bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microfloral Characterization of the Tongue Coating and Associated Risk for Pneumonia‐Related Health Problems in Institutionalized Older Adults
Authors: Takeshita Toru , Tomioka Mikiko , Shimazaki Yoshihiro , Matsuyama Miwa , Koyano Kiyoshi , Matsuda Koichi , Yamashita Yoshihisa
Published: May 2010

OBJECTIVES: To characterize a comprehensive outline of the oral microflora related to pneumonia in older adults.

DESIGN: Prospective and retrospective longitudinal study.

SETTING: Community.

PARTICIPANTS: Long‐term hospitalized patients and people in nursing homes (343 subjects, aged ≥65).

MEASUREMENTS: Subjects were assessed at baseline for pneumonia‐related health problems. The flora of the tongue coating was characterized according to terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T‐RFLP) analysis. All subjects were followed prospectively for 6 months for a diagnosis of pneumonia. The number of febrile days (>37.5°C) was assessed in 299 subjects who were observed for 12 months (retrospectively for 6 months and prospectively for 6 months). The follow‐up data were analyzed using multivariate regression analyses in relation to the baseline data, including T‐RFLP patterns.

RESUTS: T‐RFLP patterns outlining the floral composition of the tongue coating were grouped into Clusters A, B, C, and D. According to Cox regression analysis, the subjects in Clusters C (hazard ratio (HR)=4.0, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.1–15.1) and D (HR=4.9, 95% CI=1.2–21.1) were at a significantly greater risk of pneumonia than those in Cluster A, independent of other confounding factors. Logistic regression analysis adjusting for the same covariates indicated that the number of subjects with more than 9 febrile days per year was significantly lower in Cluster A than in the other clusters.

CONCLUSION: The comprehensive microfloral profile of the tongue coating is closely related to pneumonia‐related health problems in institutionalized older adults.
Exceptional Parental Longevity Associated with Lower Risk of Alzheimer's Disease and Memory Decline
Authors: Lipton Richard B. , Hirsch Jamie , Katz Mindy J. , Wang Cuiling , Sanders Amy E. , Verghese Joe , Barzilai Nir , Derby Carol A.
Published: May 2010

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether offspring of parents with exceptional longevity (OPEL) have a lower rate of dementia than offspring of parents with usual survival (OPUS).

DESIGN: Community‐based prospective cohort study.

SETTING: Bronx, New York.

PARTICIPANTS: A volunteer sample of 424 community‐residing older adults without dementia aged 75 to 85 recruited from Bronx County starting in 1980 and followed for up to 23 years.

MEASUREMENTS: Epidemiological, clinical, and neuropsychological assessments were completed every 12 to 18 months. OPEL were defined as having at least one parent who reached the age of at least 85. OPUS were those for whom neither parent reached the age of 85. Dementia was diagnosed according to case conference consensus based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Third Edition, Revised, criteria without access to information on parental longevity. Alzheimer's disease was diagnosed using established criteria.

RESULTS: Of 424 subjects, 149 (35%) were OPEL, and 275 (65%) were OPUS. Mean age at entry for both groups was 79. The OPEL group had a lower incidence of Alzheimer's disease (hazard ratio=0.57, 95% confidence interval=0.35–0.93). After adjusting for sex, education, race, hypertension, myocardial infarction, diabetes mellitus, and stroke, results were essentially unchanged. OPEL also had a significantly lower rate of memory decline on the Selective Reminding Test (SRT) than OPUS (P=.03).

CONCLUSION: OPEL develop dementia and Alzheimer's disease at a significantly lower rate than OPUS. Demographic and medical confounders do not explain this result. Factors associated with longevity may protect against dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
Chewing Ability in Conjunction with Food Intake and Energy Status in Later Life Affects Survival in Taiwanese with the Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Lee Meei‐Shyuan , Huang Yi‐Chen , Wahlqvist Mark L.
Published: May 2010

OBJECTIVES: To examine chewing ability and survival in older adults after 8 years of follow‐up and consider any interaction with the metabolic syndrome (MetS).

DESIGN: Prospective cohort.

SETTING: The Elderly Nutrition and Health Survey in Taiwan during 1999/00, a nationally representative sample of Taiwanese aged 65 and older.

PARTICIPANTS: One thousand four hundred ten people (729 men and 681 women).

MEASUREMENTS: Chewing ability and food intake were ascertained using a questionnaire, supplemented by 24‐hour dietary recall. The MetS was defined according to National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria for Asians. Death according to the National Death Registry by December 31, 2006, was the outcome measure.

RESULTS: During follow‐up, 368 subjects died. A significantly higher age‐ and sex‐adjusted hazard ratio (HR=1.44, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.10–1.78, P=.009) for mortality was found in those who had unsatisfactory chewing ability. Age, sex, and appetite together explain the effect of chewing on mortality. Dietary diversity, body mass index, and health status may also play a role in mediating a possible mortality effect of chewing. Significant interactions between chewing ability and the MetS and mortality were found (P=.04 for five components and .006 for three energy‐related components). Jointly, those who had unsatisfactory chewing ability and the MetS were at higher risk of death than those who had satisfactory chewing ability without the MetS (HR=1.65, 95% CI=1.11–2.46 for 5 MetS components; HR=2.58, 95% CI=1.58–4.23 for 3 MetS components).

CONCLUSION: Self‐reported unsatisfactory chewing ability is associated with greater mortality risk in older adults, and MetS increases the risk of mortality in people with chewing difficulty.
Pulsed Radiofrequency V2 Treatment and Intranasal Sphenopalatine Ganglion Block: A Combination Therapy for Atypical Trigeminal Neuralgia
Authors: Nguyen Michelle , Wilkes Denise
Published: May 2010

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a chronic condition affecting the fifth cranial nerve and resulting in sporadic intense burning and shock‐like pain lasting for seconds to minutes that can be incapacitating to patients. Atypical TN includes additional features such as continuous pain and sensory disturbances in the area innervated by one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve. Documented cases of TN have dated back to the 18th century. Today, there are roughly 140,000 people suffering with this condition in the U.S.A. Conventional treatments for this disorder include medical management with nonconvulsants such as carbamazepine, which decrease the nerves response to peripheral stimulation. These agents have good initial pain relief, but relief rates fall off dramatically over the long‐term. Recently, methadone has shown promise as a pharmacologic adjunct to patients with intractable neuropathic noncancer pain, including patients suffering from TN. Cases refractory to medical management can be treated with surgical microdecompression or minimally invasive procedures such as radiofrequency (RF) treatment. Pulsed RF (PRF) is a method gaining interest as it is delivered in pulses, allowing adequate time for dissipation of heat and energy resulting in less damage to surrounding structures. This case report describes the successful treatment of atypical V2 TN refractive to medical management requiring PRF treatment, a sphenopalatine block series, and low‐dose methadone.
Intracardiac Echocardiography Improves Procedural Efficiency During Cryoballoon Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation: A Pilot Study
Authors: SCHMIDT MARTIN , DACCARETT MARCOS , MARSCHANG HARALD , RITSCHER GUIDO , TURSCHNER OLIVER , BRACHMANN JOHANNES , RITTGER HARALD
Published: May 2010

Intracardiac Echocardiography Guided Cryoballoon Ablation. Background: Cryoballoon ablation is increasingly used for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). This new technique aims to perform PVI safer and faster. However, procedure and fluoroscopy times were similar to conventional RF approaches. We compared ICE plus fluoroscopy versus fluoroscopy alone for anatomical guidance of PVI.

Methods: Forty‐three consecutive patients with paroxysmal AF were randomly assigned to ICE plus fluoroscopy (n = 22) versus fluoroscopy alone (n = 21) for guidance of cryoballoon PVI. A “single big balloon” procedure using a 28 mm cryoballoon was performed. The optimal ICE‐guided position of the cryoballoon was assessed by full ostial occlusion and loss of Doppler coded reflow to the left atrium (LA). Any further freezes were ICE‐guided only without use of fluoroscopy or contrast media injection.

Results: A total of 171 pulmonary veins could be visualized with ICE. 80% of ICE‐guided freezes were performed with excellent ICE quality. Acute procedural success and AF recurrence rate at 6 months were similar in both groups (AF recurrence: ICE‐guided = 27% vs Fluoroscopy = 33%; P = ns). Patients without ICE guidance had significantly longer procedure (143 ± 27 minutes vs 130 ± 19 minutes; P = 0.05) and fluoroscopy times (42 ± 13 minutes vs 26 ± 10, P = 0.01). The total amount of contrast used during the procedure was significantly lower in patients with ICE guidance (88 ± 31 mL vs 169 ± 38 mL, P < 0.001).

Conclusion: Additional ICE guidance appears to be associated with lower fluoroscopy, contrast, and procedure times, with similar efficacy rates. Specifically, ICE allows for better identification of the PV LA junction and more precise anatomically guided cryoballoon ablations. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1202‐1207, November 2010)
Predictors of Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence After Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation: A Systematic Review
Authors: BALK ETHAN M. , GARLITSKI ANN C. , ALSHEIKH‐ALI ALAWI A. , TERASAWA TERUHIKO , CHUNG MEI , IP STANLEY
Published: May 2010

AF Recurrence After RFA: Systematic Review. Introduction: The relationship between success of radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) and patient characteristics has not been systematically evaluated.

Methods and Results: We searched MEDLINE and Cochrane Central Trials Registry databases from 2000 through 2008 for studies reporting preprocedure predictors and AF recurrence after radiofrequency ablation. We extracted multivariable analyses and univariable data on predictors and AF recurrence. Eligible studies were highly heterogeneous, particularly regarding ablation technique and definition of AF recurrence. Among 25 studies with multivariable analyses, two‐thirds to 90% of studies found that AF type, ejection fraction, left atrial diameter, structural heart disease, hypertension, and AF symptom duration did not predict AF recurrence (among patients with ejection fraction above 40% and left atrial diameter below about 55 mm). Studies found that gender and age were not predictors (in patients between 40 and 70 years old). Meta‐analyses of univariable AF recurrence rates by AF type in 31 studies found that studies were statistically heterogeneous, but that nonparoxysmal AF predicted AF recurrence compared to paroxysmal AF (relative risk 1.59; 95% confidence interval 1.38–1.82; P < 0.001); meta‐analyses of persistent or permanent versus paroxysmal AF yielded similar findings.

Conclusion: Nonparoxysmal AF may be a clinically useful proxy for a combination of confounded variables, none of which alone is an independent predictor of AF recurrence. Evaluation of predictors was limited by exclusion of patients with severe heart disease or at the age extremes; thus, the evidence may not be as applicable to these populations. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1208‐1216, November 2010)
Catheter Ablation of Long‐Standing Persistent Atrial Fibrillation: A Lesson from Circumferential Pulmonary Vein Isolation
Authors: TILZ ROLAND RICHARD , CHUN K.R. JULIAN , SCHMIDT BORIS , FUERNKRANZ ALEXANDER , WISSNER ERIK , KOESTER ILKA , BAENSCH DIETMAR , BOCZOR SIGRID , KOEKTUERK BUELENT , METZNER ANDREAS , ZERM THOMAS , ERNST SABINE , ANTZ MATTHIAS , KUCK KARL‐HEINZ , OUYANG FEIFAN
Published: May 2010

Catheter Ablation of Long‐Standing Persistent AF. Introduction: Circumferential pulmonary vein isolation (CPVI) is associated with a high success rate in patients with paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). However, in patients with long‐standing persistent AF, the ideal ablation strategy still remains a matter of debate.

Methods and Results: Two‐hundred and five patients underwent catheter ablation for long‐standing persistent AF defined as continuous AF of more than 1‐year duration. In a first step, all patients underwent CPVI. If direct‐current cardioversion failed following CPVI, ablation of complex fractionated atrial electrograms (CFAEs) was performed. The goal was conversion into sinus rhythm (SR) or, alternatively, atrial tachycardia (AT) with subsequent ablation.

A total of 340 procedures were performed. CPVI alone was performed during 165 procedures in 124 of 205 (60.5%) patients. In the remaining 81 patients, additional CFAE ablation was performed in 45, left linear lesions for recurrent ATs in 44 and SVC isolation in 15 patients, respectively, resulting in inadvertent left atrial appendage isolation in 9 (4.4%) patients. After the initial ablation procedure, 67 of 199 patients remained in SR during a mean follow‐up of 19 ± 11 months. Six patients were lost to follow‐up. After a mean of 1.7 ± 0.8 procedures, 135 of 199 patients (67.8%) remained in SR. Eighty‐six patients (43.2%) remained in SR following CPVI performed as the sole ablative strategy.

Conclusions: CPVI alone is sufficient to restore SR in 43.2% of patients with long‐standing persistent AF. Multiple procedures and additional ablation strategies with a significant risk of inadvertent left atrial appendage isolation are often required to maintain stable SR. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1085‐1093)
Long‐Term Mechanical Consequences of Permanent Right Ventricular Pacing: Effect of Pacing Site
Authors: LEONG DARRYL P. , MITCHELL ANNE‐MARIE , SALNA INGRID , BROOKS ANTHONY G. , SHARMA GAUTAM , LIM HAN S. , ALASADY MUAYAD , BARLOW MALCOLM , LEITCH JAMES , SANDERS PRASHANTHAN , YOUNG GLENN D.
Published: May 2010

Optimal Right Ventricular Pacing Introduction: Long‐term right ventricular apical (RVA) pacing has been associated with adverse effects on left ventricular systolic function; however, the comparative effects of right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) pacing are unknown. Our aim was therefore to examine the long‐term effects of septal RVOT versus RVA pacing on left ventricular and atrial structure and function.

Methods: Fifty‐eight patients who were prospectively randomized to long‐term pacing either from the right ventricular apex or RVOT septum were studied echocardiographically. Left ventricular (LV) and atrial (LA) volumes were measured. LV 2D strain and tissue velocity images were analyzed to measure 18‐segment time‐to‐peak longitudinal systolic strain and 12‐segment time‐to‐peak systolic tissue velocity. Intra‐LV synchrony was assessed by their respective standard deviations. Interventricular mechanical delay was measured as the difference in time‐to‐onset of systolic flow in the RVOT and LV outflow tract. Septal A’ was measured using tissue velocity images.

Results: Following 29 ± 10 months pacing, there was a significant difference in LV ejection fraction (P < 0.001), LV end‐systolic volume (P = 0.007), and LA volume (P = 0.02) favoring the RVOT‐paced group over the RVA‐paced patients. RVA‐pacing was associated with greater interventricular mechanical dyssynchrony and intra‐LV dyssynchrony than RVOT‐pacing. Septal A’ was adversely affected by intra‐LV dyssynchrony (P < 0.05).

Conclusions: Long‐term RVOT‐pacing was associated with superior indices of LV structure and function compared with RVA‐pacing, and was associated with less adverse LA remodeling. If pacing cannot be avoided, the RVOT septum may be the preferred site for right ventricular pacing. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1120‐1126)
Successful daily home hemodialysis patient‐care partner dyads: Benefits outweigh burdens
Authors: WISE Meg , SCHATELL Dorian , KLICKO Kristi , BURDAN Amy , SHOWERS Mary
Published: May 2010

Understanding and communicating the benefits vs. burdens of short daily home hemodialysis (SDHD) is presumed to be important to the success of recruiting patients and care partners and preventing dropout. We conducted an in‐depth qualitative study of 13 patient and care partner couples (dyads) who completed at least 6 months of SDHD after at least 6 months of in‐center hemodialysis to inform strategies for screening, training, and support to improve SDHD retention. In this exploratory descriptive study, all patients reported better well‐being since starting SDHD. Considering the relationship and psychosocial factors, 4 profiles for dyadic coping emerged: (1) Thriving (n=5)—patients and care partners were flourishing; (2) Surviving (n=4)—strong couples were adjusting to challenges; (3) Martyrdom (n=3)—1 partner defers his/her needs and resentments to make SDHD work; and (4) Seeking another option (n=1)—patient unwilling to burden an anxious partner. Overall, patients who did more SDHD self‐care, particularly self‐cannulation, were more likely to thrive, regardless of dyad profile, and strong relationships tended to become stronger when faced with the challenge of SDHD. Training that was unhurried and valued care partners as well as patients, used a mix of learning strategies, and provided a home visit for the first home treatment was associated with Thriving dyads; training that was directive, inflexible, and focused on the patient at the expense of the partner was not. We recommend that centers screen dyads for relationship quality and integrate couple relationship education into SDHD training as required. Further, we recommend a large‐scale, multi‐center prospective study to test this model of how couple relationship and coping styles affect clinical outcomes and rates of continuation with SDHD.
Two New Diophrys‐Like Genera and Their Type Species, Apodiophrys ovalis n. g., n. sp. and Heterodiophrys zhui n. g., n. sp. (Ciliophora: Euplotida), with Notes on Their Molecular Phylogeny
Authors: JIANG JIAMEI , SONG WEIBO
Published: May 2010

ABSTRACT. Based on both morphological and molecular information, two new euplotid genera Apodiophrys n. g. and Heterodiophrys n. g. are described in the present paper. Apodiophrys n. g. is defined as sculptured Diophryinae with bipartite adoral zone; frontoventral cirri arranged in Diophrys‐pattern; marginal cirri located in two clearly separated groups. Heterodiophrys n. g. is recognizable by the combination of Diophrys‐like frontoventral cirri and the unique structure of several marginal cirri that are arranged in a long row. The type species for both new genera, Apodiophrys ovalis n. sp. and Heterodiophrys zhui n. sp., collected from southern China sea, are described. The small subunit rRNA (SSU rRNA) gene sequences for both new taxa are determined. Phylogenetic analyses based on these data indicate that Apodiophrys is most closely related to Paradiophrys, which then clusters with Uronychia species. Thus, Apodiophrys–Paradiophrys is separated from other typical Diophrys‐like genera in the SSU rRNA gene trees. The new genus Heterodiophrys is basal to the sister group of Diophrys–Diophryopsis, hence belongs to the “core”Diophrys‐complex.
In Situ Transmission Electron Microscopy of Electric Field‐Triggered Reversible Domain Formation in Bi‐Based Lead‐Free Piezoceramics
Authors: Kling Jens , Tan Xiaoli , Jo Wook , Kleebe Hans‐Joachim , Fuess Hartmut , Rödel Jürgen
Published: May 2010

A lead‐free piezoelectric 0.91(Bi1/2Na1/2)TiO3–0.06BaTiO3–0.03(K0.5Na0.5)NbO3 ceramic with high strain was examined in situ under an applied electric field using the transmission electron microscope. No domain structure is observed without an electric field, but an alternating electric field leads to the reversible formation of a lamellar domain structure. Correlations to polarization and strain hysteresis loop measurements indicate an electric field‐induced phase transition from a nonpolar to a ferroelectric state and vice versa.
On the Determination of Nucleation Rates in Glasses by Nonisothermal Methods
Authors: Cabral Aluisio A. , Fokin Vladimir M. , Zanotto Edgar D.
Published: May 2010

In this short communication, the experimental dependencies of Tx, Tg, and area, S, of the crystallization peak with previously crystallized volume fraction (before a DSC heating run) were investigated for two silicate glasses: Li2O·2SiO2 (LS2) and Na2O·2CaO·3SiO2 (N1C2S3).
Reduction of Viscosity of Alumina Nanopowder Aqueous Suspensions by the Addition of Polyalcohols and Saccharides
Authors: Yar Yasemin , Acar Funda Y. , Yurtsever Ersin , Akinc Mufit
Published: May 2010

Flow behavior of nanosize alumina suspensions in the presence of polyalcohols was investigated. Viscosity of high solids content (35 vol%) alumina nanopowders was measured at room temperature. It was shown that after the first advancing shear rate branch, viscosity measurements show excellent reproducibility. All the suspensions showed the formation of large clusters, which are broken down as shear rate increases indicating reversible cluster breaking and reforming. Viscosity of suspensions decreases dramatically with up to 10 wt% polyalcohol addition. Only ethylene glycol showed an increase in viscosity indicating no interaction with the particle surface. The addition of polyalcohols is believed to prevent the formation of large and/or strong clusters by modifying the alumina particle surface. The exact nature and quantitative description of viscosity reduction by polyalcohol addition have yet to be established.
The Crystalline Structure and Phase‐Transitional Behavior of (Li0.12Na0.88)(Nb1−x%Sbx%)O3 Lead‐Free Piezoelectric Ceramics with High Qm
Authors: Chen Qiang , Peng Zhihang , Liu Hong , Xiao Dingquan , Zhu Jiliang , Zhu Jianguo
Published: May 2010

Lead‐free piezoelectric ceramics with formula (Li0.12Na0.88) (Nb1−x%Sbx%)O3 were prepared by the conventional solid‐state reaction method. The effects of Sb5+ doped into (Li0.12Na0.88) NbO3 B site were studied. Within the selected compositional range, all the samples have a single perovskite structure. The crystal structure changed from rhombohedral to orthorhombic at x=1, and from orthorhombic to tetragonal symmetry at x=6. The presence of orthorhombic to tetragonal morphotropic phase boundary was proposed when 3<x<6. By substituting Sb5+ for Nb5+, dielectric property and impedance characteristic were enhanced, but the Curie temperature and the ferroelectricity were decreased. The optimum composition was x=3, for which the maximum value of the mechanical quality factor Qm was as high as 1780, piezoelectric constant d33 and Curie temperature Tc were 45 pC/N and 300°C, respectively.
One‐Step Synthesis of Zn to Single‐Phase Nanocrystalline ZnO by Solid–Liquid Reaction Ball Milling Assisted by Ultrasonic Wave
Authors: Chen Ding , Xiao Ting
Published: May 2010

Single‐phase ZnO nanoparticles were successfully prepared by solid–liquid reaction ball milling assisted by ultrasonic wave. The samples were characterized by X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. By the comparison of the as‐milled products with and without the help of ultrasonic wave, it is found that ultrasonic wave is a key factor promoting the transformation from Zn(OH)2 to ZnO. Based on hot‐spot theory, the formation mechanism of the single‐phase ZnO nanoparticles under ultrasonic wave assistance is determined.
An Empirical Analysis of 30 Years of U.S. Juvenile and Adult Sexual Homicide Offender Data: Race and Age Differences in the Victim–Offender Relationship
Authors: Chan Heng Choon (Oliver) , Myers Wade C. , Heide Kathleen M.
Published: May 2010

Abstract:  Little is known about the racial patterns of crimes committed by sexual homicide offenders (SHOs). This study examined race and age influences on victim–offender relationship for juvenile and adult SHOs. A large sample (N = 3868) from the Supplemental Homicide Reports (1976–2005) was used. Analyses of victim–offender patterns included examining victim age effects (child, adolescent, adult, and elderly). The findings revealed several race‐ and age‐based differences. Black offenders were significantly overrepresented in the SHO population. This finding held for juveniles and adults independently. White SHOs were highly likely to kill within their race, “intra‐racially” (range 91–100%) across four victim age categories, whereas Black SHOs killed both intra‐racially (range 24–82%) and inter‐racially (18–76%), with the likelihood of their killing inter‐racially increasing as the age of the victim increased. This study underscores the importance of considering victim–offender racial patterns in sexual murder investigations, and it offers practical implications for offender profiling.
Migration and technical efficiency in cereal production: evidence from Burkina Faso
Authors: Wouterse Fleur
Published: May 2010

This article uses a double bootstrap procedure and survey data from Burkina Faso in a two‐stage estimation to explore ways in which continental and intercontinental migration determine efficiency in cereal production of rural households. Findings suggest that continental migration has a positive relation and intercontinental migration no relation with technical efficiency. For continental migrant households, migration has removed surplus male labor, a cause for inefficiency in production. Intercontinental migration leads to a gender imbalance in the household, which cannot be compensated for by investments in farm equipment. The failure of intercontinental migration to transform cereal production from traditional to modern is attributed to an imperfect market environment.
Back‐scattered electron imaging and elemental analysis of retrieved bone tissue following sinus augmentation with deproteinized bovine bone or biphasic calcium phosphate
Authors: Lindgren Christer , Hallman Mats , Sennerby Lars , Sammons Rachel
Published: May 2010

Objectives: To compare resorption of a synthetic biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) bone–graft substitute with deproteinized bovine bone (DBB) used for human maxillary sinus augmentation.

Materials and methods: Eleven patients underwent bilateral maxillary sinus floor augmentation with DBB in one side and a BCP (40%β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) and 60% hydroxyapatite) in the contralateral side. Simultaneously, with the augmentation on each side a microimplant was placed vertically from the top of the alveolar crest penetrating the residual bone and the grafting material. Eight months after initial surgery the microimplants were retrieved with a surrounding bone core. The composition of residual graft material and surrounding bone was analysed by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy.

Results: Residual graft material of both types was present as 10–500 μm particles in direct contact with, or completely surrounded by, newly formed bone; smaller particles were also present in non‐mineralized tissue. In the case of BCP the bone–graft substitute interface showed evidence of superficial disintegration of particles into individual grains. Median Ca/P ratios (at.%), determined from >200 discreet sites within residual graft particles and adjacent bone, were: DBB: 1.61 (confidence interval [CI] 1.59–1.64); BCP: 1.5 (CI 1.45–1.52); DBB‐augmented bone: 1.62 (CI 1.59–1.66); BCP‐augmented bone: 1.52 (CI 1.47–1.55); P=0.028 for DBB vs. BCP and DBB‐ vs. BCP‐augmented bone. The reduction in Ca/P ratio for BCP over the healing period is consistent with the dissolution of β‐TCP and reprecipitation on the surface of calcium‐deficient hydroxyapatite.

Conclusion: The β‐TCP component of BCP may be gradually substituted by calcium‐deficient hydroxyapatite over the healing period. This process and superficial degranulation of BCP particles may influence the progress of resorption and healing.

To cite this article:
 Lindgren C, Hallman M, Sennerby L, Sammons R. Back‐scattered electron imaging and elemental analysis of retrieved bone tissue following sinus augmentation with deproteinized bovine bone or biphasic calcium phosphate. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 924–930. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2010.01933.x
A no‐contact vibration device for measuring implant stability
Authors: Hayashi Makoto , Kobayashi Chiaki , Ogata Hidehiro , Yamaoka Masaru , Ogiso Bunnai
Published: May 2010

Objectives: Monitoring implant stability is an important factor in determining the long‐term success rate of implants. Periotest values and resonance frequency analysis have been widely used for this purpose, but these indicators mainly reflect the mobility and/or stability of implants. Thus, a no‐contact electromagnetic vibration device was developed and tested for monitoring both tooth mobility and periodontal tissue conditions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of a no‐contact electromagnetic vibration device to measure implant stability under various peri‐implant conditions using mechanical parameters.

Material and methods: The device consisted of three components: the vibrator, detector, and analyzer. The mechanical parameters resonant frequency, elastic modulus, and coefficient of viscosity were used to measure simulated atrophic bone defects in periodontal tissues.

Results: The resonant frequency and the elastic modulus increased with an increase in supporting bone height. In contrast, the coefficient of viscosity decreased with bone height. Values for the three parameters for the formed urethane models were lower than those for the urethane models.

Conclusions: A no‐contact electromagnetic vibration device may be capable of monitoring implant stability, and mechanical parameters may be useful for assessing the condition of periodontal tissues around implants.

To cite this article:
 Hayashi M, Kobayashi C, Ogata H, Yamaoka M, Ogiso B. A no‐contact vibration device for measuring implant stability. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 931–936. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2010.01934.x
Assembly rules are rare in SE Australian bird communities, but sometimes apply in fragmented agricultural landscapes
Authors: Driscoll Don A. , Lindenmayer David B.
Published: May 2010

Assembly rules have been difficult to observe partly because species interactions vary with resource availability, the amount of disturbance, and species richness. Using bird survey data from two years in five regions of SE Australia (463 sites), we tested six predictions from assembly rules theory. We developed generalised linear models for all pair‐wise species comparisons within a region, after first taking vegetation differences among sites into account. We found: 1) that disturbed and fragmented agricultural landscapes had more negative relationships because aggressive honeyeaters monopolised patches; 2) differences between wet and dry years (high and low resources) were attributed to emigration, immigration, and reduced intensity of negative interactions in the dry year, and not to more intense competition; 3) although negative correlations were expected among ecologically‐similar species, we observed the opposite pattern with significant positive associations in fragmented landscapes; 4) relationships involving aggressive honeyeaters led to more negative relationships as predicted; however, this was only observed in fragmented landscapes and was not significant in every year; 5) in two agricultural landscapes, there were fewer negative relationships in low species‐richness sites, probably because one species from each pair had low abundance. This enabled us to suggest dominance relationships among species pairs; 6) there was evidence of more negative relationships in low‐disturbance sites in agricultural landscapes as predicted. However, instead of the mechanism predicted by theory (reduced disruption allowing assembly processes to approach equilibrium), we suggest that sites with low disturbance represent resources worthy of defence by dominant species. We conclude that bird communities in SE Australia are rarely limited by negative species interactions, although aggressive honeyeaters are a feature of fragmented landscapes. However, diverse mechanisms underlie the temporal and spatial variation in species interactions when they do occur, meaning that simple statements of assembly rules may not be useful in these systems.
Extinction debt on oceanic islands
Authors: Triantis Kostas A. , Borges Paulo A. V. , Ladle Richard J. , Hortal Joaquín , Cardoso Pedro , Gaspar Clara , Dinis Francisco , Mendonça Enésima , Silveira Lúcia M. A. , Gabriel Rosalina , Melo Catarina , Santos Ana M. C. , Amorim Isabel R. , Ribeiro Sérvio P. , Serrano Artur R. M. , Quartau José A. , Whittaker Robert J.
Published: May 2010

Habitat destruction is the leading cause of species extinctions. However, there is typically a time‐lag between the reduction in habitat area and the eventual disappearance of the remnant populations. These “surviving but ultimately doomed” species represent an extinction debt. Calculating the magnitude of such future extinction events has been hampered by potentially inaccurate assumptions about the slope of species–area relationships, which are habitat‐ and taxon‐specific. We overcome this challenge by applying a method that uses the historical sequence of deforestation in the Azorean Islands, to calculate realistic and ecologically‐adjusted species–area relationships. The results reveal dramatic and hitherto unrecognized levels of extinction debt, as a result of the extensive destruction of the native forest:>95%, in<600 yr. Our estimations suggest that more than half of the extant forest arthropod species, which have evolved in and are dependent on the native forest, might eventually be driven to extinction. Data on species abundances from Graciosa Island, where only a very small patch of secondary native vegetation still exists, as well as the number of species that have not been found in the last 45 yr, despite the extensive sampling effort, offer support to the predictions made. We argue that immediate action to restore and expand native forest habitat is required to avert the loss of numerous endemic species in the near future.
Lenalidomide plus dexamethasone vs. lenalidomide plus melphalan and prednisone: a retrospective study in newly diagnosed elderly myeloma
Authors: Gay Francesca , Vincent Rajkumar S. , Falco Patrizia , Kumar Shaji , Dispenzieri Angela , Petrucci Maria Teresa , Gertz Morie A. , Boccadoro Mario , Keith Stewart A. , Palumbo Antonio
Published: May 2010

Background:  The goal of this retrospective study was to compare the efficacy and toxicity of lenalidomide–dexamethasone (len/dex) vs. melphalan–prednisone–lenalidomide (MPR) as upfront therapy for newly diagnosed elderly patients with myeloma.

Methods:  Data from 51 patients enrolled in an Italian phase I/II trial and treated with MPR were analyzed and compared with data from 38 patients, seen at the Mayo Clinic, treated with len/dex and enrolled in phase II/III trials.

Results:  On intention‐to‐treat analysis, time to progression (median: 24.7 vs. 27.5 months in MPR and len/dex groups, respectively, P = 0.903), progression‐free survival (median: 24.7 vs. 27.5 months in MPR and len/dex groups, respectively, P = 0.926), and overall survival (2‐yr overall survival: 86.2% in MPR vs. 89.1% in len/dex, P = 0.730) were not significantly different between the two groups. Results were confirmed when the analysis was restricted to MPR and len/dex matched pair mates. Hematologic grade 3–4 toxicities were more common with MPR (neutropenia: 66.7% vs. 21.1%, P < 0.001; thrombocytopenia: 31.4% vs. 2.6%, P < 0.001). Grade 3–4 gastrointestinal events (13.2% vs. 3.9%, P = 0.132), thrombotic events (13.2% vs. 5.9%, P = 0.279), and fatigue (10.5% vs. 3.9%, P = 0.395) were more common with len/dex.

Conclusions:  Results show that both MPR and len/dex are efficacious regimens for elderly patients with myeloma. Randomized trials are needed to confirm these results.
Activity budget of inshore Indo‐Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus): A critical evaluation of methods and comparison among other populations
Authors: Steiner Aude
Published: May 2010

Abstract

Activity budgets are widely used to compare behavior patterns but sampling methods vary, rendering comparisons difficult. The two main methods used are instantaneous and continuous sampling. Their comparability was examined by applying them to data obtained from bottlenose dolphins in the Port River estuary, South Australia. They gave comparable results for activity budgets, but instantaneous sampling did not detect most of the behavioral events. Individual differences in behavior and/or follow duration influenced results. Variability in activity definitions and categories among studies makes comparative analysis difficult. Comparison of the Port River dolphin's activity budget with other inshore populations indicated the former spent more time feeding and resting, and less time traveling. The greater feeding time seemed to be due to small prey size rather than reduced abundance or unpredictable distribution. The reduced traveling time, possibly the result of low predation pressure and/or evenly distributed prey, gave them more time to rest. They traveled mostly at 2.5 kn or less, consistent with studies from other shallow areas. Most feeding was individual, probably on demersal species. Surface feeding incorporated physical barriers rather than cooperative behavior. Activity durations ranged from 2 s to 2.9 h, with mean durations varying from 7.8 to 22.9 min.
Dose‐Related Effect of Aspirin on Laboratory‐Defined Platelet Aggregation and Clinical Outcome After Coronary Stenting
Authors: Kojuri Javad , Mahmoody Yadollah , Sabegh Bardia Zangbar , Jannati Mansoor , Mahboodi Ali , Khalili Andia
Published: May 2010

Background: Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) is widely used in the secondary prevention of coronary artery disease. There is controversy regarding the prevalence of aspirin resistance in patients with coronary artery disease and the effect of dose on resistance. Our primary aims were to determine the degree of platelet responsiveness to aspirin, and to study the influence of dose on platelet inhibition and clinical outcomes after coronary stenting. Methods and Results: We prospectively studied the effect of aspirin on platelet function in 106 stable outpatients 6 months after successful percutaneous coronary angioplasty. Participants were randomized in a double‐blind, double‐crossover study (80 or 500 mg per day for 6 months). The platelet response to aspirin was determined by 10 μmol/L adenosine‐5‐diphosphate‐induced aggregation with light transmission aggregometry. The clinical outcome was determined by single photon emission computed tomography with Tc‐99m, and major adverse cardiac events were recorded (myocardial infarction, death, unstable angina or need for revascularization). In both groups 30.2% of the participants were resistant to aspirin. There was no significant difference between the dose of 80 mg compared to 500 mg aspirin in the incidence of aspirin resistance (P= 0.3). No correlation was found between aspirin resistance and clinical outcome (P= 0.4). Female sex and smoking were strongly associated with aspirin resistance. Conclusion: The frequency of aspirin resistance is not dependent on the dose of aspirin. Female sex and smoking were the strongest predictors of aspirin resistance. Aspirin resistance is not a predictor of poor clinical outcome in patients who received double antiplatelet therapy.
Impact melting in the Cumberland Falls and Mayo Belwa aubrites
Authors: RUBIN Alan E.
Published: May 2010

Abstract– Six chondritic clasts in the Cumberland Falls polymict breccia were examined: four texturally resemble ordinary chondrites (OCs) and two are impact melt breccias containing shocked OC clasts adjacent to a melt matrix. The six chondritic clasts are probably remnants of a single OC projectile that was heterogeneously shocked when it collided with the Cumberland Falls host. Mayo Belwa is the first known aubrite impact melt breccia. It contains coarse enstatite grains exhibiting mosaic extinction; the enstatite grains are surrounded by a melt matrix composed of 3–16 μm‐size euhedral and subhedral enstatite grains embedded in sodic plagioclase. Numerous vugs, ranging from a few micrometers to a few millimeters in size, constitute ∼5 vol% of the meteorite. They occur nearly exclusively within the Mayo Belwa matrix; literature data show that some vugs are lined with bundles of acicular grains of the amphibole fluor‐richterite. This phase has been reported previously in only two other enstatite meteorites (Abee and St. Sauveur), both of which are EH‐chondrite impact melt breccias. It seems likely that in Mayo Belwa, volatiles were vaporized during an impact event and formed bubbles in the melt. As the melt solidified, the bubbles became cavities; plagioclase and fluor‐richterite crystallized at the margins of these cavities via reaction of the melt with the vapor.
The Berduc L6 chondrite fall: Meteorite characterization, trajectory, and orbital elements
Authors: TRIGO‐RODRÍGUEZ Josep M. , LLORCA Jordi , MADIEDO José M. , TANCREDI Gonzalo , EDWARDS Wayne N. , RUBIN Alan E. , WEBER Patrick
Published: May 2010

Abstract– The fall of the Berduc meteorite took place on April 7, 2008, at 01 h 02 min 28 s ± 1 s UTC. A daylight fireball was witnessed by hundreds of people from Argentina and Uruguay, and also recorded by an infrasound array in Paraguay. From the available data, the fireball trajectory and radiant have been reconstructed with moderate accuracy. The modeled trajectory was tested to fit the infrasound and strewn field data. From the computed apparent radiant α = 87 ± 2° and δ = −11 ± 2° and taking into account a range of plausible initial velocities, we obtained a range of orbital solutions. All of them suggest that the progenitor meteoroid originated from the main asteroid belt and followed an orbit of low inclination. Based on petrography, mineral chemistry, magnetic susceptibility, and bulk chemistry, the Berduc meteorite is classified as an L6 ordinary chondrite.
Spatial distribution of organic matter in the Bells CM2 chondrite using near‐field infrared microspectroscopy
Authors: KEBUKAWA Yoko , NAKASHIMA Satoru , ISHIKAWA Michio , AIZAWA Kento , INOUE Tsutomu , NAKAMURA‐MESSENGER Keiko , ZOLENSKY Michael E.
Published: May 2010

Abstract– Distributions of organic functional groups as well as inorganic features were analyzed in the Bells (CM2) carbonaceous chondrite using near‐field infrared (NFIR) spectroscopy. NFIR spectroscopy has recently been developed to enable infrared spectral mapping beyond the optical diffraction limit of conventional Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy. NFIR spectral mapping of the Bells 300 nm thick sections on Al plates for 7.5 × 7.5 μm2 areas showed some C‐H‐rich areas which were considered to represent the organic‐rich areas. Heterogeneous distributions of organic matter as well as those of inorganic phases such as silicates (Si‐O) were observed with 1 μm spatial resolution. The NFIR mappings of aliphatic C‐H (2960 and 2930 cm−1) and structural OH (3650 cm−1) confirm that organic matter is associated with phyllosilicates as previously suggested. The NFIR mapping method can provide 1 μm spatial distribution of organic functional groups and their association with minerals. High local sensitivity of NFIR enables us to find organic‐rich areas and to characterize them by their aliphatic CH2/CH3 ratios. The aliphatic CH2/CH3 ratio of Bells is slightly higher than Murchison, similar to Orgueil, and lower than literature values of IDPs and cometary dust particles.
Fabrication of gated CuO nanowire field emitter arrays for application in field emission display
Authors: Zhan R. Z. , Chen Jun , Deng S. Z. , Xu N. S.
Published: May 2010

Using nanowire field emitters can be a way to overcome the high cost of field emission display using Spindt-type tip arrays. How to integrate nanowire emitters into the field emission display device structure without influencing the device structure is an important issue. In this study, a gated CuO nanowire field emitter arrays were fabricated by a microfabrication process. By using a thermal oxidation process, the CuO nanowire field emitter arrays are prepared from copper thin film pads defined in a planar-gate structure. Effective emission current modulation by the gate voltage is achieved. Using a green phosphor screen as anode, a brightness of 92 cd/m2 was obtained at an anode voltage of 4.5 kV and a gate voltage of 120 V when operating under direct current mode. A vacuum-packaged field emission display using CuO nanowire field emitter arrays was also fabricated and display of moving images was demonstrated. The reported technique could be a promising route to achieved large area field emission display with high resolution display at low cost.
Listeria monocytogenes
σ
B
Has a Small Core Regulon and a Conserved Role in Virulence but Makes Differential Contributions to Stress Tolerance across a Diverse Collection of Strains
Authors: Oliver H. F. , Orsi R. H. , Wiedmann M. , Boor K. J.
Published: May 2010

Listeria monocytogenes
strains are classified in at least three distinct phylogenetic lineages. There are correlations between lineage classification and source of bacterial isolation; e.g., human clinical and food isolates usually are classified in either lineage I or II. However, human clinical isolates are overrepresented in lineage I, while food isolates are overrepresented in lineage II. σ
B
, a transcriptional regulator previously demonstrated to contribute to environmental stress responses and virulence in
L. monocytogenes
lineage II strains, was hypothesized to provide differential abilities for
L. monocytogenes
survival in various niches (e.g., food and human clinical niches). To determine if the contributions of σ
B
to stress response and virulence differ across diverse
L. monocytogenes
strains, Δ
sigB
mutations were created in strains belonging to lineages I, II, IIIA, and IIIB. Paired parent and Δ
sigB
mutant strains were tested for survival under acid and oxidative stress conditions, Caco-2 cell invasion efficiency, and virulence using the guinea pig listeriosis infection model. Parent and Δ
sigB
mutant strain transcriptomes were compared using whole-genome expression microarrays. σ
B
contributed to virulence in each strain. However, while σ
B
contributed significantly to survival under acid and oxidative stress conditions and Caco-2 cell invasion in lineage I, II, and IIIB strains, the contributions of σ
B
were not significant for these phenotypes in the lineage IIIA strain. A core set of 63 genes was positively regulated by σ
B
in all four strains; different total numbers of genes were positively regulated by σ
B
in the strains. Our results suggest that σ
B
universally contributes to
L. monocytogenes
virulence but specific σ
B
-regulated stress response phenotypes vary among strains.
Highly Discriminatory Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism Interrogation of
Escherichia coli
by Use of Allele-Specific Real-Time PCR and eBURST Analysis
Authors: Sheludchenko Maxim S. , Huygens Flavia , Hargreaves Megan H.
Published: May 2010

In total, 782
Escherichia
coli
strains originating from various host sources have been analyzed in this study by using a highly discriminatory single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) approach. A set of eight SNPs, with a discrimination value (Simpson's index of diversity [
D
]) of 0.96, was determined using the Minimum SNPs software, based on sequences of housekeeping genes from the
E. coli
multilocus sequence typing (MLST) database. Allele-specific real-time PCR was used to screen 114
E. coli
isolates from various fecal sources in Southeast Queensland (SEQ). The combined analysis of both the MLST database and SEQ
E. coli
isolates using eight high-
D
SNPs resolved the isolates into 74 SNP profiles. The data obtained suggest that SNP typing is a promising approach for the discrimination of host-specific groups and allows for the identification of human-specific
E. coli
in environmental samples. However, a more diverse
E. coli
collection is required to determine animal- and environment-specific
E. coli
SNP profiles due to the abundance of human
E. coli
strains (56%) in the MLST database.