bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
An Alternative Section Method for Casting and Posterior Laser Welding of Metallic Frameworks for an Implant‐Supported Prosthesis
Authors: De Aguiar Júnior Fábio Afrânio , Tiossi Rodrigo , Rodrigues Renata Cristina Silveira , De Gloria Chiarello Mattos Maria , Ribeiro Ricardo Faria 
Published: December 2008

Abstract Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of fit of three types of implant‐supported frameworks cast in Ni‐Cr alloy: specifically, a framework cast as one piece compared to frameworks cast separately in sections to the transverse or the diagonal axis, and later laser welded. Materials and Methods: Three sets of similar implant‐supported frameworks were constructed. The first group of six 3‐unit implant‐supported frameworks were cast as one piece, the second group of six were sectioned in the transverse axis of the pontic region prior to casting, and the last group of six were sectioned in the diagonal axis of the pontic region prior to casting. The sectioned frameworks were positioned in the matrix (10 N·cm torque) and laser welded. To evaluate passive fit, readings were made with an optical microscope with both screws tightened and with only one‐screw tightened. Data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey–Kramer's test (p < 0.05). Results: When both screws were tightened, no differences were found between the three groups (p > 0.05). In the single‐screw‐tightened test, with readings made opposite to the tightened side, the group cast as one piece (57.02 ± 33.48 μm) was significantly different (p < 0.05) from the group sectioned diagonally (18.92 ± 4.75 μm) but no different (p > 0.05) from the group transversally sectioned (31.42 ± 20.68 μm). On the tightened side, no significant differences were found between the groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Results of this study showed that casting diagonally sectioned frameworks lowers misfit levels of prosthetic implant‐supported frameworks and also improves the levels of passivity to the same frameworks when compared to structures cast as one piece.
A General Method for Describing Sources of Variance in Clinical Trials, Especially Operator Variance, in Order to Improve Transfer of Research Knowledge to Practice
Authors: Chambers David W. , Leknius Casimir , Reid Laura 
Published: December 2008

Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this study was to demonstrate how the skill level of the operator and the clinical challenge provided by the patient affect the outcomes of clinical research in ways that may have hidden influences on the applicability of that research to practice. Rigorous research designs that control or eliminate operator or patient factors as sources of variance achieve improved statistical significance for study hypotheses. These procedures, however, mask sources of variance that influence the applicability of the conclusions. There are summary data that can be added to reports of clinical trials to permit potential users of the findings to identify the most important sources of variation and to predict the likely outcomes of adopting products and procedures reported in the literature. Materials and Methods: Provisional crowns were constructed in a laboratory setting in a fully crossed, random‐factor model with two levels of material (Treatment), two skill levels of students (Operator), and restorations of two levels of difficulty (Patient). The levels of the Treatment, Operator, and Patient factors used in the study were chosen to ensure that the findings from the study could be transferred to practice settings in a predictable fashion. The provisional crowns were scored independently by two raters using the criteria for technique courses in the school where the research was conducted. Results: The Operator variable accounted for 38% of the variance, followed by Treatment‐by‐Operator interaction (17%), Treatment (17%), and other factors and their combinations in smaller amounts. Regression equations were calculated for each Treatment material that can be used to predict outcomes in various potential transfer applications. It was found that classical analyses for differences between materials (the Treatment variable) would yield inconsistent results under various sampling systems within the parameters of the study. Conclusions: Operator and Treatment‐by‐Operator interactions appear to be significant and previously underrecognized sources of variance. It is suggested that variance estimates of factors thought to significantly influence the transfer of research findings to practice contexts and evidence of representative sampling across practice contexts be regularly included in reports of clinical trials.
The Effect of Engaging the Screw Access Channel of an Implant Abutment with a Cement‐Retained Restoration
Authors: Naik Supritha , Tredwin Christopher J. , Nesbit Michael , Setchell Derrick J. , Moles David R. 
Published: December 2008

Abstract Purpose: Factors affecting the retention of fixed prostheses to natural abutments are well understood. In contrast, little is known concerning the factors influencing the retention of fixed prostheses cemented to implant abutments. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect that extending a casting into the screw access channel of an implant abutment has on the retention when cemented using Temp Bond. Materials and Methods: Replace Select Straight abutments received set modifications (buccal wall removal at 15°, 22°, and 30°) using a milling machine; controls were unmodified. Two castings were fabricated for each of the modified abutments, one with and one without an extension into the screw access channel. Following cementation with Temp Bond under standardized conditions, the castings were removed from the abutments using an Instron machine, and the peak removal force was recorded. Results: Extending the casting into the screw access channel significantly (p < 0.001) increased the peak load of removal. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were found between no modification and 30° modification, 15° and 30° modification, and 22° and 30° modification in the groups when the casting extended into the abutment. In the group where the casting did not extend into the abutment, all groups were significantly different (p < 0.001) with the exception of 22° and 30° modification. Conclusions: The increased load required to remove a casting that extends into the screw access channel of an implant abutment may compensate for loss in retention, which occurs through unfavorable modification of the abutment.
Color Stability Comparison of Silicone Facial Prostheses Following Disinfection
Authors: Goiato Marcelo Coelho , Pesqueira Aldiéris Alves , Santos Daniela Micheline dos , Zavanelli Adriana Cristina , Ribeiro Paula do Prado 
Published: December 2008

Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the color stability of two silicones for use in facial prostheses, under the influence of chemical disinfection and storage time. Materials and Methods: Twenty‐eight specimens were obtained half made from Silastic MDX 4‐4210 silicone and the other half from Silastic 732 RTV silicone. The specimens were divided into four groups: Silastic 732 RTV and MDX 4‐4210 with disinfection three times a week with Efferdent and Sliastic 732 RTV and MDX 4‐4210 disinfected with neutral soap. Color stability was analyzed by spectrophotometry, immediately and 2 months after making the specimens. After obtaining the results, ANOVA and Tukey test with 1% reliability were used for statistical analysis. Results: Statistical differences between mean color values were observed. Disinfection with Efferdent did not statistically influence the mean color values. Conclusion: The factors of storage time and disinfection statistically influenced color stability; disinfection acts as a bleaching agent in silicone materials.
Estimating Projectile Perpendicular Impact Velocity on Metal Sheet Targets from the Shape of the Target Hole
Authors: Tsach Tsadok , Landau Eliezer , Shor Yaron , Volkov Nikolai , Chaikovsky Alan 
Published: December 2008

Abstract:  The correlation between bullet hole shapes in metal and projectile impact velocity was examined. A series of shots were fired from an M‐16A1 assault rifle of 5.56 mm caliber toward a 1‐mm thick metal target. All shots were fired at a perpendicular angle to the metal sheets, and the velocity was measured just before the projectile hit the target. Velocities ranged between 400 and 900 m/sec. From the replica of the shooting hole, a perpendicular plane was created, showing the symmetrical properties of the hole. The best mathematical equation describing the shape of the entrance hole was the exponential function in the form:
image
The empirical equation of the hole defined using the regression method is:
image
This equation describes the general shape of shooting holes created by velocities ranging from 440 to 750 m/sec. From this equation, one can estimate the bullet velocity when it hits the target.
MMPs/TIMPs and inflammatory signalling de‐regulation in human incisional hernia tissues
Authors: Guillen‐Marti Jordi , Diaz Ramon , Quiles Maria T. , Lopez‐Cano Manuel , Vilallonga Ramon , Huguet Pere , Ramon‐y‐Cajal Santiago , Sanchez‐Niubo Albert , Reventós Jaume , Armengol Manel , Arbos Maria A. 
Published: December 2008

Abstract Background: Incisional hernia is a common and important complication of laparotomies. Epidemiological studies allude to an underlying biological cause, at least in a subset of population. Interest has mainly focused on abnormal collagen metabolism. However, the role played by other determinants of extracellular matrix (ECM) composition is unknown. To date, there are few laboratory studies investigating the importance of biological factors contributing to incisional hernia development. We performed a descriptive tissue‐based analysis to elucidate the possible relevance of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) in association with local cytokine induction in human incisional hernia tissues. The expression profiles of MMPs, TIMPs and pro‐inflammatory cytokine signalling were investigated in aponeurosis and skeletal muscle specimens taken intraoperatively from incisional hernia (n= 10) and control (n= 10) patients. Semiquantitative RT‐PCR, zymography and immunoblotting analyses were done. Incisional hernia samples displayed alterations in the microstructure and loss of ECM, as assessed by histological analyses. Moreover, incisional hernia tissues showed increased MMP/TIMP ratios and de‐regulated inflammatory signalling (tumor necrosis factor [TNFA] and interleukin [IL]‐6 tended to increase, whereas aponeurosis TNFA receptors decreased). The changes were tissue‐specific and were detectable at the mRNA and/or protein level. Statistical analyses showed several associations between individual MMPs, TIMPs, interstitial collagens and inflammatory markers. The increment of MMPs in the absence of a counterbalance by TIMPs, together with an ongoing de‐regulated inflammatory signalling, may contribute in inducing a functional defect of the ECM network by post‐translational mechanisms, which may trigger abdominal wall tissue loss and eventual rupture. The notable TIMP3 protein down‐regulation in incisional hernia fascia may be of pathophysiological significance. We conclude that this study may help to pinpoint novel hypotheses of pathogenesis that can lead to a better understanding of the disease and ultimately to improvement in current therapeutic approaches.
Splenic natural killer cell activity in two models of experimental neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Al‐Falahi Yassin , Sand Kristin L. , Knudsen Eirunn , Damaj Bassam B. , Rolin Johannes , Maghazachi Azzam A. 
Published: December 2008

AbstractNatural killer (NK) cells are antitumour/anti‐viral effectors and play important roles in shaping the immune system, but their role in neurodegenerative diseases is not clear. Here, we investigated the fate of these cells in two neurodegenerative diseases. In the first model, the activity of NK cells was examined in mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) treated with glatiramer acetate (GA or Copaxone), a drug used to treat EAE in animals and multiple sclerosis in human. The second disease model is twitcher (Galctwi/Galctwi) mice, which represents an authentic model of human Krabbe’s disease. Administration of GA ameliorated EAE in SJL mice corroborated with isolating NK cells that expressed higher killing than cells isolated from vehicle‐dosed animals against immature or mature dendritic cells (DCs). However, this drug showed no effect on the numbers of NK cells or the expression of CD69 molecule. On the other hand, NK cells either disappeared from the spleens or were present in low numbers in the white pulp areas of Galctwi/Galctwi mice, which have increased D‐galactosyl‐β1–1′‐sphingosine (GalSph) levels. Analysis by confocal microscopy shows that NK cells found in the spleens of Galctwi/Galctwi mice were apoptotic. Incubating NK cells in vitro with GalSph induced the apoptosis in these cells, confirming the results of twitcher mice. Our results provide the first evidence showing that amelioration of EAE in mice is corroborated with NK cell lysis of antigen‐presenting DCs, whereas NK cell distribution into the spleen is altered in a devastating lipid disorder corroborated with induction of their apoptosis.
National case‐control study on risk of death andNeisseria meningitidissequence types in Denmark, 2000–2007
Authors: HOWITZ MICHAEL , LAMBERTSEN LOTTE , MØLBAK KÅRE , CHRISTENSEN JENS JØRGEN 
Published: December 2008

In the past decades efforts to further diminish the case‐fatality rate from meningococcal disease have proven challenging due to the often rapid progression of the disease in patients. In this study our objective was to characterise a subset ofNeisseria meningitidisisolates to establish which sequence types were associated with increased mortality in Denmark during the period 2000–2007. We designed a matched case control and performed serogrouping, serotyping, serosubtyping and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) on 100 isolates. The clonal complex ST‐32/ET‐5 was found in 36% of the isolates, followed by the ST‐11/ET‐37 complex (14%) and ST‐41/44 complex/Lineage 3 (14%). Eight new sequence types were found. None of the clonal complexes were significantly associated with increased mortality. Phenotype B:15:P1.7,16 tended to be a better predictor of death than ST‐32. Although the numbers were low, the present study indicates that phenotyping may be a better predictor of mortality than MLST, which suggests that each typing method has its advantages and disadvantages. If this notion can be confirmed by other studies, it may stimulate additional research regarding the pathogenesis of severe illness, for example, if certain surface molecules trigger a cytokine storm more than others.
The Expression of Manganese Superoxide Dismutase Gene from Nelumbo nucifera Responds Strongly to Chilling and Oxidative Stresses
Authors: Li Wen , Qi Lin , Lin Xiaodong , Chen Huhui , Ma Zhanqi , Wu Keqiang , Huang Shangzhi 
Published: December 2008

Abstract A manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn‐SOD) gene, NnMSD1, was identified from embryonic axes of the sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.). The NnMSD1 protein contains all conserved residues of the Mn‐SOD protein family, including four consensus metal binding domains and a signal peptide for mitochondrial targeting. Southern blot analysis suggests the existence of two Mn‐SOD genes in sacred lotus. NnMSD1 was highly expressed in developing embryonic axes during seed development, but appeared in cotyledons only at the early stage of development and became undetectable in the cotyledons during late embryogenesis. The expression of the NnMSD1 gene in germinating embryonic axes, in response to various stresses such as heat shock, chilling, and exposure to stress‐related chemicals, was also studied. Heat shock strongly inhibited the expression of the NnMSD1 gene, whereas the NnMSD1 transcript level increased strongly in chilling stress treatment. An increase in expression was also highly induced by H2O2 in germinating embryonic axes. The results suggest that the expression pattern of the NnMSD1 gene differed between developing axes and cotyledons, and that the NnMSD1 gene expression responds strongly to chilling and oxidative stress.
Overview of Regular Dialysis Treatment in Japan as of 31 December 2006
Authors: Nakai Shigeru , Masakane Ikuto , Akiba Takashi , Shigematsu Takashi , Yamagata Kunihiro , Watanabe Yuzo , Iseki Kunitoshi , Itami Noritomo , Shinoda Toshio , Morozumi Kunio , Shoji Tetsuo , Marubayashi Seiji , Morita Osamu , Kimata Naoki , Shoji Tatsuya , Suzuki Kazuyuki , Tsuchida Kenji , Nakamoto Hidetomo , Hamano Takayuki , Yamashita Akihiro , Wakai Kenji , Wada Atsushi , Tsubakihara Yoshiharu 
Published: December 2008

AbstractA statistical survey of dialysis patients for the year 2006 was carried out for 4051 medical facilities across Japan, and responses were received from 3985 (98.37%) facilities. There were 264 473 dialysis patients (including 9003 peritoneal dialysis patients) in Japan at the end of 2006, which showed an increase of 6708 (2.6%) from the end of 2005. The number of patients per million population was 2069.9. The crude mortality rate during 2006 was 9.2%. The mean age of the patients who began dialysis (in 2006) was 66.4 years, and the mean age of the entire dialysis population was 64.4 years. The primary renal diseases of the patients who began dialysis were diabetic nephropathy (42.9%), chronic glomerulonephritis (25.6%), and nephrosclerosis (9.4%). Of the 3488 facilities that participated in the survey on the dialysate water quality, 2873 facilities (82.4%) measured the endotoxin concentration in the dialysate; and 1197 facilities (37.1%) out of 3228 measured the bacterial count in the dialysate. The mean hemoglobin concentration in the dialysis population at the end of 2006 was 10.23 ± 1.33 g/dL, which was equal to that at the end of 2005 (10.23 ± 1.37 g/dL). The mean concentration of serum creatinine in 15 853 patients who started dialysis during 2006 was 8.37 ± 3.58 mg/dL. The estimated glomerular filtration rate, which was calculated with formula modified for the Japanese population from the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study equation, was 5.46 ± 6.60 mL/min/1.73 m2.
Efficacy of Once‐weekly Intravenous Administration of Epoetin‐β as a Maintenance Treatment for Anemia in Japanese Hemodialysis Patients: A Multicenter, Open‐label Clinical Study
Authors: Shigematsu Takashi , Takami Hiroya , Shimizu Tatsuo , Shimoyama Hiromi , Kim Songsu , Hirose Satoru , Sakai Takehiko , Kono Takashi , Mochizuki Takahiro , Nishio Kyosuke , Degawa Hisakazu , Motomiya Yoshihiro 
Published: December 2008

AbstractEpoetin‐β is extremely useful as a drug for treating anemia in hemodialysis (HD) patients and is widely used for that purpose. The aim of this study was to determine whether once‐weekly intravenous administration of epoetin‐β is as effective in maintaining hemoglobin (Hb) concentration as the same weekly dose administered 2 or 3 times per week as maintenance treatment of anemia in HD patients. The subjects were stable HD patients who had been receiving HD for at least 12 months. Using a fixed weekly dose of 3000 or 6000 IU of epoetin‐β, this study evaluated maintenance of improvement of anemia by comparing Hb concentration in the study period (once‐weekly) with Hb concentration in the prestudy period (2 or 3 times per week). Of the 112 patients treated with epoetin‐β, 111 patients (full analysis set; 3000 IU, 52 patients; 6000 IU, 59 patients) were evaluated, after excluding one patient whose dose was changed immediately before study initiation. The change in the Hb concentration was maintained within ±1.5 g/dL in 89.2% of patients (3000 IU, 88.5%; 6000 IU, 89.8%). The mean Hb concentration was 10.42 ± 0.73 g/dL at study initiation and 10.14 ± 1.00 g/dL at study completion. Adverse reactions occurred in 9.8% of patients (11 out of 112 patients). The main adverse reactions were malaise and increased blood pressure. Once‐weekly intravenous administration of epoetin‐β is useful as maintenance treatment of anemia in HD patients and may be a treatment option.
Multivariate Analysis for Factors Predicting Rapid Response of Leukocytapheresis in Patients With Steroid‐resistant Ulcerative Colitis: A Multicenter Prospective Open‐label Study
Authors: Matsumoto Takayuki , Andoh Akira , Okawa Kiyotaka , Ito Hiroaki , Torii Ayao , Yoshikawa Syusaku , Nakaoka Ryosuke , Okuyama Yusuke , Oshitani Nobuhide , Nishishita Masakazu , Watanabe Kenji , Fukunaga Ken , Ohnishi Kunio , Kusaka Takeshi , Yokoyama Yoko , Sasaki Masaya , Tsujikawa Tomoyuki , Aoki Tetsuya , Kusaka Toshihiro , Takeda Yasuhiro , Umehara Yasushi , Nakamura Shiro , Fujiyama Yoshihide 
Published: December 2008

AbstractLeukocytapheresis (LCAP) has been advocated as a treatment for moderate to severe active ulcerative colitis (UC) in Japan. To clarify the predictive factors for a rapid response to LCAP treatment, we conducted a multicenter prospective open‐label study. A total of 105 patients with UC were analyzed. LCAP was performed using a Cellsorba EX column once a week for 5–10 sessions. The response was evaluated by the clinical activity index (CAI). When the CAI score decreased to less than half the pretreatment value or to less than 5 points within 3 weeks, the patient was considered to be a rapid responder. The average CAI significantly decreased from 11.7 to 4.2 (P < 0.01). Seventy‐four percent of the patients responded to the therapy, and 53% of these patients were rapid responders. The following significant factors correlated with the rapid LCAP response: (i) steroid resistance (P < 0.05), (ii) severe disease indicated by a CAI score greater than 11 (P = 0.05), (iii) disease duration of less than 1 year (P < 0.05), and (iv) C‐reactive protein levels before treatment (P < 0.01). These results suggest that the early initiation of LCAP is beneficial in patients with steroid‐resistant UC.
A Case Report of an Adult With Severe Hyperlipidemia During Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia Induction Therapy Successfully Treated With Plasmapheresis
Authors: Nakagawa Masaru , Kimura Syogo , Fujimoto Keiji , Atumi Hirokatsu , Imura Jyunko , Chikazawa Yoshihiro , Imamura Hidetsugu , Okuyama Hiroshi , Yamaya Hideki , Fukushima Toshihiro , Nakagawa Atsushi , Asaka Mitsuhiro , Yokoyama Hitoshi 
Published: December 2008

AbstractPlasmapheresis for the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia has previously been performed in patients with sudden onset severe hypertriglyceridemia and acute pancreatitis; however, only a few reports of this procedure have been published. We report here on a case showing severe hypertriglyceridemia during asparaginase (Asp) treatment for acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), and give an overview of a lipid‐lowering apheresis therapy. To prevent the complication of pancreatitis due to hypertriglyceridemia, we performed plasma exchange (PE) three times using fresh frozen plasma. PE remarkably reduced both serum triglyceride and total cholesterol levels from 5430 mg/dL to 403 mg/dL and from 623 mg/dL to 204 mg/dL, respectively. The causes of severe hyperlipidemia in this patient were considered to include: the Asp treatment for ALL, and a genetic background with a heterozygote of familial lipoprotein lipase (LPL) defect syndrome, because the patient's plasma LPL level after intravenous heparin injection was low at 137 ng/mL. Hence, PE using fresh frozen plasma may be useful not only to remove lipoproteins, but also to supply defective factors, such as LPL, in similar cases.