bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Possible Link Between NO Concentrations and COX‐2 Expression in Systems Treated with Soy‐Isoflavones
Authors: SHIN JANG‐IN , LEE YUN‐KYUNG , KIM YOUNG MIN , HWANG JIN‐TAEK , PARK OCK JIN
Published: April 2007

Abstract:  The production of nitric oxide (NO) emerges as an essential determinant in auto‐ and paracrine signaling. NO is known to be generated under inflammatory conditions, carcinogenesis, and circulatory shock. The large amount of NO produced in response to cytokines plays an important role in inflammatory conditions. Cyclooxygenase (COX), the central enzyme in prostanoid biosynthesis, is involved in the first step of prostanoid synthesis from arachidonic acid. The reported studies to evaluate the relationship between NO and COX‐2 have revealed both inhibitory and stimulatory effects of NO on COX‐2 expression. Genistein, one of soy‐isoflavones, is a polyphenolic flavonoid and a potent antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory agent. In the present article, the effect of soy‐isoflavones on NO production and COX‐2 gene expression was examined. NO production by soy‐isoflavones was greatly increased even though eNOS and iNOS expression were not different from nontreated control. The increment of NO was accompanied with the elevated expression of COX‐2 and the concentrations of PGE2. The COX‐2 stimulatory effect of soy‐isoflavones appeared to be modulated by ERK‐1 and ‐2 and p38. In mammalian cancer system, incubation with the NO donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP) resulted in a slight upregulation of COX‐2, and cotreatment with genistein decreased COX‐2 expression possibly by the activation of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK).
Cross-coupling Reaction of Allylic and Benzylic Carbonates with Organo[2-(hydroxymethyl)phenyl]dimethylsilanes
Authors: Nakao Yoshiaki , Ebata Shiro , Chen Jinshui , Imanaka Hidekazu , Hiyama Tamejiro
Published: April 2007

The title reaction is found to proceed in the presence of a palladium catalyst and in the absence of any activator. Various functional groups are tolerated to give a diverse range of 1,4-diene and diarylmethane products, which are ubiquitous units of natural products and pharmaceuticals.
Controlled Organization of Silver Nanoparticles into Network Assemblies by Tuning pH Values
Authors: Sun Lanlan , Wei Gang , Song Yonghai , Wang Li , Guo Cunlan , Sun Yujing , Li Zhuang
Published: April 2007

We demonstrate the pH-induced assembly of 2-mercaptosuccinic acid-functionalized silver nanoparticles (MSA–Ag NPs) in the absence of hard or soft template. Two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) networks of silver NPs were achieved by tuning pH of the medium. The assembly process was monitored using atomic forces microscopy. The key factor affects the formation of network of silver NPs may be intermolecular hydrogen bonding between two carboxylic acid groups of MSA on two adjacent silver NPs.
Induction of DC-STAMP by Alternative Activation and Downstream Signaling Mechanisms
Authors: Yagi Mitsuru , Ninomiya Ken , Fujita Nobuyuki , Suzuki Toru , Iwasaki Ryotaro , Morita Kozo , Hosogane Naobumi , Matsuo Koichi , Toyama Yoshiaki , Suda Toshio , Miyamoto Takeshi
Published: April 2007

DC-STAMP is essential for fusion of osteoclasts and foreign body giant cells; however, it is not known whether dc-stamp expression in these two cell types is differentially regulated. Here, we show that dc-stamp expression and cell–cell fusion are regulated in a cell type–specific manner.

Introduction: The transcription factors c-Fos and NFATc1 cooperate to regulate osteoclast differentiation, whereas PU.1 and NF-κB are activated in macrophages and osteoclasts or in both cell types. Thus, we asked what role c-Fos, NFATc1, PU.1, and NF-κB played in regulating dendritic cell–specific transmembrane protein (dc-stamp) expression and fusion of osteoclasts and macrophage giant cells.

Materials and Methods: Transcriptional activation by c-Fos and NFATc1 was examined by dc-stamp promoter analysis. Multinuclear cell formation was analyzed in cells from c-Fos–deficient mice or in wildtype cells treated with the NFAT inhibitor FK506. The role of DC-STAMP in cell fusion was examined in vitro in a macrophage giant cell formation assay using DC-STAMP–deficient cells. Recruitment of c-Fos, NFATc1, PU.1, and NF-κB to the dc-stamp promoter in osteoclasts and macrophage giant cells was analyzed by chromatin-immunoprecipitation analysis.

Results: Both activator protein-1 (AP-1) and NFAT binding sites in the dc-stamp promoter were needed for dc-stamp expression after RANKL stimulation of osteoclasts. dc-stamp expression was induced in osteoclasts and macrophage giant cells, and cells from DC-STAMP–deficient mice failed to form either multinuclear osteoclasts or macrophage giant cells. In contrast, c-Fos is indispensable for dc-stamp expression and cell–cell fusion under conditions favoring in vitro and in vivo induction of osteoclasts but not macrophage giant cells. Consistently, an NFAT inhibitor suppressed multinuclear osteoclast formation but not macrophage giant cell formation. In addition, PU.1 and NF-κB binding sites were detected in the dc-stamp promoter, and both PU.1 and NF-κB were recruited to the dc-stamp promoter after granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) + interleukin (IL)-4 stimulation.

Conclusions: dc-stamp expression is regulated differently in osteoclasts and macrophage giant cells. c-Fos and NFATc1, both of which are essential for osteoclast differentiation, are needed for dc-stamp expression and cell–cell fusion in osteoclasts, but both factors are dispensable for giant cell formation by macrophages. Because PU.1 and NF-κB are recruited to the dc-stamp promoter after stimulation with GM-CSF + IL-4, dc-stamp transcription is regulated in a cell type–specific manner.
Accretion of Bone Quantity and Quality in the Developing Mouse Skeleton
Authors: Miller Lisa M , Little William , Schirmer Anne , Sheik Farhan , Busa Bhavin , Judex Stefan
Published: April 2007

In this work, we found that bone mineral formation proceeded very rapidly in mice by 1 day of age, where the degree of mineralization, the tissue mineral density, and the mineral crystallinity reached 36%, 51%, and 87% of the adult values, respectively. However, even though significant mineralization had occurred, the elastic modulus of 1-day-old bone was only 14% of its adult value, indicating that the intrinsic stiffening of the bone lags considerably behind the initial mineral formation.

Introduction: To meet the mechanical challenges during early development, the skeleton requires the rapid accretion of bone quality and bone quantity. Here, we describe early bone development in the mouse skeleton and test the hypothesis that specific compositional properties determine the stiffness of the tissue.

Materials and Methods: Tibias of female BALB mice were harvested at eight time-points (n = 4 each) distributed between 1 and 40 days of age and subjected to morphometric (μCT), chemical (Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy), and mechanical (nanoindentation) analyses. Tibias of 450-day-old mice served as fully mineralized control specimens.

Results: Bone growth proceeded very rapidly; at 1 day of age, the degree of mineralization (phosphate/protein ratio), the density of mineralized bone (TMD), and mineral crystallinity had reached 36%, 51%, and 87% of the adult (450 days) values, respectively. Spatially, the variability in mineralization across the mid-diaphysis was very high for the early time-points and declined over time. In contrast to the notable changes in mineralization, carbonate substitution into the mineral lattice (carbonate/phosphate ratio) and collagen cross-linking did not show any significant changes over this time period. Even though significant mineralization had occurred, the elastic modulus of 1-day-old bone was only 14% of the adult value and increased to 89% (of its adult value) after 40 days. Between samples of different time-points, significant positive correlations were observed between the elastic modulus and TMD (r2 = 0.84), phosphate/protein ratio (r2 = 0.59), and crystallinity (r2 = 0.23), whereas collagen cross-linking showed a small but significant negative correlation (r2 = 0.15).

Conclusions: These data indicate that specific chemical and morphometric properties modulate bone's stiffness during early growth. The intrinsic stiffening of the bone, however, lags considerably behind the initial mineral formation, emphasizing the importance of bone mineral quality for optimizing matrix integrity.
Learning Clair de Lune: Retrieval Practice and Expert Memorization
Authors: Chaffin Roger
Published: April 2007

HOW DOES AN EXPERIENCED performer memorize when learning a new piece quickly, in just a few hours of practice? To find out, a concert pianist recorded her practice as she learned Clair de Lune by Claude Debussy. She also provided detailed reports on the formal structure of the piece, the performance cues that she selected to attend to while playing, and other decisions about technique and interpretation. These reports were used to determine what she paid attention to during practice and where she had difficulty with memory retrieval. Retrieval practice was one of the main activities throughout the 4 3/4 hours needed to prepare the piece for performance. The pianist tried to play from memory almost from the start, used the musical structure to organize practice, and worked on performance cues to speed up retrieval from long-term memory. Performers practice memory retrieval, even when practice time is limited.
Persistent Socioeconomic Disparities in Infant, Neonatal, and Postneonatal Mortality Rates in the United States, 1969–2001
Authors: Singh Gopal K. , Kogan Michael D.
Published: April 2007

OBJECTIVES. This study examines changing patterns of inequalities in US infant, neonatal, and postneonatal mortality rates between 1969 and 2001 by area deprivation and maternal education.

METHODS. A deprivation index was linked to county vital records data to derive annual infant mortality rates by deprivation quintiles from 1969 to 2000. Rates by maternal education were computed for 1986, 1991, 1996, and 2001 using national linked birth/infant death files. Log-binomial regression was used to estimate relative risks of infant mortality by deprivation and time period. Cox regression was used to model overall and birth weight–specific infant mortality risks by maternal education after adjusting for covariates. Temporal disparities were summarized by log-linear regression and inequality indices.

RESULTS. Although absolute disparities have narrowed over time, relative socioeconomic disparities in infant mortality have increased since 1985. In 1985–1989, infants in the most deprived group had, respectively, 36% and 57% higher risks of neonatal and postneonatal mortality than infants in the least deprived group. The corresponding relative risks increased to 43% and 96% in 1995–2000. The adjusted risk of infant mortality was 22% higher in 1986 for mothers with <12 years of education than for those with ≥16 years of education, with the relative risk increasing to 41% in 2001. Disparities were greatest among normal birth weight infants, with education-specific relative risks of neonatal and postneonatal mortality increasing significantly between 1986 and 2001.

CONCLUSIONS. Dramatic declines in infant mortality among all of the socioeconomic groups during 1969–2001 represent a major public health success. However, substantial socioeconomic disparities persisted in both neonatal and postneonatal mortality. Relatively larger declines in infant and postneonatal mortality among higher socioeconomic groups have contributed to the widening gap in mortality since 1985. Persistent disparities in infant mortality may reflect increasing polarization among socioeconomic groups in material and social conditions, smoking during pregnancy, and health care services.
Creation and Development of the Public Service Orphan Drug Human Botulism Immune Globulin
Authors: Arnon Stephen S.
Published: April 2007

The public service orphan drug Human Botulism Immune Globulin for the treatment of infant botulism would not have come into existence without the federal Orphan Drug Act and the funding mechanism that it provided to conduct pivotal clinical trials. Nonetheless, creating, developing, and achieving licensure of Human Botulism Immune Globulin took approximately 15 years and approximately $10.6 million (2005 dollars) to accomplish. Use of Human Botulism Immune Globulin to treat patients with infant botulism has resulted thus far in more than 30 years of avoided hospital stay and more than $50 million (2005 dollars) of avoided hospital costs. To provide a possible paradigm for others, the circumstances that enabled a state public health department to create, test, license, and distribute an orphan drug are described here.
Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria in Hospitalized Children: A 5-Year Multicenter Study
Authors: Raymond Josette , Nordmann Patrice , Doit Catherine , Vu Thien Hoang , Guibert Michèle , Ferroni Agnès , Aujard Yannick
Published: April 2007

OBJECTIVE. The objective of this study was to determine the incidence of multidrug-resistant bacteria in hospitalized children

METHODS. This multicenter study was conducted in 5 hospitals in the Paris area from 1999 to 2003. We recorded all isolations of multidrug-resistant bacteria from clinical samples that were obtained from hospitalized children. Strains that were isolated during systematic screening for carriers were excluded.

RESULTS. The mean incidences were 0.9 per 1000 hospitalization-days for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, 0.45 for extended-spectrum β-lactamase–producing Klebsiella pneumoniae, 0.32 for extended-spectrum β-lactamase–producing Enterobacteriaceae other than Klebsiella pneumoniae, 0.40 for Enterobacter species with derepressed cephalosporinase, and 0.01 for vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus. The incidences per 1000 hospitalization-days of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, extended-spectrum β-lactamase–producing Klebsiella pneumoniae, extended-spectrum β-lactamase–producing Enterobacteriaceae other than Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Enterobacter species with derepressed cephalosporinase decreased significantly from 1999 to 2003, whereas the incidence of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus remained very low. The proportion of resistant strains within the species did not vary significantly for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (11% to 9.6%), extended-spectrum β-lactamase–producing Enterobacteriaceae other than Klebsiella pneumoniae (1.1%), and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (0.03% to 0.023%). In contrast, the frequency of extended-spectrum β-lactamase–producing Klebsiella pneumoniae decreased from 31.6% to 7.4%, and that of Enterobacter species with derepressed cephalosporinase decreased from 38.8% to 18.5%.

CONCLUSIONS. We report significant decreases in the incidence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, extended-spectrum β-lactamase–producing Klebsiella pneumoniae, extended-spectrum β-lactamase–producing Enterobacteriaceae other than Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Enterobacter species with derepressed cephalosporinase in hospitalized children during a 5-year period.
Injury-Prevention Counseling and Behavior Among US Children: Results From the Second Injury Control and Risk Survey
Authors: Chen Jieru , Kresnow Marcie-jo , Simon Thomas R. , Dellinger Ann
Published: April 2007

OBJECTIVES. The purpose of this work was to provide recent national prevalence estimates of pediatric injury-prevention counseling by health care providers, to compare these latest findings with those from a similar survey conducted in 1994, and to ascertain the association between counseling and safety behaviors.

METHODS. We conducted a cross-sectional, list-assisted random-digit-dial telephone survey of randomly selected children in English- or Spanish-speaking households in all 50 US states and the District of Columbia. The main outcome measures were respondents' reports that they or their children received injury-prevention counseling from their child's health care provider in the 12 months preceding the interview, children's practices of safety behaviors, and the association of injury-prevention counseling and such behaviors.

RESULTS. The overall proportion of US children receiving any injury-prevention counseling (42.4%) remained relatively unchanged, whereas counseling on selected injury-prevention topics increased significantly compared with reports based on the 1994 survey. Topic-specific injury-prevention counseling was positively associated with the posting of the poison control center telephone number in homes with children <6 years of age and with bicycle-helmet use among children 5 to 14 years of age.

CONCLUSIONS. Although the prevalence of pediatric injury-prevention counseling remains low, such counseling was associated with safer behaviors. This suggests the importance of pediatric injury-prevention counseling and indicates the need for health care providers to increase pediatric injury-prevention counseling in clinical practices.
Long-term Outcome and Clinical Spectrum of 73 Pediatric Patients With Mitochondrial Diseases
Authors: Debray François-Guillaume , Lambert Marie , Chevalier Isabelle , Robitaille Yves , Decarie Jean-Claude , Shoubridge Eric A. , Robinson Brian H. , Mitchell Grant A.
Published: April 2007

OBJECTIVES. We sought to determine the clinical spectrum, survival, and long-term functional outcome of a cohort of pediatric patients with mitochondrial diseases and to identify prognostic factors.

METHODS. Medical charts were reviewed for 73 children diagnosed between 1985 and 2005. The functional status of living patients was assessed prospectively by using the standardized Functional Independence Measure scales.

RESULTS. Patients fell into 7 phenotypic categories: neonatal-onset lactic acidosis (10%), Leigh syndrome (18%), nonspecific encephalopathy (32%), mitochondrial (encephalo)myopathy (19%), intermittent neurologic (5%), visceral (11%), and Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (5%). Age at first symptoms ranged from prenatal to 16 years (median: 7 months). Neurologic symptoms were the most common (90%). Visceral involvement was observed in 29% of the patients. A biochemical or molecular diagnosis was identified for 81% of the patients as follows: deficiency of complex IV (27%), of pyruvate dehydrogenase or complex I (25% each), of multiple complexes (13%), and of pyruvate carboxylase (5%) or complexes II+III (5%). A mitochondrial DNA mutation was found in 20% of patients. At present, 46% of patients have died (median age: 13 months), 80% of whom were <3 years of age. Multivariate analysis showed that age at first symptoms was a major independent predictor of mortality: patients with first symptoms before 6 months had a highly increased risk of mortality. Cardiac or visceral involvement and neurologic crises were not independent prognostic factors. Living patients showed a wide range of independence levels that correlated positively with age at first symptoms. Among patients aged >5 years (n = 32), 62% had Functional Independence Measure quotients of >0.75.

CONCLUSIONS. Mitochondrial diseases in children span a wide range of symptoms and severities. Age at first symptoms is the strongest predictor mortality. Despite a high mortality rate in the cohort, 62% of patients aged >5 years have only mild impairment or normal functional outcome.
Executive Summary of the Workshop on Oxygen in Neonatal Therapies: Controversies and Opportunities for Research
Authors: Higgins Rosemary D. , Bancalari Eduardo , Willinger Marian , Raju Tonse N.K.
Published: April 2007

One of the most complex areas in perinatal/neonatal medicine is the use of oxygen in neonatal therapies. To address the knowledge gaps that preclude optimal, evidence-based care in this critical field of perinatal medicine, the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development organized a workshop, Oxygen in Neonatal Therapies: Controversies and Opportunities for Research, in August 2005. The information presented at the workshop included basic and translational oxygen research; a review of completed, ongoing, and planned clinical trials; oxygen administration for neonatal resuscitation; and a review of the collaborative home infant monitoring evaluation study. This article provides a summary of the discussions, focusing on major knowledge gaps, with prioritized suggestions for studies in this area.
Breastfeeding and Hospitalization for Diarrheal and Respiratory Infection in the United Kingdom Millennium Cohort Study
Authors: Quigley Maria A. , Kelly Yvonne J. , Sacker Amanda
Published: April 2007

OBJECTIVE. The objective of this study was to measure the effect of breastfeeding on hospitalization for diarrheal and lower respiratory tract infections in the first 8 months after birth in contemporary United Kingdom.

METHODS. The study was a population-based survey (sweep 1 of the United Kingdom Millennium Cohort Study). Data on infant feeding, infant health, and a range of confounding factors were available for 15890 healthy, singleton, term infants who were born in 2000–2002. The main outcome measures were parental report of hospitalization for diarrhea and lower respiratory tract infection in the first 8 months after birth.

RESULTS. Seventy percent of infants were breastfed (ever), 34% received breast milk for at least 4 months, and 1.2% were exclusively breastfed for at least 6 months. By 8 months of age, 12% of infants had been hospitalized (1.1% for diarrhea and 3.2% for lower respiratory tract infection). Data analyzed by month of age, with adjustment for confounders, show that exclusive breastfeeding, compared with not breastfeeding, protects against hospitalization for diarrhea and lower respiratory tract infection. The effect of partial breastfeeding is weaker. Population-attributable fractions suggest that an estimated 53% of diarrhea hospitalizations could have been prevented each month by exclusive breastfeeding and 31% by partial breastfeeding. Similarly, 27% of lower respiratory tract infection hospitalizations could have been prevented each month by exclusive breastfeeding and 25% by partial breastfeeding. The protective effect of breastfeeding for these outcomes wears off soon after breastfeeding cessation.

CONCLUSIONS. Breastfeeding, particularly when exclusive and prolonged, protects against severe morbidity in contemporary United Kingdom. A population-level increase in exclusive, prolonged breastfeeding would be of considerable potential benefit for public health.
Inflammatory Markers and Mediators in Tracheal Fluid of Premature Infants Treated With Inhaled Nitric Oxide
Authors: Truog William E. , Ballard Philip L. , Norberg Michael , Golombek Sergio , Savani Rashmin C. , Merrill Jeffrey D. , Parton Lance A. , Cnaan Avital , Luan Xianqun , Ballard Roberta A. ,   the Nitric Oxide (to Prevent) Chronic Lung Disease Study Investigators
Published: April 2007

OBJECTIVE. We compared serial measurements of inflammatory mediators and markers in infants treated with inhaled nitric oxide or placebo to assess the effects of inhaled nitric oxide therapy on lung inflammation during bronchopulmonary dysplasia. We investigated relationships between respiratory severity scores and airway concentrations of inflammatory markers/mediators.

METHODS. As part of the Nitric Oxide (to Prevent) Chronic Lung Disease trial, a subset of 99 infants (52 placebo-treated infants and 47 inhaled nitric oxide-treated infants; well matched at baseline) had tracheal aspirate fluid collected at baseline, at 2 to 4 days, and then weekly while still intubated during study gas treatment (minimum of 24 days). Fluid was assessed for interleukin-1β, interleukin-8, transforming growth factor-β, N-acetylglucosaminidase, 8-epi-prostaglandin F2α, and hyaluronan. Results were normalized to total protein and secretory component of immunoglobulin A.

RESULTS. At baseline, there was substantial variability of each measured substance and no correlation between tracheal aspirate fluid levels of any substance and respiratory severity scores. Inhaled nitric oxide administration did not result in any time-matched significant change for any of the analytes, compared with the placebo-treated group. There was no correlation between any of the measured markers/mediators and respiratory severity scores throughout the 24 days of study gas administration. In the posthoc analysis of data for inhaled nitric oxide-treated infants, there was a difference at baseline in 8-epi-prostaglandin F2α levels for infants who did (n = 21) and did not (n = 26) develop bronchopulmonary dysplasia at postmenstrual age of 36 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS. Inhaled nitric oxide, as administered in this study, seemed to be safe. Its use was not associated with any increase in airway inflammatory substances.
Outcome at 2 Years of Age of Infants From the DART Study: A Multicenter, International, Randomized, Controlled Trial of Low-Dose Dexamethasonef
Authors: Doyle Lex W. , Davis Peter G. , Morley Colin J. , McPhee Andy , Carlin John B. ,   and the DART Study Investigators
Published: April 2007

OBJECTIVE. Low-dose dexamethasone facilitates extubation in chronically ventilator-dependent infants with no obvious short-term complications. The objective of this study was to determine the long-term effects of low-dose dexamethasone.

METHODS. Very preterm (<28 weeks' gestation) or extremely low birth weight (birth weight <1000 g) infants who were ventilator dependent after the first week of life for whom clinicians considered corticosteroids were indicated were eligible. After informed consent, infants were randomly assigned to masked dexamethasone (0.89 mg/kg over 10 days) or saline placebo. Survivors were assessed at 2 years' corrected age by staff blinded to treatment group allocation to determine neurosensory outcome, growth, and health.

RESULTS. The trial was abandoned well short of its target sample size because of recruitment difficulties. Seventy infants were recruited from 11 centers, 35 in each group: 59 survived to 2 years of age, and 58 (98%) were assessed at follow-up, but data for cerebral palsy were available for only 56 survivors. There was little evidence for a difference in the major end point, the rate of the combined outcome of death, or major disability at 2 years of age (dexamethasone group: 46%; controls: 43%). Rates of mortality before follow-up (11% vs 20%), major disability (41% vs 31%), cerebral palsy (14% vs 22%), or of the combined outcomes of death or cerebral palsy (23% vs 37%) were not substantially different between the groups. There were no obvious effects of low-dose dexamethasone on growth or readmissions to hospital after discharge.

CONCLUSIONS. Although this trial was not able to provide definitive evidence on the long-term effects of low-dose dexamethasone after the first week of life in chronically ventilator-dependent infants, our data indicate no strong association with long-term morbidity.
Cost-effectiveness and Potential Impact of Rotavirus Vaccination in the United States
Authors: Widdowson Marc-Alain , Meltzer Martin I. , Zhang Xinzhi , Bresee Joseph S. , Parashar Umesh D. , Glass Roger I.
Published: April 2007

OBJECTIVE. In February 2006, a safe, efficacious, orally administered pentavalent human-bovine reassortant rotavirus vaccine was licensed and recommended for routine immunization of all children in the United States. We assessed the health and economic impacts of a national rotavirus immunization program in the United States.

METHODS. Monte Carlo cost-effectiveness analyses, from health care and societal perspectives, of vaccination of a hypothetical US birth cohort of 4010000 children monitored from birth to 59 months of age were performed. We compared the disease and economic burden of rotavirus infection in an unvaccinated cohort of children with one vaccinated at 2, 4, and 6 months with pentavalent human-bovine reassortant rotavirus vaccine.

RESULTS. A routine rotavirus immunization program would prevent 13 deaths, 44000 hospitalizations, 137000 emergency department visits, 256000 office visits, and 1100000 episodes requiring only home care for children <5 years of age in the United States. Assuming costs of administration of $10, the break-even price per dose of vaccine was $42 from the societal perspective and $12 from the health care perspective. From the societal perspective, at the manufacturer's price of $62.50 per dose, vaccination would cost $138 per case averted, $3024 per serious case averted, and $197190 per life-year saved, at a total cost of $515 million to the health care system and $216 million to society. Key variables influencing the results were parental workdays lost, costs of hospitalization, emergency department visits, and child care.

CONCLUSIONS. Despite a higher burden of serious rotavirus disease than estimated previously, routine rotavirus vaccination would unlikely be cost-saving in the United States at present. Nonetheless, rotavirus vaccination may still be considered a cost-effective intervention.
Increasing Antiretroviral Drug Access for Children With HIV Infection
Authors:   Committee on Pediatric AIDS, Section on International Child Health
Published: April 2007

This Policy Statement was reaffirmed April 2010, April 2016, and October 2021.

Although there have been great gains in the prevention of pediatric HIV infection and provision of antiretroviral therapy for children with HIV infection in resource-rich countries, many barriers remain to scaling up HIV prevention and treatment for children in resource-limited areas of the world. Appropriate testing technologies need to be made more widely available to identify HIV infection in infants. Training of practitioners in the skills required to care for children with HIV infection is required to increase the number of children receiving antiretroviral therapy. Lack of availability of appropriate antiretroviral drug formulations that are easily usable and inexpensive is a major impediment to optimal care for children with HIV. The time and energy spent trying to develop liquid antiretroviral formulations might be better used in the manufacture of smaller pill sizes or crushable tablets, which are easier to dispense, transport, store, and administer to children.
Comparison of some methods for estimating vegetation periods in maize
Authors: Marton C. , Kálmán L. , Árendás T. , Bónis P. , Szieberth D.
Published: April 2007

A new method has been elaborated to estimate the length of the vegetation period of new maize hybrids. According to this method, the length of the vegetation period is expressed by the FAO number, calculated from the following traits:

1.
50% silking

2.
Grain moisture when the average grain moisture of maturity group standards is 25%

3.
Grain moisture when the average grain moisture of maturity group standards is 20%

4.
Grain moisture at harvest.

The standards of the neighbouring maturity groups are also included in each experiment.The results obtained with this method were compared to the heat unit (GDD) method and to other methods of calculating FAO numbers. The new method has several advantages over previous techniques based on moisture content alone: the fluctuation of the estimated FAO number over locations and years decreased, as did the significant differences between the calculated FAO numbers; the reliability and precision of the new FAO number is less dependent on the date of harvest (moisture content); and the FAO numbers calculated with the new method are in the closest correlation with the heat unit estimates.
Competition, light quality and seedling growth of Russian wildrye grass (Psathyrostachys juncea)
Authors: Jefferson P. , Muri R.
Published: April 2007

The low seedling vigour of Russian wildrye grass (
Psathyrostachys juncea
) (RWR) limits its use. Shading from durum wheat (
Triticum turgidum
) reduced RWR leaf number, tiller number, leaf area and seedling dry weight in a growth room experiment. Treatments with similar shading differed in tiller number and dry weight, which suggested that light quality may have also contributed to these responses. In a second growth room experiment, light intensity (PAR) and red:far-red light ratio (670:730 nm) were altered by coloured plastic filters suspended above seedlings of Russian wildrye, crested wheatgrass (
Agropyron desertorum
) (CWG) and Dahurian wildrye grass (
Elymus dahuricus
) (DWR). Leaf area, tiller number and dry weight of RWR seedlings were reduced by declining red:far-red light ratio while light intensity differences at similar red:far-red ratio did not affect these variables. CWG exhibited similar responses to declining red:far-red light ratio as RWR, except that it exhibited a seedling weight response to light intensity. DWR tiller number was not responsive to low red:far-red light ratio but rather to low light intensity. However, DWR seedling weight, tiller weight and leaf area were responsive to declining red:far-red light ratio. These results indicate that RWR seedlings are sensitive to light quality changes caused by neighbouring plants.
Effect of reduced tillage on quality traits of soybean [ Glycine max (L.) Merr.]
Authors: Sabo M. , Jug D. , Jug I.
Published: April 2007

Four different tillage systems were compared in soybean [
Glycine max
(L.) Merr.] production on one experimental field (chernozem) located in the Baranya region of northeastern Croatia in 2002 and 2003. The dry conditions experienced in 2003 exacerbated the negative effects of no-tillage on soybean yield. The 2-year average yield of soybean was significantly lower under no-tillage (NT) than in the conventional tillage (CT), soil loosening (SL) and disc harrowing (DH) treatments. The soybean oil and protein contents were very similar in all the tillage systems over the 2-year average. Soybean crude fibre (%) was affected by the main effect of tillage. Averaged over 2 years the crude fibre (%) of soybean grain was greater under NT than in the CT, DH and SL treatments. The ash (%) generally increased as tillage declined.
A New Low‐Cost Instream Antenna System for Tracking Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT)‐Tagged Fish in Small Streams
Authors: Bond Morgan H. , Hanson Chad V. , Baertsch Robert , Hayes Sean A. , MacFarlane R. Bruce
Published: April 2007

We present a new, low‐cost, low‐power, half/full‐duplex passive integrated transponder (PIT) tag interrogation antenna for use in detecting fish movements in small streams. New technology by Allflex‐USA allowed us to develop a reading system with an antenna 279.4 cm wide × 60.9 cm high that reads both common tag types used in fisheries today for about US$1,000. An instream antenna of this size and price makes high‐resolution tracking of fish movement in small streams feasible where cost and tag‐type restrictions were prohibitive. For evaluation, we placed the antenna upstream of a small estuary on the central California coast to observe the diel movements of juvenile steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss between the estuary and upstream habitats in both spring and fall months.
MODIFICATION OF SLOT‐MACHINE PREFERENCES THROUGH THE USE OF A CONDITIONAL DISCRIMINATION PARADIGM
Authors: Zlomke Kimberly R. , Dixon Mark R.
Published: April 2007

The present experiment investigated the impact of contextually trained discriminations on gambling behavior. Nine recreational slot‐machine players were initially exposed to concurrently available computerized slot machines that were each programmed on random‐ratio schedules of reinforcement and differed only in color. All participants distributed responding equally across the two slot machines. A conditional discrimination procedure was then used to teach the contextual cues representing the arbitrary relations of “greater than” and “less than.” Following contextual cue training, participants were reexposed to the concurrent slot‐machine task. After training of the contextual cues, a higher proportion of responses were made to the slot machine that shared formal properties (i.e., color) with the contextual cue representing “greater than.”
TRANSFORMATIONS OF MATHEMATICAL AND STIMULUS FUNCTIONS
Authors: Ninness Chris , Barnes‐Holmes Dermot , Rumph Robin , McCuller Glen , Ford Angela M. , Payne Robert , Ninness Sharon K. , Smith Ronald J. , Ward Todd A. , Elliott Marc P.
Published: April 2007

Following a pretest, 8 participants who were unfamiliar with algebraic and trigonometric functions received a brief presentation on the rectangular coordinate system. Next, they participated in a computer‐interactive matching‐to‐sample procedure that trained formula‐to‐formula and formula‐to‐graph relations. Then, they were exposed to 40 novel formula‐to‐graph tests and 10 novel graph‐to‐formula tests. Seven of the 8 participants showed substantial improvement in identifying formula‐to‐graph relations; however, in the test of novel graph‐to‐formula relations, participants tended to select equations in their factored form. Next, we manipulated contextual cues in the form of rules regarding mathematical preferences. First, we informed participants that standard forms of equations were preferred over factored forms. In a subsequent test of 10 additional novel graph‐to‐formula relations, participants shifted their selections to favor equations in their standard form. This preference reversed during 10 more tests when financial reward was made contingent on correct identification of formulas in factored form. Formula preferences and transformation of novel mathematical and stimulus functions are discussed.
THE EFFECTS OF VARYING LEVELS OF TREATMENT INTEGRITY ON CHILD COMPLIANCE DURING TREATMENT WITH A THREE‐STEP PROMPTING PROCEDURE
Authors: Wilder David A. , Atwell Julie , Wine Byron
Published: April 2007

The effects of three levels of treatment integrity (100%, 50%, and 0%) on child compliance were evaluated in the context of the implementation of a three‐step prompting procedure. Two typically developing preschool children participated in the study. After baseline data on compliance to one of three common demands were collected, a therapist implemented the three‐step prompting procedure at three different integrity levels. One integrity level was associated with each demand. The effects of the integrity levels were examined using multielement designs. The results indicate that compliance varied according to the level of treatment integrity that was in place.
THE GENERALIZED MATCHING LAW IN ELITE SPORT COMPETITION: FOOTBALL PLAY CALLING AS OPERANT CHOICE
Authors: Reed Derek D. , Critchfield Thomas S. , Martens Brian K.
Published: April 2007

A mathematical model of operant choice, the generalized matching law was used to analyze play‐calling data from the 2004 National Football League season. In all analyses, the relative ratio of passing to rushing plays was examined as a function of the relative ratio of reinforcement, defined as yards gained, from passing versus rushing. Different analyses focused on season‐aggregate data for the league as a whole, game‐by‐game data for the league as a whole, and game‐by‐game data for individual teams. In all analyses except those for a few individual teams, the generalized matching law accounted for a majority of variance in play calling. The typical play‐calling pattern reflected undermatching (suggesting imperfect sensitivity of play calling to yardage‐gained reinforcers) and a bias for calling rushing plays. Bias was found to be a function of both the relative risk of turnovers and the relative variability in yards gained associated with passing versus rushing plays. The external validity of the matching analyses was supported by significant correlations between parameters of the generalized matching law and team success on offense and season winning percentage. These results illustrate the broad applicability of the generalized matching law to problems outside of the laboratory.
USING TELEMEDICINE TO CONDUCT BEHAVIORAL ASSESSMENTS
Authors: Barretto Anjali , Wacker David P. , Harding Jay , Lee John , Berg Wendy K.
Published: April 2007

We describe the use of telemedicine by the Biobehavioral Service at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics to conduct brief functional analyses for children with developmental and behavioral disorders who live in rural areas of Iowa. Instead of being served at our outpatient facility, participants received initial behavioral assessments in their local schools or social service agencies via videoconference. Case descriptions for 2 participants whose evaluations were conducted via telemedicine, and a brief summary of all outpatient assessments conducted over a 4‐year period by the Biobehavioral Service, are provided. This report extends previous applications of functional analysis procedures by examining brief behavioral assessments conducted via telemedicine.
Correlation Between Atherosclerosis and Periodontal Putative Pathogenic Bacterial Infections in Coronary and Internal Mammary Arteries
Authors: Pucar Ana , Milasin Jelena , Lekovic Vojislav , Vukadinovic Miroslav , Ristic Miljko , Putnik Svetozar , Kenney E. Barrie
Published: April 2007

Background: Chronic infections, such as periodontitis, have been associated with an increased risk for atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. The aim of this study was to investigate biopsy samples of coronary and internal mammary arteries for the presence of putative pathogenic bacteria (Porphyromonas gingivalis, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Prevotella intermedia, and Tannerella forsythensis), Chlamydia pneumoniae, and human cytomegalovirus (CMV).

Methods: Patients with a diagnosis of coronary artery disease were included in the study. Fifteen coronary arteries with atherosclerosis and 15 internal mammary arteries without clinically assessable atherosclerotic degeneration were investigated. Both groups of specimens were obtained during coronary artery bypass grafting surgery. In all cases, the coronary and mammary artery specimens were taken from the same patient. The detection of periodontal pathogens, C. pneumoniae, and CMV was done by polymerase chain reaction analysis.

Results: Bacterial DNA was found in nine of 15 (60%) coronary artery biopsy samples: P. gingivalis in eight (53.33%), A. actinomycetemcomitans in four (26.67%), P. intermedia in five (33.33%), and T. forsythensis in two (13.33%) samples; CMV was detected in 10 (66.67%) samples, and C. pneumoniae was detected in five (33.33%) samples. Some of the samples contained more than one type of bacteria. Periodontal pathogens were not detected in internal mammary artery biopsies, whereas CMV was present in seven (46.67%) samples and C. pneumoniae was present in six (40%) samples.

Conclusion: The absence of putative pathogenic bacteria in internal mammary arteries, which are known to be affected rarely by atherosclerotic changes, and their presence in a high percentage of atherosclerotic coronary arteries support the concept that periodontal organisms are associated with the development and progression of atherosclerosis.
Demographic, Clinical, and Microbial Aspects of Chronic and Aggressive Periodontitis in Colombia: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Lafaurie Gloria Inés , Contreras Adolfo , Barón Alexandra , Botero Javier , Mayorga‐Fayad Isabel , Jaramillo Adriana , Giraldo Astrid , González Ferney , Mantilla Sergio , Botero Alejandro , Archila Luz Helena , Díaz Antonio , Chacón Tatiana , Castillo Diana Marcela , Betancourt Marisol , Del Rosario Aya Maria , Arce Roger
Published: April 2007

Background: The microbial profile of periodontal disease varies among different human populations. This study evaluated the demographic, clinical, and microbiologic aspects of periodontitis in a multigeographic sample in Colombia.

Methods: Three hundred twenty‐five patients with chronic periodontitis (CP), 158 patients with aggressive periodontitis (AgP), and 137 healthy‐gingivitis controls from five regions of the country were studied. Clinical, microbial, and sociodemographic data were collected. Microbiologic identification was performed using polymerase chain reaction 16S rRNA gene on pooled subgingival samples, and the presence of Gram‐negative enteric rods was evaluated by culture. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted.

Results: Porphyromonas gingivalis occurred in 71.5% of individuals with periodontitis, Tannerella forsythensis occurred in 58.5%, Campylobacter rectus occurred in 57.5%, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans occurred in 23.6%, and enteric rods occurred in 34.5%. P. gingivalis was more common in CP and AgP than controls. A. actinomycetemcomitans was increased in AgP compared to controls and patients with CP. T. forsythensis, C. rectus, and Eikenella corrodens had a low presence in the West Pacific and Central regions, and enteric rods were increased in the Central region (P <0.05). Other sociodemographic factors were not associated with these microorganisms.

Conclusions: Geographic regions do not influence the microbiota, but the microbiota may vary by geographic region. P. gingivalis, T. forsythensis, and C. rectus are the most prevalent periodontophatic microorganisms in Colombia. A. actinomycetemcomitans was more common in AgP, and a large percentage of the population studied had enteric rods in the subgingival plaque.
Optimizing the Esthetic Potential of Implant Restorations Through the Use of Immediate Implants With Immediate Provisionals
Authors: Harvey Brien V.
Published: April 2007

Background: Few things in clinical periodontics are more challenging or potentially more rewarding than gaining an ideal result with implant‐supported crowns in the esthetic zone.

Methods: This article describes a novel approach to maintaining soft tissue health and support following immediate implant placement and immediate insertion of minimally functional single‐unit screw‐retained fixed provisionals.

Results: Excellent tissue health, soft tissue profiles, and maintenance of septal bone height are documented with clinical photographs and 1‐year follow‐up radiographs.

Conclusion: In addition to maximizing the chances for an optimal esthetic result, this technique also allows precise adjustment and stability of occlusal relationships for provisionals in the perioperative period.
Influence of Periodontal Therapy on the Regulation of Soluble Cell Adhesion Molecule Expression in Aggressive Periodontitis Patients
Authors: Pischon Nicole , Hägewald Stefan , Kunze Melanie , Heng Nora , Christan Claudia , Kleber Bernd‐Michael , Müller Christian , Bernimoulin Jean‐Pierre
Published: April 2007

Background: Inflammatory periodontal disease is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Circulating cell adhesion molecules (CAM) (intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 [ICAM‐1], vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 [VCAM‐1], and E‐selectin) have been suggested as potential candidate markers of endothelial dysfunction, which contribute to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. The regulation of CAM in subjects with severe periodontitis and the influence of periodontal intervention on systemic CAM levels are not clear. The aim of this study was to determine whether intensive periodontal therapy reduces serum levels of CAM in patients with generalized aggressive periodontitis.

Methods: Blood samples were collected at six treatment time points from 21 patients with previously untreated generalized aggressive periodontitis (mean age: 34.6 ± 4.3 years). Patients received subgingival scaling and root planing and antibiotic therapy and were monitored over a 6‐month recall period. Serum levels of soluble ICAM‐1 (sICAM‐1), VCAM‐1 (sVCAM‐1), and E‐selectin (sE‐selectin) were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: sE‐selectin plasma levels decreased significantly (P <0.01) during periodontal therapy. Mean plasma levels were 6‐.95 ng/ml before treatment and 44.71 ng/ml 6 months after antibiotic therapy. sICAM‐1 and sVCAM‐2 serum levels were unaffected by therapeutic intervention.

Conclusions: Periodontal therapy reduces plasma sE‐selectin levels. Whether this leads to a reduction in risk of future cardiovascular events in patients with aggressive periodontal disease warrants further studies.