bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phosphodiesterase inhibitors block the acceleration of skin permeability barrier repair by red light
Authors: Goto Makiko , Ikeyama Kazuyuki , Tsutsumi Moe , Denda Sumiko , Denda Mitsuhiro
Published: March 2011

Abstract:  We previously demonstrated that exposure to red light (550–670 nm) accelerates epidermal permeability barrier recovery after barrier disruption. Furthermore, we showed that photosensitive proteins, originally found in retina, are also expressed in epidermis. In retina, transducin and phosphodiesterase 6 play key roles in signal transmission. In this study, we evaluate the role of phosphodiesterese 6 in the acceleration by red light of epidermal permeability barrier recovery. Immunohistochemical study and reverse transcription‐PCR assays confirmed the expression of both transducin and phosphodiesterase 6 in epidermal keratinocytes. Topical application of 3‐isobutyl‐1‐methylxanthine, a non‐specific phosphodiesterase inhibitor, blocked the acceleration of the barrier recovery by red light. Topical application of zaprinast, a specific inhibitor of phosphodiesterases 5 and 6, also blocked the acceleration, whereas T0156, a specific inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 5, had no effect. Red light exposure reduced the epidermal hyperplasia induced by barrier disruption under low humidity, and the effect was blocked by pretreatment with zaprinast. Our results indicate phosphodiesterase 6 is involved in the recovery‐accelerating effect of red light on the disrupted epidermal permeability barrier.
Testing the role of biotic stress in the stress gradient hypothesis. Processes and patterns in arid rangelands
Authors: Graff Pamela , Aguiar Martín R.
Published: March 2011

Since many arid ecosystems are overstocked with domestic herbivores, biotic stress could have a stronger influence in modulating the balance of species interactions than expected from the stress gradient hypothesis (SGH). Here we tested a priori predictions about the effect of grazing on species interactions and fine scale spatial structure of grasses in water‐limited ecosystems. We used detailed vegetation mapping and spatial analysis, and performed a field experiment where the direct and indirect components of positive interactions were disentangled to provide evidence of links between process and pattern. We found associational resistance (biotic refuge) to be the dominant process in grazing situations, while competition, instead of direct facilitation, seemed to govern grass spatial patterns when herbivore pressure was relaxed. These results suggest that facilitation between grasses in arid communities may be related to herbivory rather than nurse plant effects. Associational resistance tends to have the strongest effect on spatial aggregation of species at intermediate grazing pressure. Results suggest that contrary to SGH, this physical clustering of species decreased when grazing pressure reached their maximum levels. Positive associations remained significant only when palatability differences between neighbours is large, suggesting that managing stocking rate is a key factor determining the persistence of herbivory refuges. These refuges are potential foci to initiate population recovery of high quality forage species in arid degraded areas.
Dioecy, hermaphrodites and pathogen load in plants
Authors: Williams Alex , Antonovics Janis , Rolff Jens
Published: March 2011

Sex‐specific investment in pathogen resistance and immunity has been widely reported in animals and to a much lesser degree in plants. Here, we investigated the incidence of fungal pathogens in dioecious versus hermaphroditic plant species. We found that direct studies on differences between males and females in disease resistance or pathogen incidence were rare or non‐existent in plants, but if we made the prediction that if such differences exist (e.g. if males are less resistant than females), dioecious species should have a higher variation in pathogen diversity than hermaphrodites. Comparative studies on paired dioecious and hermaphrodite species from multiple plant families showed that hermaphrodites had a higher average pathogen load than dioecious species, consistent with the idea that higher outcrossing is beneficial to resistance to a greater diversity of pathogens. There was however no support for dioecious species also having a greater variance in pathogen diversity. Our results are consistent with dioecy providing a benefit in terms of pathogen resistance, but the data were insufficient to resolve if the male and female plants showed sex‐specific investment in resistance.
A Double‐Blind Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) of Titanium‐13Zirconium versus Titanium Grade IV Small‐Diameter Bone Level Implants in Edentulous Mandibles – Results from a 1‐Year Observation Period
Authors: Al‐Nawas Bilal , Brägger Urs , Meijer Henny J.A. , Naert Ignace , Persson Rigmor , Perucchi Alessandro , Quirynen Marc , Raghoebar Gerry M. , Reichert Torsten E. , Romeo Eugenio , Santing Hendrik J. , Schimmel Martin , Storelli Stefano , Bruggenkate Christiaan ten , Vandekerckhove Betty , Wagner Wilfried , Wismeijer Daniel , Müller Frauke
Published: March 2011

Background: The use of endosseous dental implants has become common practice for the rehabilitation of edentulous patients, and a two‐implant overdenture has been recommended as the standard of care. The use of small‐diameter implants may extend treatment options and reduce the necessity for bone augmentation. However, the mechanical strength of titanium is limited, so titanium alloys with greater tensile and fatigue strength may be preferable.

Purpose: This randomized, controlled, double‐blind, multicenter study investigated in a split‐mouth model whether small‐diameter implants made from Titanium‐13Zirconium alloy (TiZr, Roxolid™) perform at least as well as Titanium Grade IV implants.

Methods and Materials: Patients with an edentulous mandible received one TiZr and one Ti Grade IV small‐diameter bone level implant (3.3 mm, SLActive®) in the interforaminal region. The site distribution was randomized and double‐blinded. Outcome measures included change in radiological peri‐implant bone level from surgery to 12 months post‐insertion (primary), implant survival, success, soft tissue conditions, and safety (secondary).

Results: Of 91 treated patients, 87 were available for the 12‐month follow‐up. Peri‐implant bone level change (−0.3 ± 0.5 mm vs −0.3 ± 0.6 mm), plaque, and sulcus bleeding indices were not significantly different between TiZr and Ti Grade IV implants. Implant survival rates were 98.9 percent and 97.8 percent, success rates were 96.6 percent and 94.4 percent, respectively. Nineteen minor and no serious adverse events were related to the study devices.

Conclusion: This study confirms that TiZr small‐diameter bone level implants provide at least the same outcomes after 12 months as Ti Grade IV bone level implants. The improved mechanical properties of TiZr implants may extend implant therapy to more challenging clinical situations.
Comparison of Implant Stability by Means of Resonance Frequency Analysis for Flapless and Conventionally Inserted Implants
Authors: Katsoulis Joannis , Avrampou Marianna , Spycher Christian , Stipic Marko , Enkling Norbert , Mericske‐Stern Regina
Published: March 2011

Background: Resonance frequency analysis (RFA) is a noninvasive technique for the quantitative assessment of implant stability. Information on the implant stability quotient (ISQ) of transmucosally inserted implants is limited.

Purpose: The aim of this investigation was to compare the ISQ of conventionally inserted implants by raising a muco‐periostal flap with implants inserted using a flapless procedure.

Materials and Methods: Forty elderly patients with complete edentulous maxilla were consecutively admitted for treatment with implant‐supported prostheses. A computer tomography was obtained for the computer‐assisted implant planning. One hundred ten implants were placed conventionally in 23 patients (flap‐group) and 85 implants in 17 patients by means of the flapless method (flapless‐group) using a stereolithographic template. RFA measurements were performed after implant placement (baseline) and after a healing time of 12 weeks (reentry).

Results: All implants exhibited clinically and radiographically successful osseointegration. Bone level did not change significantly neither for genders nor type of surgical protocol. Mean ISQ values of the flapless‐group were significantly higher at baseline (p < .001) and at reentry (p < .001) compared with the flap‐group. The ISQ values were significantly lower at reentry compared with baseline for the flap‐group (p = .028) but not for the flapless‐group. This group showed a moderate, but insignificant increase. RFA measurements of males resulted in ISQ values that were thoroughly higher as compared with females at both time‐points in both groups. Correlation between RFA and bone level was not found.

Conclusions: The flapless procedure showed favorable conditions with regard to implant stability and crestal bone level. Some changes of the ISQ values that represent primary (mechanical) and secondary (bone remodeling) implant stability were observed in slight favor of the flapless method and male patients. In properly planned and well‐selected cases, the minimal invasive transmucosal technique using a drill‐guide is a safe procedure.
Fixed Implant‐Supported Prostheses in Elderly Patients: A 5‐Year Retrospective Comparison between Partially and Completely Edentulous Patients Aged 80 Years or Older at Implant Surgery
Authors: Kowar Jan , Eriksson Annelie , Jemt Torsten
Published: March 2011

Background: Knowledge on implant treatment in the partially edentulous patient is low for elderly patients aged 80 years or older at inclusion.

Purpose: The objective of this study was to report and compare the clinical and radiological performance of implant treatment in edentulous and partially edentulous elderly patients during 5 years in function.

Material and Methods: Altogether, 192 edentulous (control) and 72 partially edentulous (study) patients, consecutively treated and provided with 1,091 and 265 Brånemark implants, respectively, were included during a period between January 1986 and December 2003, and followed‐up for 5 years. Clinical information was retrospectively retrieved from patient files and intraoral radiographs were analyzed for examinations at prosthesis placement and after 1 and 5 years in function.

Results: Altogether, 92 (48%) control and 24 (33%) study patients were lost to follow‐up during the 5‐year period. In total, 13 (4.9%) and 26 (2.4%) implants were in the study and control groups, respectively, were lost during follow‐up, resulting in a comparable 5‐year implant cumulative survival rate ranging from 93.9% to 99.3% for upper and lower jaws for study and control groups, respectively. Comparable mean marginal bone loss during 5 years, ranging from 0.4 mm to 0.6 mm, was also observed in the groups. The most common complications for patients in both study and control group were soft tissue inflammation (mucositis). Patients included in the first years of the inclusion (1986–1991) period showed comparable results as patient included at the last part of the inclusion period (1998–2003).

Conclusions: Implant treatment in the partially edentulous elderly patients showed comparable clinical and radiographic results as elderly patients treated in the edentulous jaw.
Is Titanium Sensitivity Associated with Allergic Reactions in Patients with Dental Implants? A Systematic Review
Authors: Javed Fawad , Al‐Hezaimi Khalid , Almas Khalid , Romanos George E.
Published: March 2011

Background: A worrying correlation which seems to be overlooked by clinicians is allergic reactions to titanium (Ti) in patients with dental implants.

Purpose: The aim of the present review study was to assess whether or not Ti sensitivity is associated with allergic reactions in patients with dental implants.

Materials and Methods: To address the focused question “Can Ti cause allergic reactions in patients with dental implants?”, databases were explored from 1977 until May 2010 using a combination of the following keywords: “allergy,”“dental,”“hypersensitivity,”“implant,”“oral,” and “Titanium.” Letters to the editor and unpublished data were excluded.

Results: Seven studies (six clinical and one experimental) were included. The participants were aged between 14.3 and 84.1 years. In five clinical studies, Ti implants were inserted in the mandible. Five studies reported dermal inflammatory conditions and gingival hyperplasia as allergic reactions in patients with Ti dental implants. A case report presented swelling in submental and labial sulcus and hyperemia of soft tissues in a patient with Ti dental implants. Two studies reported that Ti implants are well tolerated in host tissues. The patch test was performed in two clinical studies for the diagnosis of allergic reactions. Memory lymphocyte immunostimulation assay and lymphocyte transformation tests were also performed.

Conclusion: The significance of Ti as a cause of allergic reactions in patients with dental implants remains unproven.
Patient Satisfaction with Maxillary 3‐Implant Overdentures Using Different Attachment Systems Opposing Mandibular 2‐Implant Overdentures
Authors: Al‐Zubeidi Mohammed I. , Alsabeeha Nabeel H.M. , Thomson W. Murray , Payne Alan G.T.
Published: March 2011

Background: Patient‐based outcomes with maxillary overdentures on a minimum number of implants, opposing mandibular 2‐implant overdentures are not evident in the literature.

Purpose: To evaluate patient's satisfaction with maxillary 3‐implant overdentures, opposing mandibular 2‐implant overdentures, using two different attachment systems over the first 2 years of service.

Materials and Methods: Forty participants wearing mandibular 2‐implant overdentures for 3 years were randomly allocated to one of two similar implant system groups to receive maxillary 3‐implant overdentures. Twenty participants were allocated to splinted and unsplinted attachment system treatment groups for each system. Patient satisfaction with pre‐treatment complete maxillary dentures, with maxillary 3‐implant overdentures at baseline and annually for 2 years, was measured using visual analogue scale questionnaires and the oral health impact profiles. Palatal coverage of the maxillary overdentures was reduced at the first annual recall.

Results: Data showed significant improvement in pain reduction, comfort, stability, and function variables of the visual analogue scale after treatment. Analysis by prosthodontic design using visual analogue scale showed no significant difference. The total oral health impact profile‐14 scores after treatment for all participants, regardless of prosthodontic design, were significantly lower (more satisfied). The overall oral health impact profile‐20E score at baseline was significantly higher (more satisfied) compared with pre‐treatment conventional maxillary dentures. No significant changes were observed in the first or second years compared with baseline results. Twenty‐two participants (84.6%) preferred reduced palatal coverage, regardless of prosthodontic design, after 1 year. Twenty participants (76.9%) still preferred reduced palatal coverage at the end of the second year.

Conclusions: The provision of maxillary 3‐implant overdentures to oppose mandibular 2‐implant overdentures significantly improve levels of patient satisfaction compared with conventional maxillary dentures.
Topography and Spatial Fascicular Arrangement of the Human Inferior Alveolar Nerve
Authors: Hur Mi‐Sun , Kim Hyeon‐Cheol , Won Sung‐Yoon , Hu Kyung‐Seok , Song Wu‐Chul , Koh Ki‐Seok , Kim Hee‐Jin
Published: March 2011

Background: Topography and fascicular arrangement of the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) can provide critical information for the estimation of damage to IAN based on patient symptoms, or conversely to evaluate the symptoms resulting from injury to the IAN.

Purpose: The fascicular composition and organization of the IAN were determined to confirm the microarchitecture of the IAN bundles into each of the mandibular teeth, including the composition of the mental nerve.

Materials and Methods: The IAN within the mandibular canal (MC) was examined in 30 hemifaces of embalmed Korean cadavers.

Results: The most common patterns of nerve fascicle innervation to the mandibular teeth could be grossly classified into three: (1) the superior buccal portion of the IAN innervating the molars, (2) the superior portion innervating the premolars, and (3) the superior lingual or the superior lingual and inferior lingual portions in the posterior MC and the lingual portions in the anterior MC, innervating the incisors and canine. The buccal two‐thirds portion of the IAN was composed of the mental nerve.

Conclusion: The IAN had distinctive fascicular organizations, which make it possible to forecast the degree, location, and extent of nerve damage according to presenting symptoms.
Situational analysis of infant and young child nutrition policies and programmatic activities in Burkina Faso
Authors: Wuehler Sara E. , Ouedraogo Albertine Wendpagnagdé
Published: March 2011

Progress towards reducing mortality and malnutrition among children < 5 years of age has been less than needed to achieve related Millennium Development Goals. Therefore, several international agencies joined to ‘Reposition children's right to adequate nutrition in the Sahel’, starting with an analysis of current activities related to infant and young child nutrition (IYCN). The objectives of the present paper are to compare relevant national policies, training materials, programmes, and monitoring and evaluation activities with internationally accepted IYCN recommendations. These findings are available to assist countries in identifying inconsistencies and filling gaps in current programming. Between August and November 2008, key informants responsible for conducting IYCN‐related activities in Burkina Faso were interviewed, and 153 documents were examined on the following themes: optimal breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices, prevention of micronutrient deficiencies, screening and treatment of acute malnutrition, prevention of mother‐to‐child transmission of HIV, food security and hygienic practices. National policy documents addressed nearly all of the key IYCN topics, specifically or generally. Formative research has identified some local barriers and beliefs related to general breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices, and other formative research addressed about half of the IYCN topics included in this review. However, there was little evidence that this formative research was being utilized in developing training materials and designing programme interventions. Nevertheless, the training materials that were reviewed do provide specific guidance for nearly all of the key IYCN topics. Although many of the IYCN programmes are intended for national coverage, we could only confirm with available reports that programme coverage extended to certain regions. Some programme monitoring and evaluation were conducted, but few of these provided information on whether the specific IYCN programme components were implemented as designed. Most surveys that were identified reported on general nutrition status indicators, but did not provide the detail necessary for programme impact evaluations. The policy framework is well established for optimal IYCN practices, but greater resources and capacity building are needed to: (i) conduct necessary research and adapt training materials and programme protocols to local needs; (ii) improve, carry out, and document monitoring and evaluation that highlight effective and ineffective programme components; and (iii) apply these findings in developing, expanding, and improving effective programmes.
Crisis Management at the Dead Center: The 1960‐1961 Presidential Transition and the Bay of Pigs Fiasco
Authors: FRIEDMAN REBECCA R.
Published: March 2011

Foreign policy decision making during presidential transitions is an inherently difficult challenge. By examining the 1960‐1961 presidential transition and resulting Bay of Pigs fiasco, this article demonstrates that there are six independent, causal variables that best determine the success or failure of foreign policy decision making during presidential transitions: national security decision‐making structure, availability of information relevant to the substance and history of the crisis and its policy responses; focus of time and resources; relevant campaign commitments; “newness” of the incoming administration; and “inheritedness” of the policy. Three of President John F. Kennedy's most important Bay of Pigs decisions are explained using this six‐variable framework. Drawing from the lessons of the Bay of Pigs fiasco, recommendations are offered for how to improve future national security transitions.
The Law: The Obama Administration's Evolving Approach to the Signing Statement
Authors: GARVEY TODD
Published: March 2011

After utilizing constitutional signing statements with relative frequency during the first six months of his administration, President Obama issued only two such statements over the next 18 months, including a stretch of almost 16 months without a single constitutional signing statement. While it is unclear exactly how the administration will proceed, there is evidence to suggest that other interpretive mechanisms, such as opinions of the Office of Legal Counsel and Statements of Administration Policy, could potentially play an increased role as a partial substitute for the politically unpopular signing statement.
DRYING KINETIC OF FRESH AND OSMOTICALLY DEHYDRATED MUSHROOM (AGARICUS BLAZEI)
Authors: KUROZAWA LOUISE EMY , AZOUBEL PATRÍCIA MOREIRA , MURR FERNANDA ELIZABETH XIDIEH , PARK KIL JIN
Published: March 2011

The aim of this study was to model the drying kinetics of fresh and osmotically pretreated mushroom slices (Agaricus blazei). Besides the effects of drying air temperature and air velocity, the effect of osmotic pretreatment on drying kinetics and color of dried mushrooms was also determined. The osmotic treatment was carried out at 20C with a 10% (w/w) salt solution, 80 rpm agitation and 60 min immersion time. The fresh and osmosed mushrooms were dried in a vertical bed dryer with forced airflow at different temperatures (40, 60 and 80C) and air velocities (1.0, 1.75 and 2.5 m/s). Drying curves obtained from the experimental data were fitted to the different thin layer‐drying models (Fick's, Page's and logarithmic models). Drying rates of osmosed mushroom decreased due to the presence of infused solids. Increasing the drying temperature and air velocity caused shorter drying times. Osmotically pretreated mushroom presented lower luminosity values (L*) when compared with fresh mushroom, indicating that the osmotic dehydration was not efficient to prevent color loss. Temperature strongly affected the color parameters luminosity L* (or lightness) and chroma C* (or color intensity).

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Biological materials are highly perishable due to their high moisture content. Therefore, these materials must be processed to improve their shelf life. Among the several methods employed for preservation, drying is a process in which the water activity of the food is reduced by the removal of water, minimizing chemical, enzymatic and microbiological reactions. Several pretreatments are commonly used to minimize adverse changes occurring during drying. Osmotic dehydration is used for the partial removal of water from the food by immersion in a hypertonic solution reducing the physical, chemical and biological changes during drying at higher temperatures. Thus, this study intends to contribute in understanding the behavior of undesirable color quality degradation during the process.
MANNOPROTEIN FROM SPENT YEAST OBTAINED FROM THAI TRADITIONAL LIQUOR DISTILLATION: EXTRACTION AND CHARACTERIZATION
Authors: DIKIT P. , MANEERAT S. , H‐KITTIKUN A.
Published: March 2011

Mannoprotein from spent yeast obtained from Thai traditional liquor distillation was extracted by autoclaving in a neutral citrate buffer for 30 min. The yield of mannoprotein was 0.27 g/g wet cells. The mannoprotein obtained was evaluated for chemical and physical stability to establish its potential use as a natural emulsifier in processed foods. The extracted mannoprotein exhibited emulsion of 60.23% toward palm oil as oil‐in‐water and had a critical emulsifier concentration of 20 g/l. The composition of the mannoprotein was 96% carbohydrate and 4% protein. The emulsion activity of the mannoprotein was similar to those of commercial emulsifiers (lecithin and gum arabic). The emulsion activity of mannoprotein towards palm oil was stable over a broad range of pH (3–12), NaCl concentrations of 0–3% (w/v), CaCl2 and MgCl2 concentrations of 0–0.1% (w/v). Temperature did not affect the emulsion activity of mannoprotein. Mannoprotein from spent yeast could be developed as a source of bioemulsifier for use in the food industry.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Mannoprotein from spent yeast obtained from Thai traditional liquor distillation is considered to have an activity similar to the commercial emulsifiers, lecithin and gum arabic. It could be developed as a source of bioemulsifier for use in the food industry. The production of the bioemulsifier would be economically advantageous as the process converts a low‐value waste into a high‐value product.
Rottlerin Exhibits Antiangiogenic Effects In vitro
Authors: Valacchi Giuseppe , Pecorelli Alessandra , Sticozzi Claudia , Torricelli Claudia , Muscettola Michela , Aldinucci Carlo , Maioli Emanuela
Published: March 2011

Rottlerin, a natural product purified from Mallotus philippinensis, has a number of target molecules and biological effects. We recently found that Rottlerin caused growth arrest in MCF‐7 breast cancer cells and human immortalized keratinocytes, through inhibition of NFκB and downregulation of cyclin D‐1. To evaluate whether this effect could be generalized to primary cells, human microvascular endothelial cells were treated with Rottlerin. In this study, we demonstrated that Rottlerin prevents basal and TNFα‐stimulated NFκB nuclear migration and DNA binding also in human microvascular endothelial cell, where NFκB inhibition was accompanied by the downregulation of NFκB target gene products, such as cyclin D‐1 and endothelin‐1, which are essential molecules for endothelial cell proliferation and survival. Rottlerin, indeed, inhibited human microvascular endothelial cells proliferation and tube formation on Matrigel. Rottlerin also increases cytoplasmic free calcium and nitric oxide levels and downregulates endothelin converting enzyme‐1 expression, thus contributing to the drop in endothelin‐1 and growth arrest. These results suggest that Rottlerin may prove useful in the development of therapeutic agents against angiogenesis.
Diet estimation in California sea lions, Zalophus californianus
Authors: Sweeney J. M. , Harvey J. T.
Published: March 2011

Abstract

We performed a captive feeding experiment using California sea lions to assess biases associated with estimating pinniped diet using scats and spews. Sea lions were fed nine of their natural prey species: anchovy, sardine, Pacific mackerel, jack mackerel, hake, steelhead smolts, shortbelly rockfish, pink salmon, and market squid. Recovery percentages varied among prey species using otoliths and were improved for adult salmon and sardine using the all‐structure method. Numerical and graded length correction factors provided better estimates of number and size of prey consumed. Four models used to determine the proportions of prey species consumed by a sea lion population were tested. The all‐structure method and variable biomass reconstruction model, in conjunction with numerical and graded length correction factors, provided more accurate estimates than without. We provide numerical correction factors for all prey species, including correction factors for specific salmon bones: vertebrae, branchials, radials, teeth, gill rakers, and hypurals.
Evaluating the utility ofcox1for cetacean species identification
Authors: Viricel A. , Rosel P. E.
Published: March 2011

Abstract

The mitochondrial cytochromecoxidase I (cox1) gene has been promoted as a universal reference gene, or barcode, to identify organisms to the species level. We evaluated whethercox1would be appropriate to diagnose cetacean species. The 5′ end ofcox1(686 base pairs, bp) was sequenced for 46 of 86 recognized species of cetaceans. In addition, we included 105 sequences from GenBank, increasing our taxonomic coverage to 61 species. Particular focus was placed on sampling two subfamilies that contain closely related taxa: the Delphininae and the Globicephalinae. Species‐specific sequences were observed for all but three taxa (Delphinus delphis,D. capensis, andStenella coeruleoalba). Although correct assignment was seen for most species, significant overlap between intra‐ and interspecific variation makescox1an imperfect barcode for cetaceans. The efficacy ofcox1was compared to the 5′ end of the cytochromeb(cytb) gene, a mitochondrial region routinely used for cetacean species identification. Althoughcytbperformed better thancox1for some species, this marker could not differentiate other closely related taxa (Eubalaenaspp.). Species identification for taxa not reliably identified usingcox1orcytbmight be best addressed through use of multiple mitochondrial DNA fragments or other newly developed markers.
Comparison of therapeutic results in sudden sensorineural hearing loss with/without additional hyperbaric oxygen therapy: a retrospective review of 465 audiologically controlled cases
Authors: Liu S.‐C. , Kang B.‐H. , Lee J.‐C. , Lin Y.‐S. , Huang K.‐L. , Liu D.‐W. , Su W.‐F. , Kao C.‐H. , Chu Y.‐H. , Chen H.‐C. , Wang C.‐H.
Published: March 2011

Clin. Otolaryngol. 2011, 36, 121–128

Objective:  To investigate the necessity of routine application of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for sudden sensorineural hearing loss.

Design/setting and participants:  A retrospective chart review looked at 465 patients, with 353 of them receiving pharmacologic treatments alone. Among these patients, 76 underwent systemic steroid treatment only (steroid group) and 277 received systemic steroids and dextran (steroid–dextran group). The remaining 112 patients were treated with hyperbaric oxygen in addition to pharmacologic agents (steroid–dextran–hyperbaric oxygen group).

Main outcome measures:  The outcome was determined by comparing the difference of pure‐tone thresholds and absolute hearing gains after treatment calculated at each audiometric octave frequency or grouped frequencies of audiograms. On the basis of the severity of initial hearing loss, patients were classified at three scales of hearing impairments measured in decibels hearing level (dBHL): ≦70 dBHL, less severe; 71–90 dBHL, severe; and ≧91 dBHL, profound. The outcomes of their hearing recovery were classified into three recovery grades: good, fair and poor.

Results:  In those patients with initial hearing loss >90 dBHL, the addition of hyperbaric oxygen to steroid–dextran gave a significant hearing gain difference (P = 0.030) by showing a greater hearing gain of 24.5 ± 2.7 dB compared with steroid only (12.9 ± 3.7 dB) or steroid–dextran (15.6 ± 2.7 dB). This outcome was confirmed when we compared the outcome using the recovery grading; steroid–dextran–hyperbaric oxygen group showed that more patients with initial profound (≧91 dBHL) hearing loss responded to hyperbaric oxygen treatment by exhibiting good and fair recoveries (2% and 70%) as compared with steroid only (0% and 42%) or steroid–dextran (8% and 46%) groups (P = 0.043), while the patients with initial severe (71–90 dBHL) and less severe (≦70 dBHL) hearing loss responded to the addition of hyperbaric oxygen treatment with less favourable recoveries. Furthermore, the addition of dextran in steroid–dextran group showed no significant benefit compared with the steroid group (P =0.435).

Conclusions:  When applied as an adjuvant to pharmacologic agents, hyperbaric oxygen benefits patients with initial profound sudden sensorineural hearing loss. Therefore, we recommend the routine application of hyperbaric oxygen in conjunction with pharmacologic agents for those patients. The addition of dextran to steroid has no benefit and cannot be recommended.
The Other Side of Cognitive Control: Can a Lack of Cognitive Control Benefit Language and Cognition?
Authors: Chrysikou Evangelia G. , Novick Jared M. , Trueswell John C. , Thompson‐Schill Sharon L.
Published: March 2011

Cognitive control refers to the regulation of mental activity to support flexible cognition across different domains. Cragg and Nation (2010) propose that the development of cognitive control in children parallels the development of language abilities, particularly inner speech. We suggest that children’s late development of cognitive control also mirrors their limited ability to revise misinterpretations of sentence meaning. Moreover, we argue that for certain tasks, a tradeoff between bottom‐up (data‐driven) and top‐down (rule‐based) thinking may actually benefit performance in both children and adults. Specifically, we propose that a lack of cognitive control may promote important aspects of cognitive development, like language acquisition and creativity.
Cognitive Control: Easy to Identify But Hard to Define
Authors: Morton J. Bruce , Ezekiel Fredrick , Wilk Heather A.
Published: March 2011

Cognitive control is easy to identify in its effects, but difficult to grasp conceptually. This creates somewhat of a puzzle: Is cognitive control a bona fide process or an epiphenomenon that merely exists in the mind of the observer? The topiCS special edition on cognitive control presents a broad set of perspectives on this issue and helps to clarify central conceptual and empirical challenges confronting the field. Our commentary provides a summary of and critical response to each of the papers.
Issue Accountability and the Mass Public
Authors: CANES‐WRONE BRANDICE , MINOZZI WILLIAM , REVELEY JESSICA BONNEY
Published: March 2011

Under what conditions, if any, does the mass electorate hold congressional members accountable for their records on specific issues? We examine this question on the issue of crime, for which salience has varied substantially and opinion has favored Republicans, and the environment, for which salience has not varied much and voters have favored Democrats. Because different parametric specifications produce divergent findings, we utilize matching analysis in addition to ordinary least squares. The tests suggest that issue accountability exists even controlling for a member's overall record. However, such accountability depends crucially on issue salience and a member's partisan affiliation.
The Impact of Presidential Campaigning for Congress on Presidential Support in the U.S. House of Representatives
Authors: HERRNSON PAUL S. , MORRIS IRWIN L. , MCTAGUE JOHN
Published: March 2011

Presidential influence is partly a function of the partisan, economic, and international context within which the president governs. Presidents are, however, more than bystanders relying on the political milieu for policy opportunities. Recent scholarship demonstrates that presidents consciously influence this milieu and build political capital by campaigning for congressional candidates. We contribute to this literature by assessing the effects of presidential campaigning on legislative support for two presidents who governed under extremely dissimilar circumstances: Bill Clinton in the 106th Congress and George W. Bush in the 108th Congress. We find evidence of campaign effects on congressional policymaking during both administrations.
Urban Third Grade Teachers' Practices and Perceptions in Science Instruction with English Language Learners
Authors: Lewis Scott , Maerten‐Rivera Jaime , Adamson Karen , Lee Okhee
Published: March 2011

The study examined relationships among key domains of science instruction with English language learning (ELL) students based on teachers' perceptions of their classroom practices (i.e., what they think they do) and actual classroom practices (i.e., what they are observed doing). The four domains under investigation included: (1) teachers' knowledge of science content; (2) teaching practices to support scientific understanding; (3) teaching practices to support scientific inquiry; and (4) teaching practices to support English language development during science instruction. The study involved 38 third‐grade teachers participating in the first‐year implementation of a professional development intervention aimed at improving science and literacy achievement of ELL students in urban elementary schools. Based on teachers' self‐reports, practices for understanding were related to practices for inquiry and practices for English language development. Based on classroom observations in the fall and spring, practices for understanding were related to practices for inquiry, practices for English language development, and teacher knowledge of science content. However, we found a weak to non‐existent relationship between teachers' self‐reports and observations of their practices.
Aeroelastic Analysis of Membrane Microair Vehicles—Part I: Flutter and Limit Cycle Analysis for Fixed-Wing Configurations
Authors: Attar Peter J. , Gordnier Raymond E. , Johnston Jordan W. , Romberg William A. , Parthasarathy Ramkumar N.
Published: March 2011

This is the first of two papers concerning the fluid and structural dynamic characteristics of membrane wing microair vehicles. In this paper, a (three) batten-reinforced fixed-wing membrane microair vehicle is used to determine the effect of membrane prestrain on flutter and limit cycle behavior of fixed-wing membrane microair vehicles. For each configuration tested, flutter and subsequent limit cycle oscillations are measured in wind tunnel tests and predicted using an aeroelastic computational model consisting of a nonlinear finite element model coupled to a vortex lattice solution of the Laplace equation and boundary conditions. Agreement between the predicted and measured onset of limit cycle oscillation is good as is the prediction of the amplitude of the limit cycle at the trailing edge of the lower membrane. A direct correlation between levels of strain and the phase of the membranes during the limit cycle is found in the computation and thought to also occur in the experiment.
An Axial Flow Compressor for Operation With Humid Air and Water Injection
Authors: Tomita Jesuino Takachi , Bontempo Luciano Porto , Barbosa João Roberto
Published: March 2011

The first steps of the turbomachinery design usually rely on numerical tools based on inviscid formulation with corrections using loss models to account for viscous effects, secondary flows, tip clearances, and shock waves. The viscous effects are accounted for using semi-empirical correlations especially assembled for the chosen airfoils and range of operating conditions. Fast convergence and good accuracy are required from such design procedures. There are successful models that produce very accurate performance prediction. Among the methodologies commonly used, the streamline curvature (SLC) is used since those characteristics and the most important properties can be calculated reasonably well at any radial positions, assisting other more complex analysis programs. The SLC technique is, therefore, well suited for the design of axial flow compressors for reasons such as quick access to vital flow properties at the blade edges from which actions may be taken to improve its performance at the design stage. This work reports the association of a SLC computer program and commercial software for comparison purposes, as well as for grid generation required by a full 3D, turbulent Navier–Stokes computer program used for flow calculation in the blade passages. Application to a high performance three-stage axial flow compressor with inlet guide vane demonstrates the methodology adopted. The SLC program is also capable of calculating the compressor performance with humid air and water injection at any axial position along the compressor. The influence of water injection at different axial positions, water particle diameter, and temperature of water particles were studied for different humid air conditions. The positions of the evaporating water particles were calculated using their thermophysical and dynamic properties along the compressor.
Heat Transfer and Critical Heat Flux of Subcooled Water Flow Boiling in a SUS304-Tube With Twisted-Tape Insert
Authors: Hata Koichi , Masuzaki Suguru
Published: March 2011

The subcooled boiling heat transfer and the steady state critical heat fluxes (CHFs) in a short SUS304-tube with twisted-tape insert are systematically measured for mass velocities (G=4016–13,950 kg/m2 s), inlet liquid temperatures (Tin=285.8–364.0 K), outlet pressures (Pout=764.8–889.0 kPa), and exponentially increasing heat input (Q=Q0 exp(t/τ) and τ=8.5 s) by the experimental water loop comprised of a multistage canned-type circulation pump controlled by an inverter. The SUS304 test tube of inner diameter (d=6 mm), heated length (L=59.5 mm), effective length (Leff=49.1 mm), L/d(=9.92), Leff/d(=8.18), and wall thickness (δ=0.5 mm) with average surface roughness (Ra=3.89 μm) is used in this work. The SUS304 twisted-tape with twist ratios y[=H/d=(pitch of 180 deg rotation)/d] of 2.39, 3.39, and 4.45 are used. The relations between inner surface temperatures and heat fluxes for the SUS304-tubes with various twisted-tape inserts are explored for different flow regimes ranging from single-phase flows to CHF. The subcooled boiling heat transfers for SUS304-tubes with various twisted-tape inserts are compared with authors’ empty SUS304-tube data and the values calculated by authors’ and other workers’ correlations for the subcooled boiling heat transfer. The influences of the twisted-tape insert, the twist ratio, and the swirl velocity on the subcooled boiling heat transfer and the CHFs are investigated into details, and the correlations of the subcooled boiling heat transfer and the CHFs for turbulent flow of water in the SUS304-tubes with twisted-tape inserts are given based on the experimental data. The precision or accuracy of a more widely set of correlations in predicting the present set of data is evaluated. The correlations can describe the subcooled boiling heat transfer coefficients and the CHFs obtained in this work from −25% to +15% difference.
Structure and properties of nanocrystalline ZrNxOy thin films: Effect of the oxygen content and film thickness
Authors: Lan Kuan-Che , Huang Jia-Hong , Ai Chi-Fong , Yu Ge-Ping
Published: March 2011

The main objective of this study was to investigate the structure and properties of ZrNxOy thin films associated with oxygen content and film thickness. ZrNxOy thin films were deposited using hollow cathode discharge ion plating on Si (100) substrate. The thickness of ZrNxOy films increased with increasing oxygen flow rate, ranging from 143 to 894 nm. Phase separation from ZrNxOy to ZrN and monoclinic ZrO2 (m-ZrO2) was observed by x-ray diffraction (XRD). The electrical and mechanical properties were influenced by the film thickness and the amount of separated phase, m-ZrO2. ZrNxOy thin films with smaller thickness or deposited at higher O2 flow rate were found to have higher electrical resistivity. Hardness of the ZrNxOy thin films increased with increasing thickness, which could be related to microstructure change of the thin films. Residual stress of the ZrN phase in the ZrNxOy thin films, measured using the modified sin2 ψ XRD method, decreased with increasing oxygen flow rate. The thickness dependence of the residual stress in ZrN was different with different oxygen flow rates. The average residual stress of the ZrNxOy thin films also decreased with increasing oxygen flow rate and the stress did not showed significant dependence on the film thickness.
Reversal of Interlaminar Signal Between Sensory and Memory Processing in Monkey Temporal Cortex
Authors: Takeuchi Daigo , Hirabayashi Toshiyuki , Tamura Keita , Miyashita Yasushi
Published: March 2011

Feed-forward signals flowing across cortical layers during sensory coding reverse direction during memory retrieval.
Direct Interaction of RNA Polymerase II and Mediator Required for Transcription in Vivo
Authors: Soutourina Julie , Wydau Sandra , Ambroise Yves , Boschiero Claire , Werner Michel
Published: March 2011

A direct functional contact of RNA polymerase II with Mediator activates transcription in eukaryotes.
The Road to Flat TVs
Soap, Science, and Flat-Screen TVs
A History of Liquid Crystals

by David Dunmur and Tim Sluckin

Oxford University Press, Oxford, 2010. 369 pp. $53.95. ISBN 9780199549405.
Authors: Van Hecke Gerald R.
Published: March 2011

Dunmur and Sluckin offer nonspecialists a detailed history of research on liquid crystals from their late-19th-century discovery through to current applications.
Tracking State-to-State Bimolecular Reaction Dynamics in Solution
Authors: Bradforth Stephen
Published: March 2011

A bimolecular reaction can produce a large fraction of highly vibrationally excited products despite the collision and confinement effects of the surrounding liquid.
Chemically Tuned Myosin Motors
Authors: Leinwand Leslie A. , Moss Richard L.
Published: March 2011

A molecule that activates the contractile protein myosin points to a potential new means of treating heart failure.
Inspirational Chemistry
Authors: Gray Harry , Labinger Jay
Published: March 2011

Throughout 2011, nations are celebrating the International Year of Chemistry. This worldwide recognition of the importance of chemistry is somewhat unusual. It is true that chemistry has been called “the central science,” not only by chemists but even in Wikipedia (of course, that article may have been written by a chemist), perhaps as a metaphor for its role in connections between the fundamental concepts of physics and the practical problems of biology. Furthermore, it is the discipline that will continue to drive the discoveries that tackle today's most vexing challenges: solving the energy problem, developing and producing new treatments for diseases, devising advanced materials for a host of applications, and many more. It seems most appropriate to talk of chemistry as overlapping, rather than bridging, other disciplines. And most certainly it is time to celebrate the creative future of chemistry, which lies in myriad directions.
Devastating Earthquake Defied Expectations
Authors: Normile Dennis
Published: March 2011

The astonishing power and unexpected location of last week's devastating earthquake in Japan expose the futility of forecasting where and when the next Big One will hit, geophysicists say.
A Strong Defense of Science—and a Stiff Upper Lip
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey
Published: March 2011

Last week,
Science
sat down with several members of the advisory council for the Department of Energy's Office of Biological and Environmental Research to discuss the massive cuts being proposed for the program.