bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Osseointegration of zirconia and titanium dental implants: a histological and histomorphometrical study in the maxilla of pigs
Authors: Gahlert M. , Röhling S. , Wieland M. , Sprecher C. M. , Kniha H. , Milz S.
Published: June 2009

Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to histologically compare the bone tissue responses to surface‐modified zirconia and titanium implants.

Methods: Threaded zirconia implants were produced using a new low‐pressure injection moulding technique and thereafter surface treated by acid etching. Titanium implants with the exact shape and surface treated by sandblasting and acid etching (SLA) served as controls. Fifteen adult pigs received both implant types in the maxilla 6 months after extraction of the second and third incisors. The animals were sacrificed after 4, 8 and 12 weeks and 30 implants with surrounding bone were retrieved.

Results: Histological evaluation showed osseous integration for both materials. Zirconia implants revealed mean peri‐implant bone density values of 42.3% (SD ± 14.5) at 4 weeks, 52.6% (SD ± 5.7) at 8 weeks and 54.6% (SD ± 11.5) at 12 weeks after implantation, whereas Ti‐SLA implants demonstrated mean values of 29% (SD ± 10), 44.1% (SD ± 18) and 51.6% (SD ± 8.6) at corresponding time intervals. With respect to the bone–implant contact ratio, the mean values for zirconia ranged between 27.1% (SD ± 3.5) and 51.1% (SD ± 12.4) and for Ti‐SLA, it ranged between 23.5% (SD ± 7.5) and 58.5% (SD ± 11.4).

For the parameters investigated, no statistically significant differences between both types of implants could be detected at any time point.

Conclusions: No statistical difference between implants could be demonstrated with any of the methods used. The limited number of animals per group, however, does not allow to conclude that there is no difference in osseointegration between the two types of implants, although the data tend to suggest such a trend.
Mechanical non‐surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis: a double‐blind randomized longitudinal clinical study. I: clinical results
Authors: Renvert Stefan , Samuelsson Emelie , Lindahl Christel , Persson Gösta. Rutger
Published: June 2009

Background: Peri‐implantitis is a frequent finding in patients with dental implants. The present study compared two non‐surgical mechanical debridement methods of peri‐implantitis.

Material and Methods: Thirty‐seven subjects (mean age 61.5; S.D±12.4), with one implant each, demonstrating peri‐implantitis were randomized, and those treated either with titanium hand‐instruments or with an ultrasonic device were enrolled. Data were obtained before treatment, and at 1, 3, and 6 months. Parametric and non‐parametric statistics were used.

Results: Thirty‐one subjects completed the study. The mean bone loss at implants in both groups was 1.5 mm (SD ±1.2 mm). No group differences for plaque or gingival indices were found at any time point. Baseline and 6‐month mean probing pocket depths (PPD) at implants were 5.1 and 4.9 mm (p=0.30) in both groups. Plaque scores at treated implants decreased from 73% to 53% (p<0.01). Bleeding scores also decreased (p<0.01), with no group differences. No differences in the total bacterial counts were found over time. Higher total bacterial counts were found immediately after treatment (p<0.01) and at 1 week for ultrasonic‐treated implants (p<0.05).

Conclusions: No group differences were found in the treatment outcomes. While plaque and bleeding scores improved, no effects on PPD were identified.
Prevalence of tetM, tetQ, nim and blaTEM genes in the oral cavities of Greek subjects: a pilot study
Authors: Ioannidis Ioannis , Sakellari Dimitra , Spala Argyro , Arsenakis Minas , Konstantinidis Antonis
Published: June 2009

Aim: To investigate the prevalence of tetM, tetQ, nim and blaTEM antimicrobial resistance genes in subgingival and tongue samples of Greek subjects.

Materials and Methods: Fifty‐four subjects participated in the present study. Participants each contributed with one pooled subgingival sample from the mesiobuccal surface of the four first molars and one sample from the tongue. Samples were analysed using polymerase chain reaction for tetM, tetQ, nim and blaTEM genes using the primers and conditions described previously. Subjects were stratified according to periodontal status (health, gingivitis or periodontitis). Intake of any antibiotic for medical or dental reasons during the previous 12 months was also recorded (self‐reported). Comparisons within and between groups were performed by applying non‐parametric tests (z‐test with Bonferroni corrections).

Results: A high prevalence of tetM, tetQ and blaTEM genes was detected in both tongue and subgingival samples (48.1–82.2%). No differences were observed across genes between periodontally healthy, gingivitis or periodontitis cases, and no statistical correlation was observed between the presence of the blaTEM gene and the intake of β‐lactams during the last 12 months (Fisher's exact test, p>0.05).

Conclusions: Findings from the present study suggest a high prevalence of tetM, tetQ and blaTEM, but not nim resistance genes in subgingival and tongue samples from Greek subjects.
Protection against cognitive deficits and markers of neurodegeneration by long‐term oral administration of melatonin in a transgenic model of Alzheimer disease
Authors: Olcese James M. , Cao Chuanhai , Mori Takashi , Mamcarz Malgorzata B. , Maxwell Anne , Runfeldt Melissa J. , Wang Li , Zhang Chi , Lin Xiaoyang , Zhang Guixin , Arendash Gary W.
Published: June 2009

Abstract:  The neurohormone melatonin has been reported to exert anti‐β‐amyloid aggregation, antioxidant, and anti‐inflammatory actions in various in vitro and animal models. To comprehensively determine the potential for long‐term melatonin treatment to protect Alzheimer’s transgenic mice against cognitive impairment and development of β‐amyloid (Aβ) neuropathology, we administered melatonin (100 mg/L drinking water) to APP + PS1 double transgenic (Tg) mice from 2–2.5 months of age to their killing at age 7.5 months. A comprehensive behavioral battery administered during the final 6 weeks of treatment revealed that Tg mice given melatonin were protected from cognitive impairment in a variety of tasks of working memory, spatial reference learning/memory, and basic mnemonic function; Tg control mice remained impaired in all of these cognitive tasks/domains. Immunoreactive Aβ deposition was significantly reduced in hippocampus (43%) and entorhinal cortex (37%) of melatonin‐treated Tg mice. Although soluble and oligomeric forms of Aβ1‐40 and 1‐42 were unchanged in the hippocampus and cortex of the same melatonin‐treated Tg mice, their plasma Aβ levels were elevated. These Aβ results, together with our concurrent demonstration that melatonin suppresses Aβ aggregation in brain homogenates, are consistent with a melatonin‐facilitated removal of Aβ from the brain. Inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α were decreased in hippocampus (but not plasma) of Tg+ melatonin mice. Finally, the cortical mRNA expression of three antioxidant enzymes (SOD‐1, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase) was significantly reduced to non‐Tg levels by long‐term melatonin treatment in Tg mice. Thus, melatonin’s cognitive benefits could involve its anti‐Aβ aggregation, anti‐inflammatory, and/or antioxidant properties. Our findings provide support for long‐term melatonin therapy as a primary or complementary strategy for abating the progression of Alzheimer disease.
Adaptor Protein‐2 Interaction with Arrestin Regulates GPCR Recycling and Apoptosis
Authors: Wagener Brant M. , Marjon Nicole A. , Revankar Chetana M. , Prossnitz Eric R.
Published: June 2009

G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) are integral to cellular function in nearly all physiologic and many pathologic processes. GPCR signaling represents an intricate balance between receptor activation, inactivation (desensitization, internalization and degradation) and resensitization (recycling and de novo synthesis). Complex formation between phosphorylated GPCRs, arrestins and an ever‐increasing number of effector molecules is known to regulate cellular function. Previous studies have demonstrated that, although N‐formyl peptide receptor (FPR) internalization occurs in the absence of arrestins, FPR recycling is arrestin‐dependent. Furthermore, FPR stimulation in the absence of arrestins leads to receptor accumulation in perinuclear endosomes and apoptosis. In this study, we show that the interaction of GPCR‐bound arrestin with adaptor protein‐2 (AP‐2) is a critical anti‐apoptotic event. In addition, AP‐2 associates with the receptor‐arrestin complex in perinuclear endosomes and is required for proper post‐endocytic GPCR trafficking. Finally, we observed that depletion of endogenous AP‐2 results in the initiation of apoptosis upon stimulation of multiple GPCRs, including P2Y purinergic receptors and CXCR2, but not CXCR4. We propose a model in which the abnormal accumulation of internalized GPCR‐arrestin complexes in recycling endosomes, resulting from defective arrestin‐AP‐2 interactions, leads to the specific initiation of aberrant signaling pathways and apoptosis.
Challenging the Myths and Redressing the Missteps in Family Research
Authors: Cuskelly Monica
Published: June 2009

Families of children with disabilities have been the subject of a number of myths, some of which have been introduced and promulgated by researchers influenced by cultural norms that may incline them to ask questions in particular ways and which may result in the institutionalization of ideas and methods, rather than subjecting established beliefs and perspectives to scrutiny. Only relatively recently, for example, has the conviction that only negative consequences will be experienced by families with a child with a disability been challenged. Research questions and instruments or approaches must allow for positive experiences and outcomes. In addition, often family research has failed to recognize the importance of cultural differences. One example of this can be found in assumptions of the applicability of instruments used in family research across different cultural groups. The capacity of instruments to reflect the constructs being measured must be established before they can be used confidently across cultures. In addition, the relationships between constructs must be tested rather than assumed. Finally, before intervention programs or approaches that have been developed by one culture are adopted or applied to another, their fit with the attitudes, beliefs, and resources of the latter culture should be established.
Persons With Intellectual and Multiple Disabilities in Japan
Authors: Suemitsu Shigeru
Published: June 2009

The author outlines the history, current situation, and the future of the care and support system for people with intellectual and multiple disabilities in Japan. He describes how the service system has been shaped from within by Japanese legislation dating back to the Child Welfare Act of 1947, and how international events such as the “International Year of Persons with Disabilities” have influenced both legislation and service development in Japan. The author also outlines how researchers and lecturers are contributing to the development of services and educating the workforce, which provides the critical supports for people with disabilities in Japan.
Llama single‐domain antibodies directed against nonconventional epitopes of tumor‐associated carcinoembryonic antigen absent from nonspecific cross‐reacting antigen
Authors: Behar Ghislaine , Chames Patrick , Teulon Isabelle , Cornillon Amélie , Alshoukr Faisal , Roquet Françoise , Pugnière Martine , Teillaud Jean‐Luc , Gruaz‐Guyon Anne , Pèlegrin André , Baty Daniel
Published: June 2009

Single‐domain antibodies (sdAbs), which occur naturally in camelids, are endowed with many characteristics that make them attractive candidates as building blocks to create new antibody‐related therapeutic molecules. In this study, we isolated from an immunized llama several high‐affinity sdAbs directed against human carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), a heavily glycosylated tumor‐associated molecule expressed in a variety of cancers. These llama sdAbs bind a different epitope from those defined by current murine mAbs, as shown by binding competition experiments using immunofluorescence and surface plasmon resonance. Flow cytometry analysis shows that they bind strongly to CEA‐positive tumor cells but show no cross‐reaction toward nonspecific cross‐reacting antigen, a highly CEA‐related molecule expressed on human granulocytes. When injected into mice xenografted with a human CEA‐positive tumor, up to 2% of the injected dose of one of these sdAbs was found in the tumor, despite rapid clearance of this 15 kDa protein, demonstrating its high potential as a targeting moiety. The single‐domain nature of these new anti‐CEA IgG fragments should facilitate the design of new molecules for immunotherapy or diagnosis of CEA‐positive tumors.

Structured digital abstract

MINT‐7042030: C3 (genbank_protein_gi:152143600) binds (MI:0407) to CEA (uniprotkb:P06731) by surface plasmon resonance (MI:0107)

MINT‐7045726: C17 (genbank_protein_gi:152143602) binds (MI:0407) to CEA (uniprotkb:P06731) by surface plasmon resonance (MI:0107)

MINT‐7046422: C25 (genbank_protein_gi:152143604) binds (MI:0407) to CEA (uniprotkb:P06731) by surface plasmon resonance (MI:0107)

MINT‐7046473: C43 (genbank_protein_gi:152143606) binds (MI:0407) to CEA (uniprotkb:P06731) by surface plasmon resonance (MI:0107)

MINT‐7046442: C44 (genbank_protein_gi:152143608) binds (MI:0407) to CEA (uniprotkb:P06731) by surface plasmon resonance (MI:0107)
Female Assessment of Male Erectile Dysfunction Detection Scale (FAME): Development and Validation
Authors: Rubio-Aurioles Eusebio , Sand Michael , Terrein-Roccatti Nadine , Dean John , Longworth Jan , Eardley Ian , Brock Gerald , Lee Jay , Arango de Montis Iván , Rampazzo-Bonaldo Claudia
Published: June 2009

Introduction

Although erectile dysfunction (ED) affects both members of the couple, no tools exist for the detection of ED by the female partner.

Aim

The aim of this study was to develop a scale for the detection of ED, as assessed by the female partner.

Methods

Development and validation of the Female Assessment of Male Erectile dysfunction detection scale (FAME) consisted of five stages: (i) two focus group discussions conducted among female partners of ED sufferers; (ii) item construction; (iii) initial content validation to document face validity and reduce number of items; (iv) final selection of items and investigation of concurrent validity and reliability, sensitivity and specificity of the scale in 83 Spanish-speaking couples; and (v) multicenter study conducted in a group of 106 English-speaking couples. Concurrent validity was assessed using Spearman’s rho correlation coefficients between FAME and clinical diagnosis, the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM), and the erectile function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-EF). Reliability was tested using Cronbach’s alpha, and sensitivity and specificity was investigated using clinical diagnosis as the gold standard criterion.

Main Outcome Measures

Validity, reliability, specificity, and sensitivity of the FAME scale when correlated with SHIM, IIEF-EF, and clinical diagnosis.

Results

Qualitative analysis yielded 44 clues; 21 items demonstrated statistical significance as the best discriminating items using a t-test for independent samples. A final scale of six items was tested for validity, reliability, specificity, and sensitivity. FAME correlated significantly with clinical diagnosis (0.791, P < 0.001), the SHIM (0.788, P < 0.001), and the IIEF-EF (0.777, P < 0.001). Additional support for discriminant validity was obtained with receiver operating characteristics analysis. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.941. Sensitivity was 96.1% and specificity 86.0%.

Conclusions

Accurate detection of ED in men by the female partner is possible. In this study, FAME demonstrated concurrent validity and very good reliability, as well as excellent sensitivity and specificity.
Assessing Behavior and Social Competence of Severely Emotionally Disturbed Youth Admitted to Psychiatric Residential Treatment
Authors: Groot Jodi Morstein
Published: June 2009

PROBLEM: Youth admitted to psychiatric residential treatment centers demonstrate behavioral problems and social competence deficits. Little systematic inquiry has quantified these issues or their impact on therapeutic care.

METHOD: Secondary data from Child Behavioral Checklists and Relationship Questionnaires were collected through retrospective chart reviews and were statistically analyzed.

FINDINGS: Seventy‐one percent of the 113 subjects met clinical behavioral problem levels. Youth who were older than 15 years at admission lagged significantly behind 12th‐grade norms in social competence, having scores congruent with 8th‐grade students.

CONCLUSION: Youth in this study had significant behavioral problems, and deficits in social competence were identified among older youth.
THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN RETRACTED Depressive Illness in Teens and Preteens and Effectiveness of the RADS‐2 as a First‐Stage Assessment. Part 1: Descriptive Paper
Authors: Weber Scott
Published: June 2009

PROBLEM:  Measurement of the characteristics and severity of depression in adolescence is an emerging science. During patient assessment, or if using first‐stage screening measures in practice, nurses must be confident that these instruments demonstrate high levels of accuracy in capturing the specific features of depressive symptoms expressed in diverse individuals.

METHODS:  A review of the scientific literature of depressive illness and its assessment in teens and preteens is presented. The Reynolds Adolescent Depression Scale–Revised (RADS‐2) measure is introduced and evaluated from a nursing practice standpoint.

FINDINGS:  The RADS‐2 is easy to use and demonstrates good reliability, validity, and construct features, providing evidence for nurses that the measure can be used with confidence in assessment of depressive symptoms in adolescents.

CONCLUSIONS:  The RADS‐2 is an effective first‐stage assessment of depressive mood in teens and preteens.
THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN RETRACTED Results of Psychometric Testing of the RADS‐2 With School‐Based Adolescents Seeking Assistance for Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Concerns. Part 2: Research Brief
Authors: Weber Scott
Published: June 2009

PROBLEM:  First‐stage measures of depressive symptoms need to demonstrate high levels of accuracy in capturing all the facets of depressive illness in order to be maximally useful for nurses performing psychosocial assessments and for nurse researchers.

METHODS:  Reliability, validity, and factor analysis testing were conducted on the Reynolds Adolescent Depression Scale (RADS‐2). Factor analysis testing examined each item of the instrument to identify the clinical characteristic it measures as well as the broad profiles of symptoms the instrument reveals.

FINDINGS:  Four factors were identified and all appear to demonstrate adequate internal consistency reliability.

CONCLUSIONS:  Psychometric results demonstrate a firm foundation for nursing clinical and research uses for the RADS‐2.
One Year Efficacy and Safety of Lanthanum Carbonate for Hyperphosphatemia in Japanese Chronic Kidney Disease Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Shigematsu Takashi ,   Lanthanum Carbonate Research Group
Published: June 2009

Lanthanum carbonate is a non‐calcium‐based phosphate binder for hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The efficacy and safety of lanthanum carbonate (LaC) on hyperphosphatemia in patients has been well documented in clinical trials in Western countries and recent relatively short‐term clinical trials in Japan. Evidence supporting its safety and efficacy in Japanese patients for longer‐term treatment is now desired for clinical practice. A non‐controlled, open‐label, multicenter, one year study of LaC to assess safety and its effect on the levels of serum phosphate, serum calcium and parathyroid hormone was performed with Japanese dialysis patients. Lanthanum carbonate was administered to patients at variable doses for a period of 46–52 weeks. Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of LaC in reducing serum phosphate was performed, in addition to extensive and systematic monitoring of the laboratory parameters related to bone turnover and cardiac health. A significant reduction in the serum phosphate level was demonstrated throughout the treatment period (P < 0.05), without any increase in the frequency or severity of drug‐related adverse events such as vomiting, nausea, and stomach discomfort. There was no clinically relevant change in vital signs, or electrocardiograms for a period. The profiles for parathyroid hormone, bone alkaline phosphates, and osteocalcin were stable in the patients concomitantly treated with vitamin D. This study provides further evidence that the administration of LaC over a period of one year is safe and effective for the reduction of serum phosphate levels in CKD patients undergoing hemodialysis.
EFFECT OF STORAGE TEMPERATURE ON MEAT QUALITY OF MUSCLE WITH DIFFERENT FIBER TYPE COMPOSITION FROM KOREAN NATIVE CATTLE (HANWOO)
Authors: HUR S.J. , PARK G.B. , JOO S.T.
Published: June 2009

Three kinds of Hanwoo (Korean native cattle) muscles (Loin, strip loin and inside round) were obtained from a local farm and then divided into two storage temperatures (0 and 5C), respectively. In meat color, redness (a*) was significantly higher in 5C storage samples compared with 0C storage samples in all muscle samples after 7 days of storage. Loin had significantly lower purge loss than other muscle samples, whereas inside round was significantly higher in purge loss. Strip loin showed lower shear force values compared with those of other muscle samples. 5C storage samples had significantly higher thiobarbituric acid reactive substances value than 0C storage samples in all muscle samples. In sensory evaluation, overall acceptability was significantly higher at 14 or 21 days of storage in all muscle samples, and 5C storage samples showed higher overall acceptability compared with 0C storage samples.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This result will obtain information to help understand the meat quality in Hanwoo for the foreign scientists. The results of the present study showed that meat qualities of Hanwoo were much higher in 5C storage sample compared with 0C samples in all muscle samples until 35 days of storage, and loin sample showed higher sensory score than strip loin and inside round samples.
Visions of utopia: markets, medicine and the National Health Service
Authors: Harrington John
Published: June 2009

Legislative restrictions on the sale of organs, gametes and surrogacy services are often seen as having no basis other than mere prejudice or taboo. This paper argues instead that they can be read as instances of a broader decommodification of healthcare provision established in Britain with the creation of the NHS in 1948. Restrictions on the marketisation of medicine were justified by Aneurin Bevan, the founder of the NHS, and by Richard Titmuss, one of its chief academic defenders, in distinctly utopian terms. On this vision, the NHS would function as a utopian enclave prefiguring an idealised non-capitalist future. This commonsense of post-war medicine was fatally destabilised by fiscal crisis and social critique in the 1970s. Influential commentators like Ian Kennedy developed an anti-utopian account of the real NHS and proposed legalistic and market-based reform. These reforms sought to dissolve the enclave, assimilating medical work and the NHS as a whole to broader systems of accounting and accountability. Insofar as they have been realised, they achieve a recommodification of medicine in Britain. The paper concludes by examining recent studies of the ‘new NHS’, which see in the latter-day idealisation of market processes a novel form of self-denying utopianism.
Mapping Differences in Consumer Perception of Sharp Cheddar Cheese in the United States
Authors: Drake S.L. , Lopetcharat K. , Clark S. , Kwak H.S. , Lee S.Y. , Drake M.A.
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT:  There is tremendous variability in flavor profiles of sharp or aged U.S. cheddar cheese due to varied practices among commercial facilities and the lack of legal definitions for these terms. This study explored U.S. consumer perception and liking of commercial sharp or aged cheddar cheese profiles. Flavor profiles of 29 representative sharp cheddar cheeses were documented by descriptive sensory analysis with a trained panel. A total of 9 representative cheddar cheeses were selected and evaluated by consumers in 3 regional locations: east coast (Raleigh, N.C.; n = 150), midwest (Champaign, Ill.; n = 75), and west coast (Pullman, Wash.; n = 100). Consumers assessed the cheeses for overall liking and other consumer liking attributes. External preference mapping revealed 5 distinct consumer segments. The segment membership distribution between east coast and midwest consumers was similar while the west coast distribution was distinct (P < 0.05). A larger proportion of west coast consumers were present in segment 3, which consisted of consumers with specific likes for cheeses characterized by intense flavors of free fatty acid, brothy, and nutty flavors and salty and sour tastes. Consumer preferences in other segments differed from segment 3 due to their liking of at least 1 sensory attribute generally associated with young or mild cheddar cheese flavor. Key drivers of liking for these segments included whey flavor for segments 1 and 4 and milkfat flavor for segment 5. Segment 2 consumers liked most of the cheeses tested except those with dominant whey flavor. A sharp or aged cheddar cheese label means different things to different consumers and liking profiles are not defined by consumer location.
Ambulatory Urodynamics in Asymptomatic, Young, Healthy Male Volunteers
Authors: YAMANISHI Tomonori , MASUDA Akinori , MIZUNO Tomoya , KAMAI Takao , TATSUMIYA Katsuhisa , FUKUDA Takehiko , FURUYA Nobutaka , WATANABE Miho , SAKAKIBARA Ryuji , UCHIYAMA Tomoyuki , YOSHIDA Ken‐Ichiro
Published: June 2009

Objectives: To assess the incidence of detrusor overactivity and reproducibility of data from ambulatory urodynamic monitoring (AUM) in male volunteers.

Methods: Sixteen asymptomatic healthy male volunteers with a mean age of 26.3 years (range: 22–30) underwent AUM by natural filling cystometry followed by a pressure/flow study. The studies were repeated three times.

Results: Detrusor overactivity (DO) was detected in six subjects (37.5%), but clinically significant detrusor overactivity was noted only in three (18.8%). Qmax, detrusor opening pressure, and PdetQmax were similar among the three measurements. The bladder outlet obstruction index (BOOI) varied, and there was a significant difference between the first and third measurements (P = 0.0371). Obstruction grade was ranked as unobstructed in all studies for 13 subjects, equivocal (BOOI 45 and 46) in one subject, and both unobstructed and equivocal (BOOI 30, 43 and 30) in one subject. There was a significant difference in bladder contractility index (BCI) between the first and third studies (P = 0.0186). The BCI was always strong in five subjects, always normal in eight subjects, and strong to normal in three subjects.

Conclusion: DO was found in 37.5% of male volunteers. BOOI and BCI may not be highly reproducible, and the third study may provide the best result if the first and second studies differ. However, 87.5% of subjects were rated as unobstructed and all subjects were rated as normal or strong, with the categories of obstruction and bladder contractility showing no change in most subjects. AUM with three studies seem adequate for the evaluation of lower urinary tract dysfunction in males.
Excitatory and Inhibitory Influence of Pathways in the Pelvic Nerve on Bladder Activity in Rats with Bladder Outlet Obstruction
Authors: SUGAYA Kimio , DE GROAT William C.
Published: June 2009

Objectives:This study was undertaken to investigate whether chronic bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) in female rats influences the tonic parasympathetic excitatory or inhibitory reflex control of bladder activity.

Methods:Bladder activity during isovolumetric cystometry (1.5–12 mL) was examined after transection of dorsal and ventral lumbosacral spinal roots (L4–S4) and administration of hexamethonium, a ganglionic blocking agent, in urethane anesthetized female rats with sympathectomy and BOO.

Results:Lumbosacral dorsal root transection abolished reflex bladder contractions, but did not influence intravesical baseline pressure. However, ventral root transection after dorsal root transection decreased baseline intravesical pressure (y: % change) at low bladder volumes (x) and increased pressure at high volumes. The calculated (y = 1.9x − 16.5) transition volume was 9 mL. Administration of hexamethonium (100 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) after dorsal and ventral root transection increased the amplitude and decreased the frequency of myogenic bladder contractions.

Conclusion:The bladder is tonically excited or inhibited depending upon bladder volume by the interactions between a parasympathetic preganglionic pathway in the pelvic nerve and a peripheral reflex. However, in rats with BOO, the volume at which the response shifts from excitation to inhibition was very large, and tonic function of the parasympathetic preganglionic pathway was weak compared to previously reported results in rats without BOO. The persistence of reflex tonic excitatory control of bladder tone over a broad range of bladder volumes may be one of the reasons for overactivity of the bladder with outlet obstruction.
Recurrence of Human Streptococcus suis Infections in 2007: Three Cases of Meningitis and Implications that Heterogeneous S. suis 2 Circulates in China
Authors: Feng Y. , Shi X. , Zhang H. , Zhang S. , Ma Y. , Zheng B. , Han H. , Lan Q. , Tang J. , Cheng J. , Gao G. F. , Hu Q.
Published: June 2009

Emergence of fatal Streptococcus suis serotype 2 (S. suis 2, SS2) in China, 2005, has greatly challenged the public health, raising serious concerns about its global circulation. Whole genome sequencing of the representative strains has identified a potential pathogenicity island (PAI), named 89K. Here, we reported the recurrence of human S. suis meningitis cases (two in Shenzhen City and one in Sichuan Province) in China, in 2007. Multiple lines of evidence supported that these human cases are caused by highly pathogenic SS2 isolates. Pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis analysis indicated that these re‐emerging SS2 isolates (07CQH01, 07SZH01 and 07SZH02) can be featured with different genotypes. Molecular dissection demonstrated that they all share 89K, the newly proposed PAI that is common to 2005 prevalent strains in China. Further mapping of 89K revealed that gene losses/deletions occur in 07CQH01 and 07SZH01, except 07SZH02. These findings suggested that heterogeneous SS2 circulates in China, with the capability of causing endemic with life‐threatening danger.
In praise of subjective truths
Authors: Zeki Semir
Published: June 2009

‘To determine orientation we occasionally used a PDP‐12 computer to produce a graph of average response vs orientation, generating the slit electronically on a television screen. This method took much longer, and the usual minute‐to‐minute variations in responsiveness of the cell tended to make the curves broader and noisier. We concluded that for both speed and for precision it is hard to beat judgments based on the human ear. Certainly [our curves] could not have been obtained with computer averaging methods before the authors reached the age of mandatory retirement.’ (Hubel & Wiesel, 1974)
Visco-Elasticity of Passive Cardiac Muscle
Authors: Pinto J. G. , Patitucci P. J.
Published: June 2009

A quantitative mechanical description of the heart organ requires information on the mechanical behavior of its muscle in reasonable unity and completeness. In this respect, a fundamental constitutive law for soft biological tissues was proposed by Fung in 1972. This article presents evidence to show that Fung’s law is a useful law to describe the mechanical behavior of heart muscle in the unstimulated (diastolic) state with sufficient generality. A visco-elastic relaxation phenomenon is studied in the isolated cardiac muscle of cat and rabbit with the purpose of constructing a mathematical model for relaxation. Experimental results show that passive relaxation behavior of heart muscle can be adequately described by a generalized standard linear solid with a continuous distribution of relaxation times. The form of the relaxation function devised permits the application of linear visco-elasticity theory to the nonlinear cardiac muscle. The relaxation model is used to predict the force-length (stress-strain) behavior of papillary muscle with reasonable accuracy.
Some Mechanical Considerations in the Selection and Testing of Papillary Muscles
Authors: Pinto J. G.
Published: June 2009

Measurements of segmental deformation made on papillary muscles obtained from cat, rabbit, dog and pig hearts suggest that the deformational behavior in these specimens is appreciably nonuniform both in the resting (passive) state and in the stimulated (active) state. In view of this, in the mechanical testing of papillary muscles, it is necessary to establish a minimum size of segment “sufficiently” far from the disturbing influence of end fixtures generally used to hold the specimen in the testing machine. The segment size should be large enough to average out the nonuniform aspects of deformation. Thus, the shape and size of the specimen dictated by the nonuniformities in the mechanical response, the thinness of the specimen dictated by the viability considerations and aspects of the testing machines and method dictated by the visco-elastic features of the specimen should be given due consideraton in the selection and testing of papillary muscles.
A Mathematical Model of Lung Parenchyma
Authors: Karakaplan A. D. , Bieniek M. P. , Skalak R.
Published: June 2009

The geometry of the proposed model of the parenchyma of a mammalian lung reproduces a cluster of alveoli arranged around a lowest-level air duct. The alveolar walls are assumed to be nonlinear elastic membranes, whose properties are described in terms of a strain energy function which reflects the hardening character of the stress-strain curve. The effect of the surfactant is included in terms of a variable (area-dependent) surface tension. Analyses of various mechanical processes in the parenchyma are performed with the aid of the finite element method, with the geometric and physical nonlinearities of the problem taken into account.
Construction of Molds of Complex Arterial Segments
Authors: Walburn F. J. , Sabbah H. N. , Hawkins E. T. , Stein P. D.
Published: June 2009

Molds of arterial segments would be advantageous for in-vitro assessments of arterial flow dynamics. Previous techniques have been limited because of their technical difficulty or because they were limited to short planar segments. This paper presents a method, based on the lost wax technique, that is readily accomplished, and permits the fabrication of a mold of any arterial bed, irrespective of its complexity.
Force Systems from Orthodontic Appliances: An Analytical and Experimental Comparison
Authors: Koenig H. A. , Vanderby R. , Solonche D. J. , Burstone C. J.
Published: June 2009

Experimental data is compared with the simulated displacements from a computer program for the clinical activations of two separate orthodontic appliances undergoing a total of four separate loading conditions. Good agreement is shown over the entire range of activation. Suggestions for future strengthening of both the analytical and the experimental methods are given. An interactive design graphics system is shown to be imminently available to the research orthodontist.
A Microstructure Model for the Rheology of Mammalian Tendon
Authors: Lanir Y.
Published: June 2009

The rheological behavior of mammalian tendon is analyzed in terms of its constituents structure and their properties. The elastic fibers are assumed to be straight and linearly elastic. They are of predominant role in the low ranges of strain. The collagen fibers are nonuniformly undulated. Upon stretch they gradually become straight, thus increasing the stiffness of the tissue. They are assumed to be linearly viscoelastic with negligible bending strength. It is shown that the nonuniformity of the collagen fiber structure can account for the observed nonlinear load-strain relations as well as for the nonlinear viscoelastic behavior of the tendon. An experimental procedure is developed through which the material functions and parameters can be determined.
Absorption by Bacterial Cells: Interaction Between Receptor Sites and the Effect of Fluid Motion
Authors: Brunn P. O.
Published: June 2009

The absorption of some species X by a bacterial cell depends (i) on the concentration of receptors for species X and (ii) on the state of motion of the surrounding medium. The latter problem is particularly interesting, since without any restriction on the type of fluid, details of the flow field or kind of cell, an explicit expression for the increase in uptake is obtained. To study the interaction between neighboring receptor sites we concentrate on the limit of small area fraction. The result obtained correlates quite well with experimental data.
The Effects of Exercise on the Biomechanical and Biochemical Properties of Swine Digital Flexor Tendons
Authors: Woo S. L.-Y. , Gomez M. A. , Amiel D. , Ritter M. A. , Gelberman R. H. , Akeson W. H.
Published: June 2009

The digital flexor tendons of the miniature swine were studied after 12 mo of running exercise. Using a newly developed methodology whereby the properties of tendon substance and tendon-bone composite are measured simultaneously, it was found that training augments the strength of the tendon insertion site, but has minimal effect on the tendon substance. Biochemical analyses also showed that the collagen concentration in the tendon substance remains unchanged following exercise. There was also moderate, but not significant, tendon hypertrophy. The present results on flexor tendon differ from those previously obtained for the swine digital extensors [6]. Such difference in response to functional stress may be attributed to the biochemical composition and mechanical properties of these tissues.
Design of an Actively Controlled Snow Ski Release Binding
Authors: Hull M. L. , Allen K. W.
Published: June 2009

A new electronic ski binding has been designed which may better protect skiers from lower extremity injuries. A four-step procedure for developing binding release criteria aimed at preventing specific injuries is outlined. Using simplified biomechanical models, the release criteria for tibia fracture in both torsion and flexion are derived. A binding design which embodies the derived release criteria is described. The binding consists of three subsystems: 1) a dynamometer, 2) an analog computer controller, and 3) an electromechanical release mechanism. The strain gage dynamometer directly measures torsion and bending moments between the boot and ski. An analog computer controller processes dynamometer signals. Dual release mode capability is achieved by parallel solution of differential equations which model the leg in both medial-lateral rotation and flexion. When the model solution reaches a critical value, the controller actuates the release mechanism. The release mechanism incorporates a unique closed circuit hydraulic system which rigidly locks the boot to the ski until release. Laboratory tests on a prototype confirm that the computer-controlled binding prevents inadvertent release under noninjurious high-magnitude, short-duration loads but releases before quasi-static loads reach injurious levels.
Micromechanical Oscillators and Techniques for Determining the Dynamic Moduli of Microsamples of Human Cortical Bone at Microstrains
Authors: Frasca P. , Harper R. A. , Katz J. L.
Published: June 2009

Two micromechanical oscillators are described along with methods and techniques which have been successfully used to determine the elastic, dynamic, shear and Young’s moduli at microstrain levels, and which with proper design modifications might, under restricted experimental conditions, also be employed to determine viscous moduli. Although these systems can be used with any microsamples, they were designed originally for dynamic studies of the unit microstructural element of human cortical bone, the secondary osteon (Haversian system).
Diffusion of Macromolecules Across the Arterial Wall in the Presence of Multiple Endothelial Injuries
Authors: Pfeffer R. , Ganatos P. , Nir A. , Weinbaum S.
Published: June 2009

In this paper, the two-phase arterial wall model developed by Weinbaum and Caro [2] has been extended to obtain analytic solutions for the steady-state flux, uptake and concentration of macromolecules in the arterial wall due to the presence of periodically dispersed local sites of enhanced permeability. In the endothelial cell layer these sites are believed to be associated with the dying and regeneration of individual cells in the endothelial monolayer. Nir and Pfeffer [9] obtained similar solutions for a single dying cell in an otherwise undamaged endothelial cell layer. However this model requires that multiple cell turnover sites be spaced sufficiently far apart such that no interaction between neighboring sites takes place and hence cannot be applied to closely spaced endothelial injuries which have been observed experimentally in physiological studies. The theoretical predictions of the present model compare very favorably with experimental results for the enhanced uptake found in blue versus white areas reported in morphological studies of the endothelial surface (Bell, et al. [10, 11]).
A One-Dimensional Model of Simultaneous Hemodialysis and Ultrafiltration With Highly Permeable Membranes
Authors: Jaffrin M. Y. , Gupta B. B. , Malbrancq J. M.
Published: June 2009

A one-dimensional model of combined convective and diffusive mass transfer in a hemodialyser is presented. Solutions and results are given for two regimes of ultrafiltration (UF): at low transmembrane pressures when UF flow is proportional to transmembrane pressure and in the limit of large transmembrane pressures when UF is limited by protein concentration polarization. It is found that the overall clearance is always less than the sum of dialytic and UF clearances due to interaction between convective and diffusive transfers. For a given UF flow the clearance is not sensitive to UF flux distribution along the membrane. Model predictions of urea clearance are in good agreement with measurements obtained in vitro with saline on hemodialysers equipped with a polyacrylonitrile membrane.
Transient and Residual Stresses and Displacements in Self-Curing Bone Cement—Part I: Characterization of Relevant Volumetric Behavior of Bone Cement
Authors: Ahmed A. M. , Pak W. , Burke D. L. , Miller J.
Published: June 2009

In this first part of a two-part report, some aspects of the volumetric behavior of bone cement during its curing process are examined as a prelude to an analysis for the transient and residual stresses and displacements in stem fixation systems. Experiments show that stress generation in the cement is associated with its temperature while curing and that during the cooling phase, the stresses are mainly due to thermal as opposed to bulk shrinkage. The appropriate coefficient of thermal expansion of bone cement has been evaluated from measurements in a simulated fixation system in conjunction with a thermoelastic analysis.
Dynamical Study of Couple Stress Effects in Human Compact Bone
Authors: Lakes R. S.
Published: June 2009

Torsional resonance experiments performed on wet human compact bone disclose effects due to couple stress. The characteristic length, which is an additional material coefficient which appears in couple-stress theory, is of the order of the size of osteons and appears to be smaller at high frequencies than at low frequencies. The presence of couple-stress effects implies a reduction in the stress concentration factor around holes, particularly small holes.
A Finite-Element Simulation of Pulsatile Flow in Flexible Obstructed Tubes
Authors: Rooz E. , Young D. F. , Rogge T. R.
Published: June 2009

A finite-element model for pulsatile flow in a straight flexible partially obstructed tube is developed. In the unobstructed sections of the tube the model considers the continuity equation, the one-dimensional momentum equation, and an equation of state relating tube cross-sectional area to pressure. For the obstructed region, a nonlinear relationship between the flow and the pressure drop across the stenosis is considered. The applicability of a model is checked by comparing predicted flow and pressure waveforms with corresponding in-vitro experimental measurements obtained on a mechanical system. These comparisons indicate that the model satisfactorily predicts pressures and flows under variety of frequencies of oscillation and stenosis severities.
Approximate Formulas for Myocardial Fiber Stresses
Authors: Skalak R.
Published: June 2009

Approximate formulas are developed for the stress in the muscle fibers of the myocardium of the left ventircle based on a fiber-fluid model of the tissue. It is shown that the fiber stress can be approximated using a formula similar to the thin cylinder approximation using a mean fiber curvature for the radius.
Bioengineering Studies of Periodic External Compression as Prophylaxis Against Deep Vein Thrombosis—Part II: Experimental Studies on a Simulated Leg
Authors: Olson D. A. , Kamm R. D. , Shapiro A. H.
Published: June 2009

In this companion paper to “Part I: Numerical Simulations,” we report in vitro experimental studies performed on a simple model leg consisting of a “vein” of thin-walled latex tubing surrounded by “tissue” of open-pore foam rubber. Three modes of periodic external compression were investigated: i) uniform compression; (ii) graded compression, decreasing from ankle to knee; and (iii) sequential compression, progressing from ankle to knee. The modes are compared on the basis of three hemodynamic criteria: degree of vessel collapse, level of fluid velocity, and level of shear stress. In uniform compression these measures of merit are distributed very nonuniformly along the length of the leg: they are high near the proximal end of the cuff but low elsewhere, a result due to the formation proximally of a partially occlusive throat. The latter does not form in either graded or sequential compression, with the consequence that favorable values of the three measures of merit occur more uniformly along the length of the pressurized region. It is concluded that either the graded or sequential mode of compression, or perhaps a combination of the two, would be more effective than uniform compression as a prophylaxis against deep vein thrombosis.
Contact Areas in Human Elbow Joints
Authors: Goel V. K. , Singh D. , Bijlani V.
Published: June 2009

The paper describes the results of in-vitro experiments to determine the contact areas in the elbow joint during different anatomical positions. The casting technique, using wax as a casting material, was used in this study. The shape and size of the contact areas change, in different elbow positions ranging from full extension to full flexion. The joint stability was preserved during the experiments. In full extension the area of contact was observed on the lower-medial aspect of the ulna while in other postures the pressure areas were found as a strip extending from posterolateral to anteromedial. The radio-capitulum joint also revealed contact during flexion under no externally applied loads.