bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Creating a person‐centred culture within the North East Autism Society: preliminary findings
Authors: James Deborah Michelle , Hall Alex , Phillipson John , McCrossan Geraldine , Falck Claire
Published: September 2012

Accessible Summary

Staff who care for people with autism were shown video of themselves at work.

Only good bits of video were shown to staff. Good bits were chosen because the video showed that the staff and the people with autism were enjoying being with each other.

We asked four members of staff how watching the good bits of video made them think and feel.

In this paper, we report what the staff said. We grouped their ideas into sets. In this paper, we report exactly what the staff said.

We found that all staff felt more confident after watching the videos. They could see more ways that the people with autism were communicating with them. They could imagine being better at making relationships with people with autism.

We think that finding positive moments of enjoyment using video is a good way to make things work better for staff and for the people with autism.

This paper provides preliminary findings of the impact of a workforce coaching intervention that used video feedback in a service for children and adults with autism. The proposed mechanism for change in the intervention was the way that video footage was highlighted through editing on the part of the practitioner and the positive coaching conversation that was used to review the video edits. Four participants who had received the intervention were interviewed after the intervention. Thematic analysis of the participants' responses during the narrative style interview was conducted. The results suggest that the participants found the intervention a positive experience that raised their confidence in their work role. They reported heightened awareness of the individual needs of the people they worked with and a new appreciation of the potential for relationship between themselves and the services' users.
Effects of Alendronate on Lumbar Posterolateral Fusion Using Hydroxyapatite in Rabbits
Authors: Koo Ki Hyoung , Lee Jae Hyup , Chang Bong‐Soon , Lee Choon‐Ki
Published: September 2012

There are controversies regarding the effect of alendronate on spine fusion. In order to study the effects of alendronate on fusion with porous hydroxyapatite, a total of 47 rabbits underwent posterolateral lumbar fusion. The rabbits received saline (control group), alendronate 0.5 mg/kg/week (low‐dose group), or alendronate 1 mg/kg/week (high‐dose group) per oral beginning 2 weeks before surgery. All animals were euthanized 12 weeks after surgery, and the extent of fusion was assessed by radiographs, manual palpation, computed tomography (CT) scan, mechanical testing, and histologic examination. The fusion rates by manual palpation, radiography, and CT scan were similar in all groups. There was no significant difference in pixel optic density from the CT scan. Biomechanical testing showed the tensile strength of the control group was higher than that of the treatment group including the low‐ and high‐dose group. In histologic examination, the fusion masses of control animals were characterized by a higher predominance of well‐incorporated, trabeculated bone with a prominent marrow element. The treatment group showed a higher proportion of woven bone structures and thicker bony trabeculae. There was no significant difference in the fusion rate, but the tensile strength of treatment group was significantly lower. Histologic examination showed that alendronate inhibited bone resorption and remodeling.
An Educational Training Simulator for Advanced Perfusion Techniques Using a High‐Fidelity Virtual Patient Model
Authors: Tokaji Megumi , Ninomiya Shinji , Kurosaki Tatsuya , Orihashi Kazumasa , Sueda Taijiro
Published: September 2012

The operation of cardiopulmonary bypass procedure requires an advanced skill in both physiological and mechanical knowledge. We developed a virtual patient simulator system using a numerical cardiovascular regulation model to manage perfusion crisis. This article evaluates the ability of the new simulator to prevent perfusion crisis. It combined short‐term baroreflex regulation of venous capacity, vascular resistance, heart rate, time‐varying elastance of the heart, and plasma‐refilling with a simple lumped parameter model of the cardiovascular system. The combination of parameters related to baroreflex regulation was calculated using clinical hemodynamic data. We examined the effect of differences in autonomous‐nerve control parameter settings on changes in blood volume and hemodynamic parameters and determined the influence of the model on operation of the control arterial line flow and blood volume during the initiation and weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass. Typical blood pressure (BP) changes (hypertension, stable, and hypotension) were reproducible using a combination of four control parameters that can be estimated from changes in patient physiology, BP, and blood volume. This simulation model is a useful educational tool to learn the recognition and management skills of extracorporeal circulation. Identification method for control parameter can be applied for diagnosis of heart failure.
Diagnosis of Tetralogy of Fallot and Its Variants in the Late First and Early Second Trimester: Details of Initial Assessment and Comparison with Later Fetal Diagnosis
Authors: Bhat Aarti H. , Kehl Devin W. , Tacy Theresa A. , Moon‐Grady Anita J. , Hornberger Lisa K.
Published: September 2012

Objective: We sought to evaluate the completeness of echocardiographic diagnosis of fetal tetralogy of Fallot (fTOF) at 12–17 weeks gestation, and compare assessment and clinical outcomes to diagnoses made at >17 weeks gestation. Methods: We identified all fTOF diagnoses made in our experience from 2003 to 2008. Referral indication, anatomic detail by echocardiography and pregnancy outcomes were compared between fetuses diagnosed at ≤17 weeks (Group I) and >17 weeks gestation (Group II). A 10‐point scoring tool was applied retrospectively to the echocardiograms at initial diagnosis (1 point each was ascribed to visualization of right ventricular outflow obstruction, pulmonary valve, pulmonary arteries including dimensions, pulmonary arterial flow, systemic and pulmonary venous anatomy, atrioventricular valves, ductus arteriosus, ductus flow, aortic arch morphology, sidedness and flow). Results: There were 10 pregnancies in Group I (12–17 weeks) and 25 in Group II (mean gestation at diagnosis 23.5 ± 5.7). The most common reason for referral was extracardiac pathology in Group I (80%) and suspected fetal heart disease on obstetric ultrasound in Group II (64%). Transabdominal imaging was adequate in about half of Group I studies. Mean anatomic diagnosis score in Group I was 6.1(range 2.5–9) and Group II was 8.4 (range 6.5–10). Elective pregnancy termination occurred in 80% in Group I and 33% in Group II. Conclusions: fTOF can be diagnosed in first and early second trimesters with detailed anatomic assessment possible in most. Referral indication and pregnancy outcome differ considerably between early and later prenatal diagnosis of fTOF.
Commissural Mitral Regurgitation Detected by Abnormal Blood Flow Pattern in the Left Atrial Appendage
Authors: Chen Jennifer , Kronzon Itzhak
Published: September 2012

An 86‐year‐old man with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis underwent an aortic valve replacement. A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) was performed during the surgery and demonstrated mild mitral regurgitation (MR). The patient's symptoms persisted despite surgery, and subsequent TEE demonstrated prolapse of the posteromedial commissural leaflet, with evidence of a severe, very eccentric MR jet which was directed laterally and superiorly. The jet was almost missed in most imaging planes and could finally be exposed by withdrawing the probe to the level of the aortic valve and left atrial appendage.
Untangling Social and Political Capital in Latin American Democracies
Authors: Booth John A. , Richard Patricia Bayer
Published: September 2012

Robert Putnam extolled the virtue of social capital by arguing that social networks, civil society, and trust contribute to democracy. Subsequent research, however, identified a weakness in the social capital “model” in its underspecification of the mechanisms by which social capital affects political systems. This article proposes the concept of political capital as a likely product of social capital that links civil society participants to the political system. The article tests this two-stage model of social capital and political capital and their effects on democratization using survey data from eight Latin American nations. Results find that civil society engagement in 2004 affected political capital variables, which, in turn, had positive effects on system-level democracy measures in 2010. The article thus shows that political capital serves as an intervening variable between social capital and democracy and democratization.
Coevolution of life history traits and morphology in female subterranean amphipods
Authors: Fišer Cene , Zagmajster Maja , Zakšek Valerija
Published: September 2012

Subterranean species show a distinct morphology, yet the adaptive significance of some traits, like body size and shape, is poorly understood and cannot be explained solely by distinct environmental conditions (darkness, less food). We predicted that in females some morphological changes may have co‐evolved with life history traits, and that co‐evolving life history traits provide at least part of the explanation for evolutionary changes of morphology. Using museum material we tested this prediction on the subterranean amphipod genus Niphargus. We studied six species found in springs and eight species found in cave lakes. We treated them as two ecologically distinct groups, and the major ecological differences between them were the availability of nutrients and the water currents. Cave species were found to be larger and stouter (as inferred from the shape of coxal plates, which are part of the marsupium), they had larger eggs and lower reproductive effort per brood, whereas the egg number and brood volume if corrected for the body size were not different. Using phylogenetic independent contrasts, we found a positive correlation between body shape and egg volume, a positive correlation between body size and egg volume, and a negative correlation between body size and reproductive effort per brood. We tentatively conclude that evolutions of morphology and life histories are functionally connected and that co‐evolving traits contribute to overall selective regime.
Respiratory syncytial virus infection and chronic respiratory morbidity – is there a functional or genetic predisposition?
Authors: Drysdale Simon B , Milner Anthony D , Greenough Anne
Published: September 2012

A systematic literature review has been undertaken. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) in infancy is associated with chronic respiratory morbidity. Premorbid abnormal lung function may predispose to RVS LRTI in prematurely born infants.

Conclusion:  Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in genes coding for IL‐8, IL‐19, IL‐20, IL‐13 mannose‐binding lectin, IFNG and a RANTES polymorphism have been associated with subsequent wheeze following RSV LRTI in term‐born infants.
Long‐term dietary supplementation of organic selenium modulates gene expression profiles in leukocytes of adult pigs
Authors: Song Ki‐Duk , Dowd Scott E. , Lee Hak‐Kyo , Kim Sung Woo
Published: September 2012

Seventy‐two pigs at 34.4 kg body weight (BW) were allotted to two treatments with six replicates/treatment and six pigs/pen: the CON (negative control, no added selenium (Se)) and the OS (0.36 mg/kg added selenium from selenium‐enriched yeast). Pigs were fed until 130 kg BW. The CON diet contained 0.18 mg/kg indigenous Se whereas the OS diet contained 0.54 mg/kg Se. Blood samples were collected at 130 kg BW and further processed for microarray analysis, prepared with 885 genes related to immune function of pigs. Among those, 28 genes related to improved immune status and innate immunity were up‐regulated (P < 0.05) in leukocytes from Se‐fed pigs and those include major histocompatibility class I (> 1.66), arginase I (> 1.27), integrin beta‐1‐subunit (> 1.20), toll like receptor 2 (> 1.12) and double‐stranded RNA‐dependent protein kinase. However, 24 genes including tissue factor (< 4.70), serum amyloid A‐2 protein (< 3.11) and p27Kip1 (< 1.42) were down‐regulated (P < 0.05) in leukocytes from Se‐fed pigs. Expression of four selected genes was validated using quantitative PCR (qPCR) showing significant correlation between mircroarray analysis and qPCR analysis. This study indicates that a long‐ term dietary supplementation (0.3%) of organic Se improves the expression of genes that are related to enhanced immunity of pigs.
A primer for clinical researchers in the emergency department: Part IV: Multicentre research
Authors: Oakley Ed , McD Taylor David , Coats Tim , Davidson Andrew , Fry Amanda , Babl Franz E
Published: September 2012

In this series we address key topics for clinicians who conduct research as part of their work in the ED. Multicentre research is conducted to enrol larger numbers of participants and improve the validity and generalisability of the findings. Little has been published outlining the practical mechanics of multicentre research in the ED. This article presents strategies for setting up, conducting and participating in multicentre studies in the Australian and international settings. We address the two major categories of multicentre research, collaborative group research based on a group of researchers from a moderate‐sized number of EDs and large‐scale investigator‐led research where a central group of investigators leads a large pool of research sites. Although we focus on clinical trials, the basic principles also apply to multicentre observational studies.
Pollen Morphology of the Platycodonoid Group (Campanulaceae s. str.) and Its Systematic ImplicationsF
Authors: De‐Yuan HONG , Kai‐Yu PAN
Published: September 2012

In this study, we examined the pollen morphology of the platycodonoid group in Campanulaceae s. str. using a scanning electronic microscope. We used pollen grains of 25 accessions representing 24 species of the Codonopsis complex (including Campanumoea, Cyclocodon, Leptocodon, and all three subgenera of Codonopsis), which is extremely controversial among authors for taxonomic treatment. Pollen morphology of all the other genera in the group observed by previous authors is taken into account in our discussion. A total of nine pollen types with two subtypes in the group were recognized and named for the first time. Molecular and morphological data imply that each pollen type corresponds to a natural group at generic level, and thus the mergence of Leptocodon with Codonopsis and the restoration of Cyclocodon as a separate genus are justifiable, and Codonopsis subg. Pseudocodonopsis, subg. Obconicicapsula, and two species of Codonopsis subg. Codonopsis (C. purpurea and C. chimiliensis) may be better classified as three independent genera separate from the core Codonopsis.
The relationship between lignin peroxidase and manganese peroxidase production capacities and cultivation periods of mushrooms
Authors: Xu Jian Z. , Zhang Jun L. , Hu Kai H. , Zhang Wei G.
Published: September 2012

Mushrooms are able to secrete lignin peroxidase (LiP) and manganese peroxidase (MnP), and able to use the cellulose as sources of carbon. This article focuses on the relation between peroxidase‐secreting capacity and cultivation period of mushrooms with non‐laccase activity. Methylene blue and methyl catechol qualitative assay and spectrophotometry quantitative assay show LiP secreting unvaryingly accompanies the MnP secreting in mushroom strains. The growth rates of hyphae are detected by detecting the dry hyphal mass. We link the peroxidase activities to growth rate of mushrooms and then probe into the relationship between them. The results show that there are close relationships between LiP‐ and/or MnP‐secretory capacities and the cultivation periods of mushrooms. The strains with high LiP and MnP activities have short cultivation periods. However, those strains have long cultivation periods because of the low levels of secreted LiP and/or MnP, even no detectable LiP and/or MnP activity. This study provides the first evidence on the imitate relation between the level of secreted LiP and MnP activities and cultivation periods of mushrooms with non‐laccase activity. Our study has significantly increased the understanding of the role of LiP and MnP in the growth and development of mushrooms with non‐laccase activity.
“Democratic policing”: Lessons from Ipperwash and Caledonia
Authors: Sancton Andrew
Published: September 2012

Recently, there has been much controversy and confusion about the concept of “police independence” in the United Kingdom and Canada. The concept loomed large during the Ipperwash Inquiry, in which the alleged political direction of the Ontario Provincial Police was a major issue. These proceedings were partly concurrent with another Aboriginal occupation in Caledonia, Ontario. The Inquiry's final report recommended adopting a “democratic policing” model, which is significantly different from the “police independence” model. This aspect of the report has, however, received little or no public attention. Instead, the Ontario government continues to support “police independence,” while simultaneously claiming to implement the recommendations of the Ipperwash Inquiry. How to respond to groups of people who pose real or potential threats to public order has been a major issue in Canada, requiring political decisions that are too important to be left solely to the police.
Policing disorder: Calgary Transit peace officers and the Alberta law enforcement framework
Authors: Whitelaw Brian , Smith Ron , Hansen Stephen
Published: September 2012

An analysis of current trends suggests that the delivery of policing services in Canada is fundamentally shifting. In 2011, the Province of Alberta established the Law Enforcement Framework, which includes Calgary Transit peace officers who are responsible for the safety and security needs of transit customers and employees. This article examines the role of Calgary Transit peace officers and makes recommendations for their incorporation into a broader model of nodal governance in order to ensure that the Calgary Police Service maintains a legitimate, coordinating role for the provision of public safety in the City of Calgary.
The people are the police: Building trust withAboriginal communities in contemporaryCanadian society
Authors: Chrismas Robert
Published: September 2012

Policing is an important element in the spectrum of services that impact living conditions, quality of life and social justice for Aboriginal communities. The ultimate policing goal should be to contribute to the realization of societies with safe living conditions and equal access to opportunities, health and happiness. InCanada,Aboriginal peoples were marginalized by colonization, becoming victims of social injustice whose significant effects on communities are felt to this day. This article explores how trust can be regained through improved communication, community engagement and empowerment. Trust building is critical for police and communities to move forward together. Truth telling, transparency and restorative justice may allow police agencies to align with the values ofAboriginal communities, support citizen empowerment, and better carry out the public will.
Galloping off in all directions: An analysis of the new federal–provincial agreement for RCMP contract police services and some implications for the future of Canadian policing
Authors: Lunney Robert F.
Published: September 2012

In 1874, the original 275‐officer contingent of North‐West Mounted Police left Manitoba for what is now Alberta, to bring law and order to a frontier suffering the depredations of American whiskey traders preying on Aboriginal people. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police, now 28,000 strong, has since become world renowned. It deals with organized crime, terrorism, illicit drugs, economic crimes and offences threatening the integrity of Canada's national borders. It also protects VIPs, supports other Canadian law enforcement agencies through its National Police Services, and carries out provincial and municipal policing under contract in eight provinces and three territories. This article reviews the history, outlines the benefits, and examines some of the implications of these policing contracts, using the 2012 Alberta agreement as the template.
Temporal stability of the mouse gut microbiota in relation to innate and adaptive immunity
Authors: Dimitriu Pedro A. , Boyce Guilaine , Samarakoon Asanga , Hartmann Martin , Johnson Pauline , Mohn William W.
Published: September 2012

Gut microbial community properties of mammals are thought to be partly shaped by a combination of host immunity and environmental factors, but their relative importance is not firmly established. To address this gap, we first characterized the faecal bacteria of mice with a functioning immune system (wild‐type, WT), mice with defective immune responses (CD45), mice lacking an adaptive immune system (RAG), and mice with both immune dysfunctions (45RAG). Using fingerprinting of 16S rRNA genes, we observed significant differences in gut microbiota composition across all mouse strains (P < 0.001) and identified several mouse strain‐specific genera via pyrosequencing, including Turicibacter sp. (in WT mice) and Allobaculum sp. (in CD45‐deficient animals). To define the role of the host immune system in constraining gut microbiota stability after perturbation, we cohoused CD45‐deficient and WT mice and monitored gut bacterial community dynamics during 8 weeks. Cohousing caused the WT bacterial communities to become indistinguishable from those of CD45 mice (P > 0.05). Time‐series analysis indicated that the communities of cohoused mice changed directionally as opposed to the relatively stable communities of non‐cohoused controls. When we considered only taxonomic membership, it was the communities of CD45 non‐cohoused mice that experienced the highest rate of change. Rather than be governed by fluctuations in the relative abundance of taxa, we suggest that CD45‐regulated immune responses either are stimulated by the presence of bacteria per se or promote temporal stability by selecting for the occurrence of specific taxa.
The Pseudomonas aeruginosa antimetabolite L‐2‐amino‐4‐methoxy‐trans‐3‐butenoic acid inhibits growth of Erwinia amylovora and acts as a seed germination‐arrest factor
Authors: Lee Xiaoyun , Azevedo Mark D. , Armstrong Donald J. , Banowetz Gary M. , Reimmann Cornelia
Published: September 2012

The Pseudomonas aeruginosa antimetabolite L‐2‐amino‐4‐methoxy‐trans‐3‐butenoic acid (AMB) shares biological activities with 4‐formylaminooxyvinylglycine, a related molecule produced by Pseudomonas fluorescens WH6. We found that culture filtrates of a P. aeruginosa strain overproducing AMB weakly interfered with seed germination of the grassy weed Poa annua and strongly inhibited growth of Erwinia amylovora, the causal agent of the devastating orchard crop disease known as fire blight. AMB was active against a 4‐formylaminooxyvinylglycine‐resistant isolate of E. amylovora, suggesting that the molecular targets of the two oxyvinylglycines in Erwinia do not, or not entirely, overlap. The AMB biosynthesis and transport genes were shown to be organized in two separate transcriptional units, ambA and ambBCDE, which were successfully expressed from IPTG‐inducible tac promoters in the heterologous host P. fluorescens CHA0. Engineered AMB production enabled this model biocontrol strain to become inhibitory against E. amylovora and to weakly interfere with the germination of several graminaceous seeds. We conclude that AMB production requires no additional genes besides ambABCDE and we speculate that their expression in marketed fire blight biocontrol strains could potentially contribute to disease control.
Periodontal health of dental clients in a community health setting
Authors: Darby I , Phan L , Post M
Published: September 2012

Background:  The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and severity of periodontal disease and possible risk factors in clients attending the Plenty Valley Community Health (PVCH) dental clinic.

Methods:  After ethics approval and calibration of examiners, all consenting patients attending PVCH were examined for periodontal status using the Community Periodontal Index (CPI) system and a World Health Organization (WHO) probe.

Results:  A total of 2861 patients were screened, of which 1751 were female. The majority of patients were Australian born followed by Mediterranean birth. Just under 50% brushed their teeth twice a day and only 20% flossed regularly. It was found that 28.4% had CPI scores of 3 and 4 with only 3.1% recording 0 and a widespread presence of calculus. The severity of periodontal status increased with age, male gender, decreased frequency of brushing, lower level of education, diabetes and reflected country of birth.

Conclusions:  PVCH has a higher prevalence of periodontal disease than the most recent national survey which reflects the population studied.
Influence of ultrasonic excitation and heat application on the microleakage of glass ionomer cements
Authors: Gorseta K , Glavina D , Skrinjaric I
Published: September 2012

Background:  The aim of this study was to assess the influence of externally applied ‘command set’ methods on the microleakage of several glass ionomer cements (GICs).

Methods:  Four different restorative GICs were cured using three different methods: standard curing (SC), ultrasonic excitation (UC) and by an external heat source (HC). Different conditioning agents (10% polyacrylic and 10% citric acid) were used. The sample comprised 180 teeth with 360 Class V restorations placed on the lingual and vestibular tooth surface. After thermocycling, the teeth were immersed in a dye solution for 24 hours, embedded in acrylic resin, sectioned and evaluated. Oberholtzer criteria were used for margin evaluation. Data were analysed using three‐way ANOVA.

Results:  The heat cured GIC showed statistically significant better marginal adaptation compared to the other tested groups (SC, UC) (p < 0.001). GICs in groups with HC and conditioned cavities had lower microleakage scores. The highly viscous material Fuji IX GP Fast in the HC and conditioned cavities group demonstrated the best marginal adaptation. The other three products reacted similarly to heating treatment. Leakage at the enamel margins was significantly lower than the cementum/dentine margins (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:  Heating the GIC during setting decreased microleakage, improved marginal adaptation of the GIC restoration and is suitable for clinical practice.
High resolution mapping of reticulated water fluoride in Western Australia: opportunities to improve oral health
Authors: Al‐Bloushi NS , Trolio R , Kruger E , Tennant M
Published: September 2012

Background:  Drinking water with an optimum fluoride concentration is a recognized effective method to reduce dental decay.

Methods:  In this study normal suppliers of drinking water in Western Australia provided map data regarding the distribution of their supplies and the locations of their test points. These data were collated into a single unified map of Western Australian water supplies and fluoride levels. It is clear that the effect of prevention in regionally isolated communities is significant as the cost of providing service is anywhere between 2 and 4 times higher than that in high density regions.

Results:  The current study found that although a very significant proportion of the population has access to water with fluoride concentrations that would be caries protective, most of these are large urban centre based.

Conclusions:  Those with high burdens of dental disease are mostly residential in rural and remote areas where water is either not fluoridated, nor regulated, or low in fluoride. However, it is acknowledged that water fluoridation, for many reasons, is not always feasible in rural and remote communities, and preventive efforts through alternative sources of fluoride (e.g. toothpaste) should be considered, even if less effective at community level.
Management of severe odontogenic infections in pregnancy
Authors: Wong D , Cheng A , Kunchur R , Lam S , Sambrook PJ , Goss AN
Published: September 2012

Background:  The objective of this study was to review the management of patients presenting with severe odontogenic infections and who are also pregnant.

Methods:  A retrospective clinical audit was conducted of all female patients admitted to the Royal Adelaide Hospital by the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Unit from 1999 to 2009 with severe odontogenic infections. Pregnant patients were identified and their age, medical history, previous obstetric and gynaecological history, stage of current pregnancy, presenting infection, diagnosis and management were recorded, as well as the outcome of the pregnancy.

Results:  A total of 346 female patients were admitted to the Royal Adelaide Hospital under the care of the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Unit with an admission diagnosis of severe odontogenic infection and five were pregnant. Besides surgical and anaesthetic assessment, mother and foetus were assessed by the Obstetric and Gynaecology Unit. In all, five with severe infection were successfully resolved and four proceeded to a normal delivery with a healthy child. The remaining patient had an already planned therapeutic abortion.

Conclusions:  Pregnant patients with severe odontogenic infections require urgent referral to a tertiary hospital with full surgical, anaesthetic and obstetric services. This allows appropriate management of the complex requirements of mother and foetus.
Clinical investigation of G‐Bond resin‐based adhesive to non‐carious cervical lesions over five years
Authors: Burrow MF , Tyas MJ
Published: September 2012

Background:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical performance of G‐Bond all‐in‐one adhesive with Gradia Direct resin composite placed in non‐carious cervical lesions (NCCLs) over a five‐year period.

Methods:  Forty‐seven restorations were placed in NCCLs in 10 subjects (age 45–75 years) after written informed consent was obtained. Institutional ethical approval for the trial was obtained before recruitment. Restorations were placed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and using 50% phosphoric acid to etch uncut enamel margins. Patients were recalled annually for five years and restorations reviewed for presence and marginal staining. Photographic records were obtained prior to restoration, immediately after placement and at each recall.

Results:  At five years, 6 of the original 10 subjects were available for recall, meaning 27 restoration sites could be evaluated. All restorations remained intact apart for one partial failure at four years. This resulted in a cumulative retention rate of 97.5% of restorations at five years. Marginal staining occurred around seven restorations during the study. Staining tended to be isolated to a few patients.

Conclusions:  It was concluded that G‐Bond with Gradia Direct resin composite showed excellent results over the five years of the study. This material combination seems very suitable for the restoration of NCCLs.
Gingival crevicular fluid levels of matrix metalloproteinases cross‐sectionally related to periodontitis and metabolic syndrome in community Koreans
Authors: Han Dong‐Hun , Shin Hye‐Sun , Paek Domyung , Kim Hyun‐Duck
Published: September 2012

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) may be associated with periodontitis. This study aimed to investigate whether the existence of periodontitis and MetS is cross‐sectionally associated with matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) among community Koreans.

Materials and Methods

Medical and periodontal parameters were evaluated by physicians and dentists in 314 subjects (199 healthy, 58 only periodontitis, 34 only MetS and 23 both). The community periodontal index was used to assess periodontitis. MMP‐8, 9, 13 were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Age, gender, monthly household income, smoking and drinking were interviewed as confounders. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was applied. Gender‐stratified analyses were applied.

Results

After controlling for various confounders, MMP‐8, MMP‐9 and MMP‐13 in GCF were significantly associated with periodontitis in both genders and MMP‐9, MMP‐13 were associated with MetS in women. MMP‐8, MMP‐9 and MMP‐13 showed association with periodontitis–MetS coexistence non‐synergistically in both genders. MMP‐9 was synergistically associated with periodontitis–MetS coexistence in women.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that MMP‐8, MMP‐9, MMP‐13 in GCF were independently related to coexistence of periodontitis and MetS. MMP‐9 and MMP‐13 could be an appropriate common indicator of periodontitis and MetS in women. Further studies might guarantee that MMPs in GCF could screen periodontitis and MetS.
The incidence of peri‐implantitis for two different implant systems over a period of thirteen years
Authors: Renvert Stefan , Lindahl Christel , Rutger Persson G.
Published: September 2012

Objectives

To study the incidence of peri‐implantitis over 13 years between two types of dental implants.

Materials and methods

Peri‐implantitis incidence was defined as bone loss ≥ 1.0 mm after 1 year, and with BOP or suppuration.

Results

Nineteen subjects with TioBlast AstraTech™ (AT) and 22 subjects with machine‐etched Brånemark Nobel Biocare® (NB) implants were studied. The incidences of peri‐implantitis between years 1 and 7 and between years 7 and 13 were 26.2% and 7.1% for AT implants, and 30.4% and 11.5% for NB implants (NS). A history of periodontitis was a risk for future incidence of peri‐implantitis (Likelihood ratio: 4.1, 95% CI: 2.0, 8.4, p < 0.001). Subjects with a history of systemic disease had a higher incidence of peri‐implantitis (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

No difference in the incidence of peri‐implantitis over a period of 13 years as an effect implant surface and design was found. Bone loss during the first 7 years after implant installation was greater than thereafter. Microbiological information at year 7 did not predict incidence of peri‐implantitis at year 13. Subjects with a previous history of periodontitis and with systemic disease were at higher risk for future incidence of peri‐implantitis.
A comparison of periodontal status in the two regional, population‐based studies of SHIP and INVEST
Authors: Holtfreter Birte , Demmer Ryan T. , Bernhardt Olaf , Papapanou Panos N. , Schwahn Christian , Kocher Thomas , Desvarieux Moise
Published: September 2012

Objectives

To compare the prevalence of periodontal disease between two randomly selected population‐based studies (the Oral Infections and Vascular Disease Epidemiology Study (INVEST) and the Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP)) and address relevant methodological issues.

Methods

Comparison was restricted to 55‐ to 81‐year olds. Attachment loss (AL), probing depth (PD) and tooth count were assessed in INVEST (full‐mouth, six sites) and SHIP (half‐mouth, four sites). Subjects were classified according to the CDC/AAP case definition. Recording protocols were standardized. Mixed linear or logistic models were used to compare INVEST with SHIP.

Results

Mean half‐mouth AL was lower in INVEST versus SHIP (INVEST: 2.9 mm versus SHIP: 4.0 mm, p < 0.05). Findings were similar across multiple periodontal disease definitions. After equalization of recording protocols and adjustment for periodontal risk factors, mean AL and PD were 1.2 and 0.3 mm lower in INVEST versus SHIP (p < 0.001). The odds for severe periodontitis (CDC/AAP) was 0.2‐fold in INVEST versus SHIP (p < 0.001). Confounding effects of age, gender, race/ethnicity, education and use of interdental care devices were highest as indicated by change‐in‐estimate for study.

Conclusion

Implementation of the proposed method for comparison of epidemiological studies revealed that periodontitis was less prevalent in INVEST compared with SHIP, even after extensive risk‐factor adjustment.
Neuroprotective effect of melatonin against hypoxia‐induced retinal ganglion cell death in neonatal rats
Authors: Kaur Charanjit , Sivakumar Viswanathan , Robinson Remya , Foulds Wallace S. , Luu Chi D. , Ling Eng‐Ang
Published: September 2012

The purpose of this study was to determine whether melatonin treatment would mitigate retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death in the developing retina following a hypoxic insult. Lipid peroxidation (LPO), glutathione (GSH), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) concentrations, expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptors, Flt‐1 and Flk‐1, release of cytochrome c from mitochondria, and caspase‐3 expression were examined in the retinas of 1‐day‐old rats at 3 hr to 14 days after a hypoxic exposure. The mRNA and protein expression of Flt‐1 and Flk‐1 and the tissue concentration of LPO, TNF‐α, and IL‐1β were upregulated significantly after the hypoxic exposure, whereas the content of GSH was decreased significantly. RGC cultures also showed increased LPO and decreased GSH levels after hypoxic exposure but these effects were reversed in cells treated with melatonin. TNF‐α and IL‐1β expression was specifically located on microglial cells, whereas Flt‐1 and Flk‐1 was limited to RGCs as confirmed by double immunofluorescence labeling. Cultures of hypoxic microglial cells treated with melatonin showed a significant reduction in the release of these cytokines as compared to untreated hypoxic cells. Hypoxia induced increase in the cytosolic cytochrome c and caspase‐3 in RGCs was attenuated with melatonin treatment. The results suggest that, in hypoxic injuries, melatonin is neuroprotective to RGCs in the developing retina through its antioxidative, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐apoptotic effects. Melatonin suppressed Flt‐1 and Flk‐1 expression in retinal blood vessels, which may result in reduced retinal vascular permeability and it also preserved mitochondrial function as shown by a reduction in cytochrome c leakage into the cytosol. The results may have therapeutic implications for the management of retinopathy of prematurity.
Work engagement supports nurse workforce stability and quality of care: nursing team‐level analysis in psychiatric hospitals
Authors: Van Bogaert P. , Wouters K. , Willems R. , Mondelaers M. , Clarke S.
Published: September 2012

Accessible summary

Burnout and work engagement are two sides of one coin, two opposite poles related not only to how workers personally experience their jobs but also to how they experience their jobs within the context of work teams/groups.

Engaged workers have a lot of energy, are very enthusiastic about their jobs and are absorbed by their work.

Nurses’ job performance in hospitals, including psychiatric hospitals, is dependent upon their relationships with physicians and other healthcare workers and their superiors, how they are involved in the decisions about their work and whether or not they are provided with the right resources and adequate support.

When nursing teams are able to perform well, nurses tend to be more engaged and satisfied with their jobs and are more willing to stay in their positions.

Engaged nursing teams report better quality of patient care in psychiatric hospitals.

Research in healthcare settings reveals important links between work environment factors, burnout and organizational outcomes. Recently, research focuses on work engagement, the opposite (positive) pole from burnout. The current study investigated the relationship of nurse practice environment aspects and work engagement (vigour, dedication and absorption) to job outcomes and nurse‐reported quality of care variables within teams using a multilevel design in psychiatric inpatient settings. Validated survey instruments were used in a cross‐sectional design. Team‐level analyses were performed with staff members (n = 357) from 32 clinical units in two psychiatric hospitals in Belgium. Favourable nurse practice environment aspects were associated with work engagement dimensions, and in turn work engagement was associated with job satisfaction, intention to stay in the profession and favourable nurse‐reported quality of care variables. The strongest multivariate models suggested that dedication predicted positive job outcomes whereas nurse management predicted perceptions of quality of care. In addition, reports of quality of care by the interdisciplinary team were predicted by dedication, absorption, nurse–physician relations and nurse management. The study findings suggest that differences in vigour, dedication and absorption across teams associated with practice environment characteristics impact nurse job satisfaction, intention to stay and perceptions of quality of care.
How does gender influence immigrant and refugee women's postpartum depression help‐seeking experiences?
Authors: O'Mahony J. M. , Donnelly T. T.
Published: September 2012

Accessible summary

Evidence shows immigrant and refugee women experience difficulties in accessing care and treatment for postpartum depression.

Thirty in‐depth interviews were carried out to obtain information about the immigrant and refugee women's postpartum depression experiences.

Main purpose was to explore how broader background factors influence the ways in which these women seek help to manage postpartum depression.

Results show immigrant and refugee women experience many complex gender‐related problems. Poverty, immigration status, discrimination, and poor spousal relationships and support can all directly affect a woman's access to healthcare services. Emotional and economic dependence may leave women vulnerable in protecting themselves against postpartum depression.

Additional research is needed to further our understanding about immigrant and refugee women's postpartum health, their social support needs, the barriers they experience and their treatment preferences.

The number of migrants arriving inCanada from non‐European countries has grown significantly over the past three decades. How best to assist these escalating numbers of immigrant and refugee women to adapt to their new environment and to cope with postpartum depression (PPD) is a pressing issue for healthcare providers. Evidence has shown that immigrant and refugee women experience difficulties in accessing care and treatment forPPD. This qualitative study was conducted with 30 immigrant and refugee women using in‐depth interviews to obtain information about the women'sPPDexperiences. The primary aim was to explore how cultural, social, political, historical and economic factors intersect with race, gender and class to influence the ways in which immigrant and refugee women seek help to managePPD. Results reveal that immigrant and refugee women experience many complex gender‐related challenges and facilitators in seeking equitable help forPPDtreatment and prevention. We will demonstrate that (a) structural barriers and gender roles hinder women's ability to access necessary mental healthcare services and (b) insecure immigration status coupled with emotional and economic dependence may leave women vulnerable and disadvantaged in protecting themselves againstPPD.
Shear‐Dependent Adhesion of Leukocytes and Lectins to the Endothelium and Concurrent Changes in Thickness of the Glycocalyx of Post‐Capillary Venules in the Low‐Flow State
Authors: Lipowsky Herbert H. , Lescanic Anne
Published: September 2012

Objective

To elucidate shear‐dependent effects of deformation of the endothelial glycocalyx on adhesion of circulating ligands in post‐capillary venules, and delineate effect of MMPs.

Methods

Adhesion of WBCs and lectin‐coated FLMs (0.1 μm diameter) to EC of post‐capillary venules in mesentery was examined during acute reductions in shear rates ( hemorrhagic hypotension). Adhesion was examined with or without superfusion with 0.5 μm doxycycline to inhibit MMPs. Thickness of the glycocalyx was measured by exclusion of fluorescent 70 kDa dextran from the EC surface.

Results

During superfusion with Ringers, rapid reductions in resulted in a significant rise in WBC adhesion and a twofold rise in microsphere adhesion. With addition of doxycycline WBC and FLM adhesion increased twofold under high‐ and low‐flow conditions. FLM adhesion was invariant with throughout the network in the normal (high)‐flow state. With reductions in thickness of the glycocalyx increased significantly, with or without doxycycline.

Conclusions

The concurrent increase in WBC and FLM adhesion with increased thickness of the glycocalyx during reductions in shear suggests that glycocalyx core proteins recoil from their deformed steady‐state configuration, which increases exposure of binding sites for circulating ligands.
Air Pollution Particulate Matter Collected from an Appalachian Mountaintop Mining Site Induces Microvascular Dysfunction
Authors: Knuckles Travis L. , Stapleton Phoebe A. , Minarchick Valerie C. , Esch Laura , McCawley Michael , Hendryx Michael , Nurkiewicz Timothy R.
Published: September 2012

Objective

Air pollution PM is associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. In Appalachia, PM from mining may represent a health burden to this sensitive population that leads the nation in cardiovascular disease, among others. Cardiovascular consequences following inhalation of PMMTM are unclear, but must be identified to establish causal effects.

Methods

PM was collected within 1 mile of an active MTM site in southern WV. The PM was extracted and was primarily <10 μm in diameter (PM10), consisting largely of sulfur (38%) and silica (24%). Adult male rats were IT with 300 μg PMMTM. Twenty‐four hours following exposure, rats were prepared for intravital microscopy, or isolated arteriole experiments.

Results

PMMTM exposure blunted endothelium‐dependent dilation in mesenteric and coronary arterioles by 26%, and 25%, respectively, as well as endothelium‐independent dilation. In vivo, PMMTM exposure inhibited endothelium‐dependent arteriolar dilation (60% reduction). α‐adrenergic receptor blockade inhibited PVNS‐induced vasoconstriction in exposed animals compared with sham.

Conclusions

These data suggest that PMMTM exposure impairs microvascular function in disparate microvascular beds, through alterations in NO‐mediated dilation and sympathetic nerve influences. Microvascular dysfunction may contribute to cardiovascular disease in regions with MTM sites.