. PDE5i were associated with a mean discontinuation rate of 4% per month (almost 50% after one year). This rate was higher in younger subjects and in those reporting a higher prevalence of associated morbidities. Six main reasons of PDE5i dropout were identified in the evaluated trials. Partner‐related problems and lack of efficacy represented the most important reasons for PDE5i discontinuation, although no significant difference among factors was detected. In conclusion, despite their high efficacy and easy administration, the discontinuation rate and dissatisfaction with PDE5i are still very high. Our data showed that no single factor plays a major role in PDE5i dropout, suggesting that the discontinuation rate is usually because of a combination of both medical problems and psychosocial and relational factors.
Gonadal function is associated with cardiometabolic health in pre‐pubertal boys with Klinefelter syndrome
Authors: Davis S. , Lahlou N. , Bardsley M. , Temple M.‐C. , Kowal K. , Pyle L. , Zeitler P. , Ross J.
Published: September 2016

The most common sex chromosome aneuploidy, Klinefelter syndrome (KS), is associated with primary gonadal failure and increased morbidity and mortality from cardiometabolic disorders in adulthood. Children with KS also have a high prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) features. To assess the relationship of gonadal and cardiometabolic function in children with KS, we evaluated serum hormones [gonadotropins, inhibin B (INHB), anti‐mullerian hormone (AMH), total testosterone (TT)], and features of MetS (waist circumference, fasting lipid panel, fasting blood glucose (FBG), and blood pressure) in 93 pre‐pubertal boys with KS age 4–12 years (mean 7.7 ± 2.5 years). The cohort was grouped by age and tanner stage, and biomarkers were compared to normal ranges. A total of 80% of this pre‐pubertal cohort had ≥1 feature of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and 11% had ≥3 features of MetS. Risk of MetS was independent of age and body mass index. Sertoli cell dysfunction was common with 18% having an INHB below the normal range. A low INHB was associated with higher FBG, triglycerides, LDL, and lower HDL (p < 0.05). An INHB <50 ng/dL yielded a sensitivity of 83% and a specificity of 79% for having ≥3 features of MetS. INHB and AMH positively correlated with each other (p < 0.001), and high AMH was protective of MetS. TT was below the lower limit of normal in 49% of subjects, with mean values significantly lower than expected (3.3 ng/dL vs. 4.9 ng/dL, p < 0.0001), however, no convincing relationship between TT and MetS was seen. In conclusion, gonadal and cardiometabolic dysfunction are prevalent in pre‐pubertal boys with KS. Although the relationship of testosterone deficiency and MetS is well‐known, this study is the first to report an association between impaired Sertoli cell function and cardiometabolic risk.
Long‐term risk of endometrial cancer following postmenopausal bleeding and reassuring endometrial biopsy
Authors: Visser Nicole C.M. , Sparidaens Ellen M. , van den Brink Jan‐Willem , Breijer Maria C. , Boss Erik A. , Veersema Sebastiaan , Siebers Albert G. , Bulten Johan , Pijnenborg Johanna M.A. , Bekkers Ruud L.M.
Published: September 2016

Introduction

Women with postmenopausal bleeding and endometrial thickness >4 mm undergo endometrial sampling to exclude endometrial cancer. The aim of this study is to investigate the relative risk of developing endometrial cancer in a prospective cohort after initial work‐up for postmenopausal bleeding showing reassuring histology or insufficient sampling.

Material and methods

All women presenting with postmenopausal bleeding were prospectively included from January 2009 to April 2011. Follow‐up data were collected from patient charts and PALGA (Dutch Pathology Registry). Hazard ratios for endometrial cancer were determined by calculating standardized incidence ratios.

Results

A total of 668 women were included and 568 women were available for follow‐up [median follow‐up time 47 (range 7–63) months]. Women who presented with postmenopausal bleeding, endometrial thickness >4 mm and hyperplasia without atypia on biopsy at the first presentation showed a significantly increased risk (standardized incidence ratio 17.15, 95% confidence interval 1.96–61.93) of being diagnosed with endometrial cancer during the first four years of follow up compared with the age‐specific population. All women that developed endometrial cancer after initial reassuring histology presented with recurrent postmenopausal bleeding. None of the women with endometrial thickness >4 mm and no or insufficient sample for histology at the first presentation developed endometrial cancer during the follow up.

Conclusions

Although in general, women with endometrial hyperplasia without atypia are considered to have a low risk for cancer, we observed a significant long‐term risk of endometrial cancer after postmenopausal bleeding. Whether additional diagnostics or a more stringent follow‐up regimen would be cost‐effective, needs to be studied.
Countering elephant raiding with Short Message Service: Challenges of deploying public participation‐based systems in a setting with sparse Information Communication Technologies resources
Authors: Sarkar Dipto , Chapman Colin A. , Kagoro Wilson , Sengupta Raja
Published: September 2016

Key Messages

This paper explores whether traditional crisis mapping systems can be used to tackle the perennial livelihood problem of elephant raiding around Kibale National Park, Uganda.

The goal of the system described in this paper is to streamline the process of reporting elephant raiding to forest officials so that park services can be effectively deployed.

The challenges and considerations of deploying such a system in an environment where ICT resources are sparse are described.
Metformin inhibits estrogen‐dependent endometrial cancer cell growth by activating the AMPK–FOXO1 signal pathway
Authors: Zou Jingfang , Hong Liangli , Luo Chaohuan , Li Zhi , Zhu Yuzhang , Huang Tianliang , Zhang Yongneng , Yuan Huier , Hu Yaqiu , Wen Tengfei , Zhuang Wanling , Cai Bozhi , Zhang Xin , Huang Jiexiong , Cheng Jidong
Published: September 2016

Metformin is an oral biguanide commonly used for treating type II diabetes and has recently been reported to possess antiproliferative properties that can be exploited for the prevention and treatment of a variety of cancers. The mechanisms underlying this effect have not been fully elucidated. Our study shows a marked loss of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation and nuclear human Forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) protein in estrogen‐dependent endometrial cancer (EC) tumors compared to normal control endometrium. Metformin treatment suppressed EC cell growth in a time‐dependent manner in vitro; this effect was cancelled by cotreatment with an AMPK inhibitor, compound C. Metformin decreased FOXO1 phosphorylation and increased FOXO1 nuclear localization in Ishikawa and HEC‐1B cells, with non‐significant increase in FOXO1 mRNA expression. Moreover, compound C blocked the metformin‐induced changes of FOXO1 and its phosphorylation protein, suggesting that metformin upregulated FOXO1 activity by AMPK activation. Similar results were obtained after treatment with insulin. In addition, transfection with siRNA for FOXO1 cancelled metformin‐inhibited cell growth, indicating that FOXO1 mediated metformin to inhibit EC cell proliferation. A xenograft mouse model further revealed that metformin suppressed HEC‐1B tumor growth, accompanied by downregulated ki‐67 and upregulated AMPK phosphorylation and nuclear FOXO1 protein. Taken together, these data provide a novel mechanism of antineoplastic effect for metformin through the regulation of FOXO1, and suggest that the AMPK–FOXO1 pathway may be a therapeutic target to the development of new antineoplastic drugs.
Putting the child at the centre of inter‐professional cooperation in out‐of‐home care
Authors: Schwartz Ida
Published: September 2016

A large part of most children's childhood is about taking part in educational and leisure‐time activities together with other children across various contexts. However, children in out‐of‐home care do not always have easy access to these possibilities for participation. In general, parents coordinate their children's everyday lives, but in the case of children in out‐of‐home care, the responsibility of care is distributed between several professionals and institutions. Research often recommends that inter‐professional cooperation should put the child at the centre and be more child focused. But what does that mean? The paper investigates theoretical understandings of ‘child centredness’ in inter‐professional cooperation. It also includes an empirical example taken from a research project that followed four children in their everyday lives in two residential homes in Denmark. The research explored how professionals work together across contexts in order to support children to take part in school and leisure‐time activities. The overall reasoning leads to the point that for children in out‐of‐home care, the possibility of exercising personal agency in their everyday life constitutes a difficult but vital issue. How children in out‐of‐home care learn how to conduct their everyday lives, is closely related to the ways professionals cooperate across contexts. It points to the need for close inter‐professional cooperation in order to encourage and support children's initiatives and engagements in activities in communities with other children.
Immediate Loading of Fixed Complete Denture Prosthesis Supported by 4–8 Implants Placed Using Guided Surgery: A 5‐Year Prospective Study on 66 Patients with 356 Implants
Authors: Meloni Silvio Mario , Tallarico Marco , Pisano Milena , Xhanari Erta , Canullo Luigi
Published: September 2016

Background

High primary implant stability is considered one of the main factors necessary for achieving predictable treatment outcomes with immediately loaded implant‐supported screw‐retained fixed complete denture prosthesis (FCDP).

Purpose

To evaluate the 5‐year clinical and radiographic outcomes of immediately loaded implants placed in edentulous patients using computer‐assisted template‐guided surgery to support a FCDP.

Materials & Methods: Patients in need to be restored with a FCDP in the mandible or maxilla were included in this prospective study/ and treated using computer‐assisted template‐guided surgery. Implant sites were prepared in order to achieve an insertion torque ranging between 35–45 Ncm in the mandible and 45–55 Ncm in the maxilla. A prefabricated screw‐retained provisional prosthesis was delivered the day of the surgery. Outcomes were: implant and prosthesis cumulative survival rate (CSR), any complications, and peri‐implant marginal bone loss (MBL).

Results

Sixty‐six patients received 356 implants to support 68 FCDPs. Each patient received 4–8 implants. Seven implants failed in six patients, resulting in a CSR of 98.1%. Two definitive prostheses failed resulting in CSR of 97.1%. Mean MBL of 1.62 ± 0.41 mm was reported at the 5‐year follow‐up. Five implants (1.4%) showed a mean mesio‐distal peri‐implant bone loss greater than 3.0 mm and received nonsurgical therapy.

Conclusions

immediately loaded implants placed in edentulous patients using computer‐assisted template‐guided surgery to support a FCDP is a valid treatment concept in the medium term follow‐up, for edentulous patients.
Bone Remodeling around Implants Placed in Augmented Sinuses in Patients with and without History of Periodontitis
Authors: Uribarri Agurne , Bilbao Eneritz , Marichalar‐Mendia Xabier , Martínez‐Conde Rafael , Aguirre José M. , Verdugo Fernando
Published: September 2016

Background

Susceptible individuals may be more prone to bone loss after augmentation procedures.

Purpose

Identify plausible clinical and biological factors influencing apical and marginal bone remodeling at implants placed in augmented sinuses, in patients with and without history of periodontitis.

Materials and Methods

This prospective cross‐sectional clinical study analyzed implant bone levels in a group of 104 patients with and without history of periodontitis undergoing 139 sinus augmentation procedures. Marginal and apical bone loss (MBL/ABL) was measured post‐loading using a standardized digital technique. Measurements were taken preoperatively, at second stage implant uncovery, one year after loading and at an average of 53‐months follow‐up. Odds ratios were calculated to evaluate risks factors of contributing variables, such as, smoking, history of periodontitis, membrane perforation, surgical approach, grafting material, use of PRP, and implant design/dimensions.

Results

Patients with history of periodontitis were 8.43 times more likely to present more than 2mm of MBL than patients without it (p =.041; CI95%: 1.09–65.12). Smokers were 4.97 times more likely to present over 2 mm of MBL than non‐smokers (p =.003; CI95%: 1.70–14.54). Sinus membrane perforations were 11.4 times more likely to present ABL than those without perforation (p = 0.007; CI95%: 1.94–66.93). Mean MBL/ABL after 1‐year post‐loading and at last control were 0.49/0.56 mm and 0.67/0.46 mm, respectively. The use of a collagen membrane to cover the antrostomy and only xenograft as grafting material decreased ABL by 0.9 mm. The combination of autologous/xenograft bone was 4.04 times more likely to present higher ABL than xenograft alone (p = 0.023; CI95%: 1.21–13.45). Overall implant survival/success rates were 94.39%/91.33%, respectively.

Conclusions

Smoking and previous history of periodontitis negatively affects implant MBL. Sinus membrane perforation was associated with higher ABL. Lack of association between bone remodeling at marginal and apical areas suggests that they are different and independent processes.
Snapshot of cobalt, chromium and nickel exposure in dental technicians
Authors: Kettelarij Jolinde , Nilsson Sara , Midander Klara , Lidén Carola , Julander Anneli
Published: September 2016

Background

It is not fully understood where and how people are exposed to sensitizing metals. Much can be learnt from studying occupational settings where metals are handled.

Objectives

To quantify cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr) and nickel (Ni) exposure on the skin and in the air, and urine levels, in dental technicians working with tools and alloys that may result in skin and respiratory exposure.

Methods

The metal skin dose was quantified with acid wipe sampling in dental technicians (n = 13). Air exposure was monitored by personal air sampling. Spot urine samples were collected for 24 h. Metals were analysed with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

Results

Before work, Co was detected on the skin of 10 participants (0.00025–0.0039 µg/cm2), and Cr (0.00051–0.011 µg/cm2) and Ni (0.0062–0.15 µg/cm2) on the skin of all participants. After a 2‐h period without hand washing, CoCr‐exposed participants had more Co on the skin (p = 0.004) than non‐CoCr‐exposed participants. Co was found in 10 air samples (0.22–155 µg/m3), Cr in nine (0.43–71 µg/m3), and Ni in four (0.48–3.7 µg/m3). Metal urine concentrations were considered to be normal.

Conclusions

Dental technicians were exposed to Co, Cr and Ni on the skin and through the air, which was not reflected in the urine concentrations in this study. Cobalt skin doses may potentially elicit allergic contact dermatitis and cause sensitization.
Is the interval from surgery to ileostomy closure a risk factor for low anterior resection syndrome?
Authors: Jiménez‐Rodríguez R. M. , Segura‐Sampedro J. J. , Rivero‐Belenchón I. , Díaz Pavón J. M. , García Cabrera A. M. , Vazquez Monchul J. M. , Padillo J. , de la Portilla F.
Published: September 2016

Aim

Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) comprises a collection of symptoms affecting patients after restorative surgery for rectal cancer. The aim of the present study was to analyse the incidence of LARS in patients undergoing rectal cancer surgery with and without subsequent ileostomy and to determine whether the interval to ileostomy closure is a factor associated with its occurrence.

Method

All patients undergoing curative anterior resection for rectal cancer from 2008 to 2012 in our institution were included in the study. They were divided into two groups according to whether or not a defunctioning ileostomy had been performed. Patients were assessed for LARS at a median interval of 23.60 ± 16.73 (12−48) months from anterior resection in those who did not have an ileostomy and at an interval of 11.31 ± 14.24 (12−60) months from closure of the ileostomy in those who did. They underwent a structured telephone interview based on a validated LARS score questionnaire. Univariate and multivariate analysis was carried out to assess possible associations between LARS and the variables studied.

Results

There were 150 patients (93 men) of whom 54.7% had no evidence of LARS, 17.3% had minor symptoms and 28% major symptoms of LARS. Univariate analysis showed that male gender, the presence of a temporary ileostomy and neoadjuvant therapy were predisposing factors for LARS. The interval from construction of the ileostomy to its closure did not appear to be a factor associated with LARS. In multivariate analysis, male gender and preoperative neoadjuvant therapy were significant predisposing factors for LARS.

Conclusion

Male gender and preoperative neoadjuvant therapy are risk factors for LARS. The presence of ileostomy or time to ileostomy closure is not associated with the development of this syndrome.
Improving functional outcomes for children with unilateral cerebral palsy: the quest for the right intervention
Authors: Bos Arend F
Published: September 2016

This commentary is on the original article by Dong et al. on pages 160–167 of this issue.
Foraging success under uncertainty: search tradeoffs and optimal space use
Authors: Bartumeus Frederic , Campos Daniel , Ryu William S. , Lloret‐Cabot Roger , Méndez Vicenç , Catalan Jordi
Published: September 2016

Understanding the structural complexity and the main drivers of animal search behaviour is pivotal to foraging ecology. Yet, the role of uncertainty as a generative mechanism of movement patterns is poorly understood. Novel insights from search theory suggest that organisms should collect and assess new information from the environment by producing complex exploratory strategies. Based on an extension of the first passage time theory, and using simple equations and simulations, we unveil the elementary heuristics behind search behaviour. In particular, we show that normal diffusion is not enough for determining optimal exploratory behaviour but anomalous diffusion is required. Searching organisms go through two critical sequential phases (approach and detection) and experience fundamental search tradeoffs that may limit their encounter rates. Using experimental data, we show that biological search includes elements not fully considered in contemporary physical search theory. In particular, the need to consider search movement as a non‐stationary process that brings the organism from one informational state to another. For example, the transition from remaining in an area to departing from it may occur through an exploratory state where cognitive search is challenged. Therefore, a more comprehensive view of foraging ecology requires including current perspectives about movement under uncertainty.
Technical comment on Boersma et al. (2016) Temperature driven changes in the diet preference of omnivorous copepods: no more meat when it's hot? Ecology Letters, 19, 45–53
Authors: Winder Monika , Burian Alfred , Landry Michael R , Montagnes David JS , Nielsen Jens M.
Published: September 2016

A recent study concluded that omnivorous plankton will shift from predatory to herbivorous feeding with climate warming, as consumers require increased carbon:phosphorous in their food. Although this is an appealing hypothesis, we suggest the conclusion is unfounded, based on the data presented, which seem in places questionable and poorly interpreted.
Discrimination, domestic violence, abuse, and other adverse life events in people with epilepsy: Population‐based study to assess the burden of these events and their contribution to psychopathology
Authors: Nimmo‐Smith Victoria , Brugha Traolach S. , Kerr Michael P. , McManus Sally , Rai Dheeraj
Published: September 2016

Objective

To quantify the experience of discrimination, domestic violence, abuse, and other stressful life events in people with epilepsy in comparison with the general population and people with other chronic conditions. To assess whether any excess relative burden of these adversities could explain the higher rates of depression in people with epilepsy.

Methods

The Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey 2007 used comprehensive interviews with 7,403 individuals living in private residences in England. Doctor‐diagnosed epilepsy and other chronic conditions were established by self‐report. Discrimination, domestic violence, physical and sexual abuse, and other stressful life events were assessed using computerized self‐completion and a face‐to‐face interview, respectively.

Results

People with epilepsy were sevenfold more likely to have reported experiencing discrimination due to health problems (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 7.1; 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.1–16.3), than the general population without epilepsy. This estimate was substantially greater in people with epilepsy than for people with other chronic conditions. People with epilepsy also had greater odds of experiencing domestic violence and sexual abuse than the general population, although these associations were also found in people with other chronic conditions. There was less evidence of an association between epilepsy and a history of physical abuse or having a greater burden of other stressful life events. In exploratory analyses, assuming they lie on the causal pathway, discrimination, domestic violence, and sexual abuse explained 42.7% of the total effect of the relationship between epilepsy and depression or anxiety disorders.

Significance

People with epilepsy can face a range of psychosocial adversities and extensively report feeling discriminated against as compared to the general population. In addition, if confirmed in longitudinal studies, the results suggest that these psychosocial adversities may have a significant role in the development of psychiatric comorbidity and may be targets for future interventions.
Color Assortative Mating in a Mainland Population of the Poison Frog Oophaga pumilio
Authors: Gade Meaghan R. , Hill Michelle , Saporito Ralph A.
Published: September 2016

Assortative mating is a reproductive strategy used by a diversity of animals, in which individuals choose a mate that shares similar characteristics. This mating strategy has the potential to promote the evolution of various sexual signals and has been a proposed mechanism driving and maintaining color variation in the anuran family Dendrobatidae. Most studies have examined this reproductive strategy in the polytypic poison frog, Oophaga pumilio, in the Bocas del Toro archipelago in Panama. Little attention, however, has been given to ancestral populations across this species’ mainland range, where dramatic color polytypism appears to lack. Additionally, most studies are exclusively experimental and investigate mate choice between allopatric populations, neglecting the behaviors of naturally occurring mates. This study observed natural mating pairs within a population of O. pumilio on mainland Costa Rica and tested the prediction that color phenotype of mating females and males would be correlated. Naturally occurring pairs were found to share similar coloration, suggesting that color assortative mating operates in nature, and in a mainland population. Our results indicate that coloration is an important trait in driving the natural mate choices of female O. pumilio, which provides valuable insight into realistic mate selection tactics of this dendrobatid frog.
Boldness, Dominance, and Territoriality in the Color Polymorphic Tree Lizard, Urosaurus ornatus
Authors: Taylor Julie N. , Lattanzio Matthew S.
Published: September 2016

Social dynamics in territorial species often reflect underlying variation in aggression and other aspects of social dominance among individuals. In ornate tree lizards (Urosaurus ornatus), males differing in dewlap color differ in social dominance: while blue males are the dominant, aggressive morph and always territorial, yellow males tend to exhibit a less‐aggressive satellite behavioral tactic. However, in habitats with fewer available territorial resources, yellow males defend territories and increase in relative abundance. These observations suggest that consideration of social dominance alone may be insufficient to explain U. ornatus' territorial dynamics in the wild. Here, we tested how both dominance and another important behavioral trait, boldness, contribute to the outcome of territorial disputes in tree lizards. We recorded the territorial behavior of blue and yellow male tree lizards (entered in pairs) in an experimental arena. At the end of each trial, we then approached each male and recorded whether it fled (shy) or not (bold) in response to our approach. As expected, dominant blue males exploited the higher quality perch more often than yellow males. However, when approached by a simulated predator, blue males were more likely to flee than yellow males. Thus, while blue males are more dominant, yellow is likely the bolder morph. As a result, this morph may be better equipped to defend territories in riskier environments. We conclude that although dominance asymmetries may predictably drive initial territorial interactions among competing males, variation in other behaviors (like boldness) may perturb the long‐term outcome of these interactions across variable environments.
A new expert system for learning management systems evaluation based on neutrosophic sets
Authors: M. Radwan Nouran , Senousy M. Badr , M. Riad Alaa El Din
Published: September 2016

There has been a sudden increase in the usage of Learning Management Systems applications to support learner's learning process in higher education. Many studies in learning management system evaluation are implemented under complete information, while the real environment has uncertainty aspects. As these systems were described by development organizations with uncertainty terms such as vague, imprecise, ambiguity and inconsistent, that is why traditional evaluation methods may not be effective. This paper suggests neutrosophic logic as a better option to simulate human thinking than fuzzy logic because unlike fuzzy logic, it is able to handle indeterminacy of information which expresses the percentage of unknown parameters. As previous studies suggested neutrosophic decision maker and neutrosophic expert systems as future work in ecommerce and e‐learning applications, this paper presents neutrosphic expert system for learning management systems evaluation. Information for building and validating the neutrosophic expert system is collected from five experts using surveys, and then analysis is done by using Fuzzytech 5.54d software. Finally, the comparison between fuzzy expert system and neutrosophic expert system results show that the neutrosophic logic is capable of representing uncertainty in human thinking for evaluating Learning Management Systems.
Litter decay controlled by temperature, not soil properties, affecting future soil carbon
Authors: Gregorich Edward G. , Janzen Henry , Ellert Benjamin H. , Helgason Bobbi L. , Qian Budong , Zebarth Bernie J. , Angers Denis A. , Beyaert Ronald P. , Drury Craig F. , Duguid Scott D. , May William E. , McConkey Brian G. , Dyck Miles F.
Published: September 2016

Widespread global changes, including rising atmosphericCO2concentrations, climate warming and loss of biodiversity, are predicted for this century; all of these will affect terrestrial ecosystem processes like plant litter decomposition. Conversely, increased plant litter decomposition can have potential carbon‐cycle feedbacks on atmosphericCO2levels, climate warming and biodiversity. But predicting litter decomposition is difficult because of many interacting factors related to the chemical, physical and biological properties of soil, as well as to climate and agricultural management practices. We applied13C‐labelled plant litter to soil at ten sites spanning a 3500‐km transect across the agricultural regions of Canada and measured its decomposition over five years. Despite large differences in soil type and climatic conditions, we found that the kinetics of litter decomposition were similar once the effect of temperature had been removed, indicating no measurable effect of soil properties. A two‐pool exponential decay model expressing undecomposed carbon simply as a function of thermal time accurately described kinetics of decomposition. (R2 = 0.94;RMSE = 0.0508). Soil properties such as texture, cation exchange capacity,pHand moisture, although very different among sites, had minimal discernible influence on decomposition kinetics. Using this kinetic model under different climate change scenarios, we projected that the time required to decompose 50% of the litter (i.e. the labile fractions) would be reduced by 1–4 months, whereas time required to decompose 90% of the litter (including recalcitrant fractions) would be reduced by 1 year in cooler sites to as much as 2 years in warmer sites. These findings confirm quantitatively the sensitivity of litter decomposition to temperature increases and demonstrate how climate change may constrain future soil carbon storage, an effect apparently not influenced by soil properties.