bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Sex Influence Immunization Status for Influenza and Pneumonia in Older Veterans?
Authors: Bean‐Mayberry Bevanne , Yano Elizabeth M. , Mor Maria K. , Bayliss Nichole K. , Xu Xiangyan , Fine Michael J.
Published: June 2009

OBJECTIVES: To compare the prevalence of influenza and pneumococcal immunization rates according to sex in a national sample of older veterans in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system.

DESIGN: Retrospective, cross‐sectional.

SETTING: VA healthcare system.

PARTICIPANTS: Current VA healthcare system users aged 65 and older eligible for immunization in fiscal years 2001 to 2003 (N=48,424 patient records).

MEASUREMENTS: Generalized estimating equations were performed to analyze combined chart review and administrative data to determine effect of sex on receipt of influenza and pneumococcal immunizations.

RESULTS: Unadjusted immunization rates were higher for men than women for influenza (73% vs 69%) and pneumococcal (87% vs 83%) vaccine. Adjusting for demographics, clinical comorbidities, use, and region, women had significantly lower odds of influenza (odds ratio (OR)=0.85, 95% confidence interval (CI=0.79–0.92) and pneumococcal (OR=0.77, 95% CI=0.71–0.84) immunization.

CONCLUSION: Older female veterans have lower rates of immunization than older male veterans in VA settings. Although VA remains above community levels for immunization, older female veterans will benefit from targeted efforts to increase immunization prevalence.
Insulinlike Growth Factor‐1, Insulinlike Growth Factor Binding Protein‐1, and Cognitive Function in Older Men and Women
Authors: Al‐Delaimy Wael K. , Von Muhlen Denise , Barrett‐Connor Elizabeth
Published: June 2009

OBJECTIVES: To assess the association between insulinlike growth factor (IGF)‐1 and IGF binding protein (IGFBP)‐1 with three cognitive function tests in a healthy elderly population.

DESIGN: Cross‐sectional analyses from the Rancho Bernardo Cohort Study.

SETTING: Southern California community of Rancho Bernardo.

PARTICIPANTS: Men (n=636) and women (n=899) from the Rancho Bernardo study (median age 74) were assessed between 1988 and 1992 for cognitive function using the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), Verbal Fluency (VF) test, and Trail‐Making Test Part B (Trails B). Blood samples were obtained at the same time for IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐1 levels. The association between biomarkers and cognitive function tests was assessed by dichotomizing tests at the clinically relevant cutoff using logistic regression and according to tertiles and continuous IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐1 levels using multivariate linear regression analyses.

RESULTS: The mean MMSE, VF and Trails B scores indicated better cognitive function with higher IGF‐1 tertile. Multivariate analyses showed that VF and MMSE were each significantly associated with IGF‐1 in a dose‐response manner for men (P for trend=.001), but no cognitive function tests were related to IGF‐1 in women. For men, the highest IGFBP‐1 tertile was inversely and significantly different from the lowest tertile for the MMSE test only (P for trend=.02).

CONCLUSION: IGF‐1 was independently and positively related to MMSE and VF in men, and IGFBP‐1 was inversely associated with MMSE in men. Sex differences in the association should be further investigated.
Superficial Distribution and Identification of Antifungal/Antimicrobial Agents on a Modified Tissue Conditioner by SEM‐EDS Microanalysis: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Urban Vanessa Migliorini , Seó Rosangela Seiko , Giannini Marcelo , Arrais Cesar Augusto Galvao
Published: June 2009

Purpose: This study evaluated the incorporation pattern of antifungal/antimicrobial agents added to a tissue conditioner by scanning electron microscopy‐energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS) analysis.

Materials and Methods: The nystatin dosages incorporated into the tissue conditioner (Softone, Bosworth Co., Skokie, IL) powder were 500,000 U (G1) and 1,000,000 U (G2). The addition of miconazole was at 125 mg (G3) and 250 mg (G4), and ketoconazole was at 100 mg (G5) and 200 mg (G6). Chlorhexidine diacetate was blended at levels of 5% (G7) and 10% (G8) w/w of the total amount (6.35 g) of the tissue conditioner. The drug powder concentrations were blended with the tissue conditioner powder at different concentrations before the addition of the tissue conditioner liquid (5 mL) to the mixture. One group (G0) without any drug incorporation was used as control. Specimens (n = 5) (36 × 7 × 6 mm3) were plasticized at room temperature for 10 minutes and carbon sputter coated. All specimens were submitted to SEM‐EDS analysis.

Results: Nystatin and miconazole specimens exhibited particles with irregular shapes and sizes uniformly distributed. Ketoconazole specimens showed small spherical particles with a slight distribution throughout the matrix. Chlorhexidine specimens exhibited irregular particles up to approximately 50 μm in size randomly dispersed within the matrix.

Conclusions: Within the limitations of this in vitro study, the modified tissue conditioner showed differences in the particle distribution and size of the antifungal/antimicrobial agent added to the plasticized matrix. Further studies would discriminate the most important particle features that may influence the drug leaching from the plasticized matrix.
Shear Bond Strength of Two Chemically Different Denture Base Polymers to Reline Materials
Authors: Ahmad Fauziah , Dent MClin , Yunus Norsiah
Published: June 2009

Purpose: This study evaluated the shear bond strengths of light‐polymerized urethane dimethacrylate (Eclipse) and heat‐polymerized polymethylmethacrylate (Meliodent) denture base polymers to intraoral and laboratory‐processed reline materials.

Materials and Methods: Thirty disks measuring 15 mm diameter and 2 mm thick were prepared for each denture base material following the manufacturers’ recommendation. They were relined with Meliodent RR, Kooliner, and Secure reline materials after 1 month of water immersion. Ten additional Eclipse specimens were relined using the same Eclipse resin. A shear bond test was carried out on an Instron machine at a crosshead speed of 1.0 mm/min 24 hours after relining. Data were analyzed using two‐way and one‐way ANOVAs and post hoc Dunnett's T3 test (p= 0.05). The nature of failure was analyzed under a stereomicroscope. The effect of dichloromethane adhesive on the two denture polymer surfaces and the failed interfaces of mixed and adhesive failures were analyzed under a SEM (scanning electron microscope).

Results: Two‐way ANOVA showed significant differences in the shear bond strength values as a function of the denture base polymers, reline materials, and their interaction (p < 0.05). One‐way ANOVA showed significant differences in shear bond strength values among denture base‐reline combinations (p < 0.05) except for Meliodent‐Kooliner and Eclipse‐Meliodent RR relines. Meliodent showed the highest shear bond strength value when relined with Meliodent RR (14.5 ± 0.5 MPa), and Eclipse showed the highest value with Eclipse relining (11.4 ± 0.6 MPa). Meliodent denture base showed adhesive, cohesive, and mixed failure, while all Eclipse showed adhesive failure with various reline materials.

Conclusion: The two chemically different denture base polymers showed different shear bond strength values to corresponding reline materials.
Sealing Ability of Three Fiber Dowel Systems
Authors: Santos Virgínia , Perdigão Jorge , Gomes George , Silva Ana Luísa
Published: June 2009

Purpose: To study the sealing ability of two new fiber dowel systems.

Materials and Methods: Thirty‐six extracted single‐rooted teeth were endodontically treated and randomly assigned to two new fiber dowel systems and a control group: (1) an E‐glass‐based dowel, everStick‐POST, cemented with ParaCem Universal DC resin cement (EV); (2) a glass‐fiber dowel, RelyX Fiber Post, cemented with RelyX Unicem self‐adhesive resin cement (RX). The control group was restored with a glass‐fiber dowel, ParaPost Fiber Lux, cemented with ParaCem Universal DC resin cement (PP). The roots were isolated and immersed in a 50 wt% ammoniacal silver nitrate solution for 24 hours followed by 8 hours in a photo‐developing solution. The roots were sectioned in 1‐mm‐thick disks perpendicular to the long axis of the root. The specimens were processed for backscattered FESEM observation. For each tooth, the depth of silver infiltration into the root canal was measured by ranks from 0 to 8. For each disk, silver infiltration was measured as the percentage of leakage around the adhesive interface. Data were analyzed with Kruskal‐Wallis nonparametric tests at a significance level of 95%.

Results: When the silver infiltration was computed from the coronal to the apical aspects of the root, RX resulted in the lowest degree of silver infiltration, but not statistically different from that of EV (p < 0.148). RX, however, resulted in a lower depth of silver infiltration than the control group PP at p < 0.023. EV resulted in a statistically similar depth of penetration to PP (p= 0.492). Although the total mean percentage of silver infiltration at the dentin‐resin cement interface was statistically similar for all groups (p= 0.632), EV resulted in the greater number of disks with silver infiltration (23 out of 96), followed by PP (21 out of 96) and RX (14 out of 96). None of the specimens showed leakage around the dowel‐resin cement interface.

Conclusion: The use of the E‐glass dowels in EV did not improve the root‐wall sealing ability compared with the control group PP. The system RX, which uses a new simplified self‐adhesive protocol, resulted in a lower depth of silver infiltration than the control group PP.
Development of an Educational Packet for Persons with Life‐Threatening Food Allergies
Authors: Olson Bradley F. , Teuber Suzanne , Bruhn Christine M.
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT:  Previous studies have shown that those with severe food allergies have significant gaps in knowledge about their disease and how to prevent recurrences. The purpose of this study was to address these deficiencies by creating and testing an educational packet, “Coping with Food Allergies.” Participants included 46 of 58 adults with documented severe food allergies (response rate = 79%); and indeed, over half (57%) of the participants had experienced a food allergic reaction in the past year. The educational packet was tested in waves, with comments from participants used to revise the next version of the packet. Language targeted a lay audience and hand‐drawn illustrations were added to make the material more appealing. Most participants recommended expanding sections dealing with symptom management and approaches to take when eating at restaurants. These sections became prominent features of the final edition.

The participants were equally divided regarding preferred learning type: text‐based compared with visual. No significant associations could be drawn between learning style and perceived clarity of information, with 93% finding the packet very clear and easy to read. Participants commented that the simple illustrations were ideal for a child with allergies or someone reading at a 6th to 8th grade level. Even among this group with longstanding food allergy, over 60% reported that they learned something new from the packet. “Coping with Food Allergies” will be made available to the public via the Food Safety Educators web site of the USDA and the allergy support group, Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN).
Thermal Behavior of Selected Starches in Presence of Other Food Ingredients Studied by Differential Scanning Calorimetery (DSC)–Review
Authors: Elgadir M. Abd , Bakar J. , Zaidul I.S.M. , Rahman R. Abdul , Abbas K.A. , Hashim D.M. , Karim R.
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT:  This review article highlights the thermal behaviors of selected starches that were studied using differential scanning calorimetery (DSC) with data shown in various research publications. The starches of sago, potato, sweet potato, cassava, yam, and corn are included in this overview. Our examinations indicate that thermal properties are highly affected by the type of starch, its amylose/amylopectin content, and the presence of other food ingredients such as sugar, sodium chloride, water, milk, hydrocolloids, and meat. When the heating temperatures of the starches were increased, the DSC measurements also showed an increase in the temperatures of the gelatinization (onset [To], peak [Tp], and conclusion [Tc]). This may be attributed to the differences in the degree of crystallinity of the starch, which provides structural stability and makes the granule more resistant to gelatinization.
Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of Mycotoxins
Authors: Rahmani A. , Jinap S. , Soleimany F.
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT:  Mycotoxin toxicity occurs at very low concentrations, therefore sensitive and reliable methods for their detection are required. Consequently, sampling and analysis of mycotoxins is of critical importance because failure to achieve a suitable verified analysis can lead to unacceptable consignments being accepted or satisfactory shipments unnecessarily rejected. The general mycotoxin analyses carried out in laboratories are still based on physicochemical methods, which are continually improved. Further research in mycotoxin analysis has been established in such techniques as screening methods with TLC, GC, HPLC, and LC–MS. In some areas of mycotoxin method development, immunoaffinity columns and multifunctional columns are good choices as cleanup methods. They are appropriate to displace conventional liquid–liquid partitioning or column chromatography cleanup. On the other hand, the need for rapid yes/no decisions for exported or imported products has led to a number of new screening methods, mainly, rapid and easy‐to‐use test kits based on immuno‐analytical principles. In view of the fact that analytical methods for detecting mycotoxins have become more prevalent, sensitive, and specific, surveillance of foods for mycotoxin contamination has become more commonplace. Reliability of methods and well‐defined performance characteristics are essential for method validation. This article covers some of the latest activities and progress in qualitative and quantitative mycotoxin analysis.
Minchinia mercenariae n. sp. (Haplosporidia) in the Hard Clam Mercenaria mercenaria: Implications of a Rare Parasite in a Commercially Important Host
Authors: FORD SUSAN E. , STOKES NANCY A. , BURRESON EUGENE M. , SCARPA EMILY , CARNEGIE RYAN B. , KRAEUTER JOHN N. , BUSHEK DAVID
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT. During routine histopathology of 180 juvenile hard clams, Mercenaria mercenaria, from a site in Virginia, USA, in 2007, we discovered a single individual heavily infected with a parasite resembling a haplosporidian, some members of which cause lethal bivalve diseases. Scanning electron microscopy of spores and sequencing of small subunit ribosomal DNA confirmed a new species: Minchinia mercenariae n. sp. Further sampling of clams at the site found prevalences up to 38% using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). No parasites were found in routine histological screening of the same individuals, but re‐examination of clams judged positive by in situ hybridization (ISH) revealed very faintly staining plasmodia. No unusual mortalities have occurred among the sampled groups. Analysis of clams from Massachusetts to Florida by PCR failed to detect the parasite, but a haplosporidian found in a clam from New Jersey in 2001 was subsequently identified by ISH as M. mercenariae. No other haplosporidians have been reported in thousands of hard clams from the US east coast examined histologically since the mid‐1980s. The discovery underscores critical questions about how to assess the risks associated with parasites in groups known to be lethal, but that themselves are not considered a problem.
Expressed Sequence Tags from Amoebophrya sp. Infecting Karlodinium veneficum: Comparing Host and Parasite Sequences
Authors: BACHVAROFF TSVETAN R. , PLACE ALLEN R. , COATS DONALD WAYNE
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT. Parasitic dinoflagellates of the genus Amoebophrya play important roles in the ecology of estuaries and open ocean environments. Little is known of the cell and molecular biology of Amoebophrya, but the genus is intermediate on phylogenetic trees between apicomplexans and typical dinophycean dinoflagellates. Here, we constructed four cDNA libraries, from different stages after infecting the host, Karlodinium veneficum, with Amoebophrya sp. These libraries were used to generate 898 expressed sequence tags (ESTs), with sequences attributed to either the host or parasite, based on AT bias, codon usage, and occurrence during infection. Overall, 209 sequences were attributable to the parasite and 685 to the host. The 50 putative parasite sequences with good protein matches in GenBank were used to find the same protein from host ESTs. For 26 genes, both host and parasite sequences were identified, of which 20 encoded ribosomal proteins. PCR for seven predicted parasite and two host genes were used to confirm attributions. The most common host and parasite ESTs were compared to see if multiple gene copies were present. The host plastocyanin gene had multiple sequence variants, but parasite rps27a contained only one polymorphism, likely due to an amplification error. Amplification, cloning, and sequencing of five parasite protein‐coding genes suggested that the parasite has a single sequence for each gene, but three host genes were found to have multiple variants. The genome of Amoebophrya sp. infecting K. veneficum appears to have an organization more similar to other eukaryotes than to the tandem gene arrangements found in dinoflagellates.
Harvesting Anthropology for Public Consumption: Anthropologists Respond1 to Richard Manning's Book Against the Grain: How Agriculture has Hijacked Civilization: Introduction: The Missing Ethanol Chapter
Authors: Midgett Douglas
Published: June 2009

The publication of Richard Manning's Against the Grain has particular importance for anthropologists interested in agriculture and its modern transformations. Comments of a panel of anthropologists and Manning's response are included in this set of articles. Recent developments in the production of corn for fuel ethanol in the midwestern United States is examined.
The Centralization of Food Systems and Political Power
Authors: Thu Kendall
Published: June 2009

This article focuses on those dimensions of Manning's book that deal with the relationship between the consolidation of agriculture and the centralization of political power. It argues that a sustainable future founded on principles of social and economic equity are likely not achievable without attending to the inequalities inherent in an industrial food system.
Genetically Modified Organisms as Public Goods: Plant Biotechnology Transfer in Colombia
Authors: Holmes Christina , Graham Janice E.
Published: June 2009

This paper presents an exploration of biotechnology transfer and genetically modified organisms (GMOs) as “public goods” for Colombia. Plant biotechnology tenders the promise of providing “public goods” in the form of increased agricultural productivity, economic development, and food security. However, these each have the potential to benefit different groups of people. Colombian scientists recognize this when discussing the uses of genetic modification. We examine the goals for which Colombian scientists suggest plant genetic engineering has promise as well as the barriers they encounter using the technology. Research using genetic engineering is difficult due to a lack of resources, the need to negotiate intellectual property rights, and regulatory hurdles. Nevertheless, Colombian scientists suggested that genetic modification by Colombians is important, as transnational companies would not necessarily develop crops to meet Colombian needs. We argue that interpretive complexity is necessary to understand the desire of Colombian scientists to engage with biotechnology.
Modified implant surfaces show different biofilm compositions under in vivo conditions
Authors: Größner‐Schreiber Birte , Teichmann Jan , Hannig Matthias , Dörfer Christof , Wenderoth Dirk F. , Ott Stephan J.
Published: June 2009

Objective: Plaque accumulation on implant surfaces can result in peri‐implantitis with potential implant loss. The aim of the present study was to examine the influence of zirconium nitride (ZrN) as a potential implant surface on the biofilm composition and diversity in vivo.

Material and methods: ZrN‐ or titanium (Ti)‐coated glass specimens and ZrN or roughened Ti discs were used as substrates. Pure glass and polished titanium served as controls. The specimens were mounted on removable intraoral splints in five adults. After 24 h of intraoral exposure, the biofilms were analyzed applying single‐strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP analysis) of 16S rRNA genes. Sequence analysis of the dominant bands excised from the SSCP fingerprints allowed to taxonomically describe bacteria derived from biofilm samples.

Results: The highest number of bands was counted on pure glass and Ti 800. ZrN‐coated glass and ZrN‐coated titanium discs showed the lowest values for species richness. However, no significant differences were observed regarding the diversity of the identified bacterial species among all the surfaces examined. A total of 46 different bacteria were identified. The dominant bands within the fingerprints indicated bacteria belonging to the Streptococcus group as identified by their 16S rDNA sequence.

Conclusion: A coating of glass surfaces with ZrN significantly reduced the species richness in early bacterial colonization but the diversity was not significantly changed. In consideration of the results obtained by this and former studies a ZrN coating appears to rather modify the quantity of early bacterial adherence than the quality of the microbial community structure.
A rough surface implant neck with microthreads reduces the amount of marginal bone loss: a prospective clinical study
Authors: Bratu Emanuel A. , Tandlich Moshik , Shapira Lior
Published: June 2009

Objectives: An intra‐individual controlled clinical trial was conducted to evaluate and compare the amount of marginal bone loss (MBL) found around implants of a comparable design, with or without retention grooves (microthreads) or polished necks, during the early stages of healing.

Materials and methods: Forty‐eight (48) patients with missing mandibular posterior teeth were treated with two commercially available implants of the same brand (MIS): one with microthreads (S‐model) and the other with a polished neck (L‐model). MBL around each implant was measured on follow‐up radiograms taken 4 months after placement (exposure and crown cementation), and 6 and 12 months after loading.

Results: Forty‐six (46) patients completed the study, making 46 implant pairs available for statistical analysis. None of the implants failed to integrate. All the implants displayed some extent of bone loss throughout the follow‐up period. At each time point (exposure, 6 and 12 months after loading), the S‐model implants displayed statistically significant lower amounts of bone loss (0.22 vs. 0.76, 0.57 vs. 1.22 and 0.9 vs. 1.5 mm, respectively). Other than the type of the implant, no correlation was found between MBL and the implant stability values (PerioTest), dimensions, site of insertion or any of the other collected variables.

Conclusions: Implants with a roughened neck surface and microthreads are more resistant to MBL during the first phases of healing, as compared with implants with a polished neck.
Follicular porokeratosis: distinct clinical entity or histologic variant?
Authors: Pongpudpunth M. , Farber J. , Mahalingam M.
Published: June 2009

Various clinical subtypes of porokeratosis, clinically characterized by annular plaques with a normal or atrophic center and a distinctive keratotic ridge, are described based on the age of onset, size, number and distribution of the lesions. Follicular involvement, identified by follicular localization of cornoid lamellae, is uncommon and has only been reported in association with other subtypes such as disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis and porokeratosis of Mibelli. We present a case of follicular porokeratosis in a 40‐year‐old male who presented initially with scaly red “papules” in a follicular distribution on the upper extremity. Microscopic examination of a punch biopsy specimen revealed parakeratosis confined to the follicle and mild interface change. A repeat biopsy performed in 2008 revealed identical histologic features. In terms of etiopathogenesis, a clone of cells at the base of the follicle demonstrating abnormal keratinization is not a novel concept and has been demonstrated in other porokeratotic dermatoses. However, the presence of lesions that are solely follicular based, in terms of clinical presentation and histologic findings, and static over a 3‐year period favors the concept that follicular porokeratosis is a distinct clinical entity and not merely a histologic variant of the porokeratotic dermatoses described in the literature thus far.
High risk of hepatitis B‐virus reactivation after hematopoietic cell transplantation in hepatitis B core antibody‐positive patients
Authors: Matsue Kosei , Aoki Takatoshi , Odawara Jun , Fujiwara Hideaki , Iwama Kan‐ichi , Kimura Shun‐ichi , Yamakura Masayuki , Takeuch Masami
Published: June 2009

We investigated the serological changes in hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related markers in 55 and 26 hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)‐negative patients undergoing allogeneic and autologous stem cell transplantation, respectively, over the past 4 yr. Five of the 17 allogeneic and one of the five autologous patients with pretransplant anti‐hepatitis B core antigen antibodies (anti‐HBc) were HBsAg‐positive after transplantation, whereas none of the patients negative for anti‐HBc were HBsAg‐positive in both groups. All patients who became HBsAg‐positive received steroid‐containing immunosuppressive therapy for chronic graft versus host disease (GVHD) or myeloma. Four of the six patients developed flare of HBV hepatitis, and two patients did not. One patient developed fulminant hepatitis treated with lamivudine and plasma exchange. Other five patients received entecavir from the detection of HBsAg. Although HBV‐DNA levels became below the limit of detection in all patients, HBsAg positivity remained in three patients after 6 months of treatment. We concluded that anti‐HBc positivity is a risk factor for reactivation of HBV after both autologous and allogeneic transplantation, and HBV‐related markers should be monitored regularly in these patients. We also stress the efficacy of pre‐emptive use of antiviral agents in controlling HBV replication and limiting hepatic injury due to reactivation of HBV in these patients.
Outbreak of Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus infection in a group of rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Mätz‐Rensing K. , Winkelmann J. , Becker T. , Burckhardt I. , Van Der Linden M. , Köndgen S. , Leendertz F. , Kaup F.‐J.
Published: June 2009

Background  A severe upper respiratory tract infection occurred in a breeding group of rhesus monkeys housed together in one of six indoor/outdoor corals of the German Primate Center. The clinical signs of the disease included severe purulent conjunctivitis, rhinitis, pharyngitis, respiratory distress and lethargy. Six of 45 animals died within a few days after developing signs of infection.

Methods and results  Histopathologic and microbiologic examinations of the dead animals were consistent with a severe fibrinopurulent bronchopneumonia. Microbiology revealed a Lancefield group C streptococcus identified as Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus as the causative agent of infection.

Conclusions  The infection was passed on from animal to animal but did not spread to the other five breeding groups nearby. Extensive diagnostic testing failed to reveal the consisting presence of copathogens in individual cases. A visitor with upper respiratory disease was suspected as source of infection.
Effectiveness of repeated autumn and spring fires for understorey restoration in weed‐invaded temperate eucalypt woodlands
Authors: Prober Suzanne , Taylor Susan , Edwards Robyn , Mills Brett
Published: June 2009

Question. Can strategic burning, targeting differing ecological characteristics of native and exotic species, facilitate restoration of native understorey in weed‐invaded temperate grassy eucalypt woodlands?

Location. Gippsland Plains, eastern Victoria, Australia.

Methods. In a replicated, 5‐year experimental trial, the effects of repeated spring or autumn burning were evaluated for native and exotic plants in a representative, degraded Eucalyptus tereticornis grassy woodland. Treatments aimed to reduce seed banks and modify establishment conditions of exotic annual grasses, and to exhaust vegetative reserves of exotic perennial grasses. Treatments were applied to three grassland patch types, dominated by the native grass Austrodanthonia caespitosa, ubiquitous exotic annuals, or the common exotic perennial grass Paspalum dilatatum.

Results. The dominant native grass Austrodanthonia caespitosa and native forbs were resilient to repeated fires, and target exotic annuals and perennials were suppressed differentially by autumn and spring fires. Exotic annuals were also suppressed by drought, reducing the overall treatment effects but indicating important opportunities for restoration. The initially sparse exotic geophyte Romulea rosea increased in cover with fire and the impact of this species on native forbs requires further investigation. There was minimal increase in diversity of subsidiary natives with fire, probably owing to lack of propagules.

Conclusions. While fire is often considered to increase ecosystem invasibility, our study showed that strategic use of fire, informed by the relative responses of available native and exotic taxa, is potentially an effective step towards restoration of weed‐invaded temperate eucalypt woodlands.
Does Discovery Promote Settlement? An Empirical Answer
Authors: Huang Kuo‐Chang
Published: June 2009

Law and economics scholars fiercely debate the question of whether discovery promotes settlement. The few empirical studies addressing this question in the United States have generated more questions than insights. This article reports the results of an independent empirical study designed to test discovery's effect on facilitating settlement by using official data from more than 175,000 civil cases terminated in Taiwan between 1996 and 2006. As a member of the civil‐law family, Taiwan introduced the concept of discovery into its civil procedure by a 2000 reform. This empirical study shows that the settlement rate for civil cases in all the district courts indeed increased consistently over time following Taiwan's adoption of a discovery system. This article argues that Taiwan's successful experience provides evidence to support the theoretical prediction that the civilian system can enhance the settlement rate by introducing discovery into its civil procedure.
Assessing the value of mitigation strategies in reducing the impacts of rapid‐onset, catastrophic floods
Authors: Johnstone W.M. , Lence B.J.
Published: June 2009

Communities worldwide face dangers due to floods induced by natural events or technical failures. These vulnerabilities are increasing due to continued settlement along coastlines and in floodplains, and may be exacerbated in future by climate change. Flood losses can be mitigated via structural and nonstructural (or community based) means. Risk analysis can be undertaken on behalf of different stakeholders including: policy makers or regulatory bodies; asset owners; the local community; and individuals who live, work or recreate in the hazard impact zones. While methods exist for assessing the risks associated with water impoundment and control structures, less effort has been devoted to developing methods that can assess the merits of community‐based preparation and response activities such as evacuation and sheltering in place. There is a need to identify the best approaches for undertaking assessments of proposed plans, and to explore opportunities for adapting existing models to provide these capabilities. This paper posits the challenge of assessing nonstructural approaches in the context of existing risk analysis methods, proposes a possible direction for developing new methods of analysis, and then demonstrates the application of the proposed methods in support of planning for near‐field tsunami hazards along the Pacific coast of North America.
Risk‐based design of flood defence systems: a preliminary analysis of the optimal protection level for the New Orleans metropolitan area
Authors: Jonkman S.N. , Kok M. , Van Ledden M. , Vrijling J.K.
Published: June 2009

After the catastrophic flooding of New Orleans due to hurricane Katrina, plans have been developed for the improvement of the flood protection system of the city. In this paper, we apply the principles used in the Netherlands for risk‐based design of flood protection systems to the New Orleans metropolitan area. In this so‐called economic optimization, the incremental investments in more safety are balanced with the reduction of the risk to find an optimal level of flood protection. Although the analyses are preliminary and not yet fully realistic, the presented outcomes indicate that for densely populated areas, such as the central parts of New Orleans, it could be justified to choose a higher protection level than the currently proposed level of 1/100 per year. The results of the economic optimization can be considered as technical advice that can be used as input for the (political) decision‐making.
Does the Market Incorporate Previous IPO Withdrawals When Pricing Second‐Time IPOs?
Authors: Lian Qin , Wang Qiming
Published: June 2009

This paper examines the initial public offering (IPO) valuations of issuers that return to the IPO market successfully after withdrawing their first IPO attempt. We find that these second‐time IPOs sell at a significant discount relative to similar contemporaneous IPOs that succeed in their first attempt. We also demonstrate that switching underwriters on the second IPO attempt reduces, but does not eliminate, the discount for second‐time IPOs. When compared to their matched first‐time IPOs, second‐time IPOs have similar price revisions and post‐IPO long‐run stock and operating performances. Overall, these results suggest that the negative information conveyed by the withdrawal event is incorporated into the lower offer valuations for second‐time IPOs. Switching investment banks can mitigate, but not eliminate, the perceived higher risk of the second‐time offerings.
Second generation bioenergy crops and climate change: a review of the effects of elevated atmospheric CO2 and drought on water use and the implications for yield
Authors: OLIVER REBECCA J. , FINCH JON W. , TAYLOR GAIL
Published: June 2009

Second‐generation, dedicated lignocellulosic crops for bioenergy are being hailed as the sustainable alternative to food crops for the generation of liquid transport fuels, contributing to climate change mitigation and increased energy security. Across temperate regions they include tree species grown as short rotation coppice and intensive forestry (e.g. Populus and Salix species) and C4 grasses such as miscanthus and switchgrass. For bioenergy crops it is paramount that high energy yields are maintained in order to drive the industry to an economic threshold where it has competitive advantage over conventional fossil fuel alternatives. Therefore, in the face of increased planting of these species, globally, there is a pressing need for insight into their responses to predicted changes in climate to ensure these crops are ‘climate proofed’ in breeding and improvement programmes. In this review, we investigate the physiological responses of bioenergy crops to rising atmospheric CO2 ([Ca]) and drought, with particular emphasis on the C3Salicaceae trees and C4 grasses. We show that while crop yield is predicted to rise by up to 40% in elevated [Ca], this is tempered by the effects of water deficit. In response to elevated [Ca] stomatal conductance and evapotranspiration decline and higher leaf–water potentials are observed. However, whole‐plant responses to [Ca] are often of lower magnitude and may even be positive (increased water use in elevated [Ca]). We conclude that rising [Ca] is likely to improve drought tolerance of bioenergy crop species due to improved plant water use, consequently yields in temperate environments may remain high in future climate scenarios.
Subdeltoid Bursa as a Safe Marker for Avoiding Injury to the Axillary Nerve
Authors: Haddo Omar , Rossouw Daniel J. , Copeland Stephen , Levy Ofer
Published: June 2009

Background

Surgical approaches have been developed to enhance exposure and facilitate operative procedures. Some approaches are not commonly used or preferred due to prolonged learning curves and higher risk of iatrogenic injuries, which can be distressing to both the patient and the surgeon. The antero-superior approach provides good exposure to the rotator cuff, the anterior and posterior aspects of the shoulder and the glenoid. This approach is gaining popularity as a preferred exposure for shoulder arthroplasty as well as trauma surgery. Knowledge of the axillary nerve anatomy, however, is vital in this approach; in order to avoid injury.

Method

We have dissected the axillary nerve in six cadavers and measured its distance from inferior reflection of the subdeltoid bursa.

Results

The axillary nerve was at least 1.5 cm distal to the bursa in all cases.

Conclusion

The deltoid muscle can safely be split to the level indicated by a finger placed into the inferior recess of the subdeltoid bursa. This method uses the patient's own anatomy, and does not rely on nonstandard data, or unreliable points of reference such as the acromion and offers a reliable guide for the use of this approach safely.
Time for a New Name for Frozen Shoulder—Contracture of the Shoulder
Authors: Bunker Tim
Published: June 2009

Contracted (Frozen) Shoulder is an enigmatic common, disabling and painful condition. The last two decades have seen advances made in our understanding of the pathology, natural history and associations of this condition. This understanding has allowed led to the development of new and effective methods of treating the disease. Despite these advances there is still a long way to go before we have a full understanding of this condition.
Clavicle Non-Union in Children a Report of Two Cases and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Jain Neil , Peravali Babu , Muddu Bisal
Published: June 2009

Clavicle fractures are a common injury, particularly in children. Non-union is one recognized complication of clavicle fracture. However this complication is rare amongst children who have a clavicle fracture, with, to our knowledge, only one case of clavicle non-union in a child reported in the literature. We report two cases of non-union of the clavicle in children which were successfully treated by open reduction and internal fixation.
Design and Testing of a Unitized Regenerative Fuel Cell
Authors: Fall Jeremy , Humphreys Drew , Guo S. M.
Published: June 2009

A unitized regenerative fuel cell (URFC) is designed and tested for energy conversion and storage under the support of a NASA funded student design project. The URFC is of the proton exchange membrane type with an active cell area of 25cm2. In the URFC design, liquid water is stored internally to the fuel cell within graphite bipolar plates while hydrogen and oxygen gases, electrolyzed from water, are stored in containers external to the fuel cell. A spraying technique is used to produce a functional membrane electrode assembly. Catalyst ink is prepared using E-TEK Inc. platinum and iridium catalysts loaded on Vulcan XC-72. Platinum catalyst is used for the hydrogen electrode. 50wt% platinum∕50wt% iridium catalyst is used for the oxygen electrode. The metal weight on carbon is 30% for both the platinum and iridium catalysts. Water management within the fuel cell is handled by treatment of the gas diffusion layer with a Teflon emulsion to create the proper balance of hydrophobic and hydrophilic pores. The single cell unit is tested in either fuel cell mode or electrolysis mode for different catalyst loadings. Polarization curves for the URFC are generated to evaluate system performance.
Fuel Cells as an Alternative to Cold Ironing
Authors: Sembler William J. , Kumar Sunil , Palmer David
Published: June 2009

As a result of increased concern regarding the harmful effects of airborne pollutants, some seaports are taking steps to require that visiting ships reduce the emissions from onboard power-producing equipment, such as diesel-engine-driven generators. One approach to satisfy this demand is the practice of “cold ironing” during which a ship that is docked shuts down all of its generators and uses electrical power supplied by the port. Cold ironing has already been implemented for some ships in the Ports of Los Angeles in California, Seattle in Washington, Juneau in Alaska, and Göteborg in Sweden. Although cold ironing does eliminate airborne emissions from shipboard power-producing equipment, several disadvantages are associated with it. The use of a fuel cell to produce the electrical power required on a ship while in port represents a potential alternative to cold ironing. A fuel cell that is supplied with hydrogen and oxygen produces electricity, water, and heat. The production of airborne pollutants is, therefore, eliminated. However, along with the advantages associated with fuel cells come several significant challenges. This paper includes the results of a feasibility study conducted to evaluate the use of fuel cells as a source of in-port electrical power on ships. Factors considered in the study included fuel-cell type, utilization of waste heat, efficiency, and emissions. The effect of using several different fuels was also evaluated. The analysis results demonstrate that a fuel-cell installed as part of a hybrid cycle could be a viable alternative to cold ironing.
A Solar-Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Home and Research Platform
Authors: Palmer David J. , Sachs Gregory D. , Sembler William J.
Published: June 2009

The Solar-Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Home located at the United States Merchant Marine Academy, one of America’s five federal service academies, is believed to be the first of its kind in New York State and perhaps the nation. It represents a synergy of alternative-energy equipment that uses the sun’s energy to create electricity to power the home or surrounding community. Furthermore, it creates hydrogen gas that can be used as a fuel for a variety of applications. The hydrogen produced has two main purposes. First, the hydrogen supplies a fuel cell that produces electricity for the home in the evenings or during days when it is cloudy. Second, the hydrogen can be used to fill up the fuel tank of an environmentally friendly hydrogen-powered automobile after a typical day of operation. There are three primary objectives of this paper. The first objective is to provide a technical overview of the home’s energy systems. This includes an overview of the various monitoring devices, followed by a discussion on how these types of energy systems can help meet the needs of sustainability and energy independence. Building upon this information, the second objective is to perform an analysis of the current system configuration, including the solar array capacity, fuel cell size, and quantity of hydrogen that can be produced versus what is required for the home to be energy self-sufficient. The third objective is to explore existing maritime and military applications and to suggest future applications that may stem from research of this cutting-edge Solar-Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Home and research platform.
Design, Fabrication, and Performance Analysis of a Passive Micro-PEM-Fuel-Cell Stack
Authors: Weng Fang-Bor , Jou Bo-Shian , Chi Pei-Hung , Su Ay , Chan Shih Hung
Published: June 2009

A micro-fuel-cell stack of six cells with an active area of 2.73 cm2 and 2.5 W output power has been designed and fabricated in-house. It can go with mini hydrogen storage and provide enough power for portable electric products. Under polarization curve measurement, when the voltage was scanning to low voltage, the performance was quickly decayed by the low fuel concentration. This result was contributed by a limited fuel supply of metal hydride hydrogen tank. The voltage declined to very low voltage in some of the cell stacks when the current output was at high current. This phenomenon is attributed to the self-breath of air in the cathode. At the higher current of 0.9 A condition, the stack voltage was decreased even though the high hydrogen flow rate was increased. The solution to prevent the decrease in voltage is adding the airflow in the cathode. The fuel cell performances respond to the transient of load changes influenced by the hydrogen flow rate and step increase in current. The flow change can decrease the high resistance in the transient of the current output, which prevents membrane electrode assembly (MEA) degradation caused by being operated for many times. After a series of experiments in this study, the micro-fuel-cell system demonstrates the ability of offering a stable power to a cell phone or robot with reliability.
Experimental Study of Air-Water Interaction in Presence of Powdered Wax Inside Simulated Gas Distribution Channel of a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell
Authors: Mukherjee Abhijit , Bourassa Anthony
Published: June 2009

Low temperature fuel cells such as proton exchange membrane fuel cells are being currently developed to run cars and buses. Water management in these fuel cells is a key issue that needs to be adequately addressed for rapid development of the technology. The fuel cell reaction creates water that is typically carried away by the incoming air. However, at part load operations when the required air supply is lower, water droplets may fully block the air supply channels, leading to inefficient fuel cell operation. A solution to this problem is proposed taking a cue from tiny insects known as aphids that live inside plants. They excrete a watery substance called honeydew and get rid of this water using wax by encapsulating it into tiny droplets. In the present study, air-water interaction in a minichannel is studied in the presence of powdered wax. Air is forced into the channel inlet and water is pumped through a hole on the top wall of the channel. The movement of water inside the channel at different air velocities and water flow rates is recorded using a high-speed camera. Results indicate that the water droplets and slugs formed inside the channel are removed more rapidly in the presence of powdered wax. At the highest water flow rate and lowest air velocity used in this study the unwaxed channel gets completely flooded while the slugs of water continued to move forward in the waxed channel. Different two-phase flow regimes have been identified and plotted in both the waxed and unwaxed channels.
A Bejan’s Constructal Theory Approach to the Overall Optimization of Heat Exchanging Finned Modules With Air in Forced Convection and Laminar Flow Condition
Authors: Lorenzini Giulio , Moretti Simone
Published: June 2009

Optimizing ever smaller heat exchangers determines two opposite needs: augmenting performances, on the one hand; removing heat in excess to reduce failures, on the other. This numerical study, modeled thanks to Bejan’s Constructal theory, researches the overall optimization of finned modules, differently shaped and combined, cooled by air in laminar flow and forced convection condition: Losses of pressure, together with heat removed, contribute to the final assessment made through a novel idea of performance based on the so called overall performance coefficient.