bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variation in Nutrient Distribution and Potential Nutrient Losses by Selective Logging in a Humid Tropical Forest of Rondonia, Brazil1
Authors: Martinelli L. A. , Almeida S. , Brown I. F. , Moreira M. Z. , Victoria R. L. , Filoso S. , Ferreira C. A. C. , Thomas W. W.
Published: September 2010

Despite having one of the world's highest deforestation rates, the tropical forest of Rondónia state in the southwest Amazon is virtually unknown in terms of nutrient dynamics. To fill this knowledge gap, the distribution of nutrients in a humid tropical forest located in the Ecological Reserve of Samuel, Rondónia state, was addressed. A total of 474 trees with diameter at breast height (DBH) >10 cm were mapped at the Ecological Reserve of Samuel, a 20,000‐ha area bordering the Samuel Hydroelectric Reservoir, which is located 50 km south of Porto Velho, Rondónia state, Amazon region, Brazil. These individuals belonged to ca 220 species distributed in 41 families. From this total, leaves of 354 trees were collected for chemical compositional analysis; boles of 96 trees and fine branches of 75 trees also were collected. Soil samples were gathered for fertility analysis at two soil depth intervals: 0–50 and 50–100 cm. In general, soils were acidic and very poor in terms of elemental contents. For plants, the highest concentrations of P, K, and Mg were found in leaves and fine branches, and the highest concentration of Ca was in the litter. The lowest nutrient concentration was observed in boles. The nutrient concentrations of leaves collected at Samuel were similar to that found in other terra firme forests of the Amazon region and other tropical forests growing on poor soils. Comparisons of nutrient concentrations among families, genera, and species revealed that only N concentrations were distinct among botanical taxa; the variability found in concentrations of other nutrients were larger and did not reveal any significant differences. Like aboveground biomass, the total nutrient stocks of trees was concentrated in a few large individuals. This fact reveals important implications about the impacts caused by selective logging. Although few trees are cut per hectare in this activity, the effects on the ecosystem structure, due to the loss of nutrients, may be underestimated.
Ant Activity along Moisture Gradients in a Neotropical Forest1
Authors: Kaspari Michael , Weiser Michael D.
Published: September 2010

Insect activity often tracks moisture gradients. We studied ant activity, size, and diversity along three moisture gradients in a Panamanian rain forest. Ant activity at baits increased by 25 percent from the dry to the wet season, and > 200 percent on a topographical gradient from a ravine to an exposed plateau. Activity varied little from day to night. Three microhabitats–tree trunk, shrub, and litter–showed different responses to these three gradients. The size distribution of the species pool (N= 63) was right skewed, but the average size of ants at a bait was strongly bimodal. Ants active in moister times and places were not significantly smaller. We suggest that gradients of desiccation risk and food availability were the two most likely causes of these patterns. Two temporal niche axes (daily and seasonal) showed little species specialization, but half of the common species could be categorized as litter or plant microhabitat specialists.
Evaporative Water Loss in Insular Populations of Anolis cristatellus (Reptilia: Sauria) in the British Virgin Islands. III. Response to the End of Drought and a Common Garden Experiment1
Authors: Perry Gad , Dmi'el Razi , Lazell James
Published: September 2010

Evaporative water loss in Anolis cristatellus from the British Virgin Islands was negatively correlated with the aridity of their habitats. Phenotypic plasticity and/or differential mortality of less well‐adapted individuals allowed rapid changes within populations. Here we report the results of two studies intended to differentiate between the two processes. We took advantage of the end of a major drought to study the rapidity with which populations recovered from unusually dry conditions. Population values changed rapidly from those measured in the past. There was no correlation between long‐term habitat aridity and measured water‐loss rate, but the multiyear correlation between aridity and skin resistance to water loss persisted. We also conducted a common garden experiment in which animals from the wettest and driest habitats were housed under intermediate conditions for one month. We detected no change in skin resistance to water loss in any of the three populations we studied; however, the mass of lizards from Sage Mountain increased significantly during the experiment, and their water loss per unit mass decreased significantly. These results support the existence of both phenotypic plasticity and genetic differences resulting from rapid selection within populations. The magnitude and relative importance of the two, however, remain to be determined.
Roosts Used bySturnira lilium(Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) in Belize1
Authors: Fenton M. B. , Vonhof M. J. , Bouchard S. , Gill S. A. , Johnston D. S. , Reid F. A. , Riskin D. K. , Standing K. L. , Taylor J. R. , Wagner R.
Published: September 2010

Between 9 and 22 January 1999, radio‐tracking revealed that nineSturnira lilium(seven females, one lactating, and two males) used hollow trees (N = 5), vine tangles (TV = 2), or the bases of palm fronds (TV = 1) as day roosts near Lamanai in Belize over 43 roost days. The bats roosted in hollows of four tree species, and the roost entrances ranged from 2.0 to 7.9 m above the ground. Radio–tagged individuals returned to the same roosts day after day, with the exception of a subadult female that used at least three day roosts over the course of the study. In their day roosts,S. liliumwere inconspicuous, difficult to flush, and easily overlooked. Radio–tagged bats usually roosted alone and emerged significantly later than bats without radio tags.
Diversity and Abundance of Arbuscular–Mycorrhizal Fungus Spores in Tropical Forest and Pasture1
Authors: Picone Chris
Published: September 2010

As Neotropical forests are increasingly converted to agriculture (especially pastures), little is known about the impacts on microbial biodiversity. To assess such impacts, I compared spore abundance and diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in soils from lowland evergreen forests and pastures in Nicaragua and Costa Rica. Species composition, dominance–diversity curves, and Simpson's diversity indices were similar for both forest and pasture soils. Of 28 distinct fungus morphospecies, 11 produced more spores in pasture, while only 1 produced more spores in forest. According to species–accumulation curves, local AMF species richness did not significantly decline following conversion of forest to pasture. Because pastures contained a surprising abundance and diversity of AMF spores compared to native forest, a lack of mycorrhizal fungi is unlikely to limit plant succession, restoration, or reforestation in the pastures studied. At the regional scale, however, species‐accumulation curves showed significantly greater gamma (G) diversity of spores in forest. In addition to these trends in diversity, species that sporulated more in pasture tended to have small spores, while the one species that sporulated more in forest had the largest spores. Similarly, only largespored fungi (>300 μm) showed any seasonal variation in spore abundance, being more common in the wet season.
Post‐Dispersal Seed Removal and Germination Selected Tree Species Dispersed byCebus capucinuson Barro Colorado Island, Panama1
Authors: Wehncke Elisabet V. , Dalling James W.
Published: September 2010

Dispersal quality, an important component of seed disperser effectiveness, may strongly affect the rate of plant recruitment. Here we evaluated the quality ofCebusmonkey dispersal by comparing the secondary removal fate and germination of fresh andCebus‐ingested seeds of nine tree species on Barro Colorado Island, Panama. Overall, rates of secondary seed removal by vertebrates were low, with mostCebusdefecations remaining undisturbed for extended periods on the forest floor. Only four of 30 feces were completely buried by dung beetles, and we found significantly higher vertebrate removal of defecated seeds than control seeds for only one species,Cordia bicolor. Seed germination varied greatly between plant taxa. Seeds of 3 out of 9 species showed significantly higher percent germination after monkey gut passage than control fresh seeds. Germination times tended to be shorter for defecated than for control seeds but were significantly different only for one of nine species,Cecropia insignis. Low rates of seed removal fromCebusfeces, coupled with high germination probabilities, suggest high dispersal effectiveness forCebusand contrasts strongly with patterns of post‐dispersal seed fate recorded for other primate species.
Novel PPAR‐gamma Agonists Identified from a Natural Product Library: A Virtual Screening, Induced‐Fit Docking and Biological Assay Study
Authors: Salam Noeris K. , Huang Tom H‐W. , Kota Bhavani P. , Kim Moon S. , Li Yuhao , Hibbs David E.
Published: September 2010

Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐gamma (PPAR‐gamma) plays an essential role in lipid and glucose homeostasis. It is recognized as the receptor of the thiazolidinediones—a synthetic class of anti‐diabetic drugs—and is the target of many drug discovery efforts because of its role in disease states, such as type II diabetes mellitus. In this study, structure‐based virtual screening of the PPAR‐gamma ligand binding domain against a natural product library has revealed 29 potential agonists. In vitro testing of this list identified six flavonoids to have stimulated PPAR‐gamma transcriptional activity in a transcriptional factor assay. Of these, flavonoid—psi‐baptigenin—was classed as the most potent PPAR‐gamma agonist, possessing low micromolar affinity (EC50 = 2.9 μM). Further in vitro testing using quantitative RT‐PCR and immunoblotting experiments demonstrated that psi‐baptigenin activated PPAR‐gamma mRNA (4.1 ± 0.2‐fold) and protein levels (2.9 ± 0.4‐fold) in THP‐1 macrophages. Moreover, psi‐baptigenin’s‐induced PPAR‐gamma enhancement was abolished in the presence of a selective PPAR‐gamma antagonist, GW9662. Induced‐fit docking investigations provide a detailed understanding on the ligands’ mechanism of action, suggesting five of the active flavonoids induce significant conformational change in the receptor upon binding. Overall, these results offer insight into various naturally derived flavonoids as leads/templates for development of novel PPAR‐gamma ligands.
Transferred NOE and Saturation Transfer Difference NMR Studies of Novobiocin Binding to EnvZ Suggest Binding Mode Similar to DNA Gyrase
Authors: Plesniak Leigh A. , Botsch Kyle , Leibrand Michelle , Kelly Mark , Sem Daniel , Adams Joseph A. , Jennings Patricia
Published: September 2010

Histidine protein kinases (HPKs) are a class of receptor proteins found in bacterial two‐component signal transduction systems, which allow bacteria to respond to changes in their external environment. To date, there are few potent inhibitors of histidine kinases, despite their potential ability to weaken bacteria against antibiotic treatment. EnvZ is a histidine protein kinase with osmoregulatory function in bacteria with sequence and topological similarity to DNA Gyrase B. DNA Gyrase B has several well‐characterized potent inhibitors, including novobiocin and clorobiocin which have detailed structures in complex. With fluorescence competition experiments, we have determined that novobiocin binds to EnvZ with a novoKD 120 ± 20 μm. NMR transferred NOE (trNOE) experiments, and saturation transfer difference (STD) experiments suggest that novobiocin binds to EnvZ in a conformation and orientation similar to its binding with DNA Gyrase B. These experiments suggest some similarity in the pocket despite weaker affinity for EnvZ by novobiocin.
Selective Mapping of Chemical Space for Pseudomonas aeruginosa Deacetylase LpxC Inhibitory Potential
Authors: Kadam Rameshwar U. , Garg Divita , Roy Nilanjan
Published: September 2010

UDP‐3‐O‐[R‐3‐hydroxymyristoyl]‐GlcNAc deacetylase enzyme of Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an interesting target for development of anti‐infective drugs against this gram‐negative bacterium. Many segregated studies analyzing the P. aeruginosa UDP‐3‐O‐[R‐3‐hydroxymyristoyl]‐GlcNAc deacetylase and its inhibitors have been reported in the recent past. In the present study, an attempt has been made to integrate this knowledge for the development of an effective multilayer screening approach. Eventually, an extensive chemical space was screened to filter out three potential P. aeruginosa UDP‐3‐O‐[R‐3‐hydroxymyristoyl]‐GlcNAc deacetylase inhibitors.
Species from Darwin onward
Authors: BARBEROUSSE Anouk , SAMADI Sarah
Published: September 2010

Controversy regarding the species problem has been going on for many decades and no consensus has ever been reached about what a “species” really is and how best to define the concept. De Queiroz (1998) introduced a distinction between two aspects of this problem: on the one hand, the definition proper, and on the other, the criteria allowing biologists to recognize species in practice. This distinction is a first step on the way toward a solution of the problem. In the present paper, we show that de Queiroz's distinction is made possible by the radical theoretical change introduced by Darwin. We emphasize that the species problem did not appear in the 20thcentury, but long before, and that Darwin addresses it indirectly in theOrigin of Species. It might seem paradoxical to refer to Darwin's views about species, because they are usually considered as unclear. However, we propose that an analysis of these views in the context of Darwin's own theory of evolution might reveal how a definition of the concept of species is made possible by being anchored to the very theory of evolution. To this aim, we present a plausible reconstruction of Darwin's implicit conception of species and show how this conception fits with the debates on species that took place in the 18thand 19thcenturies. We then turn to today's biology and show what changes Darwin's implicit conception of species has brought about relative to the species concept and species delimitation.
Preference status does not indicate intrinsic quality differences inDrosophila pseudoobscura
Authors: KIM Yong‐Kyu , WEBER Mary Beth , ANDERSON Wyatt W. , GOWATY Patricia Adair
Published: September 2010

The good genes hypothesis states that choosers prefer individuals of high intrinsic quality to individuals of lower intrinsic quality. Variation in longevity is thought to reflect, in part, intrinsic quality differences of individuals in addition to the costs of mating and reproduction. Here we report longevity variation ofDrosophila pseudoobscura, a species in which previous experiments have demonstrated that individual mate preferences (pre‐touching mate assessments) of females and males are associated with enhanced numbers of eclosed (adult) offspring and higher egg‐to‐adult survival (offspring viability). Using mate assessment arenas and protocols similar to those in a previous experiment that demonstrated fitness benefits to breeders and their offspring of mating with individuals they preferred, we tested the following predictions: (i) preferred discriminatees live longer than non‐preferred discriminatees; (ii) males live longer than females; and (iii) virgins live longer than mated individuals. The experiment yielded 938 individuals for longevity analysis. Sex and mating status affected longevity: males lived longer than females, virgin females lived longer than mated females, but there were no differences in longevity for mated and virgin males. Non‐preferred discriminatees of both sexes survived as long as preferred discriminatees, a result inconsistent with the prediction of the good genes hypothesis for mate preferences. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of the cost of reproduction for females inD. pseudoobscuraand of longevity variation of preferred and non‐preferred discriminatees.
Aspects on the relief of living surfaces using atomic force microscopy allow “art” to imitate nature
Authors: POLYMENI Rosa , SPANAKIS Emmanuel , ARGIROPOULOS Apostolos , RHIZOPOULOU Sophia
Published: September 2010

The visualization of the surface of biological samples using an atomic force microscope reveals features of the external relief and can resolve very fine and detailed features of the surface. We examined specimens from the skin of the amphibians Salamandra salamandra Linnaeus, 1758, Lyciasalamandra luschani basoglui Baran & Atatür, 1980 and Mesotriton alpestris Laurenti, 1768, and from the surface of pollen grains of the plant species Cyclamen graecum Link, 1835 and Cistus salviifolius Linnaeus, 1753, which exhibit certain interesting features, imaged at the nanoscale level. It is likely that the relief influences the attributes of the interfaces between the tissues and the environment. We found that the microsculpture increases in size the surface of the examined tissues and this might be particularly important for their performance in the field. Microsculpturing of amphibians' skin may affect water regulation, dehydration and rehydration, and cutaneous gas exchange. Pollen grain relief might affect the firmness of the contact between pollen surface and water droplets. High resolution imaging of the external relief showed that roughening might induce wetting and influence the water status of the specimens. In addition, roughness affects the radius of water droplets retained in between the projections of the external relief. Roughness of the tissues was highly correlated with their vertical distance, whereas surface distances were highly correlated with horizontal distances. By enabling a more detailed characterization of the external sculptures, through sophisticated techniques, a more comprehensive examination of the samples indicates similarities among different living tissues, originated from different kingdoms, which can be attributed to environmental conditions and physiological circumstances.
Is intraspecific variation in diet and morphology related to environmental gradients? Exploring Liem's paradox in a cichlid fish
Authors: BINNING Sandra A. , CHAPMAN Lauren J.
Published: September 2010

Interspecific studies have demonstrated that trophic morphology and ecology are not always tightly matched: a phenomenon rarely reported at the intraspecific level. In the present study, we explored relationships among diet, morphology and the environment in a widespread cichlid fish, Astatoreochromis alluaudi (Pellegrin 1904), from 6 sites in southern Uganda to test for evidence of eco‐morphological matching at the interdemic level. Previous studies of Astatoreochromis alluaudi have demonstrated developmental plasticity in trophic morphology in response to diet: a mollusk diet produces specimens with large pharyngeal jaws and muscles, whereas a soft‐food diet produces smaller pharyngeal jaws and corresponding changes in musculature. Sites were chosen to maximize variability in environmental variables that might directly or indirectly affect trophic morphology. We found significant differences in pharyngeal jaw and muscle morphology among populations. Similarly, we found differences in diets among sites: mollusks were found in the stomachs of fish from only 2 populations sampled, despite the presence of mollusks in 5 of the 6 sites. Although trophic morphology did match the observed diet in 2 sites, diet did not correlate with either morphology or environmental variables across sites, nor were environmental variables correlated with morphological variation among sites. These results suggest that mismatch can occur among different populations of a single species for reasons such as seasonality in resources, developmental plasticity and/or complex indirect interactions. Intraspecific mechanisms should be further studied in order to better understand the complex relationships between morphological specialization and ecological generalization.
Analysis of human infectious avian influenza virus: Hemagglutinin genetic characteristics in Asia and Africa from 2004 to 2009
Authors: ZHANG Jirong , LEI Fumin
Published: September 2010

In the present study, we used nucleotide and protein sequences of avian influenza virus H5N1, which were obtained in Asia and Africa, analyzed HA proteins using ClustalX1.83 and MEGA4.0, and built a genetic evolutionary tree of HA nucleotides. The analysis revealed that the receptor specificity amino acid of A/HK/213/2003, A/Turkey/65596/2006 and etc mutated into QNG, which could bind with á–2, 3 galactose and á–2, 6 galactose. A mutation might thus take place and lead to an outbreak of human infections of avian influenza virus. The mutations of HA protein amino acids from 2004 to 2009 coincided with human infections provided by the World Health Organization, indicating a “low–high–highest–high–low” pattern. We also found out that virus strains in Asia are from different origins: strains from Southeast Asia and East Asia are of the same origin, whereas those from West Asia, South Asia and Africa descend from one ancestor. The composition of the phylogenetic tree and mutations of key site amino acids in HA proteins reflected the fact that the majority of strains are regional and long term, and virus diffusions exist between China, Laos, Malaysia, Indonesia, Azerbaijan, Turkey and Iraq. We would advise that pertinent vaccines be developed and due attention be paid to the spread of viruses between neighboring countries and the dangers of virus mutation and evolution.
Scholarly Approaches to the Concept of “Evil” and the Figure of Māra in South Asia
Authors: Nichols Michael
Published: September 2010

In this article, I survey prominent themes in the scholarly analysis of the concept of `evil’ in South Asian religious traditions. Some of the issues I highlight in this regard are the problems in defining `evil’ in the South Asian context and the past tendency to privilege philosophical materials over literary sources. Besides this general topic, I also focus particularly on past scholarly approaches to and interpretations of the Buddhist figure `Māra,’ which to a great extent have illustrated the general trends laid out in the first section. Finally, I conclude that future approaches to the South Asian concept of `evil’ in general, and Māra in particular, ought to find ways to blend philosophical and literary materials, as well as maintain sensitivity to how the notion of `evil’ has played a social role among South Asian religious traditions.
Redressing the Emperor!—A Rejoinder to Arnett
Authors: Hendry Leo B. , Kloep Marion
Published: September 2010

ABSTRACT—
This rejoinder to Jeffrey Arnett’s essay evaluates his viewpoint by examining where there is agreement, disagreement, and potential integration between his interpretations of the transitions from adolescence to adulthood—emerging adulthood—and ours. We disagree with Arnett that it is necessary to create a new age stage because age‐based stage theories describe but cannot explain human development and thus do not fulfill the criteria for a good theory. We also question whether emerging adulthood is experienced positively by young people and propose that it might be problematic for society. However, we suggest that it would be possible to merge his concept with our life span model, as it provides illustrations of developmental challenges within a hitherto neglected period of the life span.
Emerging Adulthood in China: The Role of Social and Cultural Factors
Authors: Nelson Larry J. , Chen Xinyin
Published: September 2010

ABSTRACT—
It has been proposed that emerging adulthood (ages 18 through the middle 20s) is a period of development distinguished by unique features that include feeling in‐between, identity exploration, a focus on the self, instability, and possibilities. This article argues that cultural beliefs and norms about socialization and social relationships are likely to affect the meaning and developmental patterns of emerging adulthood. Specifically, the article focuses on the unique aspects of Chinese culture that should be taken into account in the study of emerging adulthood. Most notably, the article examines how the cultural emphasis on group orientation (e.g., obligation to family) influences the extent to which the proposed features of emerging adulthood are observed in China.
The Approximation Rule, Child Development Research, and Children’s Best Interests After Divorce
Authors: Warshak Richard A.
Published: September 2010

ABSTRACT—To remedy perceived problems with the best‐interests‐of‐the‐child standard, the American Law Institute proposes that in contested custody cases, courts allocate custodial time to each parent that approximates the proportion of time each spent performing caretaking functions in the past. This article evaluates the goals, assumptions, and potential benefits of the proposed approximation rule in the light of child development research. It concludes that the rule is unlikely to better define and secure children’s best interests and recommends more widespread adoption both of uniform criteria defining the best‐interests standard and of reforms that encourage nonadversarial, individualized resolutions of custody disputes.
When Noble Aspirations Fail: Why We Need the Approximation Rule
Authors: O’Connell Mary E.
Published: September 2010

ABSTRACT—
Critics of the American Law Institute’s proposed “approximation rule” often imply that its adoption would eliminate many current family court practices, such as mandatory mediation or parent education. This comment notes that, in fact, there is no connection between the approximation rule and these services. Understanding the approximation rule, and the need for it, requires us to look in an entirely different direction—namely, at the way in which the current “best interests of the child” standard makes custody courts deeply dependent on professional custody evaluators. This dependence is especially troubling because the scientific basis for custody evaluations is hotly contested, with noted psychologists describing it as weak or lacking. The approximation rule is an alternative to current law’s heavy reliance on flawed science.
Computerized 2‐Lead Resting ECG Analysis for the Detection of Relevant Coronary Artery Stenosis in Comparison With Angiographic Findings
Authors: Hosokawa Joji , Shen Joseph T. , Imhoff Michael
Published: September 2010

To assess the sensitivity and specificity of a new computer‐enhanced resting electrocardiographic analysis device for the detection of coronary stenosis, 189 patients (aged 61.3±12.9 years, 57 women) scheduled for coronary angiography from 4 Asian centers were included in an observational study. Angiographic results were independently classified for hemodynamically relevant stenosis by 2 angiographers. The device calculated a severity score from 0 to 20. The score was significantly higher for patients with coronary stenosis (5.4±1.8 vs 1.7±2.1). The study device (cutoff 4.0) identified 73 of 77 patients with stenosis (sensitivity 94.8%, specificity 86.6%). Adjusted positive and negative predictive values were 78.4% and 97.1%, respectively (receiver operating characteristic area under the curve, 0.914 [95% confidence interval, 0.868–0.961]). Subgroup analysis showed no significant influence of sex, age, previous revascularization procedures, or participating center. The new computer‐enhanced, resting electrocardiographic analysis device appears to identify patients with relevant coronary stenosis with high sensitivity and specificity.
Microalbuminuria in Nondiabetic and Nonhypertensive Systolic Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Figueiredo Estêvão L. , Leão Fabiana V.G. , Oliveira Lílian V. , Moreira Maria C.V. , Figueiredo Amintas F.S.
Published: September 2010

The American Diabetes Association and the National Kidney Foundation define microalbuminuria as an albumin (μg)/creatinine (mg) ratio (ACR) between 30 and 300 μg/mg regardless of sex. Microalbuminuria is associated with increased cardiovascular risk. The authors evaluated the prevalence of microalbuminuria in nondiabetic and nonhypertensive systolic heart failure (SHF) patients. Twenty‐seven SHF patients, 18 years and older, with New York Heart Association functional classes II through IV and left ventricular ejection fraction ≤40%, who were nondiabetic and nonhypertensive and not receiving angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors, were selected. Twenty‐seven healthy individuals, paired according to sex, ethnicity, and age, were used as controls. Early‐morning midstream urine was used. Data are expressed as medians. Excretion of albumin in SHF patients (39 μg/mL urine) was significantly higher than in controls (26 μg/mL urine). Creatinine excretion was not significantly different between patients and controls. ACR was significantly higher in patients (54 μg/mg) than in controls (24 μg/mg). The results indicate that microalbuminuria was significantly present in nondiabetic and nonhypertensive SHF patients.
Admission Hyperglycemia and Length of Hospital Stay in Patients With Diabetes and Heart Failure: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Gebreegziabher Yohannes , McCullough Peter A , Bubb Chard , Loney‐Hutchinson Lesel , Makaryus John N. , Anand Naveen , Divakaran Vijay , Akhrass Philippe , Alam Anis , Gizycki Hans von , McFarlane Samy I.
Published: September 2010

The authors assessed the relationship between glycemia and length of hospital stay (LOS) in a prospective cohort study of patients with diabetes mellitus and heart failure (HF). Of 212 patients with acute HF exacerbation, 119 (56%) also had diabetes. The mean age of the cohort was 63±0.87 years, and the mean body mass index was 29.3 kg/m2. Diabetic patients had significantly longer LOS compared with the nondiabetics (5.0±0.29 vs 3.4±0.19; P<.001). In patients with diabetes, the mean glycated hemoglobin A1c was 8.3%, admission blood glucose (BG) was 169±7.7 mg/dL, and average BG was 196±8.1 mg/dL. After adjusting for age, sex, weight, hypertension, renal function, and anemia, LOS was significantly correlated with admission BG (r=0.31; P<.001) and average BG (r=0.34; P=.001). In patients with acute HF exacerbation, diabetes significantly prolonged LOS. Hyperglycemia correlated with LOS.
Invasive and Noninvasive Correlations of B‐Type Natriuretic Peptide in Patients With Heart Failure Due to Chagas Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Vilas‐Boas Fábio , Feitosa Gilson Soares , Soares Milena B.P. , Pinho‐Filho Joel Alves , Nascimento Thais , Barojas Marcos M. , Andrade Marcus V.S. , Ribeiro‐dos‐Santos Ricardo , Bocchi Edimar
Published: September 2010

Heart failure due to Chagas cardiomyopathy (HFCC) differs from failure with other etiologies because of the occurrence of intense inflammatory infiltrate and right ventricle compromise. This article investigates correlations of B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels with parameters of severity in HFCC. Twenty‐eight patients and 8 normal controls underwent heart catheterization and clinical and laboratory analyses. BNP levels were higher in patients with HFCC (P<.0001) and correlated with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class; right atrial pressure; wedge pressure; cardiac output; levels of serum sodium, hemoglobin, urea, and tumor necrosis factor‐α; and ejection fraction. Interferon‐γ and transforming growth factor‐β did not correlate with BNP level. The authors conclude that BNP levels are elevated in patients experiencing HFCC, irrespective of NYHA class, and that the occurrence of HFCC correlates with severity of disease.
TRANSLATING NATURE: DEVELOPING ESTHER BICK'S METHOD FOR FINDING WORDS TO DESCRIBE WHAT IS SEEN AND EXPERIENCED IN INFANT OBSERVATION AND CLINICAL WORK
Authors: Briggs Andrew
Published: September 2010

abstract  Mindful of the importance of word usage for accurate verbal or written description the paper aims to develop Esther Bick's caution about the use of words in infant observation and clinical work. It is suggested that this caution was part of Bick's process of creating a state of mind akin to negative capability, allowing for the accurate perception of experience and its subsequent translation into words. From this point the paper suggests that the task of translation for clinicians and observers benefits from a detailed consideration of the technical writings of certain poets who have explored the problem of translating experience and ideas into words. Overall the paper attempts to draw clinicians' attention to the sensual quality of observation, and thus similarly to the words used to translate what is seen and experienced.
Decompression followed by enucleation as treatment modality for ameloblastic fibroma: A case report
Authors: Prasad K. , Ranganath K. , Lalitha R.M. , Sreevidya B.
Published: September 2010

Aim:  To highlight the usefulness of decompression in the treatment of a benign tumor which was clinically cystic.

Materials and methods:  A case of 7yr old boy reported with the chief complaint of a gradually progressive swelling in the left cheek region. It was diagnosed as cystic ameloblastic fibroma based on clinical, radiological and histopathological examination. Patient was treated by decompression and periodic review followed by enucleation.

Results:  There was reduction in the size of the lesion, formation of bone from the periphery and formation of roots of left first permanent molar at the end of decompression period. Near normal facial contour was achieved and the growth and development of the mandible was not restricted. There was no evidence of recurrence at 8 month follow up. Patient is still on follow up.

Conclusion:  Decompression can be considered as an initial treatment option in benign clinically cystic lesions. It allows periodic review and a natural regain of contour although the treatment period is prolonged.
What gets done and why: Implementing the recommendations of public inquiries
Authors: Stutz Jeffrey R.
Published: September 2010

Abstract: Public inquiries are often the instrument of choice when governments decide to re‐think their approach to large issues, yet there has been little empirical research on how effective they are. This article is an evidence‐based look at what affects the implementation of recommendations made by public inquiries. It considers eleven inquiries, examining how they operated, their political and administrative setting, and what action was taken on the recommendations. The central hypothesis is that governments do implement the recommendations of public inquiries under certain conditions. Such implementation extends not only to technical, incremental recommendations but also to recommendations involving systemic changes. The findings point to the role of judges who head and preside over inquiries as policy influencers. Often buffered by inquiry counsel or policy staff, judges may test potential recommendations with governments and other interested parties. The impact of inquiry hearings suggests that public inquiries do not necessarily serve a government's wishes to delay action. If inquiry hearings are the top item in the news, it is hard to see how that furthers a government agenda to bury the issues.

Sommaire:
Les enquêtes publiques sont souvent l'instrument de choix auquel ont recours les gouvernements lorsqu'ils décident de repenser leur manière d'envisager les grandes questions, or peu de recherches empiriques ont été entreprises pour déterminer de leur efficacité. Le présent article est un examen fondé sur les données probantes de ce qui influe sur la mise en œuvre des recommandations résultant d'enquêtes publiques. Il passe en revue onze enquêtes publiques, examinant comment elles ont fonctionné, quel était leur cadre politique et administratif, et quelles mesures ont été prises à propos des recommandations. L'hypothèse principale est que les gouvernements mettent effectivement en œuvre les recommandations des enquêtes publiques dans certaines conditions. Une telle mise en œuvre couvre non seulement les recommandations techniques croissantes, mais aussi les recommandations concernant les changements systémiques. Les résultats attirent l'attention sur le rôle joué par les juges qui dirigent les enquêtes par l'influence qu'ils exercent sur les politiques. Les juges, souvent utilisés comme tampons par les avocats des enquête publiques ou le personnel chargé des politiques, peuvent tester les recommandations potentielles auprès des gouvernements et autres parties intéressées. L'impact des audiences des enquêtes publiques laisse entendre que les audiences publiques ne servent pas nécessairement à retarder les mesures à prendre comme pourrait le souhaiter le gouvernement. Si les audiences d'une enquête publique font la une des médias, il est difficile de voir comment un programme gouvernemental peut progresser en étouffant les questions.
Multiplex reactions for the molecular detection of predation on pest and nonpest invertebrates in agroecosystems
Authors: ANDREW KING R. , MORENO‐RIPOLL RAFAEL , AGUSTÍ NURIA , SHAYLER SIMON P. , BELL JAMES R. , BOHAN DAVID A. , SYMONDSON WILLIAM O. C.
Published: September 2010

Species‐ and group‐specific PCR primers were developed to study predation on pest and nonpest invertebrate species by generalist carabid predators in agroecosystems. To ensure the amplification of degraded DNA in predator gut samples, amplicons were designed to be less than 300 bp. Specificity of primers was assessed by cross‐amplification against a panel of target and nontarget invertebrate species. The new primers were combined with previously published primers for slugs and collembolla in multiplex reactions to simultaneously screen each predator for the presence of multiple prey. All prey species were detected in a screen of the gut contents of field‐caught predators.
Primary tooth emergence in Australian children: timing, sequence and patterns of asymmetry
Authors: Woodroffe S , Mihailidis S , Hughes T , Bockmann M , Seow WK , Gotjamanos T , Townsend G
Published: September 2010

Background:  Information on the timing and sequence of human tooth emergence is valuable when analysing human growth and development, predicting the age of individuals, and for understanding the effects of genetic and environmental influences on growth processes. This paper provides updated data on the timing and sequence of primary tooth emergence in Australian children for both clinicians and researchers.

Methods:  Twins were recruited from around Australia with data collected through parental recording of twins’ primary tooth emergence. One twin from each pair was then randomly selected to enable the calculation of descriptive statistics for timing, sequence and asymmetry in tooth emergence.

Results:  The first and last primary teeth emerged, on average, at 8.6 months and 27.9 months, respectively, with teeth emerging in the order: central incisor, lateral incisor, first molar, canine, second molar. Left‐side antimeric teeth were more likely to emerge before their right‐side counterparts but this was not statistically significant. At least 35% of all antimeric pairs had emerged within two weeks of each other, serving as a useful guideline for assessing symmetrical versus asymmetrical development.

Conclusions:  Primary tooth emergence in Australian twins is occurring later than reported previously for Australian singletons but is consistent with findings for singletons in other ethnic groups. The most common sequence of primary tooth emergence appears to be consistent in twins and singletons and has not changed over time.
Effect of casein phosphopeptide‐amorphous calcium phosphate added to acidic beverages on enamel erosion in vitro
Authors: Manton DJ , Cai F , Yuan Y , Walker GD , Cochrane NJ , Reynolds C , Brearley‐Messer LJ , Reynolds EC
Published: September 2010

Background:  To investigate, in vitro, the effect on enamel erosion of the addition of 0.2% w/v casein phosphopeptide‐amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP‐ACP) to four commercially‐available soft drinks, two of which were carbonated.

Methods:  Enamel specimens (n = 27) were sectioned from sound extracted human third molar teeth and polished to a mirror finish. Exposed enamel windows of 1 mm2 were created by painting the surface with acid‐resistant nail varnish. Four citric flavoured soft drinks (pH range 2.2 to 2.4) and distilled deionized water (DDW) were tested. Each drink was tested with and without 0.2% CPP‐ACP w/v. The specimens were placed into 50 mL of solution at 37 °C for 30 minutes, rinsed and varnish removed. The samples were profiled with a white light profilometer and erosive depths recorded.

Results:  All soft drinks tested caused enamel erosion but adding 0.2% w/v CPP‐ACP significantly reduced (p <0.05) erosive depth in all test solutions in comparison with the solutions without CPP‐ACP. The erosive depths for all solutions with 0.2% CPP‐ACP did not differ significantly from those of DDW.

Conclusions:  Adding CPP‐ACP at 0.2% w/v significantly decreased the erosivity of all four soft drinks. The erosivity of the soft drinks with 0.2% CPP‐ACP added did not differ significantly from that of distilled water.
Relative oral health outcome trends between people inside and outside capital city areas of Australia
Authors: Crocombe LA , Stewart JF , Barnard PD , Slade GD , Roberts‐Thomson K , Spencer AJ
Published: September 2010

Background:  The aim of this study was to evaluate relative change over 17 years in clinical oral health outcomes inside and outside capital city areas of Australia.

Methods:  Using data from the National Oral Health Survey of Australia 1987–88 and the National Survey of Adult Oral Health 2004–06, relative trends in clinical oral health outcomes inside and outside capital city areas were measured by age and gender standardized changes in the percentage of edentate people and dentate adults with less than 21 teeth, in mean numbers of decayed, missing and filled teeth, and mean DMFT index.

Results:  There were similar reductions inside and outside capital city areas in the percentage of edentate people (capital city 63.7%, outside capital city 60.7%) and dentate people with less than 21 teeth (52.5%, 50.1%), in the mean number of missing teeth (34.3%, 34.5%), filled teeth (0.0%, increase of 5.5%), and mean DMFT index (21.2%, 19.2%). The reduction in mean number of decayed teeth was greater in capital city areas (78.0%) than outside capital city areas (50.0%).

Conclusions:  Trends in four of the five clinical oral health outcomes demonstrated improvements in oral health that were of a similar magnitude inside and outside capital city areas of Australia.
In vitro study of the inactivation by dentine of some endodontic medicaments and their bases
Authors: Athanassiadis B , Abbott PV , George N , Walsh LJ
Published: September 2010

Background:  The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial effect of endodontic medicaments and their bases in the presence of dentine powder.

Methods:  The medicaments tested were Ledermix paste, Pulpdent paste, a 50:50 combination of the Pulpdent:Ledermix and their bases. The test organism was Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212. The presence or absence of dentine was examined as well as the effect of autoclaving dentine. Serial dilutions of samples at 1 hour, 1 day and 3 days were used for colony counting. The effects of dentine powder on pH for saturated Ca(OH)2 solution and Pulpdent paste at 1 hour and 24 hours were also measured.

Results:  Pulpdent and the 50:50 combination of Pulpdent:Ledermix completely inhibited the growth of E. faecalis from 1 hour onwards, and these results were not affected by the presence/absence of dentine powder, pre‐incubation period, timing of autoclaving, or exposure time. Saturated solutions of Ca(OH)2 are prone to inactivation by dentine powder unlike Pulpdent paste. Ledermix paste took 3 days to exert a significant effect on the growth of E. faecalis.

Conclusions:  In this laboratory study, both Pulpdent and the 50:50 mixture of Pulpdent with Ledermix were effective medicaments against E. faecalis in the presence of dentine powder.
Maxillary, mandibular and chin advancement surgery for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: Jones R , Badlani J , Jones C
Published: September 2010

The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the effectiveness of maxillary, mandibular and chin advancement (MMCA) surgery as a treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea and to determine the cephalometric parameters of this surgery. Twenty consecutive adult patients with obstructive sleep apnoea for whom other treatments (constant positive airway pressure, mandibular advancement splint and soft tissue surgery) had failed underwent MMCA surgery. Pre‐ and post‐surgical polysomnography studies measuring the Respiratory Disturbance Index (RDI), minimum blood oxygen saturation (MinSaO2) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) were compared. Lateral cephalometric radiographs measuring the pre‐ and post‐surgical posterior airway space (PAS) were also analysed. Regression analysis indicated that the change in PAS at the level of B point largely accounted for the change in the RDI, although it was not significantly related with the postoperative oxygen saturation. MMCA surgery was found to be effective as a treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea, and improved all postoperative measures in this study. There was a significant relationship between B point, the PAS and a reduction in RDI.
Management of third molar removal with a single dose of recombinant Factor IX (BeneFIX) and local measures in severe haemophilia B
Authors: Hewson ID , Makhmaloaf P
Published: September 2010

Background:  Patients with inherited bleeding disorders have historically had factor cover for oral surgery. Factor support is expensive, time consuming and places the patient at a potential risk of blood‐borne diseases. This case describes the use of a significant reduction in factor support for a severe haemophilia B patient having third molars surgically removed.

Methods:  Local measures were used after a single preoperative dose of Factor IX to obtain good postoperative haemostasis.

Results:  Excellent haemostasis was achieved using local measures of 5% tranexamic acid solution, Surgicel® and Monocryl® sutures after a single preoperative dose of Factor IX.

Conclusions:  Oral surgery may be performed on patients with inherited bleeding disorders using minimal factors and local haemostatic measures. A study of this patient population has commenced at The Alfred Hospital.
An unusual presentation of an ectopic third molar in the condylar region
Authors: Pace C , Holt D , Payne M
Published: September 2010

We describe the case of a 53‐year‐old patient who presented with an intermittent discharging sinus on his face which, following a number of investigations, was found to be secondary to an ectopic third molar in the condylar region. The ectopic tooth was surgically removed with complete resolution of the facial swelling. This case highlights the possibility of dental pathology presenting with completely unrelated signs and symptoms, and the importance of the clinician maintaining an open mind when it comes to the differential diagnosis of such a presentation.
Don't Judge a Superannuation Default Investment Option by Its Name
Authors: Gallery Gerry , Gallery Natalie , McDougall Lyn
Published: September 2010

With the massive decline in savings arising from the Global Financial Crisis (GFC), it is timely to review superannuation fund investment and disclosure strategies in the lead‐up to the crisis. Accordingly, this study examines differences among superannuation funds’ default investment options in terms of naming and framing over three years from 2005 to 2007, as presented in product disclosure statements (PDSs). The findings indicate that default options are becoming more alike regardless of their name, and consequently, members may face increasing difficulties in distinguishing between balanced and growth‐named default options when comparing them across superannuation funds. Comparability is also likely to be constrained by variations in the framing of default options presented in investment option menus in PDSs. These findings highlight the need for standardisation of default option definitions and disclosures to ensure descriptive accuracy, transparency and comparability.