Tukey's Studentized Range Test Research Articles

473 Exploring gastrointestinal bacterial colonization in rosacea as a biomarker for systemic abnormalities in innate immunity

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: To investigate the relationship between abnormal bacterial colonization of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and systemic abnormalities in innate immunity as it contributes to the pathogenesis of rosacea. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: This is a prospective observational study of patients with erythematotelangiectatic or papulopustular rosacea. The study participants will undergo urea breath testing for Helicobacter pylori (Hp) and hydrogen-methane breath testing for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). Colonic microbiome analysis will be performed using 16S rRNA sequencing of fecal samples. Further, key pro-inflammatory cytokines will be quantified from serum samples. Markers for rosacea subjects and subgroups will be compared by standard analysis of variance methods where appropriate, and Tukey studentized range tests will be done for specific comparisons. Chi-square tests will be used to assess group differences in categorical data. At least 42 subjects will be studied to provide 80% power atα-0.05. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: We hypothesize that the results of this study will support an observed relationship between abnormal GI bacterial colonization and systemic innate immunity abnormalities in rosacea as determined by three primary endpoints: a significantly greater prevalence of Hp and SIBO in rosacea participants, presence of pro-inflammatory cytokines linked to rosacea pathogenesis including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), and observation of distinct, metabolically active colonic bacterial communities specific to rosacea participants. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: By identifying rosacea as a cutaneous manifestation of a more systemic inflammatory disease, the results of this study will have implications for the development of important pharmacological interventions targeting key inflammatory pathways in rosacea pathogenesis.

Work environment in emergency medicine needs to be improved

Background: Emergency medicine (EM) is a novel specialty in Denmark. So far there are only 111 board certified specialists in EM in Denmark ~5 per Emergency department (ED). We hypothesize that stressful ED work environment may impact EM recruitment. The aim of our analysis was to evaluate the rate of applicants for EM junior and senior residency and relate it to ED patient complaint rate and work environment.
 Methods: We evaluated EM junior residency applications; and we calculated the rate of unfilled versus posted EM senior residency appointments In Denmark in 2020. As received by The Danish Agency for Patient Complaints we compared complaints from patients received over a 3-year period for EM, Respiratory medicine (RM), Cardiology (Card) and Endocrinology (Endo). One-way analysis of variance was performed to assess overall significance which was followed by a Tukey studentized range test procedure to locate the possible differences. We anonymously asked affiliated EM junior residents to qualify the reason for their application and whether they intend to apply for senior residency.Results We found a surplus of EM junior residency applications. Thus, positions were easily filled. Conversely unfilled senior EM residency appointments in Denmark amounted to 31 out of 52 posted appointments, meaning that 59% of EM senior residency appointments were unfilled. Patient complaints amounted to (means±SEM) EM 333±55; RM 88±9; Card 113±17; Endo 58±8, meaning a 3 to 5fold higher patient complaint rate in EM (p < 0.0006). There were no statistical differences in patient complaints among RM, Card and Endo. Among 8 EM junior residents 63% expressed interest in an EM career as the reason for their application but following EM experience none intended to apply for senior residency.
 Conclusion: More than half of posted senior residency positions in EM remain vacant. Patient complaints are significantly frequent in EM compared to other medical specialties. Junior residents are reluctant to pursue senior residency. Stressful ED working environment needs to be improved to facilitate EM recruitment.

Comparison of healthfulness of conventional meats and edible insects in Sub-Saharan Africa using three nutrient profiling models

BackgroundMeat and meat products have been blamed for a myriad of problems facing human kind like lifestyle illnesses, environmental degradation, and climate change. Edible insects have been suggested as the suitable alternatives to conventional meats in order to ameliorate these drawbacks. Healthfulness is the ability for a given food to impart health benefits to the consumer. Evidence is however scanty on the healthfulness of both the meats and edible insects in order to have grounds for replacing meats with insects in the diet. This study aimed to comparatively evaluate the healthfulness of meats and edible insects in Sub-Saharan Africa using modern nutrient profiling models.Materials and methodsNutritional data for meats and edible insects were obtained from Food Composition Tables (FCTs) and a systematic review, respectively. The data was applied to three nutrient profiling models: the WXYfm (Ofcom) model that was designed to regulate advertising of foods to children, the RRR (Ratio of Recommended to Restricted) model that assesses the ratio of positive to negative nutrients in foods, and the GDA (Guideline Daily Amounts) model which has been used to regulate health claims on foods. Tukey's Studentized Range (HSD) Test (The SAS System) was used to check for significance in differences of healthfulness using mean scores.ResultsThe WXYfm model classified all foods as healthful, and Nasutitermes spp. was significantly more healthful than duck (P = 0.05). The RRR classified all foods as healthful, and Nasutitermes spp. was significantly more healthful than all other foods except Macrotermes bellicosus and tilapia (P = 0.05). Duck (for women and men) and pork (for women), were classified as unhealthful by the GDA scoring system, and duck was significantly less healthful than all other foods (P < 0.0001), except for pork and mutton.ConclusionEdible insects are promising alternatives to conventional meats, but the choice should be on a species-to-species basis. This would be significant in broadening the choice of protein sources to cater for an ever-increasing world population.

Nickel and chromium ion release from coated and uncoated orthodontic archwires under different pH levels and exposure times

ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to determine and compare nickel and chromium ion release from traditional stainless steel and nickel titanium wires and newer esthetic archwires under different pH conditions, for different time intervals. MethodsTen pieces of 10-mm segments of five different orthodontic archwires were submerged in buffer solutions of pH 4.0, 5.5, and 7.0, for 4 and 13 weeks. The sample solutions were analyzed using ICP-MS. First, the results were analyzed by three-way ANOVA to determine any significant differences in metal concentration (ppb) between the different groups. Then, a post-hoc multiple pairwise comparison by Tukey's Studentized Range (HSD) Test was conducted to further compare the different materials and pH conditions. ResultsFor nickel, uncoated NiTi had the highest nickel ion release (ppb), while AO Iconix had the lowest average nickel ion release, with a significant difference (p < 0.0001). The average nickel release increased with time and decreased with pH. For chromium, materials with uncoated stainless steel had the highest average chromium ion release, whereas AO Iconix had the lowest average chromium ion release, with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.0001). Chromium ion release increased with time and decreased with pH. ConclusionsThere were significant differences in metal ion release between different pH conditions, materials, and time points. The metal ion release increased with increase in time and decrease in pH. Overall, the coated archwires showed less metal ion release than the uncoated wires.

18F]FDG PET/CT imaging disproves renal allograft acute rejection in kidney transplant recipients with acute kidney dysfunction: a validation cohort.

[18F]FDG PET/CT may predict the absence of acute allograft rejection (AR) in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) with acute kidney injury (AKI). Still, the proposed threshold of 1.6 of the mean of mean standardized uptake values (mSUVmean) in the renal parenchyma needs validation. We prospectively performed 86 [18F]FDG PET/CT in 79 adult KTRs who underwent per-cause transplant biopsy for suspected AR. Biopsy-proven polyoma BK nephropathies (n = 7) were excluded. PET/CT was performed 192 ± 18min after administration of 254.4 ± 30.4MBq of [18F]FDG. The SUVmean was measured in both upper and lower poles of the renal allograft. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's studentized range test were sequentially performed. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was drawn to discriminate "AR" from non-pathological ("normal" + "borderline") conditions. The median age of the cohort was 55 [43; 63] years, with M/F gender ratio of 47/39. The mean eGFR was 31.9 ± 14.6ml/min/1.73m2. Biopsies were categorized in 4 groups: "normal" (n = 54), "borderline" (n = 9), "AR" (n = 14), or "others" (n = 2). The median [min; max] mSUVmean reached 1.72 [1.02; 2.07], 1.97 [1.55; 2.11], 2.13 [1.65, 3.12], and 1.84 [1.57; 2.12] in "normal," "borderline," "AR," and "others" groups, respectively. ANOVA demonstrated a significant difference of mSUVmean among groups (F = 13.25, p < 0.0001). The ROC area under the curve was 0.86. Test sensitivity and specificity corresponding to the threshold value of 1.6 were 100% and 30%, respectively. [18F]FDG PET/CT may help noninvasively prevent inessential transplant biopsies in KTR with AKI.

Comparison of tensile bond strength of new and rebonded Symetri Clear™ ceramic brackets with Transbond™ XT or BluGloo™, with or without surface treatment: An in vitro study

This study sought to determine the bond strength of the Symetri Clear™ bracket after rebonding (reused) for a second and third time. Symetri Clear™ mandibular incisor brackets were bonded to bovine incisors and divided into six experimental groups. Two groups underwent tensile bond strength testing, and the remaining four groups were debonded using the manufacturer's recommended plier. Two groups were rebonded twice following surface preparation with Ortho SoloTM and two groups were rebonded twice without surface preparation. The rebonded brackets also underwent tensile bond strength testing after each rebonding event as well as receiving an Adhesive Remnant Index score. One-way ANOVA found a statistically significant difference in bond strength among the six groups (P<0.0001). Tukey's Studentized Range (HSD, honestly significant difference) Test found significant differences in tensile bond strength of groups which did not undergo surface preparation prior to rebonding. One-way ANOVA found a P-value of 0.2563 and thus no significant difference in ARI among the different groups. There was no significant difference in the tensile bond strength of Symetri ClearTM brackets initially bonded with either Transbond™ XT or BluGloo™ and no significant difference between the initial tensile bond strength and the first or second rebond tensile bond strength. Rebonding Symetri Clear™ brackets without surface treatment did show significantly reduced tensile bond strength.

Growth Performance and Carcass Evaluation of Weaner Grasscutters Fed Vernonia amygdalina Leaf Meal

Grasscutters (Thyronomys swinderianus) reared intensively for meat production is often exposed to stress and inadequate feeding as a result of their wasteful feeding habits. Vernonia amygdalina leaves have been used in the mediation of stress and as nutriceutical in animal and human health. This study investigated the growth performance and carcass evaluation of weaner grasscutters fed Vernonia amygdalina leaf meal supplemented diets. A total of thirty-six weaner grasscutters of mixed sexes weighing between 281.33 and 304.21g were allotted to six treatments in a completely randomized design (CRD). The animals were randomly assigned to six treatments made up of six grasscutters each. The treatment A (control) given feed without Vernonia amygdalina (VA) leaf meal, B had 1g VA/kg feed, C had 2g VA/ kg feed, D had 3g VA/kg feed, E had 4g VA/kg feed and F had 5g VA/kg feed. Feeding was done for a period of seven (7) weeks. Data collected were subjected to analysis using statistical analysis system (SAS), 2008 model and mean differences separated with Tukey studentized range test. The result showed significant (p&lt;0.05) differences in total feed intake, weight gain and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of 1.01. The carcass evaluation showed an improvement in carcass weight, foreleg, fore muscle, shoulder bone, rib, chest muscle, loin bone and loin muscle with VA treated diets with a significantly (p&lt;0.05) better performance in those given 3g VA/kg feed. There was also a significant (p&lt;0.05) improvement in the haematology and hepatic parameters except platelets, AST and ALT. In conclusion, grasscutters can be fed 3gVA/kg feed in a pellet form for enhanced growth performance and carcass characteristics, an indication that VA had growth promoting ability that enhance carcass yield.

Effect of Light Cure Methods for Intermediate Adhesive Layer on Microleakage of Sealants. An in Vitro Study.

Background: The objective of this study was to determine the effect of an adhesive layer and its photopolymerization on the microleakage of sealants. Study design: 0.5mm-deep standardized fissurectomies were performed on extracted molars (n = 72). Teeth were randomly assigned to 3 different sealant materials (n = 24/group). Teeth were further divided to receive sealants with or without an adhesive layer. Each sealant with adhesive was also divided into two groups: adhesive was light-cured separately or light cured together with the sealant. Following thermocycling, microleakage was assessed using dye penetration and image analysis. Data was analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's studentized ranged HSD tests. Results: Microleakage was not affected by type of sealant material (p>0.05) but was significantly influenced by application (p<0.05). Overall, placement of sealants without adhesive displayed greater microleakage than sealants with uncured adhesive (p<0.05). Within individual sealant types, this difference was only significant for Ultraseal XT (p<0.05). Sealants bonded with and without prior light curing did not show a significant difference in levels of leakage (Tukey's Studentized Range Test, p>0.05). Conclusion: An adhesive layer should be placed beneath sealants, but whether it should be light cured or left uncured before sealant placement varies by the sealant type.

Use of 3D Prints to Compare the Efficacy of Three Different Calcaneal Osteotomies for the Correction of Heel Varus.

Cavovarus deformity of the hindfoot is typically caused by neurologic disorders. Multiple osteotomies have been described for the correction of varus deformity but without clinical comparison. In this study, we used 18 identical 3-dimensional (3D) prints of a patient with heel varus to compare the operative correction obtained with Dwyer, oblique, and Z osteotomies. A computed tomography (CT) scan of a patient with heel varus was used to create 18 identical 3D prints of the talus, calcaneus, and cuboid. Coordinate frames were added to the talus and calcaneus to evaluate rotation. The prints were then divided into 3 groups of 6 models each. A custom jig precisely and accurately replicated each osteotomy. Following the simulated operations, cut models were CT scanned and compared with 6 uncut models. Measurements were calculated using multiplanar reconstruction image processing. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed on the initial data to determine significant differences among the measured variables. A Tukey Studentized range test was run to compare variables that showed statistically significant differences using the ANOVA. The coronal angle of the Dwyer and oblique osteotomies was significantly less than that of the Z osteotomy ( P < .05). The axial angle, lateral displacement, and calcaneal shortening of the uncut model and Z osteotomy were significantly less than the Dwyer and oblique osteotomies. Dwyer, oblique, and Z osteotomies did not create either lateral translation or coronal rotation without the addition of a lateralizing slide or rotation of the posterior tuberosity. Dwyer and oblique osteotomies would be best suited for mild deformity, yet the amount of calcaneal shortening must be acknowledged. A Z osteotomy is a complex procedure that has the capability of correcting moderate-severe coronal plane rotation but fails to provide lateralization of the pull of the Achilles insertion.

The Use of 3D Prints to Compare the Efficacy of Three Different Calcaneal Osteotomies for the Correction of Heel Varus

Category: Hindfoot Introduction/Purpose: There are multiple surgical osteotomies described for the correction of heel varus. An adequately powered clinical comparison of these osteotomies has not been published. In this study we used 18 identical 3D prints of a patient with heel varus to compare the surgical correction obtained with a Dwyer, oblique or Z osteotomy. The adequately powered statistical results of this study quantify the unique advantages and limitations of these osteotomies. Methods: A CT scan of a patient with heel varus (16 degrees) from Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease was selected for 3D modeling. Eighteen identical 3D prints were created of an anatomical construct of the talus, calcaneus and cuboid. Coordinate frames were added to the talus and calcaneus to evaluate rotation. Six of the prints were CT scanned to establish baseline data measurements (Uncut Control Group). All 18 prints were then divided into 3 groups of 6 models each. A custom jig was used to precisely and accurately replicate a different osteotomy in each group( Dwyer, oblique or Z). A 1 cm wedge was removed from each osteotomy. Following the simulated surgeries, all 18 models were CT scanned using the same parameters as had been used for the uncut models. Anatomic and coordinate measurements were calculated using multiplanar reconstruction image processing. Coordinate measurements were established as the rotation of the calcaneal coordinate frame with respect to the talar coordinate frame. Results: A standard 1-way analysis (ANOVA) was performed on the initial data. Additionally, a Tukey Studentized Range test was run using the raw data to compare the uncut model, Dwyer, oblique and Z osteotomies for all variables that showed statistically significant differences using the ANOVA. Coronal angle correction (Figure 1): The overall ANOVA test is significant (p &lt; 0.001). Tukey post-hoc comparisons demonstrate that Z is significantly different from Oblique (mean difference = 8.8; 95pct CI [5.5,12.0]; p &lt; 0.001) and Dwyer (mean difference = 10.4; 95pct CI [7.1, 13.6]; p &lt; 0.001), but Oblique and Dwyer are not significantly different from each other (mean difference = 1.6; 95 pct CI [-1.6, 4.9]; p=0.422). Calcaneal shortening (Figure 2): The overall ANOVA test is significant (p &lt; 0.001). All group comparisons are significant except for the Z vs Uncut (p=0.919). Lateral translation (Figure 3): The overall ANOVA test is significant (p &lt; 0.001). All group comparisons are statistically significant from one another. Conclusion: The Z osteotomy provided significantly more correction in the coronal plane (varus/valgus), with no significant shortening of the calcaneus, compared to the Dwyer and oblique osteotomies. The Z osteotomy, however, produced much less correction than anticipated, with only 3 degrees of final heel valgus. The Dwyer and Oblique osteotomies remained in varus. None of the osteotomies provided more than 6mm lateral translation of the tuberosity. These results have significant application to the appropriate choice of a calcaneal osteotomy for heel varus.

Variation in Number of Doses, Bottle Volume, and Calculated Yearly Cost of Generic and Branded Latanoprost for Glaucoma

To evaluate discrepancies in doses per bottle, bottle fill volume, and cost among branded and generic formulations of latanoprost. Comparative economic analysis. This study was conducted at the Ruiz Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth). Four regionally available latanoprost formulations were measured. Number of drops per bottle and actual bottle fill volume were measured for a calculated sample size (10 bottles). Annual cost (using average wholesale price), days use per bottle, drops per milliliter, and number of bottles used per year were calculated. Data were summarized using mean and standard deviation; 1-way analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey's studentized range test were used for comparing means among manufacturers. Pfizer's branded lantanoprost, Xalatan (New York, New York, USA), had the largest fill volume (P < .001). Pfizer had the highest yearly cost at $1198 (P < .001), whereas Akorn (Lake Forest, Illinois, USA) and Bausch & Lomb (Rochester, New York, USA) had the lowest ($184 and $201, respectively). Pfizer and Bausch & Lomb had the most drops per bottle (87.3 and 88.7, respectively), which was statistically more (P < .001) than either Akorn or Sandoz (Princeton, New Jersey, USA) (77.6 and 76.6, respectively), but there was no statistical difference among the standard deviation of drops per bottle (Levene 0.14). Annual cost and number of doses per bottle, factors important to patients, vary significantly depending on the manufacturer of latanoprost. Practitioners can better advise patients by being aware of these differences.

Relation of Pre-anthracycline Serum Bilirubin Levels to Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction After Chemotherapy

Myocardial injury because of oxidative stress manifesting through reductions in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) may occur after the administration of anthracycline-based chemotherapy (A-bC). We hypothesized that bilirubin, an effective endogenous antioxidant, may attenuate the reduction in LVEF that sometimes occurs after receipt of A-bC. We identified 751 consecutively treated patients with cancer who underwent a pre-A-bC LVEF measurement, exhibited a serum total bilirubin level <2 mg/dl, and then received a post-A-bC LVEF assessment because of symptomatology associated with heart failure. Analysis of variance, Tukey's Studentized range test, and chi-square tests were used to evaluate an association between bilirubin and LVEF changes. The LVEF decreased by 10.7 ± 13.7%, 8.9 ± 11.8%, and 7.7 ± 11.5% in group 1 (bilirubin at baseline ≤0.5 mg/dl), group 2 (bilirubin 0.6 to 0.8 mg/dl), and group 3 (bilirubin 0.9 to 1.9 mg/dl), respectively. More group 1 patients experienced >15% decrease in LVEF compared with those in group 3 (p = 0.039). After adjusting for age, coronary artery disease/myocardial infarction, diabetes mellitus, hematocrit, and the use of cardioactive medications, higher precancer treatment bilirubin levels and lesser total anthracycline doses were associated with LVEF preservation (p = 0.047 and 0.011, respectively). In patients treated with anthracyclines who subsequently develop symptoms associated with heart failure, pre-anthracycline treatment serum bilirubin levels inversely correlate with subsequent deterioration in post-cancer treatment LVEF. In conclusion, these results suggest that increased levels of circulating serum total bilirubin, an intrinsic antioxidant, may facilitate preservation of LVEF in patients receiving A-bC for cancer.

Intracellular trehalose and sorbitol synergistically promoting cell viability of a biocontrol yeast, Pichia anomala, for aflatoxin reduction.

Pichia anomala (Wickerhamomyces anomalus) WRL-076 was discovered by a visual screening bioassay for its antagonism against Aspergillus flavus. The yeast was shown to significantly inhibit aflatoxin production and the growth of A. flavus. P. anomala is a potential biocontrol agent for reduction of aflatoxin in the food chain. Maintaining the viability of biocontrol agents in formulated products is a great challenge for commercial applications. Four media, NYG, NYGS, NYGT and NYGST are described which support good growth of yeast cells and were tested as storage formulations. Post growth supplement of 5 % trehalose to NYGST resulted in 83 % viable yeast cells after 12 months in cold storage. Intracellular sorbitol and trehalose concentrations were determined by HPLC analysis at the beginning of the storage and at the end of 12 month. Correlation of cell viability to both trehalose and sorbitol suggested a synergistic effect. Bonferroni (Dunn) t Test, Tukey's Studentized Range (HSD) Test and Duncan's Multiple Range Test, all showed that yeast cell viability in samples with both intracellular trehalose and sorbitol were significantly higher than those with either or none, at a 95 % confidence level. DiBAC4(5) and CFDA-AM were used as the membrane integrity fluorescent stains to create a two-color vital staining scheme with red and green fluorescence, respectively. Yeast cells stored in formulations NYG and NYGS with no detectable trehalose, displayed mostly red fluorescence. Yeast cells in NYGST+5T showed mostly green fluorescence.

Analysis of data query as parameter of quality.

Introduction:Data query (DQ) rate per case record form (CRF) page is an index of quality of clinical trial data, which can be affected by the phase of clinical trial, the therapeutic area, and the country, where investigator site is located.Objective:To compare DQ rate per page by countries, phases, and therapeutic areas.Materials and Methods:Data from 19 paper CRF clinical trials conducted at 352 sites, in 5,610 patients were entered into clinical data management system by double data entry method, and DQs were generated. The DQ rate per page was compared for the phase, therapeutic area, and the country, by parametric analysis of variance (ANOVA) and nonparametric test-Kruskal-Wallis and median test. Multiple comparisons test was conducted for each category using Tukey's Studentized Range Test.Results:The total number of DQs from 108,599 CRF pages was 33,177 (0.306/CRF page). The studies included 12 countries, all phases, and seven therapeutic areas. Comparison of DQ rate per page showed a significant difference between phases, countries, and therapeutic areas. However, multiple comparisons showed that the DQ rate per page was significantly different between Phase I and other phases, and oncology, cardiology, endocrinology, and dermatology. The DQ categories were: Missing 21.8%, confirmatory 50.1%, and clarification 28.2%. The most common DQs by CRF field were: Lab data (23.2%), physical examination (17.4%), study assessment (17.4), and concomitant medication (12%). There was no correlation between the number of CRF pages and DQ rate per page per study.Conclusion:The phase of study and therapeutic area could impact the data quality as measured by DQ rates.

Sociodemographic disparities and behavioral factors in clinical oral health status during pregnancy

Although oral health (OH) problems are common during pregnancy, little is known about individual characteristics or behaviors relating to clinically assessed OH during pregnancy. This cross-sectional study describes the clinical OH status of a sample of pregnant women, examines relationships between sociodemographic factors and OH, behavioral factors and OH, and the influence of behavior on the relationships between sociodemographic clusters and OH. Baseline data were utilized from a pilot intervention study promoting OH during pregnancy. Participants (n=99), recruited from CenteringPregnancy(®) prenatal care groups completed questionnaires addressing race/ethnicity, income, education, dental insurance, oral hygiene practices, and dental care utilization; and clinical examinations for periodontal probing depths (PD), bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque assessment, and visual detection of untreated decay. Chi-squares and one-way anovas with Tukey's studentized range test of planned comparisons were conducted to examine bivariable relationships between both sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics to OH status. Multivariable logistic regression analyses tested whether the effects of sociodemographic variables on OH status might be mediated by behaviors, including self-reported oral hygiene and recent dental visits. Forty-five percent of the sample had untreated decay and the mean percentage of sites with BOP=18%. Bivariable analyses of sociodemographic factors indicated that compared with Whites, Hispanic women had greater % of sites with: BOP, PD ≥5mm plus BOP, and Plaque Index (PI) scores of ≥2, all P=0.05; and greater untreated decay (Chi-square 13.3, P<0.001). Lower income was related to greater untreated decay (Chi-square 7.6, P<0.01). Compared with the highest education level, the lowest level group had higher % BOP, P<0.05. Public dental insurance (versus private) was associated with greater % BOP, PD ≥5mm plus BOP, both P<0.05, and greater untreated decay (Chi-square 16.9, P<0.001). Regarding behaviors, lacking a past 6-month dental visit was related to greater: BOP, PD ≥5mm plus BOP, and PI ≥2 (F range 6.2-8.7, P<0.01-0.05); and greater untreated decay (Chi-square 12.0, P<0.001). Self-reported optimal oral hygiene was related to lower % BOP and PD ≥5mm plus BOP (F range 4.5-6.7, both P<0.05). Mediation analyses indicated that there were significant indirect effects of racial/ethnic differences on OH outcomes via having a recent dental visit (OR range 1.2-1.9). However, significant differences between the Hispanic and White groups remained. This study highlights sociodemographic disparities in clinical OH during pregnancy, the importance of dental care, and provides useful findings for tailoring interventions for expectant mothers and their infants.

Percutaneous Abscess Drainage Using Near Real-Time MR Guidance in an Open 1.0-T MR Scanner

The aims of our study were (1) to assess the feasibility, effectiveness, and safety of exclusively magnetic resonance (MR)-guided freehand percutaneous abscesses drainage using a 1.0-T open MR scanner and (2) to evaluate the optimal method to visualize drainage catheters in situ. In vitro studies in a dedicated MR gelatin phantom were performed to assess visualization of 8 different sizes of drainage catheters after instillation of sole 0.9% sodium chloride (NaCl) and diluted (1.0%) or concentrated (12.0%) gadolinium diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd-DTPA) using a T1-weighted (T1w) 2-dimensional fast field echo (FFE) and a T2-weighted single-shot (ssh) turbo spin-echo (TSE) fast dynamic sequence. The catheter artifacts were evaluated with regard to the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), the artifact width using the full width at half-maximum (FWHM) method, and the artifact intensity, being the product of the CNR and the FWHM. We used the general linear model procedure as the global test and the Tukey studentized range test for post hoc analysis. In vivo MR-guided freehand drainage was prospectively performed in patients with increased systemic inflammation markers and abdominal, retroperitoneal, and pelvic abscess collections. This study had been approved by the institutional review board. All patients provided written informed consent. Technical success was the primary efficacy variable. The secondary efficacy variables were visibility of the puncture needle and drainage catheter artifact, using a qualitative 5-point rating scale, intervention and procedure time, and rate of postinterventional complications. The FWHM, the CNR, and the artifact intensity of the drainage catheters filled with 0.9% NaCl or diluted or concentrated Gd-DTPA increased according to the drainage catheter size in an almost linear fashion in both image weighting (all P ≤ 0.006; all R(2) ≥ 0.73). The T1w FFE sequence yielded the highest FWHM, CNR, and artifact intensity of all groups, using 12.0% Gd-DTPA instillation (all P < 0.001), and the least FWHM and artifact intensity, using 1.0% Gd-DTPA instillation (all P < 0.022; all P < 0.009). The T2w ssh TSE yielded higher FWHM, using 12.0% Gd-DTPA instillation, whereas the CNR was higher for 0.9% NaCl instillation (all P < 0.001). Magnetic-resonance-guided abscess drainage was performed in 22 patients with 24 abdominal, retroperitoneal, or pelvic abscess collections. The technical success rate of in vivo MR-guided freehand drainage was 100%. Visibility of the puncture needle was excellent (≥4.4 [0.5] points). Visibility of the drainage catheters was rated with 3.9 (0.9) and 4.5 (0.8) points using T2w ssh TSE with 0.9% NaCl and 12.0% Gd-DTPA instillation as well as 4.8 (0.5) and 4.2 (0.8) points using T1w FFE with 1.0% and 12.0% Gd-DTPA instillation, respectively. The procedure and intervention time was 52.4 (16.4) minutes (range, 28-78 minutes) and 27.4 (7.2) minutes (range, 17-40 minutes). Two minor and no major complications were recorded. Magnetic-resonance-guided freehand percutaneous abscesses drainage using fast dynamic sequences in an open 1-T MR scanner is feasible, effective, and safe. Visualization of drainage catheters can be facilitated by instillation of 0.9% NaCl or diluted or concentrated contrast media.

California Adults Increase Fruit and Vegetable Consumption from 1997-2007

Objective To determine whether fruit and vegetable consumption among California adults significantly increased from 1997-2007. Design Biennial telephone surveillance surveys of California adults’ dietary practices. Participants California adults (n = 9,105 total all 6 surveys). Intervention Surveillance data reporting. Main Outcome Measures Changes in fruit and vegetable consumption over time between 1997-2007, measured by mean servings and percentage of adults eating ≥ 5 servings on any given day. Analysis Comparisons of subsets both within the same year and across years were made using t tests, chi-square, and Tukey Studentized Range tests at 5% procedure-wise error rate. Results California adults significantly increased mean daily servings of fruits and vegetables from 3.8 servings in 1997 to 5.2 servings in 2007. Conclusions and Implications Since 1998, notable improvements in fruit and vegetable consumption have occurred to California populations, including the target audience groups of the Network for a Healthy California.

Comparison of Retention and Strain Energies of Stud Attachments for Implant Overdentures

The retentive forces and the strain energies absorbed during dislodging of implant overdenture stud attachments are useful parameters to consider in the selection of attachments. The purpose of this study was to compare the retentive forces and strain energies of the Nobel Biocare standard ball, Nobel Biocare newer generation ball (Yorba Linda, CA), Zest Anchor, Zest Anchor Advanced Generation (Escondido, CA), Sterngold-Implamed ERA white, and Sterngold-Implamed orange attachments (Attleboro, MA) on an implant-retained in vitro overdenture model. The attachments were tested using two permanently placed Brånemark system implants on a test model attached to an Instron machine. Each attachment had one part embedded in a denture-like housing, and the other part screwed into the implants. Dislodging tensile forces were applied to the housings in two directions simulating function: vertical and oblique. Eight tests were done in two directions with six specimens of each attachment. Retentive forces generated and strain energies absorbed during displacement were determined. A 1-way ANOVA followed by the Tukey studentized range test was used to determine groups that were significantly different at the p < 0.05 level. The Zest Anchor Advanced Generation attachment had significantly the highest retentive vertical and oblique forces [37.2 (5.5) N and 25.9 (3.2) N, respectively]. The Zest Anchor had the lowest vertical force [10.8 (4.2) N], and Nobel Biocare Standard had the lowest oblique retentive force [10.6 (3.0) N]. The Nobel Biocare Standard Ball attachment had the highest strain energies [29.7 × 10(-3) (11.9 × 10(-3)) J, 30.3 × 10(-3) (14.3 × 10(-3)) J, respectively, in the vertical and oblique directions]. The Sterngold-Implamed ERA White and Zest Anchor had the lowest strain energies [5.3 × 10(-3) (3.2 × 10(-3)) J and 4.5 × 10(-3) (1.1 × 10(-3)) J, respectively, in the vertical and oblique directions]. The retentive forces and strain energies of implant overdenture stud attachments are different and should be considered during prosthesis selection.

Amyloid-β Protein Oligomer at Low Nanomolar Concentrations Activates Microglia and Induces Microglial Neurotoxicity

Amyloid-β Protein Oligomer at Low Nanomolar Concentrations Activates Microglia and Induces Microglial Neurotoxicity

Effect of miniscrew angulation on anchorage resistance

Even though the use of titanium miniscrews to provide orthodontic anchorage has become increasingly popular, there is no universally accepted screw-placement protocol. Variables include the presence or absence of a pilot hole, placement through attached or unattached soft tissue, and angle of placement. The purpose of this in-vitro study was to test the hypothesis that screw angulation affects screw-anchorage resistance. Three-dimensional finite element models were created to represent screw-placement orientations of 30°, 60°, and 90°, while the screw was displaced to 0.6 mm at a distance of 2.0 mm from the bone surface. In a parallel cadaver study, 96 titanium alloy screws were placed into 24 hemi-sected maxillary and 24 hemi-sected mandibular specimens between the first and second premolars. The specimens were randomly and evenly divided into 3 groups according to screw angulation (relative to the bone surface): 90° vs 30° screw pairs, 90° vs 60° screw pairs, and 30° vs 60° screw pairs. All screws were subjected to increasing forces parallel to the occlusal plane, pulling mesially until the miniscrews were displaced by 0.6 mm. A paired-samples t test was used to assess the significance of differences between 2 samples consisting of matched pairs of subjects, with matched pairs of subjects including 2 measurements taken on the same subject. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with the post-hoc Tukey studentized range test was conducted to determine whether there were significant differences, and the order of those differences, in anchorage resistance values among the 3 screw angulations at maxillary and mandibular sites. The finite element analysis showed that 90° screw placement provided greater anchorage resistance than 60° and 30° placements. In the cadaver study, although the maximum anchorage resistance provided by screws placed at 90° to the cadaver bone surface exceeded, on average, the anchorage resistance of the screws placed at 60°, which likewise exceeded the anchorage resistance of screws placed at 30°, these differences were not statistically significant. Placing orthodontic miniscrews at angles less than 90° to the alveolar process bone surface does not offer force anchorage resistance advantages.