bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sominone enhances neurite outgrowth and spatial memory mediated by the neurotrophic factor receptor, RET
Authors: Tohda Chihiro , Joyashiki Eri
Published: July 2009

Background and purpose:  Orally administered withanoside IV (a compound isolated from the roots of Withania somnifera) improved memory deficits in mice with a model of Alzheimer's disease induced by the amyloid peptide Aβ(25‐35). Sominone, an aglycone of withanoside IV, was identified as an active metabolite after oral administration of withanoside IV. We aimed to identify receptors or associated molecules of sominone, and to investigate the effects of sominone on memory in normal mice.

Experimental approach:  Phosphorylation levels of 71 molecules were compared between control and sominone‐stimulated cortical cultured cells to search for target molecules of sominone. Object location memory and neurite density in the brain were evaluated in sominone‐injected mice.

Key results:  Phosphorylation of RET (a receptor for the glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor, GDNF) was increased in neurons by sominone, without affecting the synthesis and secretion of GDNF. Knockdown of RET prevented sominone‐induced outgrowths of axons and dendrites. After a single i.p. injection of sominone into normal mice, they could better memorize scenery information than control mice. Sixty minutes after sominone injection, RET phosphorylation was increased, particularly in the hippocampus of mice. After the memory tests, the densities of axons and dendrites were increased in the hippocampus by sominone administration.

Conclusions and implications:  Sominone could reinforce the morphological plasticity of neurons by activation of the RET pathway and thus enhance memory. Sominone, a compound with low molecular weight, may be a GDNF‐independent stimulator of the RET pathway and/or a novel modulator of RET signalling.
Deficiency in calcineurin activity in liver transplantation candidates with alcoholic cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Blanchet Benoit , Hurtova Monika , Roudot‐Thoraval Françoise , Costentin Charlotte E. , Barrault Camille , Jouault Hèlène , Medkour Fathia , Laurent Alexis , Duvoux Christophe , Hulin Anne
Published: July 2009

Background: Tacrolimus and cyclosporin inhibits the activity of calcineurin, a serine/threonine phosphatase that is involved in many physiological and pathological pathways. However, the baseline calcineurin phosphatase activity (CPA) measured before the transplant is unknown. In this study, we determine baseline CPA in liver transplant (LT) candidates and explore some factors that might modify it.

Patients and methods: Thirty‐two consecutive LT candidates (25 men, seven women, average age 53.4 years) were included. Seven millilitres of whole blood was collected from each patient. CPA was determined in lymphocytes quantifying a dephosphorylated peptide phosphorylated previously (D‐L‐D‐V‐P‐I‐P‐G‐R‐F‐D‐R‐R‐V‐S‐V‐A‐A‐E) by high‐performance liquid chromatography. The relationship between CPA and the quantitative variables was tested according to Pearson's correlation. A two‐way analysis of variance was performed to test the independent role of categorical parameters in CPA.

Results: The median CPA was significantly lower in LT candidates than in healthy volunteers [179.2 (146.9–226.3) vs 247.8 (220.9–292.5) pmol/min/106 peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC), respectively, P=0.0002]. CPA was also significantly lower in alcoholic cirrhosis (152.2 vs 211.1 pmol/min/106 PBMC, P=0.04) and in the presence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (152.0 vs 213.5 pmol/min/106 PBMC, P=0.0074) compared with other liver diseases. A two‐way analysis of variance showed that these parameters were independently associated with lower CPA (P=0.05 for alcohol and P=0.0056 for HCC respectively).

Conclusion: This pilot study showed a lower CPA in patients with AC and HCC. This phenomenon may contribute towards lowering the risk of acute rejection in these patients after LT and, on the other hand, may increase the risk of de novo cancers.
Language Shift, Gender, and Ideologies of Modernity in Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: Smith‐Hefner Nancy J.
Published: July 2009

This article explores the shift away from formal styles of Javanese to the use of the national language, Indonesian, within the context of new educational and social opportunities for Javanese youth. It focuses on gender differences in language attitudes and considers how socialization and cultural ideologies regarding men's and women's relationship to language shape those attitudes. Recent changes in possibilities for social and status mobility linked to language use have challenged traditional language ideologies and have led Javanese men and women to develop different language strategies and patterns of interaction. A new subjective concern with emotional and interpersonal expressivity among youth—particularly among young women—is identified as an important mediating valence in the shift to varieties of Indonesian identified as more “communicative” and “participatory.” [Indonesia, language shift, gender, ideologies of modernity]
Ritual and (im)moral voices: Locating the Testament of Judas in Sakapultek communicative ecology
Authors: SHOAPS ROBIN ANN
Published: July 2009

In this article, I examine el Testamento de Judas (the Testament of Judas), an annual letter “from” Judas Iscariot to the townspeople of Sacapulas, Guatemala. Drawing on a conceptual framework that synthesizes Bakhtinian concepts of voice and speech genres, I argue that the characteristics of the Testament of Judas serve to create idealized “voices” that reflect stances toward its content and audience. Furthermore, I demonstrate that the Testament can only be understood against the backdrop of Sakapultek Maya communicative ecology, including ritual wedding counsels, which constitute the Testament's moral instructional complement, and the quotidian genre of “gossip–scolding.”[voice, genre, moral discourse, ritual, Maya, Judas, Guatemala]
Four kinds of authenticity? Regarding Nicaraguan pottery in Scandinavian museums, 2006–08
Authors: FIELD LES W.
Published: July 2009

Since the late 1970s, ceramics producers in the Nicaraguan village of San Juan de Oriente have repeatedly transformed both the design of and the technology for making their products. Different types of Scandinavian museums exhibited the most recent form of San Juanense pottery in 2006–08, which provided me with an opportunity to reflect on the history and character of the pottery in light of my own involvement with its producers since the early 1980s. This article unpacks those reflections in terms of the discourse of authenticity that anthropologists have elaborated over the past three decades. [multiple forms of authenticity, ceramics production, artisan communities, San Juan de Oriente, Nicaragua, role of anthropology, systems of value]
Blood and desire: The secret of heteronormativity in adoption narratives of culture
Authors: DOROW SARA , SWIFFEN AMY
Published: July 2009

In this article, we use narratives of cultural identity among U.S. parents of children adopted from China to conceptually explore the ideas that underwrite socially intelligible kinship. Although these narratives address the cultural heritage of the child, we find that they also perform a kind of social labor. The ways adoptive parents respond to the “culture question” (their children's birth heritage) also speak to family identity in relation to a foundational imaginary of heteronormative kinship, namely, the equivalence of biological and social family origins. We assert that the “secret” of socially intelligible kinship is revealed in the shifting meanings of blood and social desire in ideas of kinship, which has important implications for new kinship studies as well as for adoption scholarship. [kinship, heteronormativity, adoption, culture, race, desire]
Field‐Assisted Densification of Superhard B6O Materials with Y2O3/Al2O3 Addition
Authors: Herrmann Mathias , Kleebe Hans‐Joachim , Raethel Jan , Sempf Kerstin , Lauterbach Stefan , Müller Mathis M. , Sigalas Iakovos
Published: July 2009

B6O is a possible candidate of superhard materials with a hardness of 45 GPa measured on single crystals. Up to now, densification of these materials was only possible at high pressure. However, recently it was found that Al2O3 can be utilized as an effective sintering additive, similar to the addition of Y2O3/Al2O3 that was used in this work. The densification behavior of the material as a function of applied pressure, its microstructure evolution, and the resulting mechanical properties were investigated. A strong dependence of the densification with increasing pressure was found. The material revealed characteristic triple junctions filled with amorphous residue composed of B2O3, Al2O3, and Y2O3, while no amorphous grain‐boundary films were observed along internal interfaces. Mechanical testing revealed on average a hardness of 33 GPa, a fracture toughness of 4 MPa·m1/2, and a strength value of 520 MPa.
Physiologic Effects of the TASER After Exercise
Authors: Vilke Gary M. , Sloane Christian M. , Suffecool Amanda , Kolkhorst Fred W. , Neuman Tom S. , Castillo Edward M. , Chan Theodore C.
Published: July 2009

Objectives: Incidents of sudden death following TASER exposure are poorly studied, and substantive links between TASER exposure and sudden death are minimal. The authors studied the effects of a single TASER exposure on markers of physiologic stress in humans.

Methods: This prospective, controlled study evaluated the effects of a TASER exposure on healthy police volunteers after vigorous exercise, compared to a subsequent, identical exercise session that was not followed by TASER exposure. Subjects exercised to 85% of predicted heart rate (HR) on an ergometer and then were given a standard 5‐second TASER activation. Measures before and for 60 minutes after the TASER activation included minute ventilation, tidal volume, respiratory rate, end‐tidal pCO2, oxygen saturation, HR, blood pressure (systolic BP/diastolic BP), 12‐lead electrocardiogram, and arterialized blood for pH, pO2, pCO2, and lactate. Each subject repeated the exercise and data collection session on a subsequent data, without TASER activation. Data were analyzed using paired Student’s t‐tests with differences and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Statistical significance was adjusted for multiple comparisons.

Results: A total of 25 officers (21 men and 4 women) completed both portions of the study. After adjusting for multiple comparisons, the TASER group was significantly higher for systolic BP at baseline (difference of 14.1, 95% CI = 8.7 to 19.5, p < 0.001) and HR at 5, 30, and 60 minutes with the largest difference at 30 minutes (difference of 7.0, 95% CI = 2.5 to 11.5, p = 0.004). There were no other significant differences between the two groups in any other measure at any time.

Conclusions: A 5‐second exposure of a TASER following vigorous exercise to healthy law enforcement personnel does not result in clinically significant changes in ventilatory or blood parameters of physiologic stress.
Birth‐cohort and dual diagnosis effects on age‐at‐onset in Brazilian patients with bipolar I disorder
Authors: Da Silva Magalhães P. V. , Gomes F. A. , Kunz M. , Kapczinski F.
Published: July 2009

Objective:  Substance use disorders and birth‐cohort have been associated with an earlier onset in bipolar disorder (BD). This study aimed at evaluating the inter‐relations of these factors in age‐at‐onset in bipolar illness.

Method:  Two‐hundred and thirty patients with bipolar I disorder were cross‐sectionally evaluated. Patients were categorized into four age groups for analysis. Lifetime comorbidity and age‐at‐onset were derived from the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐IV.

Results:  There was a strong linear association between age group and age‐at‐onset. Lifetime alcohol and drug use disorders were also associated with age‐at‐onset. Illicit drug and alcohol use disorders and age group remained significant in the multivariate model. No interactions appeared.

Conclusion:  Both age group and dual diagnoses had strong and independent impacts on age‐at‐onset in out‐patients with BD. Substance abuse may be partly accountable for earlier symptom onset, but other features of BD in younger generations are still in need to be accounted for.
TMPRSS2:ERG fusion transcripts in urine from prostate cancer patients correlate with a less favorable prognosis
Authors: ROSTAD KARI , HELLWINKEL OLAF J. C. , HAUKAAS SVEIN A. , HALVORSEN OLE J. , ØYAN ANNE M. , HAESE ALEXANDER , BUDÄUS LARS , ALBRECHT HEIKO , AKSLEN LARS A. , SCHLOMM THORSTEN , KALLAND KARL‐HENNING
Published: July 2009

Rostad K, Hellwinkel OJC, Haukaas SA, Halvorsen OJ, Øyan AM, Haese A, Budäus L, Albrecht H, Akslen LA, Schlomm T, Kalland K‐H. TMPRSS2:ERG fusion transcripts in urine from prostate cancer patients correlate with a less favorable prognosis. APMIS 2009; 117: 575–82.

The transcription factor ERG is highly upregulated in the majority of prostate cancers due to chromosomal fusion of the androgen responsive promoter of TMPRSS2 to the ERG reading frame. Our aim was to identify this gene fusion in urine samples from prostate cancer patients prior to radical treatment and to compare fusion status with clinicopathological variables. Urine fractions from 55 patients (with and without prior prostatic massage) were analyzed for the presence of TMPRSS2:ERG isoforms using real‐time qPCR. Sixty‐nine percent of urine samples following prostatic massage were positive for TMPRSS2:ERG isoforms a or b, five out of which were positive for both, vs 24% of samples obtained without prior massage. Isoform a seems to be most prevalent and some patients may be positive for more than one fusion variant, reflecting the multifocality of prostate cancer. Prostatic massage prior to sampling, analysis of pelleted urine material and detection of cDNA provided the highest sensitivity. Positive statistical correlations were identified between TMPRSS2:ERG fusion and high s‐PSA, pathological stage and Gleason score. Our findings contribute to the increasing elucidation of the role of TMPRSS2:ERG in the development of prostate cancer.
Longitudinal study of TP53 mutations in eight patients with potentially malignant oral mucosal disorders
Authors: Ögmundsdóttir H. M. , Hilmarsdóttir H. , Björnsson J. , Holbrook W. P.
Published: July 2009

Objectives:  In a previous cross‐sectional study, the authors found a higher rate of TP53 mutation in oral lichen planus (OLP) than in hyperkeratosis. By analysing for TP53 mutations in serial samples from patients on long‐term follow‐up of their oral lesions, it was hoped to determine if these mutations were related to disease progression.

Methods:  Eight patients presenting with lesions diagnosed clinically as oral leukoplakia or lichen planus were followed from 2 to 12 years. Two to five samples of archival biopsy tissue were analysed from each patient by constant denaturant gradient gel electrophoresis for hotspots A, B, C, D and exon 6.

Results:  Four patients were diagnosed clinically as OLP: two of these were confirmed histopathologically, one was diagnosed as non‐specific hyperkeratosis and one as cancer. Four patients had leukoplakia only, with a histopathological diagnosis of hyperkeratosis. Seven patients had TP53 mutations, three of them on repeated occasions. All five patients who developed squamous‐cell carcinoma had mutations. Two of them had mutated pre‐malignant lesions, and one of these previously had a non‐mutated cancer. Three patients had two different primary cancers, only one of them mutated. One patient developed a mutated cancer 5 years after the last mutation‐free biopsy. Of the cancer‐free patients, a lesion regarded clinically as cancer‐suspicious in one case was mutated, in another patient two OLP lesions were mutated, the third had five biopsies taken during 8 years, all non‐mutated.

Conclusions:  TP53 mutations may occur early or late in the development of oral squamous‐cell carcinoma.
Evaluation of myofibroblasts in oral epithelial dysplasia and squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Etemad‐Moghadam S. , Khalili M. , Tirgary F. , Alaeddini M.
Published: July 2009

Background:  Carcinogenesis is accompanied by a number of changes in the adjacent stroma including the appearance of myofibroblasts. The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the presence of myofibroblasts in normal mucosa, oral epithelial dysplasia, and different grades of oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Methods:  The study sample consisted of three groups, including 40 oral squamous cell carcinomas, 15 dysplasias, and 15 sections of normal oral epithelium. Vimentin, desmin, and alpha‐smooth muscle actin were used to identify myofibroblasts.

Results:  The percentage and intensity of alpha‐smooth muscle actin were examined, and positive immunostaining was observed in the myofibroblasts of all squamous cell carcinomas; however these cells did not stain in the dysplasias or normal epithelium specimens. The presence of myofibroblasts was significantly higher in oral squamous cell carcinomas compared to both, dysplasias and normal mucosa cases (P < 0.001). A significant difference was not observed between the different grades of oral squamous cell carcinoma (P = 0.2).

Conclusions:  These findings show the presence of myofibroblasts in the stroma of oral squamous cell carcinoma but not dysplasia and normal mucosa, suggesting further investigation to clarify the role of myofibroblasts in the carcinogenesis of this tumor.
Laminin‐511 and fibronectin degradation with Candida yeast
Authors: Pärnänen Pirjo , Meurman Jukka H. , Virtanen Ismo
Published: July 2009

Background:  The invasion mechanism of Candida yeast is still partly unknown. In this study, we tested the ability of different commensal Candida yeast to degrade two basement membrane and extracellular matrix proteins: laminin‐511 (Lm‐511) and plasma fibronectin.

Methods:  Human Lm‐511 was produced by an immortal keratinocyte cell line, labelled with 35S‐methionine and immunoprecipitated from the growth medium with monoclonal antibodies. Human plasma fibronectin was purified from plasma samples of blood donors. Sonicated yeast cells and concentrated yeast cell growth media were incubated with Lm‐511 in different pH values and the degradation was detected by fluorography. Fibronectin degradation by yeast was visualized by sodium dodecyl‐sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.

Results:  The reduced 220 kDa fibronectin monomers were found to be degraded at pH 7.8 by 10× concentrated growth media of most strains tested and at pH 3.0 the degradation was more pronounced. Sonicated cell fractions of C. tropicalis and C. parapsilosis caused degradation of plasma fibronectin at pH 7.8. Instead, none of the tested Candida cell fractions degraded Lm‐511 under these conditions.

Conclusions:  It seems that cleavage of different laminin isoforms by Candida yeast is a laminin‐specific process. The ability to cleave human plasma fibronectin is species‐ and pH‐dependent but not hyphal‐dependent and also this degradation may affect epithelial integrity.
The prognostic significance of histological features in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Larsen S. R. , Johansen J. , Sørensen J. A. , Krogdahl A.
Published: July 2009

Background:  Different factors predict nodal metastasis, recurrence and survival in oral cancer. The aim was to assess the prognostic value of histological features related to the primary tumour.

Methods:  A total of 144 patients surgically treated at Odense University Hospital for oral cancer between 1999 and 2004 were included in the study. Postoperative radiation therapy was given in case of close and involved margins or high TNM stages (UICC 1997). Median follow‐up time was 38 months. All surgical resections were reviewed and 22 histological characteristics were assessed.

Results:  The predominant sites were floor of mouth (FOM, 39%) and lateral tongue (35%). Fifty‐nine per cent had UICC97 stage I–II disease. Five‐year cause‐specific survival was observed in 65%. Nodal involvement at diagnosis was observed in 36% which was significantly related to grade, neural and vascular invasion; surgical margins and increasing tumour depth. A cut‐off value of 2 mm (4 mm for FOM) separated patients without and with nodal metastasis at the time of diagnosis. However, on multivariate analysis, neck disease was only associated with tumour depth and grade. Cox analysis of local recurrence in the oral cavity over time showed that tumour diameter and surgical margins were significant predictors while cause‐specific survival was related to diameter, depth of invasion, surgical margins and extracapsular spread (ECS).

Conclusions:  Tumour depth and grade were strong prognostic factors for nodal metastasis, independently of other histological features. Tumour diameter and margins independently predict local recurrences in the oral cavity as well as cause‐specific survival. Nodal involvement and ECS were associated with adverse prognosis.
A simple technique for estimating daily ambient erythemal ultraviolet from the ultraviolet index
Authors: Diffey Brian
Published: July 2009

A simple method is described that allows the estimation of daily ambient erythemal ultraviolet exposure from the ultraviolet index. The estimation can be performed quickly using only a calculator (or even mental arithmetic) and is applicable in those situations where access to computers and the internet is not feasible.
Intrinsic, solar and sunbed‐induced skin aging measured in vivo by multiphoton laser tomography and biophysical methods
Authors: Koehler Martin Johannes , Preller Anja , Kindler Nadja , Elsner Peter , König Karsten , Bückle Rainer , Kaatz Martin
Published: July 2009

Background: Skin aging is accelerated by extrinsic factors, particularly actinic damage. Over the last decades, both clinical and pathological differences between intrinsic and actinic aging have been characterized. In this work, we aimed at quantifying skin aging by non‐invasive in vivo methods.

Methods: Young healthy volunteers using indoor tanning facilities and aged people were compared with appropriate controls by measurements of skin elasticity with the Cutometer and the Reviscometer and by semi‐quantitative evaluation of the dermal matrix composition by the multiphoton laser tomograph DermaInspect.

Results: We found differences between the sun‐protected volar forearm and the dorsal side as well as between young and old test persons with all three methods. No significant differences were found between the skin of indoor‐tanned test persons and control. Also, gender had no influence on the severity of skin aging.

Conclusion: The most consistent results were obtained with the DermaInspect. The considerable inter‐individual variation due to the cross‐sectional design of the study may have disguised the factual skin damage caused by tanning beds.
REVIEW ARTICLE: Epigenetics in the Placenta
Authors: Maccani Matthew A. , Marsit Carmen J.
Published: July 2009

Epigenetics is focused on understanding the control of gene expression beyond what is encoded in the sequence of DNA. Central to growing interest in the field is the hope that more can be learned about the epigenetic regulatory mechanisms underlying processes of human development and disease. Researchers have begun to examine epigenetic alterations – such as changes in promoter DNA methylation, genomic imprinting, and expression of miRNA – to learn more about epigenetic regulation in the placenta, an organ whose proper development and function are crucial to the health, growth, and survival of the developing fetus. A number of studies are now making important links between alterations to appropriate epigenetic regulation in the placenta and diseases of gestation and early life. In addition, these studies are adding important insight into our understanding of trophoblast biology and differentiation as well as placental immunology. Examining epigenetic alterations in the placenta will prove especially important in the search for biomarkers of exposure, pathology, and disease risk and can provide critical insights into the biology of development and pathogenesis of disease. Thus, epigenetic alterations may aid in disease diagnosis and prognosis as well as in targeting new treatment and prevention strategies.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Antiphospholipid Antibodies Induce a Pro‐Inflammatory Response in First Trimester Trophoblast Via the TLR4/MyD88 Pathway
Authors: Mulla Melissa J. , Brosens Jan J. , Chamley Larry W. , Giles Ian , Pericleous Charis , Rahman Anisur , Joyce Shawna K. , Panda Britta , Paidas Michael J. , Abrahams Vikki M.
Published: July 2009

Problem  Women with antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are at risk for recurrent miscarriage, pre‐eclampsia, and pre‐term labor. aPL target the placenta directly by binding to beta2‐glycoprotein I (β2GPI) expressed on the surface of trophoblast cells. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of aPL on trophoblast function and the mechanisms involved.

Method of study  First trimester trophoblast cells were treated with anti‐β2GPI monoclonal antibodies and patient‐derived aPL, after which cell survival and function was evaluated.

Results  We report that anti‐β2GPI antibodies trigger an inflammatory response in trophoblast, characterized by increased secretion of interleukin (IL)‐8, MCP‐1, GRO‐α, and IL‐1β, and that this occurs in a TLR‐4/MyD88‐dependent manner. At high concentrations, these antibodies also induce caspase‐mediated cell death. This was attenuated upon disabling of the MyD88 pathway, suggesting that anti‐β2GPI‐induced inflammatory mediators compromise trophoblast survival by acting in an autocrine/paracrine manner. Enhanced IL‐8, GRO‐α, and IL‐1β secretion also occurred when trophoblast cells were incubated with antibodies from patients with antiphospholipid syndrome. Heparin, which acts as a pro‐survival factor in human trophoblast, attenuated the anti‐β2GPI antibody‐mediated cell death, and also the pro‐inflammatory response, but only at high concentrations.

Conclusion  These findings demonstrate that aPL triggers a placental inflammatory response via the TLR‐4/MyD88 pathway, which in turn compromises trophoblast survival. Thus, the TLR‐4/MyD88 pathway may provide a new therapeutic target to improve pregnancy outcome in antiphospholipid syndrome patients.
SHORT COMMUNICATION: Comparison of Serum Markers for Thrombophilia and Autoimmune Disease in Reproductive Age Women with and without False Positive Rapid Plasma Reagin Tests
Authors: Swica Yael , Westhoff Carolyn
Published: July 2009

Problem  The rapid plasma reagin test (RPR) is performed frequently in clinical practice, particularly among reproductive age women. The phenomenon of the biologic false positive RPR is well‐recognized, but its clinical significance is poorly characterized. Our objective was to assess the relationship between the false positive RPR and several established clinical and biological markers for thrombophilia and/or autoimmune disease.

Method of study  We conducted a clinic‐based, case–control study of 41 healthy, reproductive age women with history of a biologic false positive RPR and 30 control women with a negative RPR to assess the relationship between the false positive RPR and several established clinical and biological markers for thrombophilia and/or autoimmune disease. We used t‐tests and constructed frequency tables for case–control comparisons.

Results  Cases were significantly more likely than controls to have lupus anticoagulant present in serum, have a positive ANA, and a positive ANA with a titer of 1:320 or greater. Cases were also more likely to be positive for anticardiolipin antibodies and have a prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time, but the CIs for those point estimates included the null value. Eight participants tested positive for both lupus anticoagulant and ANA. All eight were in the case group.

Conclusion  These results suggest that the RPR test might be used to identify a subset of women who warrant further testing for autoimmune and/or thromboembolic disease.
Interventions for treating traumatized necrotic immature permanent anterior teeth: inducing a calcific barrier & root strengthening
Authors: Al Ansary Mohammad A. D. , Day Peter F. , Duggal Monty S. , Brunton Paul A.
Published: July 2009

Abstract –  Background:  Apical barrier formation and root strengthening procedures have been extensively described in the literature. This systematic review attempts to establish where the effects of interventions using multi‐visit apexification, single visit apical plug techniques and root strengthening procedures are consistent and where they may vary significantly.

Objectives:  To evaluate the relative effectiveness of apexification and apical plug techniques as well as root strengthening procedures for treating traumatized necrotic immature permanent anterior teeth through a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Reported immediate and/or long‐term adverse events and effects of the materials and techniques are also evaluated.

Search strategy & selection criteria:  Structured electronic and hand search was performed with no restriction on the language of publication. Only randomized controlled trials comparing different apical barrier formation techniques and root strengthening procedures in traumatized necrotic immature anterior teeth were assessed.

Results:  Two hundred studies were identified but only two were suitable for inclusion. Included studies investigated multi‐visit apexification techniques using calcium hydroxide and tricalcium phosphate. There were no eligible studies investigating root strengthening procedures or any other intervention for apical barrier formation in necrotic immature anterior teeth. No reliable information was available on long‐term adverse effects of the reported interventions or cost implications.

Conclusions:  Based on two included studies, there is weak evidence supporting the use of either calcium hydroxide or tricalcium phosphate for apical barrier formation in necrotic immature anterior teeth employing multi‐visit apexification techniques. The evidence is insufficient to provide guidelines for practice. There was no reliable evidence on adverse events or long‐term effects after the use of calcium hydroxide or tricalcium phosphate justifying caution in their use in apical barrier formation techniques.
Dental practitioners’ knowledge and implementation of the 2007 International Association of Dental Traumatology guidelines for management of dental trauma
Authors: Zadik Yehuda , Marom Yael , Levin Liran
Published: July 2009

Abstract –  Aim: To evaluate the knowledge, adoption, and diffusion rate of the 2007 International Association of Dental Traumatology guidelines among practicing military dental professionals, 1 year after publication. Methods: Fifty‐four military dental professionals in the Medical Corps of the Israel Defense Forces participated in the study and completed a questionnaire, consisting of demographic questions, and multiple choice questions that presented critical points that a military dentist should know when treating a tooth injury. Results: Seven dentists (13%) graduated in the summer of 2007 after publication of the current guidelines. Military instructions (37%) and the official guidelines published in Dental Traumatology (25.9%) were the most common sources of updating the current guidelines. Twenty‐six percentage of the participants were not updated with the new guidelines at all. Based on the current guidelines, the overall correct answer response rate for the 10 questions was 71.7%. Tetracycline, as an antimicrobial agent of choice in avulsion, yielded the lowest percentage of correct answers (20.4%), with duration of splinting after root fracture, the next most incorrectly answered question (50.0%). Conclusions: High level of knowledge regarding the 2007 guidelines was found among Israeli military dentists, 1 year after publication. However, knowledge regarding several issues (e.g., medication, splinting) should be reinforced.
Microbiological findings at tongue piercing sites – implications to oral health
Authors: Ziebolz D , Hornecker E , Mausberg RF
Published: July 2009

Abstract:  Background:  Body piercing enjoys a widespread popularity among juveniles and young people. The tongue is the most commonly pierced oral site. Tongue jewellery, however, can damage the teeth and periodontium and may provide an ideal environment for microorganisms. The aim of this report was to investigate if and in case in which amount periodontopathogenic organisms can be found at tongue piercing sites.

Methods:  Patients with tongue piercings visiting the authors’ dental office for a dental check‐up volunteered. A questionnaire was used to collect data on the type of material used in the piercing, the time the device was in place, oral and piercing hygiene practices and smoking habits. The dental examination included an oral hygiene index and the periodontal screening index. From the surface of the piercing jewellery adjacent to the tongue perforation, microbiological samples were collected and analysed for the presence of 11 periodontopathogenic bacteria.

Results:  A total of 12 patients with tongue piercing were asked and examined. Their tongue piercings had been in place between 2 and 8 years. The microbiological analysis showed an increased or substantially increased concentration of periodontopathogenic bacteria in all cases. It became obvious that the longer a piercing had been in place, the more pronounced was the shift from bacteria with a moderate periodontopathogenic potential to bacteria with a high periodontopathogenic potential.

Conclusion:  Tongue piercing provides a potential reservoir for periodontopathogenic bacteria.
Bronchomalacia occurring in monozygotic twins – further information about its inheritance
Authors: Brodlie Malcolm , Spencer David A
Published: July 2009

We report left main‐stem bronchomalacia occurring in monozygotic twins that became symptomatic during infancy. This phenomenon has not previously been reported to occur in twins. Little is known about the aetiology of primary bronchomalacia, but this occurrence suggests that there may be a significant genetic component in some cases.

Conclusion:  Left main‐stem bronchomalacia occurring in monozygotic twins suggests that there may be a significant genetic component in some cases and provides further information about the inheritance of this condition.
Early cytomegalovirus infection and the long‐term outcome of biliary atresia
Authors: Fischler Björn , Svensson Jan F , Nemeth Antal
Published: July 2009

Aim:  To study the impact of ongoing cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection at presentation of biliary atresia (BA) on the long‐term outcome after Kasai procedure.

Methods:  Twenty‐eight patients with BA born 1988–1997 were included and followed‐up until 2007. Eleven patients (group A) had ongoing CMV infection at presentation and were compared to the remaining 17 patients (group B). Median age at Kasai procedure was 75 days in group A and 70 days in group B (p = 0.12).

Results:  Including all patients, survival with native liver was 50% and 36% at 4 and 10 years of follow‐up respectively. At the end of follow‐up, it was 25% and overall survival was 68%. When comparing groups A and B, neither difference in survival with native liver (p = 0.67, log‐rank test) nor in survival after liver transplantation was detected.

Conclusion:  Survival with native liver after Kasai procedure is comparable to that of other centres. CMV positive patients may present with a later onset, alternatively the detection of CMV infection could delay the referral of BA patients. No significant differences in long‐term outcome were detected with regard to early CMV infection.
Molecular identification of coliform bacteria from colicky breastfed infants
Authors: Savino F , Cordisco L , Tarasco V , Calabrese R , Palumeri E , Matteuzzi D
Published: July 2009

Objective:  To determine the presence of intestinal coliform bacteria in colicky vs healthy infants.

Study design:  We isolated coliform strains from faeces and performed quantitative bacterial cultures in 41 colicky and 39 healthy breastfed infants, identified using PCR with species‐specific primers, strain‐specific Automated Ribotyping and the API‐50E kit for Enterobacteriaceae to identify the most frequent strains.

Results:  Coliform strains were more abundant in colicky infants (median 6.04 log10 CFU/g faeces, range 2.00–8.76) vs controls (median 4.47 log10 CFU/g faeces, range 1.00–8.08) (p = 0.026). Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, K. oxytoca, Enterobacter cloacae, E. aerogenes and Enterococcus faecalis were the predominant species in colicky and healthy infants. The counts of each bacterial species differed between the two groups, and the difference was significant (p = 0.002) for E. coli: median 6.30 log10 CFU/g faeces (range 3.00–8.74) in colicky infants, and median 4.70 log10 CFU/g faeces (range 2.00–5.85) in controls.

Conclusions:  This is the first study to evaluate the colonization patterns of gas‐forming coliforms in colicky infants and healthy controls identified by molecular methods. Coliform bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli, were found to be more abundant in colicky infants. Our data could help to shed light on the cause of infantile colic.
A Novel Application of Nano Anticontamination Technology for Outdoor High‐Voltage Ceramic Insulators
Authors: Zhuang Jiandong , Liu Ping , Dai Wenxin , Fu Xianzhi , Lin Han , Zeng Wenlin , Liao Fuwang
Published: July 2009

A novel application of a nano‐sized titanium dioxide (TiO2) photocatalyst for improving the performance of the ceramic insulator under contaminated conditions is proposed in this paper. The TiO2‐coated insulator was prepared by spraying a certain amount of TiO2sol on the ceramic insulator followed by subsequent calcination. The physical and chemical properties of the TiO2film were studied and their influences on the self‐cleaning and electrical performances of the ceramic insulator were evaluated. Compared with the uncoated insulators, the as‐prepared TiO2‐coated insulator exhibited an enhanced self‐cleaning ability in a heavy polluted environment because of the excellent photo‐induced catalytic performance of the TiO2film. Moreover, the TiO2‐coated insulators presents a flashover voltage level similar to normal ceramic insulators, and even a higher performance of wet flashover than the latter. It was proposed that the semiconducting property and the hydrophilicity of TiO2films could be responsible for the promoting effect on the electrical performances of the porcelain insulator. This study shows that coating TiO2films on the surface of insulators may have a promise in preventing pollution flashover.
Pressureless Sintering and Properties of Ti3AlC2
Authors: Lu Xinpo , Zhou Yanchun
Published: July 2009

Pressureless sintering of titanium aluminum carbide (Ti3AlC2) is difficult due to its easy decomposability at high temperatures, thus decomposition must be avoided during sintering. In this work, pressureless sintering was performed in different embedded powders and Al4C3 was found to be effective to inhibit Ti3AlC2 from decomposition due to the offering of Al rich ambience. High‐density Ti3AlC2 was obtained by pressureless sintering in Al4C3 powder bed without additives. The good sinterability is due to the special crystal structure of Ti3AlC2 and the easy diffusion of Al atoms. The mechanical properties of pressureless sintered Ti3AlC2 are comparable to those of the hot‐pressed ones.
Triads in Services Outsourcing: Bridge, Bridge Decay and Bridge Transfer*
Authors: LI MEI , CHOI THOMAS Y.
Published: July 2009

Typically, a triad of actors is involved in any outsourcing situation: the buyer, the supplier and the buyer's customer. In manufacturing, the buyer acts as a bridge between its supplier and its customer and maintains this bridge position before, during and after the outsourcing. However, in services, the relationship structures among the three actors change before, during and after the outsourcing. Before outsourcing (i.e., during the contract negotiation stage), the buyer is the “bridge” between its supplier and its customer. During implementation, this bridge position begins to “decay” as its supplier comes in direct contact with the buyer's customer. Post‐implementation, the bridge position is intended to be “transferred” to the supplier. However, if left unmanaged, this state of transferred bridge position has serious performance implications for the buyer. The supplier is now the bridge and thus enjoys the leverage inherent in being a bridge. This point has been missed in many services outsourcing ventures by major multinational corporations. To mitigate this effect, we propose that the buyer should continue to actively interact with its customer and closely monitor the supplier in order to prevent the supplier from solidifying its bridge position.
Traceability and Normal Accident Theory: How Does Supply Network Complexity Influence the Traceability of Adverse Events?
Authors: SKILTON PAUL F. , ROBINSON JESSICA L.
Published: July 2009

In this paper, we develop theory about the relationship between supply network complexity and the traceability of adverse events. Because adverse events in complex supply networks are frequent and sometimes catastrophic, understanding how they happen is critical for the management of quality in complex supply networks. Drawing on literatures that deal with normal accidents, traceability, transparency and network complexity, we develop propositions that help explain how traceable adverse events will be in different types of supply networks. Drawing on examples from food supply networks, we illustrate the barriers to traceability associated with different types of complex network structure. We end by discussing managerial and academic implications for the design of traceability systems and supply networks.
Decrepit death as a discourse of death in older age: implications for policy
Authors: O’Connor Margaret
Published: July 2009

Background.  In Australia, care of the older person dying in residential aged care is contentious. This paper reports on selected results of a study of aged and palliative care policies, undertaken to elicit discourses of dying in aged care environments.

Aims.  To gain understanding of the relationship of policy to practice and to highlight commonalities and differences between aged and palliative care policies.

Design and method.  Utilizing discourse analysis, a range of palliative care and aged care documents were analysed, to explicate layers of complexity. Two divergent discourses emerged in the data organization.

Results.  The dominant palliative care discourse about dying decries an ‘undeserved death’; the discourse about an older dying person is described as ‘decrepit death’. These competing discourses provide a framework for examining emerging national policy work to improve care of the dying.

Conclusions.  Dying in residential aged care has been hidden and unacknowledged by the community. The challenge of providing more equitable care has recently received significant government policy attention.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Policy influences practice; both aged care and palliative care nurses, could benefit from understanding the place of policy in implementing changes on behalf of those in their care.
Explaining Negotiation Outcomes: Process or Context?
Authors: Irmer Cynthia , Druckman Daniel
Published: July 2009

This study evaluates a set of hypotheses about the relative influence of negotiating processes and contexts on outcomes. The investigation proceeds in a sequence of steps. First, a number of process and outcome variables are coded from documented cases of 26 settled violent conflicts that have occurred since the end of World War II. These cases are used also to evaluate the impact of four contextual variables. High partial correlations indicate a strong relationship between process and outcome controlling for context. Second, a set of structured focused comparisons was conducted with four matched and mis‐matched cases. By tracing the process in each of these cases through phases of the talks, we showed that there is a causal relationship between process and outcome. Third, a plausibility probe was designed to identify a mechanism responsible for the causal relationship. The probe discovered that the development of trust is a plausible explanation for the relationship between process and outcome. This mode of inquiry, referred to as ACE (association, causation, and explanation), is regarded as a model for research on negotiation and peace processes.
The Reality and Myth of Sacred Issues in Negotiations
Authors: Tenbrunsel Ann E. , Wade‐Benzoni Kimberly A. , Tost Leigh P. , Medvec Victoria H. , Thompson Leigh L. , Bazerman Max H.
Published: July 2009

This article investigates the role of sacred issues in a dyadic negotiation set in an environmental context. As predicted, a focus on sacred issues negatively impacts the negotiation, producing more impasses, lower joint outcomes, and more negative perceptions of one’s opponent; however, this is only true when both parties perceive that they have a strong alternative to a negotiated agreement. When negotiation parties perceive that they have weak alternatives, sacred issues did not have any effect on negotiation outcomes or opponent perceptions. These results suggest that the negative effects of sacred issues are driven in part by whether negotiators have recourse; in other words, exercising one’s principles and values may depend on whether people can afford to do so. We conclude by suggesting that the impact of certain sacred issues may be contextually dependent and that the term “pseudo‐sacred” may actually be a more accurate label for certain contexts.
Negotiating Intercommunity and Community Group Identity Positions: Summary Discourses from Two Northern Ireland Intercommunity Groups
Authors: Collier Mary Jane
Published: July 2009

This study applies a critical/interpretive framework to analyze discourses from two public documents compiled in 2002 from two intercommunity groups in West Belfast in Northern Ireland. Discourses are taken from participants’ comments, recounted experiences, and descriptions of their intercommunity relationships and actions produced to share with wider audiences in Northern Ireland. Analysis of selected discourse demonstrates: (a) how intercommunity group identities are negotiated simultaneously with community group identities, gendered, generational, and class privilege positions; (b) how speakers’ comments position their own groups in relationship to institutional representatives such as religious leaders, politicians, and security personnel; (c) how levels of agency and resistance are contextually negotiated; and (d) the importance of dialectic tensions and contradictions of being a member of an intercommunity group as well as a separate community in West Belfast. Implications of this framework for conflict researchers and practitioners are also addressed.