bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of Silane Heat Treatment by Laser on the Bond Strength of a Repair Composite to Feldspathic Porcelain
Authors: Hakimaneh Seyed Mohammad Reza , Shayegh Sayed Shojaedin , Ghavami‐Lahiji Mehrsima , Chokr Ahmad , Moraditalab Azizollah 
Published: January 2018

AbstractPurposeCeramic restoration fracture may occur in the oral cavity. Intraoral repair of fractured porcelain could be advantageous to both patient and dentist. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of heat treatment of the silane coupling agent by Er:YAG and CO2 lasers on the microshear bond strength of a repair composite to feldspathic porcelain.Materials and MethodsSixty ceramic blocks were prepared and randomly divided into six groups (n = 10): (i) HF + silane (HS); (ii) silane + CO2 laser (SC); (iii) CO2 laser + silane (CS); (iv) silane + Er:YAG laser (SE); (v) Er:YAG laser + silane (ES); (vi) bur + HF + silane (BuHS). An adhesive resin was applied to the prepared ceramic surfaces and light‐cured. Two transparent plastic tubes were placed perpendicularly to each ceramic block. The composite resin was then placed on the treated ceramic surface and light‐cured for 40 seconds. The bonded blocks were stored in distilled water at 37°C for 24 hours and subjected to 3000 thermocycles. Microshear bond strength (μSBS) tests were performed using a wire and loop method. Data were analyzed using one‐way ANOVA and Duncan's multiple range tests (p ≤ 0.05).ResultsThe comparison of the mean μSBS values showed no significant differences between the ES and HS groups (p = 0.914). On the other hand, the specimens in these groups exhibited significantly higher bond strengths than those in the other groups (p < 0.01). The mean μSBS of the BuHS group was statistically similar to that of CS and SE groups (p > 0.05). The μSBS for the SC group was significantly lower than that of the other groups (p < 0.01), with the exception of the CS group (p = 0.674).ConclusionsTreatment with Er:YAG laser prior to silane application can be as effective as HF etching. Heat treatment of silane by CO2 or Er:YAG lasers does not improve the bond strength between feldspathic porcelain and composite resin.
CB1 cannabinoid receptor ligands augment the antidepressant-like activity of biometals (magnesium and zinc) in the behavioural tests
Authors: Wośko Sylwia , Serefko Anna , Szopa Aleksandra , Wlaź Piotr , Wróbel Andrzej , Wlaź Aleksandra , Górska Jolanta , Poleszak Ewa 
Published: January 2018

Abstract

Objective
During the last few decades, endocannabinoid system has emerged as a novel possible target for antidepressant treatment. Although the medical literature provides information on the mood-changing effects of CB1 ligands, little is known about the possible interaction between the simultaneous activation or inhibition of the CB1 receptor and administration of other agents that possess antidepressant potential. The main goal of our study was to evaluate the influence of the CB1 cannabinoid receptor ligands (oleamide – an endogenous agonist and AM251 – an inverse agonist/antagonist) on the antidepressant-like activity of biometals (i.e. magnesium and zinc).

Methods
The forced swim test and the tail suspension test in mice were used to determine the antidepressant-like activity.

Key findings
Concomitant intraperitoneal administration of per se inactive doses of oleamide (5 mg/kg) or AM251 (0.25 mg/kg) and the tested biometals (i.e. magnesium, 10 mg/kg or zinc, 5 mg/kg) shortened the immobility time of animals in the forced swim test and the tail suspension test. The observed effect was not associated with an increase in spontaneous locomotor activity of mice.

Conclusions
The simultaneous modulation of the cannabinoid system and supplementation of magnesium or zinc produce at least additive antidepressant-like effect.
Cascading and Multisensory Influences on Speech Perception Development
Authors: Choi Dawoon , Black Alexis K. , Werker Janet F. 
Published: January 2018

ABSTRACTOver the first weeks and months following birth, infants' initial, broad‐based perceptual sensitivities become honed to the characteristics of their native language. In this article, we review this process of emerging specialization within the context of a cascading “critical period” (CP) framework, in which periods of maximal openness to experience of different aspects of language occur at sequential, overlapping points in development. Importantly, as infants' experience of speech is not limited to auditory signals, but is informed by—for example—their experience of talking faces and their own oral motor movements, we review the trajectory of perceptual specialization in multisensory language processing. Throughout, we highlight the impact of increasing perceptual specialization on later language outcomes (e.g., word learning, foundations of syntax, literacy), and consider how the outcomes can be compromised if/when the timing of perceptual specialization has been perturbed.
Asia's rebalancing and growth
Authors: Kim Soyoung , Lee Jong‐Wha , McKibbin Warwick J. 
Published: January 2018

AbstractThe paper investigates the impact of Asia's demand rebalancing and supply‐side productivity changes on long‐term economic growth in Asia and worldwide. Results from a panel vector autoregression model show that a productivity–neutral demand‐rebalancing shock has no permanent effect on Asian output, whereas labour productivity shocks have significant, positive and permanent effects. Simulations using a global intertemporal multisector general equilibrium model suggest that labour productivity shocks increase the foreign GDP over time, but rebalancing shocks have a negative international spillover effect. In addition, labour productivity shocks help in rebalancing. Structural reforms promoting labour productivity growth along with rebalancing policies across Asia can achieve higher economic growth worldwide.
Ocular anatomy of the black pacu (Colossoma macropomum): gross, histologic, and diagnostic imaging
Authors: Gustavsen Kate A. , Paul‐Murphy Joanne R. , Weber Ernest Scott , Zwingenberger Allison L. , Dunker Freeland H. , Dubielzig Richard R. , Reilly Christopher M. , Murphy Christopher J. 
Published: January 2018

AbstractObjectiveTo describe the ocular anatomy of the black pacu (Colossoma macropomum), a freshwater teleost fish of the Amazon River basin, including an unusual choroid laden with adipose tissue.ProceduresThree adult black pacu were anesthetized and examined clinically and with ocular ultrasonography, then euthanized. Three fish were euthanized and their heads imaged immediately postmortem using computed tomography. One fish was euthanized and its exenterated eyes imaged by high‐resolution magnetic resonance imaging. The exenterated eyes of all seven fish were fixed in formalin; eyes from three fish were examined grossly and histologically. Additionally, archived histologic sections from two smaller black pacu specimens were examined.ResultsFindings were consistent among the ocular imaging modalities used. Intrinsic to the sclera were circumferential ossicles and scleral cartilage. The lens was spherical and protruded through the ovoid pupil with an aphakic space inferiorly when the accommodative mechanism was relaxed under anesthesia. Both a small falciform process and epiretinal vasculature were present in the posterior segment. The retina was cone‐rich, and processes of the retinal pigment epithelium enveloped the photoreceptor outer segments. Remarkably, the choroid occupied one‐third of the anteroposterior length of the globe; histology confirmed that the bulk of the choroid was composed of adipose tissue.ConclusionsThe eye of the pacu overall is typical of teleosts but has the notable and consistent finding of a substantive store of choroidal fat of unknown function.
An Update on Host-Pathogen Interplay and Modulation of Immune Responses during Orientia tsutsugamushi Infection
Authors: Díaz Fabián E. , Abarca Katia , Kalergis Alexis M. 
Published: January 2018

SUMMARYThe obligate intracellular bacteriumOrientia tsutsugamushiis the causative agent of scrub typhus in humans, a serious mite-borne disease present in a widespread area of endemicity, which affects an estimated 1 million people every year. This disease may exhibit a broad range of presentations, ranging from asymptomatic to fatal conditions, with the latter being due to disseminated endothelial infection and organ injury. Unique characteristics of the biology and host-pathogen interactions ofO. tsutsugamushi, including the high antigenic diversity among strains and the highly variable, short-lived memory responses developed by the host, underlie difficulties faced in the pursuit of an effective vaccine, which is an imperative need. Other factors that have hindered scientific progress relative to the infectious mechanisms of and the immune response triggered by this bacterium in vertebrate hosts include the limited number of mechanistic studies performed on animal models and the lack of genetic tools currently available for this pathogen. However, recent advances in animal model development are promising to improve our understanding of host-pathogen interactions. Here, we comprehensively discuss the recent advances in and future perspectives on host-pathogen interactions and the modulation of immune responses related to this reemerging disease, highlighting the role of animal models.
Streptococcus pneumoniae PspC Subgroup Prevalence in Invasive Disease and Differences in Contribution to Complement Evasion
Authors: van der Maten Erika , van den Broek Bryan , de Jonge Marien I. , Rensen Kim J. W. , Eleveld Marc J. , Zomer Aldert L. , Cremers Amelieke J. H. , Ferwerda Gerben , de Groot Ronald , Langereis Jeroen D. , van der Flier Michiel 
Published: January 2018

ABSTRACT

The pneumococcal capsular serotype is an important determinant of complement resistance and invasive disease potential, but other virulence factors have also been found to contribute. Pneumococcal surface protein C (PspC), a highly variable virulence protein that binds complement factor H to evade C3 opsonization, is divided into two subgroups: choline-bound subgroup I and LPxTG-anchored subgroup II. The prevalence of different PspC subgroups in invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) and functional differences in complement evasion are unknown. The prevalence of PspC subgroups in IPD isolates was determined in a collection of 349 sequenced strains of
Streptococcus pneumoniae
isolated from adult patients.
pspC
deletion mutants and isogenic
pspC
switch mutants were constructed to study differences in factor H binding and complement evasion in relation to capsule thickness. Subgroup I
pspC
was far more prevalent in IPD isolates than subgroup II
pspC
. The presence of capsule was associated with a greater ability of bound factor H to reduce complement opsonization. Pneumococcal subgroup I PspC bound significantly more factor H and showed more effective complement evasion than subgroup II PspC in isogenic encapsulated pneumococci. We conclude that variation in the PspC subgroups, independent of capsule serotypes, affects pneumococcal factor H binding and its ability to evade complement deposition.
‘Rowing against the current’: the policy process and effects of removing user fees for caesarean sections in Benin
Authors: Dossou Jean-Paul , Cresswell Jenny A , Makoutodé Patrick , De Brouwere Vincent , Witter Sophie , Filippi Veronique , Kanhonou Lydie G , Goufodji Sourou B , Lange Isabelle L , Lawin Lionel , Affo Fabien , Marchal Bruno 
Published: January 2018

BackgroundIn 2009, the Benin government introduced a user fee exemption policy for caesarean sections. We analyse this policy with regard to how the existing ideas and institutions related to user fees influenced key steps of the policy cycle and draw lessons that could inform the policy dialogue for universal health coverage in the West African region.MethodsFollowing the policy stages model, we analyse the agenda setting, policy formulation and legitimation phase, and assess the implementation fidelity and policy results. We adopted an embedded case study design, using quantitative and qualitative data collected with 13 tools at the national level and in seven hospitals implementing the policy.ResultsWe found that the initial political goal of the policy was not to reduce maternal mortality but to eliminate the detention in hospitals of mothers and newborns who cannot pay the user fees by exempting a comprehensive package of maternal health services. We found that the policy development process suffered from inadequate uptake of evidence and that the policy content and process were not completely in harmony with political and public health goals. The initial policy intention clashed with the neoliberal orientation of the political system, the fee recovery principles institutionalised since the Bamako Initiative and the prevailing ideas in favour of user fees. The policymakers did not take these entrenched factors into account. The resulting tension contributed to a benefit package covering only caesarean sections and to the variable implementation and effectiveness of the policy.ConclusionThe influence of organisational culture in the decision-making processes in the health sector is often ignored but must be considered in the design and implementation of any policy aimed at achieving universal health coverage in West African countries.
Estimated costs of production and potential prices for the WHO Essential Medicines List
Authors: Hill Andrew M , Barber Melissa J , Gotham Dzintars 
Published: January 2018

IntroductionThere are persistent gaps in access to affordable medicines. The WHO Model List of Essential Medicines (EML) includes medicines considered necessary for functional health systems.MethodsA generic price estimation formula was developed by reviewing published analyses of cost of production for medicines and assuming manufacture in India, which included costs of formulation, packaging, taxation and a 10% profit margin. Data on per-kilogram prices of active pharmaceutical ingredient exported from India were retrieved from an online database. Estimated prices were compared with the lowest globally available prices for HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis (TB) and malaria medicines, and current prices in the UK, South Africa and India.ResultsThe estimation formula had good predictive accuracy for HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria medicines. Estimated generic prices ranged from US$0.01 to US$1.45 per unit, with most in the lower end of this range. Lowest available prices were greater than estimated generic prices for 214/277 (77%) comparable items in the UK, 142/212 (67%) in South Africa and 118/298 (40%) in India. Lowest available prices were more than three times above estimated generic price for 47% of cases compared in the UK and 22% in South Africa.ConclusionA wide range of medicines in the EML can be profitably manufactured at very low cost. Most EML medicines are sold in the UK and South Africa at prices significantly higher than those estimated from production costs. Generic price estimation and international price comparisons could empower government price negotiations and support cost-effectiveness calculations.
Predictive ability of a comprehensive incremental test in mountain bike marathon
Authors: Ahrend Marc-Daniel , Schneeweiss Patrick , Martus Peter , Niess Andreas M , Krauss Inga 
Published: January 2018

ObjectivesTraditional performance tests in mountain bike marathon (XCM) primarily quantify aerobic metabolism and may not describe the relevant capacities in XCM. We aimed to validate a comprehensive test protocol quantifying its intermittent demands.MethodsForty-nine athletes (38.8±9.1 years; 38 male; 11 female) performed a laboratory performance test, including an incremental test, to determine individual anaerobic threshold (IAT), peak power output (PPO) and three maximal efforts (10 s all-out sprint, 1 min maximal effort and 5 min maximal effort). Within 2 weeks, the athletes participated in one of three XCM races (n=15, n=9 and n=25). Correlations between test variables and race times were calculated separately. In addition, multiple regression models of the predictive value of laboratory outcomes were calculated for race 3 and across all races (z-transformed data).ResultsAll variables were correlated with race times 1, 2 and 3: 10 s all-out sprint (r=−0.72; r=−0.59; r=−0.61), 1 min maximal effort (r=−0.85; r=−0.84; r=−0.82), 5 min maximal effort (r=−0.57; r=−0.85; r=−0.76), PPO (r=−0.77; r=−0.73; r=−0.76) and IAT (r=−0.71; r=−0.67; r=−0.68). The best-fitting multiple regression models for race 3 (r2=0.868) and across all races (r2=0.757) comprised 1 min maximal effort, IAT and body weight.ConclusionAerobic and intermittent variables correlated least strongly with race times. Their use in a multiple regression model confirmed additional explanatory power to predict XCM performance. These findings underline the usefulness of the comprehensive incremental test to predict performance in that sport more precisely.
Does ovulation affect performance in tennis players?
Authors: Otaka Machiko , Chen Shu-Man , Zhu Yong , Tsai Yung-Shen , Tseng Ching-Yu , Fogt Donovan L , Lim Boon-Hooi , Huang Chih-Yang , Kuo Chia-Hua 
Published: January 2018

BackgroundScientific data on the performance of collegiate female tennis players during the menstrual phases are scarce.Trial designDouble-blind, counter-balanced, crossover trials were conducted to examine whether tennis performance was affected during menstruation, with and without dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) supplementation.MethodsTen Division 1 collegiate tennis players (aged 18–22 years) were evenly assigned into placebo-supplemented and DHEA-supplemented (25 mg/day) trials. Treatments were exchanged among the participants after a 28-day washout. Tennis serve performance was assessed on the first day of menstrual bleeding (day 0/28) and on days 7, 14 and 21.ResultsMood state was unaltered during the menstrual cycles in both trials. The lowest tennis serve performance score (speed times accuracy) occurred on day 14 (P=0.06 vs day 0; P=0.01 vs day 21) in both placebo and DHEA trials. Decreased performance on day 14 was explained by decreased accuracy (P=0.03 vs day 0/28; P=0.01 vs day 21), but not velocity itself. Isometric hip strength, but not quadriceps strength, was moderately lower on day 14 (P=0.08). Increasing plasma DHEA-S (by ~65%) during the DHEA-supplemented trial had no effects on mood state, sleep quality or tennis serve performance.ConclusionWe have shown that menses does not affect serve performance of collegiate tennis players. However, the observed decrement in the accuracy of serve speed near ovulation warrants further investigation.
‘Recover quicker, train harder, and increase flexibility’: massage therapy for elite paracyclists, a mixed-methods study
Authors: Kennedy Ann Blair , Patil Nirav , Trilk Jennifer L. 
Published: January 2018

ObjectivesMassage therapy (MT) enhances recovery by reducing pain and fatigue in able-bodied endurance athletes. In athletes with disabilities, no studies have examined similar MT outcomes, yet participation in sport has increased by >1000 athletes from 1996 to 2016 Olympic games. We examined the effect of MT on pain, sleep, stress, function and performance goals on the bike, as well as quality of life off the bike, in elite paracycling athletes.MethodsThis is a quasi-experimental, convergent, parallel, mixed-methods design study of one team, with nine paracycling participants, in years 2015 and 2016. One-hour MT sessions were scheduled one time per week for 4 weeks, and then every other week for the duration of the time the athlete was on the team and/or in the study. Closed and open-ended survey questions investigating athlete goals, stress, sleep, pain and muscle tightness were gathered pre and post each MT session, and every 6 months for health-related quality of life. Quantitative analysis timepoints include baseline, 4–6 months of intervention and final visit. Additional qualitative data were derived from therapists’ treatment notes, exit surveys, and follow-up emails from the athletes and therapists.ResultsSignificant improvement was found for sleep and muscle tightness; quantitative results were reinforced by athlete comments indicating MT assisted in their recovery while in training. There were no improvements in dimensions measuring quality of life; qualitative comments from athletes suggest reasons for lack of improvement.ConclusionThis real-world study provides new information to support MT for recovery in elite paracyclists.
Do swingers self-identify as swingers when attending STI services for testing? A cross-sectional study
Authors: Spauwen Laura W L , Niekamp Anne-Marie , Hoebe Christian J P A , Dukers-Muijrers Nicole H T M 
Published: January 2018

ObjectivesSwingers, that is, members of a heterosexual couple who, as a couple, had sex with other couples and/or singles within the swinger’s subculture, are a hidden population with substantial rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and high-risk sexual behaviour. Information on swingers’ self-identification to be a swinger, their risk perception and attitudes about STI testing and safe sex will help to reveal swingers who are hidden while in care, to address them with targeted strategies.MethodsWe used data from a convenience sample of 289 swingers from our Dutch STI clinic patient registry between 2009 and 2012 (median age 45 years; 49% women; STI positivity 13%, no condom in vaginal sex: 57%). Participants filled in a self-administered questionnaire on sexual behaviour and answered statements about self-identification, risk perception and attitudes about STI testing and safe sex.ResultsOf all participating registered swingers, 56% self-identified as a swinger. Safe sex was reportedly deemed important (77%). Overall, 72%, 62% and 56% reported that STI testing, partner notification and condom use is the norm in the swinger community. The latter was reported more often by self-identified swingers compared with non–self-identified swingers. Self-identified swingers further swinged more often, had more partners and more often swinged at home parties than non–self-identified swingers.ConclusionsAbout half of STI clinic attending swingers whose sexual behaviour agrees with the definition of swinging are neutral/do not identify themselves to be a swinger. As many STI clinics internationally not specifically ask clients about their swinging behaviour, swingers may be a missed target population in care. Implementation of routine questions addressing behaviour (thus not only asking whether someone is a swinger) in STI clinics is feasible and facilitated by swingers’ positive norm towards STI prevention and testing. Implementing routine swinger questions contribute to effective STI services including appropriate testing, counselling and partner notification.