bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Goal Tolerance, outside Investors, and Family Firm Governance
Authors: Villanueva Jaume , Sapienza Harry J.
Published: November 2009

Le Breton–Miller and Miller argue that as the family becomes more embedded in the firm, the firm's decision makers become more susceptible to influence by the family, and agency problems rise for outside investors. We contend that the family's embeddedness in the business does not, in itself, explain whether the assumptions of agency theory are warranted. Our commentary offers an alternative way in which outside investors might look at family firms‘ goals. Outsiders should assess the complementarity of the family firm's objectives with their own if they are to make rewarding investments in family firms.
Informal Family Business in Africa
Authors: Khavul Susanna , Bruton Garry D. , Wood Eric
Published: November 2009

Employing grounded theory based on comparative case studies of informal microfinanced businesses in East Africa, we build a theoretical foundation for studying the establishment and evolution of family firms in emerging markets. We show that East African entrepreneurs not only use both strong family and strong community ties to establish and grow businesses, but they also use strong community ties to counterbalance the obligations that strong extended family ties create. In addition, we show that economic informality presents opportunities for some entrepreneurial businesses but not others to cycle rapidly from opportunity to opportunity as they maneuver toward higher value–creating ventures.
East Africa: Extended Families with Many Rights
Authors: Smith Garry D.
Published: November 2009

The study by Khavul, Bruton, and Wood was an attempt to shed light on informal family businesses in East Africa, a group seldom studied. By applying the tenets of grounded theory the authors were able to successfully provide some insight into family business in this region. This commentary provides insight into the research by discussing the findings in light of the three–dimensional model of family business and attempts to limit agency costs based on cultural–based rights of the extended family. Also discussed here is a finding that may indicate a gender–related issue in opportunity identification and exploitation.
Family Business, Identity Conflict, and an Expedited Entrepreneurial Process: A Process of Resolving Identity Conflict
Authors: Shepherd Dean , Haynie J. Michael
Published: November 2009

Drawing on Identity Control Theory (ICT) and the literature on social identity, we offer a model of the dynamics associated with competing family and business identities brought into conflict by “family–business” events. We introduce the notion of the family–business role as a distinct identity functioning at the intersection of family and business identities. This meta–level identity “manages” conflict between the family and the business identities, and is formulated and transformed within the family structure. To illustrate the dynamics of the family–business meta–identity, in this article we focus on entrepreneurial opportunities as potentially identity conflict–triggering events and illustrate how and with what impact the meta–identity works to resolve identity conflict at the intersection of family and business so as to expedite the entrepreneurial process. We conclude with a discussion of the implications of our model.
Percutaneous Access of the Epicardial Space for Mapping Ventricular and Supraventricular Arrhythmias in Patients With and Without Prior Cardiac Surgery
Authors: ROBERTS‐THOMSON KURT C. , SEILER JENS , STEVEN DANIEL , INADA KEIICHI , MICHAUD GREGORY F. , JOHN ROY M. , KOPLAN BRUCE A. , EPSTEIN LAURENCE M. , STEVENSON WILLIAM G. , TEDROW USHA B.
Published: November 2009

Percutaneous Epicardial Access. Introduction: There is a paucity of data on the success rates of achieving percutaneous epicardial access in different groups of patients.

Methods and Results:
Percutaneous epicardial access was attempted in 137 patients having 149 procedures; 19 patients had supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), 25 patients had idiopathic VT and 93 patients had scar‐related ventricular tachycardia (VT). Ten patients had prior cardiac surgery. Successful epicardial access was achieved in 133 of 149 (89.3%) procedures. Access was achieved in 17 of 19 (89.5%) patients with SVT, all patients with idiopathic VT, 80 of 93 (86.0%) patients with scar‐related VT and in 2 (20%) patients with prior cardiac surgery. Attempted access failed in 16 patients; 8 had prior cardiac surgery and 3 had prior pericarditis. After an initial procedure, repeat access was attempted in 15 patients, 5.1 ± 5.4 months after initial epicardial mapping and ablation. Access was successful in 13 (86.7%) and failed in 2 patients who had pericarditis after their first procedure. Only 4 patients were given intrapericardial glucocorticoid at their first epicardial procedure. Prior cardiac surgery and a history of pericarditis predicted unsuccessful access (P < 0.01). Complications (9 patients) included pericardial bleeding (80–250 mL) and intraabdominal bleeding.

Conclusions:
In patients without prior cardiac surgery, percutaneous epicardial access can be obtained in the majority of patients. Prior cardiac surgery precludes access in the most patients and when possible adhesions may limit catheter movement. Repeat access is possible in the majority of patients without the installation of intrapericardial glucocorticoid at the first procedure. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 406–411, April 2010)
Effect of continuous light on the biology of the greenhouse whitefly, Trialeurodes vaporariorum, on roses
Authors: Johansen Nina Svae
Published: November 2009

Continuous light is a promising method to reduce the problems with rose powdery mildew in greenhouse rose production. The effects of such a light regime on the performance of insect pests on roses have so far not been investigated. In the present study, survival, developmental time, and reproduction during one generation of the greenhouse whitefly, Trialeurodes vaporariorum Westwood (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae), were characterized on roses, Rosa×hybrida cv. Passion, grown in climate chambers with long‐day conditions (L20:D4) or continuous light (L24:D0) at 21 °C and fluctuating relative humidity (mean 74%, range 47–96%). Whiteflies reared under continuous light had lower immature survival and fecundity and shorter female longevity than whiteflies reared under long‐day conditions, but immature developmental time was only slightly affected. Life‐table analysis showed that the net reproductive rate (Ro) and intrinsic rate of natural increase (rm) were reduced by 85 and 76%, respectively, and the time for the population to double its size (D) was 4.2 times longer under continuous light. This mean that the whitefly population growth under continuous light was strongly reduced compared with the traditional light regime used in rose production.
Ovipositing female house flies provision offspring larvae with bacterial food
Authors: Lam Kevin , Geisreiter Christine , Gries Gerhard
Published: November 2009

Symbiotic bacteria on house fly eggs, Musca domestica L. (Diptera: Muscidae), provide ovipositional cues for conspecific female flies and curtail the growth of fungi that compete with fly larval offspring for resources. Because bacteria are also essential dietary constituents for developing larvae, we tested the hypothesis that egg‐derived bacteria support development of larvae to adults. From house fly eggs, we isolated and identified 12 strains of bacteria, eight and four of which were previously shown to induce and inhibit oviposition, respectively. When larvae were provisioned with a total dose of 106–107 colony‐forming units of bacteria from either the oviposition‐inducing or inhibiting group, or from both groups together, significantly more larvae completed development. Thus, egg‐associated bacteria could be a fail‐safe mechanism that ensures a bacterial food supply for larval offspring, particularly if the resource selected by parent females is poor in bacterial food.
Bryophytes as food: comparative consumption and utilization of mosses by a generalist insect herbivore
Authors: Haines William P. , Renwick J. Alan A.
Published: November 2009

Compared with angiosperms, bryophytes are seldom fed upon by insects, despite being commonly used for shelter. Bryophytes are assumed to be unpalatable, and three classes of mechanisms have been suggested as possible barriers to bryophagy: chemical defenses, low digestibility, and low nutrient content. However, very few studies have tested these hypotheses. The present study examines pre‐ and post‐ingestive defenses of mosses. The acceptability and quality of four species of moss –Bryum argenteum Hedw. (Bryales: Bryaceae), Climacium americanum Brid. (Leucodontales: Climaciaceae), Leucobryum glaucum (Hedw.) (Dicranales: Leucobryaceae), and Sphagnum warnstorfii Russ. (Sphagnales: Sphagnaceae) – were compared with two control diets using the generalist caterpillar, Trichoplusia ni Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae: Plusiinae). In no‐choice trials, caterpillars consumed much less of any of the mosses than lettuce or wheat germ. The only moss consumed in sufficient quantities to evaluate post‐ingestive responses was C. americanum. Digestibility, assimilation, and overall utilization efficiency of C. americanum did not differ from that of lettuce, although C. americanum and lettuce were both less digestible than artificial diet. Choice assays using leaf discs showed that ethanol extract of L. glaucum, the least consumed moss, was deterrent, implying that chemical defenses play a major role in deterring feeding on L. glaucum. This study suggested that pre‐ingestive mechanisms are more important than post‐ingestive mechanisms in discouraging herbivory on mosses, and offered evidence that mosses are not simply nutrient poor.
Mate‐finding failure as an important cause of Allee effects along the leading edge of an invading insect population
Authors: Contarini Mario , Onufrieva Ksenia S. , Thorpe Kevin W. , Raffa Kenneth F. , Tobin Patrick C.
Published: November 2009

The movement of humans and goods has facilitated the arrival of non‐native insects, some of which successfully establish and cause negative consequences to the composition, services, and functioning of ecosystems. The gypsy moth,Lymantria dispar(L.) (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae), is currently invading North American forests at variable rates, spreading by local and long‐distance movement in a process known as stratified dispersal. Newly arriving colonizers often occur considerably ahead of the population front, and a key question is the degree to which they successfully establish. Prior research has highlighted mate‐finding failures in sparse populations as a cause of an Allee effect (positive density dependence). We explored this mechanism by measuring the relationship between female mating success and background male moth densities along the gypsy moth western front in Northern Wisconsin (USA) over 2 years. The mating results were then compared with analogous previous studies in southern Wisconsin, and the southern front in West Virginia and Virginia (USA). Mate‐finding failures in low‐density populations were consistently observed to be density‐dependent across all years and locations. Mate‐finding failures in low‐density populations have important ramifications to invasive species management, particularly in predicting species invasiveness, preventing successful establishment by small founder populations, and concentrating eradication efforts where they are most likely to succeed.
The combined effect of photoperiod and temperature on egg dormancy in an island and a mainland population of the hemlock looper, Lambdina fiscellaria
Authors: Delisle Johanne , Royer Lucie , Bernier‐Cardou Michèle , Bauce Eric , Labrecque Alain
Published: November 2009

Embryonic dormancy characteristics of the hemlock looper (HL), Lambdina fiscellaria (Guenée) (Lepidoptera: Geometridae), an important coniferous defoliator, were investigated using eggs from an island (Newfoundland) and a mainland (Quebec) population in eastern Canada. We determined (1) the pre‐diapause duration or time required for eggs to change color at 15 °C, under L16:D8 and L12:D12, (2) the percent hatch and time to hatch of early‐diapausing eggs that were, as of 1 September, either (a) incubated under each combination of three photoperiods (L16:D8, L12:D12, or L8:D16) and three temperatures (15, 20, or 25 °C) or (b) stored outdoors prior to their monthly incubation (October–May) under the same treatments, and (3) the diapause duration at 15 °C. The two HL ecotypes completed their pre‐diapause phase in ca. 15 days under long‐day photoperiod. In the mainland ecotype, photoperiod did not influence the pre‐diapause duration. Regardless of photoperiod and ecotype, only eggs incubated continuously at 15 °C hatched successfully after ca. 120 days. Temperature was the most important factor modulating the dormancy of eggs acclimated outdoors, in both ecotypes. From October to December (diapause phase), percent egg hatch at 20 and 25 °C increased from low (20%) to levels similar to those obtained at 15 °C (70%). These percentages remained stable throughout the post‐diapause phase (January–May). Time to hatch, which was shorter at warmer temperatures, decreased from October to December at all temperatures. It remained stable from January to March (quiescence), however, and declined thereafter. Eggs from the island were heavier than those from the mainland and their odds of hatching were 2.3 times higher. At 15 °C, diapause lasted ca. 90 days. Our findings indicate that eggs from the two HL ecotypes (1) undergo an obligatory diapause, (2) complete diapause without pre‐exposure to cold, (3) respond similarly to photoperiod and temperature during diapause and post‐diapause, and (4) do not hatch successfully after prolonged exposure to high temperatures.
Incidence and diagnostic diversity in first‐episode psychosis
Authors: Reay R. , Mitford E. , McCabe K. , Paxton R. , Turkington D.
Published: November 2009

Reay R, Mitford E, McCabe K, Paxton R, Turkington D. Incidence and diagnostic diversity in first‐episode psychosis.

Objective:  To investigate the incidence and range of diagnostic groups in patients with first‐episode psychosis (FEP) in a defined geographical area.

Method:  An observational database was set up on all patients aged 16 years and over presenting with FEP living in a county in Northern England between 1998 and 2005.

Results:  The incidence of all FEP was 30.95/100 000. The largest diagnostic groups were psychotic depression (19%) and acute and transient psychotic disorder (19%). Fifty‐four per cent of patients were aged 36 years and over. Patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder only accounted for 55% of cases.

Conclusion:  This clinical database revealed marked diversity in age and diagnostic groups in FEP with implications for services and guidelines. These common presentations of psychoses are grossly under researched, and no treatment guidelines currently exist for them.
α‐thalassaemia masked by β gene defects and a new polyadenylation site mutation on the α2‐globin gene
Authors: Harteveld Cornelis L. , Oosterhuis Wytze P. , Schoenmakers Christian H. H. , Ananta Hardjawardhama , Kos Snjezana , Bakker Verweij Margaretha , Van Delft Peter , Arkesteijn Sandra G. J. , Phylipsen Marion , Giordano Piero C.
Published: November 2009

We report three examples of chronic anaemia involving complex combinations of α‐ and β‐globin gene defects. The first case had a potential Hb H disease caused by the classic SEA/RW deletions masked by Hb E [β26(B8)Glu→Lys] in the homozygous state. The second had an unusual Hb H disease caused by compound heterozygosity for two different α2 polyadenylation site mutations masked by a β‐thalassaemia heterozygosity. The third had an intermediate α‐thalassaemia with considerable anaemia caused by an as yet unknown polyadenylation site (AATAAA>AATAAC) mutation in combination with a common RW deletion masked by a common Hb C [β6(A3)Glu→Lys] heterozygosity. Diagnostic methods, genotype/phenotype correlations and the chance of overlooking these combinations during risk assessment in a multiethnic society are discussed.
Trefoil factor family 3 expression in the oral cavity
Authors: Storesund T. , Schreurs O. , Messelt E. B. , Kolltveit K. M. , Schenck K.
Published: November 2009

This study examined the expression, in oral keratinocytes and in the major and minor salivary glands, of Trefoil factor family 3 (TFF3) peptide. Trefoil factor family 3 messenger RNA (mRNA) and peptide were detected in cultures of normal oral keratinocytes by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and western blotting, respectively. Trefoil factor family 3 was found, by immunohistochemical analyses, to be expressed in the basal layers of the oral mucosal epithelium. In salivary glands, immunohistochemical staining showed that TFF3 peptide expression was strongest in the mucous acini of the submandibular and the small salivary glands. Serous cells in the same glands showed weak staining. In the parotid gland, many serous acini showed weak positive staining, while other areas did not. In all glands examined, the intercalated, striated, and collecting ducts were moderately TFF3‐positive. Double immunostaining confirmed that mucous (MUC5B positive) cells were moderately or strongly positive for TFF3 and that some serous (MUC7 positive) cells showed restricted TFF3 expression, mostly in a granular pattern. The prevalence of the TFF3 peptide in the salivary secretions of healthy volunteers was detected by western blotting of saliva from minor salivary glands (four of five) and the parotid gland (one of five) and of mixed submandibular/sublingual saliva (five of five). In conclusion, the submandibular and small salivary glands appear to be the major producers of oral TFF3, but duct cells of all glands and keratinocytes of the oral mucosa may also contribute as sources of TFF3 in the oral cavity.
IRF6 gene variants in Central European patients with non‐syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate
Authors: Birnbaum Stefanie , Ludwig Kerstin U. , Reutter Heiko , Herms Stefan , De Assis Nilma A. , Diaz‐Lacava Amalia , Barth Sandra , Lauster Carola , Schmidt Gül , Scheer Martin , Saffar Mitra , Martini Markus , Reich Rudolf H. , Schiefke Franziska , Hemprich Alexander , Pötzsch Simone , Pötzsch Bernd , Wienker Thomas F. , Hoffmann Per , Knapp Michael , Kramer Franz‐Josef , Nöthen Markus M. , Mangold Elisabeth
Published: November 2009

Variants in the interferon regulatory factor 6 (IRF6) gene have repeatedly been associated with non‐syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (NSCL/P). A recent study has suggested that the functionally relevant variant rs642961 is the underlying cause of the observed associations. We genotyped rs642961 in our Central European case–control sample of 460 NSCL/P patients and 952 controls. In order to investigate whether other IRF6 variants contribute independently to the etiology of NSCL/P, we also genotyped the non‐synonymous coding variant V274I (rs2235371) and five IRF6‐haplotype tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). A highly significant result was observed for rs642961 (P = 1.44 × 10−6) in our sample. The odds ratio was 1.75 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.38–2.22] for the heterozygous genotype and 1.94 (95% CI: 1.21–3.10) for the homozygous genotype, values that are similar to those reported in a previously published family‐based study. Our results thus confirm the involvement of the IRF6 variant, rs642961, in the etiology of NSCL/P in the Central European population. We also found evidence suggestive of an independent protective effect of the coding variant V274I. In order to understand fully the genetic architecture of the IRF6 locus, it will be necessary to conduct additional SNP‐based and resequencing studies using large samples of patients.
De novo mutation in the DSPP gene associated with dentinogenesis imperfecta type II in a Japanese family
Authors: Kida Miyuki , Tsutsumi Tomonori , Shindoh Masanobu , Ikeda Hisami , Ariga Tadashi
Published: November 2009

Dentinogenesis imperfecta (DGI) type II is one of the most common dominantly inherited dentin defects, in which both the primary and permanent teeth are affected. Here, we report a Japanese family with autosomal‐dominant DGI type II, including both molecular genetic defects and pathogenesis with histological analysis. Mutation analysis revealed a mutation (c.53T>A, p.V18D, g.1192T>A) involving the second nucleotide of the first codon within exon 3 of the dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) gene. This mutation has previously been reported in a Korean family. Thus far, 24 allelic DSPP mutations have been reported, and this is the seventh mutation involving the DSPP V18 residue. Among those, only one other was shown to be caused by a de novo mutation, and that mutation also affected the V18 amino acid residue. The DSPP V18 residue is highly conserved among other mammalian species. These findings thus suggest that the V18 amino acid might be a sensitive mutational hot spot, playing a critical role in the pathogenesis of DGI.
Cost‐effectiveness of an experimental caries‐control regimen in a 3.4‐yr randomized clinical trial among 11–12‐yr‐old Finnish schoolchildren
Authors: Hietasalo Pauliina , Seppä Liisa , Lahti Satu , Niinimaa Ahti , Kallio Jouko , Aronen Pasi , Sintonen Harri , Hausen Hannu
Published: November 2009

The aim of this study was to assess the cost‐effectiveness of an experimental caries‐control regimen in a randomized clinical trial (RCT) conducted in Pori, Finland, in 2001–2005. Children (n = 497) who were 11–12 yr of age and had at least one active initial caries lesion at baseline were studied. The children in the experimental group (n = 250) were offered an individually designed patient‐centered regimen for caries control. The children in the control group (n = 247) received standard dental care. Furthermore, the whole population was exposed to continuous community‐level oral health promotion. Individual costs of treatment procedures and outcomes (DMFS increment score) for the follow‐up period of 3.4 yr were calculated for each child in both groups. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio was €34.07 per averted DMF surface. The experimental regimen was more effective, and also more costly. However, the total costs decreased year after year, and for the last 2 yr the experimental regimen was less expensive than the standard dental care. The experimental regimen would probably have been more cost‐effective than standard dental care if the follow‐up period had been longer, the regimen less comprehensive, and/or if dental nurses had conducted the preventive procedures.
Diet and caries experience among preschool children in Ajman, United Arab Emirates
Authors: Hashim Raghad , Williams Sheila M. , Murray Thomson Williams
Published: November 2009

The study investigated the association between food and drink consumption and the caries experience among young children in Ajman, United Arab Emirates. A one‐stage cluster sample was used to select children who were 5 or 6 yr of age. Clinical examinations for caries were conducted. Parents completed questionnaires seeking information on dietary habits. Principal components analysis was used to derive a summary score for the dietary variables (designated ‘snack consumption level’) and thus overcome the multicollinearity problems associated with using multiple dietary variables. Dental examination and questionnaire data were obtained for 1,036 children (79.9% participation rate). The overall mean number of decayed, missing or filled teeth (dmft) was 4.5. Snacking three or more times per day was associated with a dmft score that was almost one‐third higher than the dmft score for children who snacked only once daily. One‐third of children had a low overall snack consumption level (41% moderate and 25% high). There was a consistent dmft gradient across those categories. The severity of Early Childhood Caries (ECC) in young Ajman children is high, with dietary habits being important determinants. Cariogenic snack consumption can be represented using a summary exposure variable that appears to be valid. Young children in Ajman would benefit from health‐promotion strategies directed towards appropriate dietary practices.
Cerebral activations resulting from virtual dental treatment
Authors: Said Yekta Sareh , Vohn Rene , Ellrich Jens
Published: November 2009

Pain, and anxiety of pain, for some people are serious problems in dental treatment. It is a common practical experience that even entering a dental surgery office, or the sound of a dental drill, may evoke vegetative correlates of toothache without any underlying disease. This everyday phenomenon suggests the hypothesis of a corresponding activation of pain‐related brain areas by virtual dental treatment. Twenty healthy subjects viewed two different video clips presenting a dental treatment from the first‐person perspective (simulation movie) and a moving hand holding an electrical toothbrush (control movie). Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, the cerebral hemodynamic responses that occurred during simulation and control movies were compared. Virtual dental treatment was associated with increased activity in pain‐related brain areas such as the cingulate cortex, the insula, and primary and secondary somatosensory cortexes (SI, SII). The brain activation pattern indicates not only affective‐motivational but also sensory‐discriminative pain components during virtual dental treatment in all volunteers. Volunteers with a higher level of dental anxiety showed stronger activation of SI and SII. This may be a result of their higher anticipation of pain.
A new osteopetrosis mutant mouse strain (ntl) with odontoma‐like proliferations and lack of tooth roots
Authors: Lu Xincheng , Rios Hector F. , Jiang Baichun , Xing Lianping , Kadlcek Renata , Greenfield Edward M. , Luo Guangbin , Feng Jian Q.
Published: November 2009

A new spontaneous mouse mutant (ntl) with autosomal‐recessive osteopetrosis was characterized. These mice formed tartrate‐resistant acid phosphate (TRAP)‐positive osteoclasts but their osteoclasts had no ruffled border and did not resorb bone. These mice displayed no tooth eruption or tooth root formation. Adult mutant mice developed odontoma‐like proliferations near the proximal ends of the incisors. Intraperitoneal injection of progenitor cells from the liver of 16.5 days postcoitum wild‐type embryos into newborn mutants rescued the osteopetrosis phenotype, indicating that the defects were intrinsic to the osteoclasts. Our findings not only provide further support for a critical role of osteoclasts in tooth eruption and tooth root development, but also suggest that the perturbation of the homeostasis of the odontogenic precursors of the incisors is primarily responsible for the development of the odontoma‐like proliferations in this osteopetrosis mutant. Genetic mapping has narrowed down the location of the mutant allele to a genetic interval of 3.2 cM on mouse chromosome 17.
Characterization of a novel light‐cured star‐shape poly(acrylic acid)‐composed glass‐ionomer cement: fluoride release, water sorption, shrinkage, and hygroscopic expansion
Authors: Zhao Jun , Platt Jeffrey A. , Xie Dong
Published: November 2009

This study evaluated the fluoride release, water sorption, curing shrinkage, and hygroscopic expansion of a novel experimental light‐cured glass‐ionomer cement. The effects of glycidyl methacrylate (GM) grafting, polymer : water (P : W) and powder : liquid (P : L) ratios were investigated. Commercial Fuji II and Fuji II LC cements were used as controls for comparison. All the specimens were conditioned in deionized water at 37°C before testing. The results demonstrated that the experimental cement showed lower burst and slower bulk fluoride release than Fuji II and Fuji II LC. The experimental cement absorbed more water than Fuji II and Fuji II LC as a result of its hydroxyl and carboxyl functional group content. The lower water‐diffusion rate and reduced hygroscopic expansion of the experimental cement suggest that it had a highly crosslinked network. Both Fuji II and Fuji II LC exhibited much higher shrinkage values (2.8% and 4.7%) than the experimental cement (0.8%). It appears that this novel cement will be a clinically attractive dental restorative because not only has it shown superior mechanical strength, it has also demonstrated satisfactory physical properties.
Aquaporin expression patterns in the developing mouse salivary gland
Authors: Larsen Helga S. , Ruus Ann‐Kristin , Galtung Hilde Kanli
Published: November 2009

Little is known about the presence of the various membrane‐located water channels, aquaporins (AQP), during the prenatal and postnatal development of the mouse submandibular salivary gland (SMG). To learn more about AQPs in the developing aspect of salivary glands, we investigated trends in the expression patterns of several AQPs using the embryonic, early postnatal, and young adult mouse SMGs as models. We have chosen AQPs previously found in salivary glands in other animals. Transcripts of AQPs 1, 3, 4, 5, and 8 were detected by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and quantified. Aquaporin proteins 1, 3, 4, and 5, but not AQP protein 8, were detected and quantified using western blotting. The various AQPs showed distinct transcript and protein‐expression patterns. The change in trends may indicate that the importance of the various AQPs varies throughout the developmental stages in the mouse SMG. Their presence might be related to cell adhesion, migration, proliferation, apoptosis, transepithelial transport, osmosensing, or cell volume regulation; all roles that in the literature are linked to the various AQPs. Overall, this study demonstrates that AQP presentation varies and has a specific expression pattern during the development of mouse SMG. This feature may be important for glandular anatomical and physiological development.
Evidence‐based (S3) guideline for the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris – Update: “Therapeutic options” and “Efalizumab”
Authors: Nast Alexander , Augustin Matthias , Boehncke Wolf‐Henning , Klaus Joachim , Mrowietz Ulrich , Ockenfels Hans‐Michael , Philipp Sandra , Reich Kristian , Rosenbach Thomas , Schlaeger Martin , Sebastian Michael , Sterry Wolfram , Streit Volker , Weisenseel Peter , Rzany Berthold
Published: November 2009

In February 2009, the European Medicines Agency's (EMEA) Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) had recommended the suspension of efalizumab's (Raptiva®) marketing authorization, because its benefits in the treatment of psoriasis were modest, while there was a risk of serious side effects in patients receiving the medicine, including the occurrence of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). The guideline group has changed the guideline accordingly.
Short‐term propagation of rainfall perturbations on terrestrial ecosystems in central California
Authors: García Mónica , Litago J. , Palacios‐Orueta A. , Pinzón J.E. , Ustin, Susan L.
Published: November 2009

Question:Does vegetation buffer or amplify rainfall perturbations, and is it possible to forecast rainfall using mesoscale climatic signals?

Location:Central California (USA).

Methods:The risk of dry or wet rainfall events was evaluated using conditional probabilities of rainfall depending on El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events. The propagation of rainfall perturbations on vegetation was calculated using cross‐correlations between monthly seasonally adjusted (SA) normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) from the Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR), and SA antecedent rainfall at different time‐scales.

Results:In this region, El Niño events are associated with higher than normal winter precipitation (probability of 73%). Opposite but more predictable effects are found for La Niña events (89% probability of dry events). Chaparral and evergreen forests showed the longest persistence of rainfall effects (0‐8 months). Grasslands and wetlands showed low persistence (0‐2 months), with wetlands dominated by non‐stationary patterns. Within the region, the NDVI spatial patterns associated with higher (lower) rainfall are homogeneous (heterogeneous), with the exception of evergreen forests.

Conclusions:Knowledge of the time‐scale of lagged effects of the non‐seasonal component of rainfall on vegetation greenness, and the risk of winter rainfall anomalies lays the foundation for developing a forecasting model for vegetation greenness. Our results also suggest greater competitive advantage for perennial vegetation in response to potential rainfall increases in the region associated with climate change predictions, provided that the soil allows storing extra rainfall.
Yoga in Female Sexual Functions
Authors: Dhikav Vikas , Karmarkar Girish , Gupta Richa , Verma Myank , Gupta Ruchi , Gupta Supriya , Anand Kuljeet S.
Published: November 2009

Introduction

Yoga is a popular form of complementary and alternative therapy. It is practiced both in developing and developed countries. Female sexual dysfunctions are common and do not always get adequate clinical attention. Pharmacotherapies for treating female sexual dysfunctions are available but suffer from drawbacks such as poor compliance, low efficacy, and side effects. Many patients and yoga protagonists claim that it is useful in improving sexual functions and treating sexual disorders.

Aim

To establish the effect yoga can have on female sexual functions.

Methods

We recruited 40 females (age range 22–55 years, average age 34.7 ± 8.49 years) who were enrolled in a yoga camp and were given a standardized questionnaire named Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) before and after the 12 weeks session of yoga.

Main Outcome Measures

FSFI scores.

Results

It was found that after the completion of yoga sessions; the sexual functions scores were significantly improved (P < 0.0001). The improvement occurred in all six domains of FSFI (i.e., desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain). The improvement was more in older women (age > 45 years) compared with younger women (age < 45 years).

Conclusions

Yoga appears to be an effective method of improving all domains of sexual functions in women as studied by FSFI.
Preoperative Criteria to Select Patients for Bilateral Nerve-sparing Robotic-assisted Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Novara Giacomo , Ficarra Vincenzo , D’Elia Carolina , Secco Silvia , De Gobbi Alberto , Cavalleri Stefano , Artibani Walter
Published: November 2009

Introduction

To date, no study has analyzed the predictors of potency recovery in a robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP) series. A novel risk stratification for erectile function recovery after retropubic radical prostatectomy (RRP) has been proposed recently by Briganti et al. from the University Vita-Salute San Raffaele in Milan, Italy.

Aim

To evaluate the potency rate in a series of consecutive patients who underwent bilateral nerve-sparing RALP, to identify the preoperative predictors of erectile function recovery, and to validate the risk-group stratification of Briganti et al.

Methods

The clinical records of all patients who underwent RALP for clinically localized prostate cancer between April 2005 and April 2009 were prospectively collected in the Prostate Cancer Padua Database. For the present study, we extracted all consecutive cases receiving a bilateral nerve-sparing technique with a minimum follow-up ≥12 months.

Main Outcome Measures

Twelve-month potency rate after RALP, defined as an International Index of Erectile Function 6 (IIEF-6) score ≥18.

Results

Data showed that 129 out of 208 enrolled patients (62%) were potent 12 months after surgery. Age (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.8; P <0.001), Charlson score (HR: 2.9; P = 0.007), and baseline IIEF-6 score (HR: 0.8; P <0.001) were independent predictors of potency recovery at multivariate analysis. According to Briganti et al.’s risk-group stratification, the 12-month potency rate following RALP was 81.9% in the low-risk group, 56.7% in the intermediate-risk group, and 28.6% in the high-risk group (P <0.001).

Conclusions

In the era of robotic surgery, the key point for the success of the nerve-sparing technique remains the accurate selection of patients. Age ≤65 years, absence of associated comorbidities, and good preoperative erectile function are the most important preoperative factors to select those patients for whom bilateral nerve-sparing RALP can achieve the best results.
Metallomics and chemical speciation: towards a better understanding of metal‐induced stress in plants
Authors: Arruda M.A.Z. , Azevedo R.A.
Published: November 2009

Most metal ions are toxic to plants, even at low concentrations, despite the fact that some are essential for growth and play key roles in metabolism. The majority of metals induce the formation of reactive oxygen species, which require the synthesis of additional antoxidant compounds and enzymes for their removal. New techniques that have greatly improved the identification, localisation and quantification of metals within plant tissues have led to the science of metallomics. This advancement in knowledge should eventually allow the characterisation of plants used in the process of phytoremediation of soils contaminated with toxic metals.
PREPARATIVE ISOLATION OF FLAVONOIDS FROM MULBERRY (MORUS ALBA L.) LEAVES BY MACROPOROUS RESIN ADSORPTION
Authors: JIA DONGDONG , LI SHUFEN , GU ZHIPENG
Published: November 2009

The flavonoids in mulberry leaves have good antioxidant activities. In this study, ultrasound‐assisted extraction was used to obtain the crude flavonoids, and the macroporous resin adsorption technology was further employed to purify the flavonoids. The nonpolar resin labeled as H‐103 was selected from eight kinds of macroporous resins as the adsorbent. Static and dynamic adsorption–desorption were tested to optimize the operation parameters. The experimental results show that the purity of the total flavonoids can be 36.3%, with a recovery of 83.4% under the optimum conditions. The flavonoids of rutin and isoquercitrin in the extract were detected by high‐performance liquid chromatography, and their recoveries were above 80%. The devised method of isolation of the flavonoids from mulberry leaves may be used to develop a new process for medicinal purpose.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Flavonoids are important active components in mulberry leaves, which can effectively inhibit the oxidative modification of human lipoprotein. The maroporous resin adsorption method used for isolating and purifying flavonoids from mulberry leaves is advanced than the conventional ones for its lower cost, higher efficiency and procedural simplicity, and this procedure may be used to develop a new preparative process for medicinal purpose. In addition, the optimized results can be transposed to predict design parameters in fixed‐bed adsorption systems.
CONVECTIVE SOLAR DRYING OF OLIVE LEAVES
Authors: BAHLOUL NEILA , BOUDHRIOUA NOURHÈNE , KOUHILA MOHAMMED , KECHAOU NABIL
Published: November 2009

This paper presents investigations on thin layer convective solar drying of four olive leaves varieties (Chemlali, Chemchali, Chetoui and Zarrazi). Olive leaves were dried at three drying air temperatures (40, 50 and 60C) and at two drying air velocities (0.566 and 1.133 m/s). The drying air temperature is the main factor in controlling the drying rate. The experimental drying curves show the presence of only a falling rate period. Mathematical models, namely, Newton, Page, Henderson and Pabis, Logarithmic, Wang and Singh, Two‐term and Two‐term exponential models were fitted to the experimental data. Among these models, the Logarithmic model showed the best agreement with the experimental data. The effective moisture diffusivity was estimated by applying the Fickian law to the drying kinetics. The effective moisture diffusivity values varied from 3.437 10
−10
(Chemlali variety) to 2.427 10
−9 m2/s (Chemchali variety). The values of activation energy were calculated assuming an Arrhenius‐type temperature reliance. The activation energy ranged from 24.704 (Chetoui variety) to 53.743 (Chemlali variety) kJ/mol. The quality attributes of the dehydrated olive leaves samples were investigated in term of color. The effect of solar drying on L*, a*and b*parameters was significant (P < 0.05) for all the studied olive leaves.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This work concerns the investigation of the drying characteristics of olive leaves. Like many other medicinal plants, olive leaves should be dehydrated before use to preserve their active compounds which have numerous applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food preservation industries. Therefore, the study of the drying characteristics is essential for the industrial and the academic purposes.
Relative Axial Myopia Induced by Prolonged Light Exposure in C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Zhou Xiangtian , An Jianhong , Wu Xiaomin , Lu Runxia , Huang Qinzhu , Xie Ruozhong , Jiang Liqin , Qu Jia
Published: November 2009

Ambient lighting is essential for ocular development in many species, however, disruption in diurnal lighting cycle can affect the development in refraction and axial growth of the eye. This study investigated the effects of prolonged daily lighting on refraction and various optical components of the eye by raising C57BL/6 mice under three different light/dark cycles (18/6, 12/12 and 6/18). Egr‐1 mRNA expression, apoptosis and histology of the retina and size of the scleral fibrils were evaluated in these three lighting cycles. Results showed that there was a trend of myopic development, increasing vitreous chamber depth and thinning of the retina in eyes from 6/18 to 18/6 groups. Retinal Egr‐1 mRNA expression and diameter of scleral fibrils were reduced with the prolongation of daily lighting from 6/18 to 18/6. However, retinal apoptosis was not detected in all the groups. These results suggest that prolonged lighting can induce axial myopia in inbred mice. This model, which uses mice with similar genetic backgrounds, provides an alternative to the currently available models and therefore is useful for evaluation of refractive errors caused by changes in environmental illumination.
Degradation of HER2 Receptor Through Hypericin‐mediated Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Kovaľ Ján , Mikeš Jaromír , Jendželovský Rastislav , Kello Martin , Solár Peter , Fedoročko Peter
Published: November 2009

Current treatment of breast cancer is often affected by resistance to therapeutics, for which the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) may be responsible. Here, we report for the first time the use of hypericin‐mediated photodynamic therapy (HY‐PDT) in combination with a selective HER2 inhibitor (AG 825) on SKBR‐3, a HER2 overexpressing human breast adenocarcinoma cell line. The results demonstrate that HY‐PDT is able to degrade HER2 with an impact on its signaling cascade. Combination with AG 825 resulted in increased apoptosis induction, total degradation of HER2 and inhibition of colony formation. Downregulation of HSP90, Mcl‐1, Bcl‐xL and upregulation of Bax was also observed. This knowledge provides the basis for the possible application of HY‐PDT in preclinical and clinical models of breast cancer treatment.
Comparison of the Disinfection Effects of Vacuum‐UV (VUV) and UV Light on Bacillus subtilis Spores in Aqueous Suspensions at 172, 222 and 254 nm
Authors: Wang Ding , Oppenländer Thomas , El‐Din Mohamed Gamal , Bolton James R.
Published: November 2009

The efficacy of UV and vacuum‐UV (VUV) disinfection of Bacillus subtilis spores in aqueous suspensions at wavelengths of 172, 222 and 254 nm was evaluated. A Xe2* excilamp, a KrCl* excilamp and a low‐pressure mercury lamp were used as almost monochromatic light sources at these three wavelengths. The first‐order inactivation rate constants at 172, 222 and 254 nm were 0.0023, 0.122 and 0.069 cm2 mJ−1, respectively. Therefore, a 2 log reduction of B. subtilis spores was reached with fluences (UV doses) of 870, 21.6 and 40.4 mJ cm−2 at these individual wavelengths. Consequently, for the inactivation of B. subtilis spores, VUV exposure at 172 nm is much less efficient than exposure at the other two wavelengths, while exposure at 222 nm is more efficient than that at 254 nm, which is probably because triplet energy transfer from DPA to thymine bases at 222 nm is higher than that at 254 nm. This research indicated quantitatively that VUV light is not practicable for microorganism disinfection in water and wastewater treatment. However, in comparison with other advanced oxidation processes (e.g. UV/TiO2, UV/H2O2 or O3/H2O2) the VUV‐initiated photolysis of water is likely more efficient in generating hydroxyl radicals and more effective for the inactivation of microorganisms.
High Sediment Oxygen Demand Within an Instream Swamp in Southern Georgia: Implications for Low Dissolved Oxygen Levels in Coastal Blackwater Streams1
Authors: Todd M. Jason , Vellidis George , Lowrance R. Richard , Pringle Catherine M.
Published: November 2009

Todd, M. Jason, George Vellidis, R. Richard Lowrance, and Catherine M. Pringle, 2009. High Sediment Oxygen Demand Within an Instream Swamp in Southern Georgia: Implications for Low Dissolved Oxygen Levels in Coastal Blackwater Streams. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 45(6):1493‐1507.

Abstract:  Sediment oxygen demand (SOD) is considered a critical and dominant sink for dissolved oxygen (DO) in many river systems including blackwater streams and is often poorly investigated or roughly estimated in oxygen budgets. The purposes of this study are to (1) characterize and document the magnitude and variability of SOD in representative instream swamps found on the Georgia Coastal Plain; (2) predict SOD from more readily measured parameters such as soil, sediment, and litter organic carbon; and (3) obtain an accurate representation of SOD values within this understudied habitat to help improve water quality models and the continued development of DO as an appropriate water quality standard. Results show SOD rates ranging from 0.491 to 14.189 g O2/m2/day, up to 18 times higher than values reported for southeastern sandy‐bottomed streams and suggest that instream swamps are repositories of large amounts of organic matter and are thus areas of intense oxygen demand and a major factor in determining the oxygen balance of the watershed as a whole. These areas of intense oxygen demand in relatively unimpacted areas indicate that low DO concentrations may be a natural phenomenon. SOD rates were significantly correlated (alpha = 0.05) with a number of sediment parameters, with organic carbon and total organic carbon being the best predictors of SOD rate. When developing water quality models, managers should pay closer attention to the influence of SOD as it plays a critical role in determining DO levels within instream swamps and the river system.
Facial muscle wasting – caused by neurological tumour involving foramen ovale
Authors: Ramsey R.A. , Spencer H.R. , Anand R. , Brennan P.A.
Published: November 2009

We report a rare case of a patient presenting to a dental practitioner with unilateral wasting of the masticatory muscles and inferior alveolar numbness secondary to a skull base tumour involving the foramen ovale.
Extranasopharyngeal angiofibroma of the buccal space: surgical management and review of literature
Authors: Walvekar R.R. , Polk P. , Nuss D.W.
Published: November 2009

Angiofibromas are highly vascular benign tumors that characteristically arise within the nasopharynx and are predominantly seen to occur in young adolescent males. Extranasopharyngeal angiofibromas are rare with only 56 cases being reported to date. The most common site of presentation for extranasopharyngeal angiofibromas is the maxillary sinus. We report a buccal space angiofibroma excised via an intra‐oral route and discuss surgical approaches to the buccal space with a relevant review of literature.