bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dry eye in vitamin D deficiency: more than an incidental association
Authors: Yildirim Pelin , Garip Yeşim , Karci Ayse Aslihan , Guler Tuba
Published: August 2015

Aim

The aim of this article is two‐fold: (i) to demonstrate the relation between vitamin D deficiency and dry eye and impaired tear function; and (ii) to investigate the possible associations among clinical parameters of hypovitaminosis D with dry eye parameters.

Method

Fifty premenopausal women with vitamin D deficiency (serum vitamin D levels < 20 ng/mL) and 48 controls were included. Participants were assessed by Schirmer's test, tear break‐up time test (TBUT), ocular surface disease index (OSDI), Stanford Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), fatigue severity scale (FSS), and visual analogue scale‐pain (VAS‐pain).

Results

Lower scores in Schirmer's test and TBUT, and higher in OSDI were detected in patients with vitamin D deficiency than in controls (P < 0.05). FSS was negatively correlated with Schirmer's test (r = −0,29; P = 0.038) and TBUT scores (r = −0,43; P = 0.002); VAS‐pain was negatively correlated with TBUT scores (r = −0.32; P = 0.023). HAQ scores showed no significant correlation with dry eye parameters (P > 0.05). Vitamin D level was negatively correlated with OSDI (r = −0.49; P < 0.001), and positively with Schirmer's test (r = 0.45; P = 0.001) and TBUT scores (r = 0.30; P = 0.029).

Conclusion

Dry eye and impaired tear function in patients with vitamin D deficiency may indicate a protective role of vitamin D in the development of dry eye, probably by enhancing tear film parameters and reducing ocular surface inflammation. Patients with vitamin D deficiency should be evaluated for dry eye syndromes.
The choroid and lamina cribrosa is affected in patients with Parkinson's disease: enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography study
Authors: Eraslan Muhsin , Cerman Eren , Yildiz Balci Sevcan , Celiker Hande , Sahin Ozlem , Temel Ahmet , Suer Devran , Tuncer Elmaci Nese
Published: August 2015

Purpose

To compare lamina cribrosa (LC) and choroidal thicknesses using enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI‐OCT) in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) and healthy controls.

Methods

A total number of 44 eyes of 22 patients with PD and 50 eyes of 25 healthy subjects were utilized in this institutional cross‐sectional study. After a complete ophthalmic examination, all eyes were imaged with OCT (RTVue‐100 version 5.1 Fourier‐domain optical coherence tomography; Optovue Inc., Fremont, CA, USA); LC and choroidal thickness were assessed.

Results

The mean LC thicknesses were 209.4 ± 40.2 μm in patients with PD and 292.5 ± 33.7 μm in control subjects. There was a significant difference in the mean LC thickness between the groups (p < 0.0001). The choroidal thickness measurements of the PD group at the subfoveal region and 1.5 mm temporal and 1.5 mm nasal to the fovea were 228.1 ± 44.3, 193.2 ± 41.4 and 188.4 ± 49.0 μm, respectively, whereas measurements for the controls were, respectively, 246.5 ± 38.2, 227.3 ± 34.7 and 216.7 ± 51.4 μm. The choroid was significantly thinner in eyes of the PD group compared to that of the controls (p = 0.001, p < 0.001, and p = 0.006). There was no significant correlation between the disease severity and OCT parameters. The duration of the disease showed a statistically significant negative correlation with LC (rs[94] = −0.700, p < 0.001), and average subfoveal and temporal and nasal choroid thicknesses (rs[94] = −0.282, p = 0.006; rs[94] = −0.324, p = 0.001, rs[94] = −0.240, and p = 0.020, respectively).

Conclusions

Regardless of the disease severity, PD may cause atrophy and volume loss in the lamina cribrosa, and choroid. An enhanced depth imaging technique may be used as an additional modality in the diagnosis and follow‐up of patients with PD.
Proteome analysis of retinal glia cells‐related inflammatory cytokines in the aqueous humour of diabetic patients
Authors: Vujosevic Stela , Micera Alessandra , Bini Silvia , Berton Marianna , Esposito Graziana , Midena Edoardo
Published: August 2015

Purpose

Retinal glia cells (RGC) activation and release of inflammatory cytokines have been associated with development of diabetic retinopathy (DR). In this study, we evaluated by protein array the presence of aqueous humour (AH) cytokines secreted byRGCin patients with diabetes withoutDRand with mildDR.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional, case–control study. Thirty‐five subjects (diabetics and controls) underwent full ophthalmic examination andAHsamples collection before cataract surgery at the Department of Ophthalmology University of Padova.AHsamples were analysed for total protein concentration (Bradford method) andRGC‐related inflammatory cytokines using glass chip protein arrays.

Results

Twelve diabetic patients withoutDR, 11 diabetic patients with mildDRand 12 non‐diabetic controls were included. There was no significant difference in total protein concentration among the 3 groups. InterleukinIL‐1β,IL‐3, interferon gamma (IFN‐ɣ), (IFN‐ɣ)‐induced protein (IP)‐10 and monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)‐2 were significantly increased in diabetics versus controls.IFN‐ɣ,IL‐1α,IL‐3 andMCP‐2 were significantly increased in diabetics withoutDRversus controls, whereas granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF),IFN‐ɣ,IL‐10,IP‐10, regulated and normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES), and soluble tumour necrosis factor receptor (sTNF‐R)IIwere significantly increased in diabetics with mildDRversus controls. Macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP‐1β),GMCSF,RANTESandsTNF‐RIIwere significantly increased in diabetics with mildDRversus diabetics withoutDR(p < 0.05 at least for all).

Conclusions

Differences in expression profile ofAHcytokines between diabetics, without and with mildDR, and controls have been documented. Retinal neuroinflammatory biomarkers ofRGCactivation evaluated inAHby protein array analysis could guide in detecting specific phenotypes with potential for personalized management.
The Regulation and Function of Lactate Dehydrogenase A: Therapeutic Potential in Brain Tumor
Authors: Valvona Cara J. , Fillmore Helen L. , Nunn Peter B. , Pilkington Geoffrey J.
Published: August 2015

There are over 120 types of brain tumor and approximately 45% of primary brain tumors are gliomas, of which glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and aggressive with a median survival rate of 14 months. Despite progress in our knowledge, current therapies are unable to effectively combat primary brain tumors and patient survival remains poor. Tumor metabolism is important to consider in therapeutic approaches and is the focus of numerous research investigations. Lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) is a cytosolic enzyme, predominantly involved in anaerobic and aerobic glycolysis (the Warburg effect); however, it has multiple additional functions in non‐neoplastic and neoplastic tissues, which are not commonly known or discussed. This review summarizes what is currently known about the function of LDHA and identifies areas that would benefit from further exploration. The current knowledge of the role of LDHA in the brain and its potential as a therapeutic target for brain tumors will also be highlighted. The Warburg effect appears to be universal in tumors, including primary brain tumors, and LDHA (because of its involvement with this process) has been identified as a potential therapeutic target. Currently, there are, however, no suitable LDHA inhibitors available for tumor therapies in the clinic.
Implants with an Oxidized Surface Placed Predominately in Soft Bone Quality and Subjected to Immediate Occlusal Loading: Results from an 11‐Year Clinical Follow‐Up
Authors: Glauser Roland
Published: August 2015

Purpose

The purpose of this clinical follow‐up was to document the 11‐year outcome of implants with a moderately rough oxidized surface subjected to immediate occlusal loading.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐six of 38 patients enrolled in a 5‐year prospective study were available for this follow‐up analysis, with 33 restorations supported by 66 slightly tapered implants (Brånemark System MkIV, Nobel Biocare, Gothenburg, Sweden). The majority of implants were placed in posterior regions (88%) and into soft bone (76%). Parameters included cumulative survival rate (CSR), radiographic marginal bone level, bleeding on probing (BOP), intrasulcular counts of perio‐pathogenic markers (DNA probes), and total bacterial load (TBL).

Results

The CSR was 97.1% at 11.2 years mean follow‐up. Mean marginal bone remodeling was 0.47 mm (SD 1.09, n = 65) from 1 year postplacement to 11‐year follow‐up. BOP was absent at most sites (63.6%). No statistically significant differences in TBL or perio‐pathogenic marker species were observed at implants and teeth.

Conclusion

The results of the present follow‐up show high long‐term survival, stable marginal bone levels, and soft tissue outcomes of oxidized surface implants placed predominately in posterior regions and soft bone. The quantity and quality of intrasulcular microbiota were comparable at implants and teeth.
Ataxia‐telangiectasia mutated (ATM) participates in the regulation of ionizing radiation‐induced cell death via MAPK14 in lung cancer H1299 cells
Authors: Liang Nan , Zhong Rui , Hou Xue , Zhao Gang , Ma Shumei , Cheng Guanghui , Liu Xiaodong
Published: August 2015

Objectives

The role of Ataxia‐telangiectasia mutated (ATM) in response to DNA damage has previously been studied, but its underlying mechanisms specific to ionizing radiation (IR) have remained to be elucidated. In this study, function of ATM on radiation‐induced cell death in lung cancer H1299 cells was analysed.

Materials and methods

Human lung cancer cells, H1299, were used, and cell models with ATM−/− and MAPK14−/− were established by genetic engineering. Radiosensitivity was analysed using colony formation assays. Western blotting and co‐immunoprecipitation were implemented to detect protein expression and interaction. MDC staining and GFP‐LC3 relocalization were used to detect autophagy.

Results

Autophagy as well as phosphorylation of ATM was activated by ionizing radiation. Both the inhibitor of ATM, KU55933 and ATM silencing reduced phosphorylation of ATM and MAPKAPK2 expression. Both ATM−/− and MAPK14−/− cells displayed hypersensitivity. IR increased autophagy level by more than 129% in DMSO‐treated cells, while only by 47% and 27% in KU55933‐treated and ATM−/− cells respectively. MAPK14 knock‐down alone gave rise to the basal autophagy level, but decreased notably after IR. KU55933 and ATM knock‐down inhibited IR‐induced autophagy by activating mTOR pathways. Both Beclin1–PI3KIII and Beclin1–MAPKAPK2 interactions as were remarkably affected by silencing either ATM or MAPK14.

Conclusions

ATM promoted IR‐induced autophagy via the MAPK14 pathway, mTOR pathway and Beclin1/PI3KIII complexes. MAPK14 contributed to radiosensitization of H1299 cells.
Adult neural progenitor cells from Huntington's disease mouse brain exhibit increased proliferation and migration due to enhanced calcium and ROS signals
Authors: Xie Wenjuan , Wang Jiu‐Qiang , Wang Qiao‐Chu , Wang Yun , Yao Sheng , Tang Tie‐Shan
Published: August 2015

Objectives

Huntington's disease (HD) is an inherited human neurodegenerative disorder characterized by uncontrollable movement, psychiatric disturbance and cognitive decline. Impaired proliferative/differentiational potentials of adult neural progenitor cells (ANPCs) have been thought to be a pathogenic mechanism involved in it. In this study, we aimed to elucidate intrinsic properties of ANPCs subjected to neurodegenerative condition in YAC128 HD mice.

Materials and methods

ANPCs were isolated from the SVZ regions of 4‐month‐old WT and YAC128 mice. Cell proliferation, migration and neuronal differentiation in vitro were compared between these two genotypes with/without Ca2+ inhibitors or ROS scavenger treatments. Differences in ANPC proliferation and differentiation capabilities in vivo between the two genotypes were evaluated using Ki‐67 and Doublecortin (DCX) immunofluorescence respectively.

Results

Compared to WT ANPCs, YAC128 ANPCs had significantly enhanced cell proliferation, migration and neuronal differentiation in vitro, accompanied by increased Ca2+ and ROS signals. Raised proliferation and migration in YAC128 ANPCs were abolished by Ca2+ signalling antagonists and ROS scavenging. However, in vivo, HD ANPCs failed to show any elevated proliferation or differentiation.

Conclusions

Increased Ca2+ signalling and higher level of ROS conferred HD ANPC enhancement of proliferation and migration potentials. However, the in vivo micro‐environment did not support endogenous ANPCs to respond appropriately to neuronal loss in these YAC128 mouse brains.
Microcystic pseudoglandular plexiform cutaneous neurofibroma
Authors: Gómez‐Mateo María del Carmen , Compañ‐Quilis Amparo , Monteagudo Carlos
Published: August 2015

Glandular structures are well documented to appear in peripheral nerve sheath tumors. These epithelial elements are usually present in malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors although a few cases of glandular benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors have also been described, most of them being schwannomas. A neurofibroma with glands is considered to be a rare type of divergent differentiation, but a neurofibroma containing gland‐like or pseudoglandular structures have not, to our knowledge, been described. We report a 33‐year‐old patient with a well‐demarcated dermal neoplasm, composed of neoplastic Schwann cells, perineurial‐like cells and fibroblasts in a matrix with collagen fibers and myxoid areas. A part of the tumor consisted of microcystic gland‐like spaces lined by flat cells. These cells were either S100 positive or negative, with no epithelial membrane antigen, cytokeratin or CD31 immunostaining. Recognition of the presence of pseudoglandular elements in neurofibromas is important to distinguish them from other tumoral lesions, some of them with malignant potential.
Subcutaneous porocarcinoma clinically presenting as a soft tissue tumor
Authors: Nakazawa Tadao , Kondo Tetsuo , Sato Eiichi , Motosugi Utaroh , Niu Dongfeng , Mochizuki Kunio , Kawasaki Tomonori , Yamane Tetsu , Katoh Ryohei
Published: August 2015

Porocarcinoma is a rare malignancy with glandular adnexal differentiation. A 38‐year‐old Japanese man noticed a subcutaneous mass in right inguinal region about 20 years prior to being examined. Radiological examinations demonstrated the mass, 11 × 10 cm in size, was in the subcutaneous fat tissue. Recently, the mass grew rapidly, and it was biopsied by an orthopedist based on clinical diagnosis of primary soft tissue tumor. Histopathological examination of the resected specimens also revealed that the tumor lacked involvement to the skin. Microscopically, the tumor was mainly composed of poroid cells with partially obvious squamous differentiation, accompanied by focal ductal structures immunoreactive for CEA and EMA. The tumor contained a low‐grade area consisting of poroid cells and high‐grade area with squamous differentiation. This histopathological heterogeneity suggested malignant transformation from poroma. The patient had the tumor in almost same size over the period of 20 years, which is the longest in the previous reports. This unique case of subcutaneous porocarcinoma is reported.
Oral plexiform schwannoma with unusual epithelial induction
Authors: Ide Fumio , Muramatsu Takashi , Kikuchi Kentaro , Saito Ichiro , Kusama Kaoru
Published: August 2015

Rare epithelial structures in benign nerve sheath tumors are almost always glandular in appearance. We describe a case of intraoral plexiform schwannoma with concurrent squamous epithelial hyperplasia. The lesion occurred as a pigmented nodule on the gingiva of a 35‐year‐old woman with no systemic involvement. Histologically, unencapsulated, plexiform fascicular proliferations of schwann cells could be traced from the submucosa to the lamina propria, finally making direct contact with heavily pigmented, elongated rete ridges of the overlying epithelium. Also noted was a schwannian network centered on clustered odontogenic epithelial rests of mature squamous‐type, the number and size of which had markedly increased. Impressive immunoprofiles of periepithelial neural microfascicles included the complete absence of axon and perineurium and the unexpected presence of endoneurial fibroblasts. The repertoire of epithelial changes was in a confined area with no extension beyond, supporting hyperplasia induction by an underlying/surrounding schwannoma.
The selection of migrants and returnees in Romania
Authors: Ambrosini J. William , Mayr Karin , Peri Giovanni , Radu Dragos
Published: August 2015

This paper uses census and survey data to identify the wage earning ability and the selection of recent Romanian migrants and returnees on observable characteristics. We construct measures of selection across skill groups and estimate the average and the skill‐specific premium for migration and return for three typical destinations of Romanian migrants after 1990. Once we account for migration costs, we find evidence that the selection and sorting of migrants are driven by different returns to skills in countries of destination. Our identification strategy for the effects of work experience abroad permits a cautious causal interpretation of the premium to return migration. This premium increases with migrants' skills and drives the positive selection of returnees relative to non‐migrants. Based on the compatibility of the results with rationality in the migration decisions, we simulate a rational‐agent model of education, migration and return. Our results suggest that for a source country like Romania relatively high rates of temporary migration might have positive long‐run effects on average skills and wages.
The shift from sterling to the dollar, 1965–76: evidence fromAustralia andNewZealand
Authors: Singleton John , Schenk Catherine R.
Published: August 2015

The management of foreign exchange reserves has recently attracted attention from both policy‐makers and historians. Historical research has focussed on the nineteenth century and the interwar period, with less attention to the strategies of smaller countries in the final transition from sterling to the dollar in the post‐1945 period. This article examines the evolution of reserve currency policy from the perspective ofAustralia andNewZealand in the 1960s and early 1970s. As in the 1930s, economic uncertainty and a shift in global economic power prompted changes in reserves strategy. Patterns of trade and debt and falling confidence in British economic policy prompted a move away from sterling, but the timing and extent of this transition were affected by the fragility of the sterling exchange rate, lack of alternative assets, and continued dependence on the London capital market. The choices forAustralia andNewZealand were thus constrained, but they were able to leverage their position as holders of sterling to engage in agreements that provided an exchange rate guarantee for their sterling holdings and continued access to the London capital market. This mitigated the effect of the final global transition from sterling to the dollar while protecting their interests.
Portfolio Overlapping Bias in Tests of the Fama–French Three‐Factor Model
Authors: Tauscher Kathrin , Wallmeier Martin
Published: August 2015

In the standard approach of the three‐factor model of Fama and French (), both the test portfolios and the SMB and HML factor portfolios are formed on the basis of size and the book‐to‐market ratio. Thus, a potential overlapping bias in time‐series regressions arises. Based on a resampling method and a split‐sample approach, we provide an in‐depth analysis of the effect of overlapping for a broad sample of European stocks. We find that the overlapping bias is non‐negligible, contrary to what seems to be the general opinion.
Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome belongs to the PIK3CA‐related overgrowth spectrum (PROS)
Authors: Vahidnezhad Hassan , Youssefian Leila , Uitto Jouni
Published: August 2015

Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome (KTS), originally described as a triad of cutaneous capillary malformation, bone and soft‐tissue hypertrophy, as well as venous and lymphatic malformations, has been considered by dermatologists as a distinct diagnostic entity. However, cases with KTS have also been reported to have neurological disorders, developmental delay and digital abnormalities, indicating multisystem involvement. Recently, a number of overgrowth syndromes, with overlapping phenotypic features with KTS, have been identified; these include MCAP and CLOVES syndromes as well as fibroadipose hyperplasia. These conditions harbour mutations in the PIK3CA gene, and they have been included in the PIK3CA‐related overgrowth spectrum (PROS). Based on recent demonstrations of PIK3CA mutations also in KTS, it appears that, rather than being a distinct diagnostic entity, KTS belongs to PROS. These observations have potential diagnostic and therapeutic implications for KTS.
In vivo expression of antimicrobial peptides in atopic dermatitis
Authors: Clausen Maja‐Lisa , Slotved H‐C , Krogfelt Karen A. , Andersen Paal Skytt , Agner Tove
Published: August 2015

The aim of this review is to present findings on expression of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in atopic dermatitis (AD) skin, focusing only on in vivo studies, and to discuss differences in results obtained using various skin sampling techniques and different methodology for analysis of AMPs. The review also includes a discussion of the effect of frequently used treatments on AMP expression. Many studies have shown a reduced level of AMPs in lesional AD skin when compared to psoriatic skin, explaining the high frequency of AD‐related infections. Interestingly, however, non‐lesional AD skin has shown the same upregulation of AMPs after barrier disruption as non‐lesional psoriatic skin. Various methods have been used to analyse AMP expression in the skin, and when comparing these methods, differences are revealed in AMP expression depending on the method used for sampling and analysis. Comparisons indicate that analyses of mRNA levels of AMPs may find greater differences in expression than analyses of protein levels. Few studies evaluate the effect of topical treatments on the expression of AMPs, and these indicate an inhibition of AMP expression, particularly after use of corticosteroids. AMPs are important components of the skin as a defense against infections, and despite much research, the clinical importance of the effect of common treatments, including systemic treatments for AD and the interplay between AMPs and the skin microbiome, is still largely unknown.
Parents Taking Action: A Psycho‐Educational Intervention for Latino Parents of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Magaña Sandra , Lopez Kristina , Machalicek Wendy
Published: August 2015

The increased prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among Latino children, later diagnosis, limited access to bicultural specialist support, and worsened health outcomes when compared to non‐Latinos points to the need for a culturally relevant parent education intervention. This pilot study examined the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary outcomes of a culturally derived intervention, Parents Taking Action, for 19 Spanish‐speaking mothers of children with ASD. This study introduces the Promotora de Salud Model of intervention delivery to the autism field. A mixed‐methods design including one group pre‐ and posttest design and focus groups was used to evaluate the outcomes of PTA. We found that the intervention was both feasible to implement and acceptable to participants. We also found significant increases in empowerment oriented outcomes for parents between pre‐ and posttest suggesting that the intervention is promising. Suggestions for future research and practice are offered.
Thermal habitat segregation among morphotypes of whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus: Salmonidae) and invasive vendace (C. albula): a mechanism for co‐existence?
Authors: Kelly Brianne , Amundsen Per‐Arne , Power Michael
Published: August 2015

Aquatic invasive species can have a variety of negative impacts on the ecosystems they invade. Carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes in the muscle tissue of aquatic organisms have proved useful for evaluating post‐invasion dietary shifts among species. However, oxygen and carbon stable isotopes in fish otoliths have the potential to provide additional data on thermal habitat, diet and metabolism, when investigating interactions among sympatric native and invasive fishes.

We conducted oxygen and carbon stable isotope analysis on the otoliths of three morphotypes of native whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus) and invasive vendace (Coregonus albula) at two sites within the sub‐Arctic Pasvik watercourse in northern Norway.

Mean temperature use among morphotypes and species over the course of the growing season ranged from 7.5 °C to 11.2 °C. Otolith δ13C was significantly positively correlated to fish muscle tissue δ13C (P < 0.05, r2 = 0.53). Significant differences in temperature use and δ13C among morphotypes and between species were found in the downstream site but not the upstream site.

Complementary partitioning of thermal and dietary resource use in the downstream site coincides with a higher abundance of whitefish, enabling the coexistence of both species. In contrast, vendace were dominant in the upstream site where no differentiation in resource use among morphotypes and between species was evident.

This study demonstrates the usefulness of stable oxygen and carbon otolith isotopes for characterising resource use and highlights the importance of investigating thermal habitat use as a factor influencing the success of invasive fishes.
Direct and indirect effects of additions of chromophoric dissolved organic matter on zooplankton during large‐scale mesocosm experiments in an oligotrophic lake
Authors: Cooke Sandra L. , Fischer Janet M. , Kessler Kirsten , Williamson Craig E. , Sanders Robert W. , Morris Donald P. , Porter Jason A. , Jeffrey Wade H. , DeVaul Princiotta S. , Dean Pakulski J.
Published: August 2015

The effects of changes in chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) on zooplankton grazers in pelagic food webs can be difficult to predict due to the potential for conflicting direct and indirect effects ofCDOMon water column optics and food‐web dynamics. We compared the responses of two dominant zooplankton groups,Daphniaspp. and calanoid copepods, to elevatedCDOMin two mesocosm experiments conducted in a transparent, oligotrophic lake.

In the first experiment, low, medium and high additions ofCDOM[dissolved organic carbon (DOC) = 2.7, 3.0 and 4.3 mg L−1, respectively] and non‐manipulated controls (DOC = 1.6 mg L−1) were used to test the hypothesis that food‐web stimulation will increase withCDOMconcentration. In the second experiment, we manipulated bothCDOM(control and addition) and ultraviolet radiation (UV; ambient and shielded) to determine the importance ofCDOMas aUVscreen, as well as to examine the role ofUVin food‐web stimulation byCDOM. We also conducted short‐term bioassays alongside this second experiment to assess the food resources forDaphniaand calanoids in treatments withUV‐exposed and non‐UV‐exposedCDOM.

Daphniaabundance increased in the low and mediumCDOMadditions in the first experiment, and when food resources were simultaneously stimulated byCDOMand protected from the direct negative effects ofUVin the second experiment.

In contrast, calanoid copepod abundance declined or remained unchanged whenCDOMwas added, and this response was not mediated by food resources.

Overall, our findings suggest that increasedCDOMin clear lakes could alter the relative abundance of zooplankton groups through a combination of direct and indirect effects.
The effects of predation by juvenile fish on the meiobenthic community structure in a natural pond
Authors: Weber Sebastian , Traunspurger Walter
Published: August 2015

Benthic communities in aquatic ecosystems include an abundant and functionally important meiofaunal component. The effects of predation by fish on zooplankton, macroinvertebrates and periphyton in freshwater habitats have been clearly demonstrated, whereas impacts on meiofaunal assemblages are poorly understood.

In this study, the predation effects of benthivorous juvenile carp (Cyprinus carpio) on the abundance, biomass, secondary production, size classes and community structure of meiofaunal assemblages and on nematode diversity in the littoral zone of a natural freshwater pond were examined over 125 days using field enclosures and exclosures.

Fish predation altered the abundance, biomass and secondary production of nematodes, oligochaetes and microcrustaceans (cyclopoids, harpacticoids, ostracods and cladocerans) but not of rotifers. These changes were consistent with top‐down control of the freshwater meiofaunal assemblages in the natural pond over time. By contrast, small‐bodied meiofauna were more abundant in the presence of fish, suggesting indirect facilitation. Both species richness and species composition but not the diversity of the nematode community were affected by fish predation.

Removal of the fish from the enclosures resulted in the thorough recovery of the density, biomass and secondary production of nematodes, oligochaetes and microcrustaceans within 45 days.

The results indicate that predation by juvenile freshwater fish depresses the overall abundance, biomass and secondary production of meiofaunal assemblages, except in the case of rotifers, and alters the size structure of the meiofaunal community. Our study provides insight into the food‐web ecology of lakes and the first evidence of freshwater fish predation effects on meiofaunal assemblages in a natural habitat.
Microclimates buffer the responses of plant communities to climate change
Authors: Maclean Ilya M. D. , Hopkins John J. , Bennie Jonathan , Lawson Callum R. , Wilson Robert J.
Published: August 2015

Aim

Despite predictions of high extinction risk resulting from climate change, range expansions have been documented more frequently than range retractions, prompting suggestions that species can endure climatic changes by persisting in cool or damp microclimates. We test whether such ‘microrefugia’ exist.

Location

The United Kingdom.

Methods

We examine fine‐scale changes in the plant communities of a coastal grassland over a 30‐year period in which spring temperatures increased by 1.4 °C. We look at whether changes in community composition and local colonizations and extinctions are related to microclimatic conditions.

Results

Our findings suggest that while community reassembly was consistent with warming, changes were smaller on cooler, north‐facing slopes. Closer inspection of the patterns of species turnover revealed that species with low temperature requirements were able to persist on cooler slopes, while those with high moisture requirements suffered similar decreases in occupancy across all microclimates.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest that cooler slopes may act as microrefugia, buffering the effects on plant communities of increases in temperature by delaying extinctions of species with low temperature requirements.
Polyaspartic acid enhances dentine remineralization bonded with a zinc‐doped Portland‐based resin cement
Authors: Osorio R. , Sauro S. , Watson T. F. , Toledano M.
Published: August 2015

Aim

To ascertain whether biomimetic phosphoprotein analogues (polyaspartic acid (PAS) and sodium trimetaphosphate (TMP)) improve bonding efficacy and dentine remineralization ability of a novel zinc‐doped Portland‐based resinous sealing cement.

Methodology

Bonding procedures were performed on phosphoric acid‐etched dentine, and several groups were established regarding biomimetic analogue application: (1) no application, (2) PAS‐treated dentine and (3) dentine treated with a mixture of PAS and TMP. Raman spectroscopy and microtensile bond strength (MTBS) with fracture analysis by scanning electron microscopy were carried out. MTBS values were compared by anova, Student–Newman–Keuls and Student's t‐tests (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively).

Results

Twenty‐four hour MTBS values were not affected by the different bonding procedures. After 6 months, MTBS decreased in those groups in which the phosphoproteins analogues were not applied (P < 0.05). When PAS was applied, MTBS was maintained after 6 months (P > 0.05). The novel material bonded without primer application induced bioactive crystal (calcium carbonate and Ettringite) precipitation onto the etched dentine and augmented the degree of crystallinity at the hybrid layer. Mineral‐to‐matrix ratio was increased at the hybrid layer of the PAS‐treated specimens; this primer was also able to catalyse dentine remineralization, without an increase in crystallinity.

Conclusions

PAS application onto demineralized dentine produced an inhibition or delay of mineral phase crystallization, enhancing the remineralization potential of the Portland microfillers at the resin–dentine bonded interface.
Suboptimal push‐out bond strengths of calcium silicate‐based sealers
Authors: Oliveira D. S. , Cardoso M. L. , Queiroz T. F. , Silva E. J. N. L. , Souza E. M. , De‐Deus G.
Published: August 2015

Aim

To evaluate and compare the push‐out bond strength of MTA Fillapex (Angelus, Londrina, Brazil) and iRoot SP (Innovative BioCeramix Inc., Vancouver, Canada) to the dentine walls of root canals. AH Plus (Dentsply DeTrey, Konstaz, Germany) and MTA (Angelus, Londrina, Brazil) were used as reference materials.

Methodology

Sixty extracted human single‐rooted teeth were selected. After standardized canal preparation and irrigation, the canals were dried with paper points and filled with one of four sealers: AH Plus, iRoot SP, MTA and MTA Fillapex. Roots were sectioned, and push‐out tests were performed. The values of bond strength were analysed using the Kruskal–Wallis test. Mann–Whitney with Bonferroni correction was used to isolate the differences. The alpha‐type error was set at 0.05 for the analyses.

Results

All specimens had measurable adhesion to root dentine and no premature failure occurred. There were significant differences amongst materials (P = 0.000). MTA‐filled specimens had higher push‐out bond strength values (P = 0.000). AH Plus had significantly higher bond strength than both Fillapex and iRoot SP (P = 0.000). Both Fillapex and iRoot SP had the lowest push‐out bond strength amongst all experimental groups (P = 0.000). No difference occurred between the two calcium silicate‐based root canal sealers (P = 0.265).

Conclusion

The adhesion to root dentine associated with newer calcium silicate‐based sealers was compromised even when well‐monitored laboratory conditions were used.
Posterior Inference in Bayesian Quantile Regression with Asymmetric Laplace Likelihood
Authors: Yang Yunwen , Wang Huixia Judy , He Xuming
Published: August 2015

The paper discusses the asymptotic validity of posterior inference of pseudo‐Bayesian quantile regression methods with complete or censored data when an asymmetric Laplace likelihood is used. The asymmetric Laplace likelihood has a special place in the Bayesian quantile regression framework because the usual quantile regression estimator can be derived as the maximum likelihood estimator under such a model, and this working likelihood enables highly efficient Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithms for posterior sampling. However, it seems to be under‐recognised that the stationary distribution for the resulting posterior does not provide valid posterior inference directly. We demonstrate that a simple adjustment to the covariance matrix of the posterior chain leads to asymptotically valid posterior inference. Our simulation results confirm that the posterior inference, when appropriately adjusted, is an attractive alternative to other asymptotic approximations in quantile regression, especially in the presence of censored data.
A Comparison of In Situ Analytical Methods for Trace Element Measurement in Gold Samples from Various South African Gold Deposits
Authors: Gauert Christoph , Schannor Mathias , Hecht Lutz , Radtke Martin , Reinholz Uwe
Published: August 2015

Trace element concentrations in gold grains from various geological units in South Africa were measured in situ by field emission‐electron probe microanalysis (FE‐EPMA), laser ablation‐inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS) and synchrotron micro X‐ray fluorescence spectroscopy (SR‐μ‐XRF). This study assesses the accuracy, precision and detection limits of these mostly non‐destructive analytical methods using certified reference materials and discusses their application in natural sample measurement. FE‐EPMA point analyses yielded reproducible and discernible concentrations for Au and trace concentrations of S, Cu, Ti, Hg, Fe and Ni, with detection limits well below the actual concentrations in the gold. LA‐ICP‐MS analyses required larger gold particles (> 60 μm) to avoid contamination during measurement. Elements that measured above detection limits included Ag, Cu, Ti, Fe, Pt, Pd, Mn, Cr, Ni, Sn, Hg, Pb, As and Te, which can be used for geochemical characterisation and gold fingerprinting. Although LA‐ICP‐MS measurements had lower detection limits, precision was lower than FE‐EPMA and SR‐μ‐XRF. The higher variability in absolute values measured by LA‐ICP‐MS, possibly due to micro‐inclusions, had to be critically assessed. Non‐destructive point analyses of gold alloys by SR‐μ‐XRF revealed Ag, Fe, Cu, Ni, Pb, Ti, Sb, U, Cr, Co, As, Y and Zr in the various gold samples. Detection limits were mostly lower than those for elements measured by FE‐EPMA, but higher than those for elements measured by LA‐ICP‐MS.
Dual Doping: An Effective Method to Enhance the Electrochemical Properties of Li10GeP2S12‐Based Solid Electrolytes
Authors: Yang Kun , Dong Jianying , Zhang Long , Li Yueming , Wang Limin
Published: August 2015

Multiple doping is widely used to improve the performance of a material, including its electrical transport, mechanical, and photovoltaic properties. In this paper, Sn–Se dual‐doped Li10GeP2S12 (LGPS, thio‐LISICON II analogue) electrolytes were synthesized via ball milling and sintering and compared with those Sn or Se single‐doped. Successful Sn and/or Se substitution expanded the unit cell and formed units, which were verified by X‐ray powder diffraction, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. In contrast to the limited benefits of Se single doping and the negative effects of Sn single doping, Sn–Se dual doping demonstrated up to 53% enhancement in ionic conductivity. More importantly, Sn–Se dual‐doped LGPS showed an extremely low activation energy of 16 kJ/mol, which is one of the lowest known values for lithium ion conductors; as well as one of the widest electrochemical windows of 8 V. Sn–Se dual‐doped LGPS is a promising electrolyte for advanced all‐solid‐state batteries.
Home nurses' turnover intentions: the impact of informal supervisory feedback and self‐efficacy
Authors: Van Waeyenberg Thomas , Decramer Adelien , Anseel Frederik
Published: August 2015

Aim

To examine how home nurses' turnover intentions are affected by the quality and frequency of supervisory feedback and by their own self‐efficacy.

Background

Little is known about effective retention strategies for the growing home healthcare sector that struggles to retain an adequate workforce. While the work environment and supervisors have been found to play a key‐role in nurses' turnover intentions, home nurses mostly work autonomously and apart from their supervisors. These circumstances require a customized approach and need to be understood to ensure high‐quality home health care.

Design

We used a correlational, cross‐sectional survey design.

Method

A convenience sample of 312 home nurses was selected from a division of a large home health care organization in Flanders, Belgium. Data were collected in 2013 using structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive statistics, structural equation modelling and relative weight analysis.

Results

The quality of feedback was related to lower levels of turnover intentions. This relationship was fully mediated by home nurses' self‐efficacy. Frequent favourable feedback was directly related to lower turnover intentions while the relationship between frequent unfavourable feedback and turnover intentions was conditional on home nurses' level of self‐efficacy.

Conclusion

This study contributes to our understanding of home nurses' turnover intentions and the role of informal supervisory feedback and home nurses' self‐efficacy.
Concentrated growth factor in the treatment of adjacent multiple gingival recessions: a split‐mouth randomized clinical trial
Authors: Bozkurt Doğan Şeyma , Öngöz Dede Figen , Ballı Umut , Atalay Elif N. , Durmuşlar Mustafa C.
Published: August 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the clinical effect of concentrated growth factor (CGF) in combination with coronally advanced flap (CAF) compared to CAF alone for the treatment of multiple adjacent gingival recessions (GRs).

Materials and Methods

Twenty patients with a total of 119 Miller Class I and II GRs in the maxilla were included to this study. Recessions were randomly treated according to a split‐mouth design by means of CAF + CGF (test; 60 defects) or CAF (control; 59 defects). Clinical outcomes were evaluated at baseline and 6 months after surgery.

Results

The mean root coverage (MRC) was 82.06% and 86.67%, complete root coverage (CRC) was 45.8% (27/59) and 56.7% (34/60) for CAF and CAF + CGF, respectively at 6th month. Statistically no difference was demonstrated between the two groups in terms of recession depth (RD), MRC and CRC at 6th month. The increase in width of keratinized gingiva (KGW) and gingival thickness (GT) were statistically significant in the CAF + CGF group compared to the CAF group at 6th month.

Conclusions

The use of CGF in combination with CAF did not provide additional benefits in RD, CRC and MRC. This study suggests that use of CGF + CAF may increase the success of GRs because of a significant increase in KGW and GT.
Hemodynamic responses to active and passive coping tasks and the prediction of future blood pressure in Thai participants: A preliminary prospective cohort study
Authors: Yuenyongchaiwat Kornanong , Sheffield David , Baker Ian , Maratos Frances
Published: August 2015

Cardiovascular responses to mental stress tests have been related to future blood pressure (BP) levels. However, most studies have been completed in North America and Europe; only one study has been conducted in Asia. Therefore, the study explored whether cardiovascular responses to mental stress predict future resting BP in Thailand. Hemodynamic measures were obtained from 101 healthy adults before, during and after mental arithmetic, a speech task, and a cold pressor task. A follow‐up assessment of resting BP was undertaken 1 year later. Results showed that Thais responded to standardized mental stress tasks with large and significant cardiovascular reactivity. Regression analyses indicated that, after adjustment for baseline BP and traditional risk factors, heightened systolic blood pressure (SBP) responses to mental arithmetic were associated with increased future SBP (ΔR2 = .045). These findings suggest that BP reactivity predicts future BP and may play a role in the development of hypertension. In addition, Thais displayed large cardiovascular responses to standardized mental stress tasks, of a similar magnitude to previous studies of North Americans and Europeans.
The prevalence and characteristics of obstructive sleep apnea in hospitalized patients with type 2 diabetes in China
Authors: Zhang Puhong , Zhang Rui , Zhao Fang , Heeley Emma , Chai‐Coetzer Ching L. , Liu Jing , Feng Bo , Han Ping , Li Qifu , Sun Liao , Li Yufeng , Dong Shengying , Jiang Xiaozhen , Zhang Chunhua , Lu Jinhui , Guo Xingduan , Guo Lixin , Mcevoy R. Doug , Ji Linong
Published: August 2015

Data on the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus in China is scarce. We conducted a multi‐centre, cross‐sectional study involving 12 hospitals from six regional cities to investigate the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea in hospitalized patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and to explore the association between obstructive sleep apnea and related risk factors, diabetic complications and comorbidities in China. Each hospital recruited at least 70 consecutive patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who were admitted to the endocrinology ward. A total of 880 participants were enrolled and administered overnight sleep monitoring with a portable monitor (ApneaLink™, ResMed, San Diego, CA, USA); other information was collected from medical charts and a standardized questionnaire. In this study, 60.0% (95% confidence interval: 56.8%, 63.2%) of hospitalized patients in China with type 2 diabetes mellitus had comorbid obstructive sleep apnea (apnea–hypopnea index ≥ 5). Only 1.5% (eight of 528) of the patients with both conditions had been diagnosed previously with obstructive sleep apnea. The prevalence of moderate–severe (apnea–hypopnea index ≥ 15) and severe obstructive sleep apnea (apnea–hypopnea index ≥ 30) was estimated to be 25.6% (22.7, 28.5%) and 10.3% (8.3, 12.4%), respectively. Age, sex, body mass index, snoring, reported breath‐holding in sleep or gasping or choking arousal, sleepiness, diabetes duration, hypertension, diabetic nephropathy and cardiovascular diseases history were correlated significantly with the severity of obstructive sleep apnea. In China, the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea in hospitalized patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus is high. Routine screening for and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea is an important, but often neglected, part of the management of diabetes.
New Estimation Methods of Young's Modulus and Rupture Strength of Snack Foods Based on Microstructure
Authors: Kadowaki Ren , Kimura Hitoshi , Inou Norio
Published: August 2015

This paper describes quantitative methods for measuring substantial values of rupture strength and Young's modulus considering the inner, crispy snack food structure at the microscale. The samples used are crispy snack food. A conventional mechanical food test was conducted on a large sample size (>100 mm3), and only the apparent, macroscopic mechanical property of the food was measured without considering the microscopic structure. The proposed method integrates a small load compression test and finite element analysis for a test piece <10 mm3. Structural deformability of the test piece is calculated using finite element analysis. The estimated rupture strength of commercially available snack food ranged between 95 and 560 MPa. The calculated Young's moduli were in the range of 170–1,100 MPa. These values are 18–170 times larger than the apparent Young's moduli measured with the conventional method. This paper discusses the reasons for these findings.

Practical Applications

Food texture of brittle foods is affected by their substantial material property and geometrical structure. In particular, material rupture strength and material Young's modulus are responsible factors. We developed a new estimation method for the substantial material properties of brittle food. Based on these estimated factors, it is possible to evaluate the food texture. This means that it is possible to elucidate how the material factor and the structural factor affect each food texture with our method. It is expected that the method also allows the control of the food texture by changing the material and structural properties in accordance with the demands of people. For example, processed food with good texture will be preferred by elderly people or patients with temporomandibular joint disorders for easy mastication. Pleasurable and hard‐textured food will provide good training to children who should train their chewing muscles.