bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiovascular disease and periodontitis: an update on the associations and risk
Authors: Persson Gösta Rutger , Persson Rigmor Elisabeth
Published: August 2008

Background: Associations between periodontitis and cardiovascular diseases have been recognized.

Material and Methods: New literature since the last European Workshop on Periodontology has been reviewed.

Results: The lack of reliable epidemiological data on disease prevalence makes an assessment of the associations and risks between periodontitis and cardiovascular diseases difficult. Two recent meta‐analysis reports have identified associations between periodontitis and cardiovascular diseases (odds ratios: 1.1–2.2). Different surrogate markers for both disease entities, including serum biomarkers, have been investigated. Brachial artery flow‐mediated dilatation, and carotid intima media thickness have in some studies been linked to periodontitis. Studies are needed to confirm early results of improvements of such surrogate markers following periodontal therapy. While intensive periodontal therapy may enhance inflammatory responses and impair vascular functions, studies are needed to assess the outcome of periodontal therapies in subjects with confirmed cardiovascular conditions. Tooth eradication may also reduce the systemic inflammatory burden of individuals with severe periodontitis. The role of confounders remain unclear.

Conclusions: Periodontitis may contribute to cardiovascular disease and stroke in susceptible subjects. Properly powered longitudinal case–control and intervention trials are needed to identify how periodontitis and periodontal interventions may have an impact on cardiovascular diseases.
Effects of diabetes mellitus on periodontal and peri‐implant conditions: update on associations and risks
Authors: Salvi Giovanni E. , Carollo‐Bittel Barbara , Lang Niklaus P.
Published: August 2008

Objectives: To review the evidence for the association between diabetes and periodontal and peri‐implant conditions and the impact of periodontal therapy in subjects with diabetes.

Material and Methods: A search of MEDLINE‐PubMed was performed up to and including December 2007. The search was limited to clinical studies published in English. Publications on animal studies were excluded. The selection criteria included all levels of available evidence.

Results: Evidence on the association between diabetes and periodontitis supports the concept of increased severity but not extent of periodontitis in subjects with poorly controlled diabetes. Subjects with controlled diabetes do not show an increase in extent and severity of periodontitis. Periodontitis is associated with poor glycaemic control and diabetes‐related complications. It is inconclusive that periodontal therapy with or without the use of antibiotics results in improvements of glycaemic control and of markers of systemic inflammation. Evidence is lacking to indicate that implant therapy in subjects with diabetes yields long‐term outcomes comparable with those of non‐diabetic subjects.

Conclusions: Poorly controlled diabetes may be considered a risk factor for increased severity of periodontitis. The effects of periodontal therapy on glycaemic control and systemic inflammation is not proven beyond doubt and need to be confirmed in large‐scale randomized‐controlled clinical trials.
Peri‐implant diseases: Consensus Report of the Sixth European Workshop on Periodontology
Authors: Lindhe Jan , Meyle Joerg ,   on behalf of Group D of the European Workshop on Periodontology
Published: August 2008

Issues related to peri‐implant disease were discussed. It was observed that the most common lesions that occur, i.e. peri‐implant mucositis and peri‐implantitis are caused by bacteria. While the lesion of peri‐implant mucositis resides in the soft tissues, peri‐implantitis also affects the supporting bone. Peri‐implant mucositis occurs in about 80% of subjects (50% of sites) restored with implants, and peri‐implantitis in between 28% and 56% of subjects (12–40% of sites). A number of risk indicators were identified including (i) poor oral hygiene, (ii) a history of periodontitis, (iii) diabetes and (iv) smoking. It was concluded that the treatment of peri‐implant disease must include anti‐infective measures. With respect to peri‐implant mucositis, it appeared that non‐surgical mechanical therapy caused the reduction in inflammation (bleeding on probing) but also that the adjunctive use of antimicrobial mouthrinses had a positive effect. It was agreed that the outcome of non‐surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis was unpredictable. The primary objective of surgical treatment in peri‐implantitis is to get access to the implant surface for debridement and decontamination in order to achieve resolution of the inflammatory lesion. There was limited evidence that such treatment with the adjunctive use of systemic antibiotics could resolve a number of peri‐implantitis lesions. There was no evidence that so‐called regenerative procedures had additional beneficial effects on treatment outcome.
Clinical and microbiological benefits of systemic metronidazole and amoxicillin in the treatment of smokers with chronic periodontitis: a randomized placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Matarazzo Flavia , Figueiredo Luciene Cristina , Cruz Sergio Eduardo Braga , Faveri Marcelo , Feres Magda
Published: August 2008

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and microbiological effects of scaling and root planing (SRP) alone or combined with metronidazole (MTZ) or with MTZ and amoxicillin (AMX) in the treatment of smokers with chronic periodontitis.

Methods: A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized clinical trial was conducted in 43 subjects who received SRP alone (n=15) or combined with MTZ (400 mg 3 × per day, n=14) or with MTZ+AMX (500 mg 3 × per day, n=14) for 14 days. Clinical and microbiological examinations were performed at baseline and 3 months post‐therapy. Subgingival samples were analysed by checkerboard DNA–DNA hybridization.

Results: Subjects receiving MTZ+AMX showed the greatest improvements in mean probing depth and clinical attachment level. Both antibiotic therapies led to additional clinical benefits over SRP alone in initially shallow, intermediate, and deep sites. The SRP+MTZ+AMX therapy led to the most beneficial changes in the subgingival microbial profile. These subjects showed significant reductions in the mean counts and proportions of periodontal pathogens such as Tannerella forsythia, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Treponema denticola, and the greatest increase in proportions of host‐compatible species.

Conclusion: Significant advantages are observed when systemic antibiotics are combined with SRP in the treatment of smokers with chronic periodontitis. The greatest benefits in clinical and microbiological parameters are achieved with the use of SRP+MTZ+AMX.
Herpes viruses in periodontal compromised sites: comparison between HIV‐positive and ‐negative patients
Authors: Grande Sabrina Rosa , Imbronito Ana Vitória , Okuda Osmar Shizuo , Lotufo Roberto Fraga Moreira , Magalhães Marina Helena Gallottini , Nunes Fabio Daumas
Published: August 2008

Aim: The objective of this study was to compare the frequency of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV‐1), Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) and human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) in subgingival plaque, saliva and peripheral blood of HIV‐positive and‐negative patients with periodontal disease.

Material and Methods: Fifty HIV‐positive subjects (23 with gingivitis, 27 with periodontitis) and 50 healthy HIV‐negative patients with chronic periodontitis were included in the study. Parameters of probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), gingival index and plaque index were recorded. The samples were processed for viral identification by the nested polymerase chain reaction technique.

Results: HCMV was the most prevalent virus in HIV‐positive (82%) and‐negative patients (84%), and the detection in the three samples was similar (p>0.05). HSV‐1 was the least prevalent virus in both groups, being detected in similar frequencies in oral sites and in peripheral blood. EBV‐1 was found more frequently in saliva and subgingival plaque of HIV‐positive patients than in HIV‐negative patients (p0.05).

Conclusions: EBV‐1 was more frequently recovered in oral sites of HIV‐positive patients than in HIV‐negative patients.
Alveolar ridge augmentation using implants coated with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein‐7 (rhBMP‐7/rhOP‐1): radiographic observations
Authors: Leknes Knut N. , Yang Jie , Qahash Mohammed , Polimeni Giuseppe , Susin Cristiano , Wikesjö Ulf M. E.
Published: August 2008

Aim: The objective of this study was to radiographically evaluate the potential of a purpose‐designed titanium porous‐oxide implant surface coated with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein‐7 (rhBMP‐7), also known as recombinant human osteogenic protein‐1 (rhOP‐1), to stimulate alveolar ridge augmentation.

Material and Methods: Six young‐adult Hound Labrador mongrel dogs were used. Three 10 mm titanium oral implants per jaw quadrant were placed 5 mm into the alveolar ridge in the posterior mandible following surgical extraction of the pre‐molar teeth and reduction of the alveolar ridge leaving 5 mm of the implants in a supra‐alveolar position. The implants had been coated with rhBMP‐7 at 1.5 or 3.0 mg/ml and were randomized to contralateral jaw quadrants using a split‐mouth design. The mucoperiosteal flaps were advanced, adapted, and sutured to submerge the implants. Radiographic registrations were made immediately post‐surgery (baseline), and at weeks 4 and 8 (end of study).

Results: rhBMP‐7‐coated implants exhibited robust radiographic bone formation. At 8 weeks, bone formation averaged 4.4 and 4.2 mm for implants coated with rhBMP‐7 at 1.5 and 3.0 mg/ml, respectively. There were no significant differences between the rhBMP‐7 concentrations at any observation interval. A majority of the implant sites showed voids within the newly formed bone at week 4 that generally resolved by week 8. The newly formed bone assumed characteristics of the resident bone.

Conclusions: The titanium porous‐oxide implant surface serves as an effective carrier for rhBMP‐7 showing a clinically significant potential to stimulate local bone formation.
Saliva concentrations of RANKL and osteoprotegerin in smoker versus non‐smoker chronic periodontitis patients
Authors: Buduneli Nurcan , Bıyıkoğlu Başak , Sherrabeh Sakhr , Lappin David F.
Published: August 2008

Objectives: To compare the salivary receptor activator of NF‐κB ligand (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) concentrations in smokers versus non‐smokers with chronic periodontitis.

Material and Methods: Whole saliva samples were obtained from 67 untreated chronic periodontitis patients, of whom 34 were smokers, and from 44 maintenance patients, of whom 22 were smokers. Full‐mouth clinical periodontal measurements were recorded. Saliva cotinine, sRANKL and OPG concentrations were determined by ELISA. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann–Whitney U test, Bonferroni's correction for multiple comparisons and Spearman's correlations.

Results: Untreated smokers exhibited significantly higher values of clinical periodontal recordings than untreated non‐smokers (all p<0.05). Salivary cotinine level correlated with clinical attachment level (p=0.023). Smoker versus non‐smoker maintenance groups showed no significant differences in clinical parameters. There were significant differences in sRANKL and OPG concentrations between untreated and maintenance groups (all p<0.01). Salivary OPG concentration was significantly lower (all p<0.01) and the sRANKL/OPG ratio was higher (all p<0.01) in smokers than in non‐smokers. OPG concentration correlated positively with probing depth, clinical attachment level and bleeding on probing (all p<0.005) and negatively with pack‐year, and cotinine level (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Salivary RANKL and OPG concentrations are suggested to be affected by smoking as not only the untreated but also the treated smokers exhibited higher RANKL and lower OPG concentrations than non‐smokers.
Raised chondroitin sulphate WF6 epitope levels in gingival crevicular fluid in chronic periodontitis
Authors: Khongkhunthian Sakornrat , Srimueang Napachakorn , Krisanaprakornkit Suttichai , Pattanaporn Komkham , Ong‐chai Siriwan , Kongtawelert Prachya
Published: August 2008

Aim: To determine the levels of chondroitin sulphate (CS) WF6 epitope, recognized by WF6 monoclonal antibody, in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) from different stages of periodontal disease and healthy periodontium, and to correlate those levels with clinical parameters.

Material and Methods: GCF samples, collected from 389 sites, were analysed for the WF6 epitope levels by the competitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: The median WF6 epitope level was significantly higher in chronic periodontitis sites (n=185) than in healthy and gingivitis sites (n=204) (p<0.001), whereas the median levels did not significantly differ between healthy (n=65) and gingivitis sites (n=139). The median level in severe periodontitis sites (n=60) was significantly higher than that in moderate periodontitis sites (n=63) (p=0.019). Similarly, the median level in moderate periodontitis sites was significantly higher than that in slight periodontitis sites (n=62) (p=0.001). The WF6 epitope levels significantly correlated with probing depth (r=0.777, p=0.001) and loss of clinical attachment level (r=0.814, p=0.001).

Conclusion: Elevated CS WF6 epitope levels in GCF are associated with severity of periodontitis. The WF6 antibody may therefore be clinically applied to monitor disease severity and progression.
Lavender oil lacks natural protection against autoxidation, forming strong contact allergens on air exposure
Authors: Hagvall Lina , Sköld Maria , Bråred‐Christensson Johanna , Börje Anna , Karlberg Ann‐Therese
Published: August 2008

Background:  Lavender oil is an essential oil frequently used as a fragrance ingredient and in traditional herbal medicine. We have previously studied the effect of air oxidation on the skin sensitizing potency of the monoterpenes linalyl acetate, linalool and β‐caryophyllene, the main constituents of lavender oil.

Objective:  The aim of this study was to investigate if the autoxidation observed for the single synthetic terpenes, resulting in strong contact allergens, will take place also in lavender oil.

Methods:  Lavender oil was exposed to air and the autoxidation was followed by chemical analysis. The sensitizing potency before and after air exposure was investigated in mice using the local lymph node assay. Patients with patch test reactions to oxidized linalool were tested to investigate if air‐exposed lavender oil could elicit dermatitis in these individuals.

Results:  The terpenes oxidized in air‐exposed lavender oil at the same rates as the pure compounds exposed to air, and the same oxidation products were identified. The sensitizing potency of lavender oil increased accordingly on air exposure. Patch testing showed positive reactions to air‐exposed lavender oil and also to oxidized linalyl acetate in patients with contact allergy to oxidized linalool.

Conclusion:  This study shows that lavender oil lacks natural protection against autoxidation, and that air‐exposed lavender oil can be an important source of exposure to allergenic hydroperoxides.
Tumors composed of malignant epithelial and melanocytic populations: a case series and review of the literature
Authors: Satter Elizabeth K. , Metcalf John , Lountzis Nektarios , Elston Dirk M.
Published: August 2008

Over the last 30 years, there have been approximately 49 case reports of tumors composed of both malignant epithelial and malignant melanocytic populations. Herein, we present four additional cases of combined tumors that consist of two phenotypically distinct but intermingled populations of malignant cells. Each tumor was composed of an invasive melanoma closely associated with either a basal cell carcinoma or a squamous cell carcinoma. We review all previous case reports in the English literature and attempt to clarify the terminology and summarize what is currently known about these unique tumors.
Dermal sheet preparations in the evaluation of dermal innervation in Parkinson’s disease and multiple system atrophy
Authors: Novak Peter , Marya Neil B. , Whren Kara , Bhawan Jag
Published: August 2008

Background:  Evaluation of dermal nerve fibers in conventional vertical sections is difficult because of the small number of fibers available for examination. In this study, we evaluated dermal sheet mounts for fibers in which the majority of fibers can be visualized.

Methods:  We compared the dermal small fiber density in six Parkinson’s disease (PD) and six multiple system atrophy (MSA) patients using dermal sheet preparations (DSP). DSP are based on epidermal‐dermal separations and immunostaining of the entire dermis by the nerve growth factor receptor p75 antibody that stains both autonomic and sensory fibers.

Results:  The small fiber density was reduced in PD compared with MSA (p < 0.0001), suggesting the presence of small fiber neuropathy in PD.

Conclusions:  DSP offer a unique method of evaluation of dermal nerve fibers. This method can be used to evaluate small nerve fibers in many neurological disorders such as MSA and PD.
Cutaneous localized annular chromoblastomycosis
Authors: Salgado Claudio G. , Da Silva Moises B. , Yamano Suellen S. P. , Salgado Ubirajara I. , Diniz José A. P. , Da Silva Jorge P.
Published: August 2008

Chromoblastomycosis (CBM) is a difficult‐to‐treat dermal mycosis characterized by the presence of round, pigmented, sclerotic bodies formed by black fungi found in polymorphic lesions. According to the morphology of a lesion, different clinical types of the disease have been described. We present three patients who each developed a single, 10‐cm diameter, 8 to 15‐year‐old, well‐circumscribed, slow‐growing, annular, papulosquamous or papulosquamous‐verrucous lesion, with no regression despite the use of topical antifungals. Skin scrapings and biopsies confirmed CBM and microculture defined the agent as Fonsecaea pedrosoi. The patients were treated with 200 mg/day of itraconazole for 6–9 months and were discharged after complete regression of the lesions. All were examined after the first and second year of the end of treatment and there were no signs of recurrence. A new clinical type of CBM is described, and itraconazole appears to be effective and safe in curing these patients after no more than 9 months of therapy.
Gene expression profiling of porokeratosis
Authors: Zhang Zheng‐Hua , Wang Zhi‐Min , Crosby Meredith E. , Wang Hai‐Feng , Xiang Lei‐Hong , Luan Jing , Gu Chao‐Ying , Zhou Jun , Niu Zhen‐Min , Fang Xu , Huang Wei , Zheng Zhi‐Zhong
Published: August 2008

Background:  Porokeratosis (PK) represents a heterogeneous group of disorders of keratinization and has a wide variety of clinical manifestations. PK may exhibit similarities with psoriasis at both clinical and molecular levels. The genetic basis and pathogenesis for PK remain elusive.

Methods:  We studied the transcriptional profiles of three pairwise lesional and uninvolved skin biopsies from patients with different subtypes of PK using the Illumina® BeadArray™ platform.

Results:  A total of 37 upregulated genes were identified in our study, including wound‐induced keratins, S100 calcium‐binding protein genes involved in epidermal differentiation, as well as genes involved in mediating intercellular communication and the immune response. To our knowledge, this is the first study that characterizes the immune profile of PK lesions.

Conclusions:  Here, we report that keratinocytes (KCs)‐harboring lesions have activated and overexpressed wound‐induced keratin genes, which appear to be coregulated with other genes involved in mediating epidermal differentiation, intercellular communication and immunity. This study, from the perspective of gene profiling, supports that gene misregulation in PK mimics that of psoriasis. Our data indicate that the genes implicated in the T‐cell‐mediated immune response pathway and activation of KCs play a key role in the pathogenesis of PK.
Hepatocellular carcinoma metastatic to skin: diagnostic utility of antihuman hepatocyte antibody in combination with albumin in situ hybridization
Authors: Wood Angela J. , Lappinga Paul J. , Ahmed Iftikhar
Published: August 2008

Background:  Cutaneous metastases from hepatic neoplasms are rare. Histologic features of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are often poorly differentiated, hindering accurate diagnosis on routine examination by hematoxylin‐eosin stain. Antihuman hepatocyte antibody is highly sensitive for HCC but can be strongly expressed in other adenocarcinomas. Albumin in situ hybridization (ISH) is highly specific and sensitive for HCC; in combination with antihuman hepatocyte antibody, it has a diagnostic sensitivity approaching 100%. To our knowledge, the combination of antihuman hepatocyte antibody and albumin ISH has not previously been examined in the context of cutaneous HCC.

Methods:  We present histologic findings and results of ancillary studies for three patients with metastatic HCC. These patients had a poorly differentiated cytokeratin‐positive cutaneous neoplasm. All three cases were evaluated with antihuman hepatocyte antibody and albumin ISH.

Results:  Neoplastic cells were strongly positive for antihuman hepatocyte antibody, and ISH detected albumin messenger RNA in nearly 100% of the neoplastic cells in all three cases.

Conclusions:  The combination of antihuman hepatocyte antibody and albumin ISH is highly sensitive and specific for HCC metastatic to skin and is useful in the differential diagnosis of a poorly differentiated cytokeratin‐positive neoplasm.
Effects of Toll‐like receptor 4 on Porphyromonas gingivalis‐induced bone loss in mice
Authors: Costalonga M. , Batas L. , Reich B. J.
Published: August 2008

Background and Objective:  Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR‐4)/myeloid differentiation protein‐2 complex ligation by lipopolysaccharide induces production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and co‐stimulatory molecules on antigen presenting cells. The aim of this study was to determine the role of the TLR‐4 in bone loss‐resistant C57BL mice and in bone loss‐susceptible BALB/c mice after infection with Porphyromonas gingivalis.

Material and Methods:  The BALB/c and C57BL/10 mice, either normal or TLR‐4 deficient, were infected or sham‐infected orally four times, at 4 day intervals, with 109 colony forming units of P. gingivalis. At 47 days, defleshed jaws were stained and photographed in a standardized position. We measured the surface area of the root trunk to assess the alveolar bone loss.

Results:  Porphyromonas gingivalis‐infected wild‐type BALB/c mice lost 13.8% more bone than P. gingivalis‐infected wild‐type C57BL/10 mice. In contrast, P. gingivalis‐infected TLR‐4‐deficient C57BL/10 mice lost 12.7% more bone than P. gingivalis‐infected TLR‐4‐deficient BALB/c mice. Porphyromonas gingivalis‐infected wild‐type C57BL/6 and TLR‐2 knockout C57BL/6 mice had similar bone levels to sham‐infected control mice.

Conclusion:  Toll‐like receptor 4 is protective for C57BL/10 but detrimental to BALB/c mice, since its absence allowed C57BL/10 but not BALB/c mice to lose alveolar bone. Toll‐like receptor 2 does not contribute to this protection in genetically similar C57BL/6 mice.
Nuclear Translocation of β‐Dystroglycan Reveals a Distinctive Trafficking Pattern of Autoproteolyzed Mucins
Authors: Oppizzi Maria Luisa , Akhavan Armin , Singh Manisha , Fata Jimmie E. , Muschler John L.
Published: August 2008

Dystroglycan (DG) is an extracellular matrix receptor implicated in muscular dystrophies and cancers. DG belongs to the membrane‐tethered mucin family and is composed of extracellular (α‐DG) and transmembrane (β‐DG) subunits stably coupled at the cell surface. These two subunits are generated by autoproteolysis of a monomeric precursor within a distinctive protein motif called sea urchin–enterokinase–agrin (SEA) domain, yet the purpose of this cleavage and heterodimer creation is uncertain. In this study, we identify a functional nuclear localization signal within β‐DG and show that, in addition to associating with α‐DG at the cell surface, the full‐length and glycosylated β‐DG autonomously traffics to the cytoplasm and nucleoplasm in a process that occurs independent of α‐DG ligand binding. The trafficking pattern of β‐DG mirrors that of MUC1‐C, the transmembrane subunit of the related MUC1 oncoprotein, also a heterodimeric membrane‐tethered mucin created by SEA autoproteolysis. We show that the transmembrane subunits of both MUC1 and DG transit the secretory pathway prior to nuclear targeting and that their monomeric precursors maintain the capacity for nuclear trafficking. A screen of breast carcinoma cell lines of distinct pathophysiological origins revealed considerable variability in the nuclear partitioning of β‐DG, indicating that nuclear localization of β‐DG is regulated, albeit independent of extracellular ligand binding. These findings point to novel intracellular functions for β‐DG, with possible disease implications. They also reveal an evolutionarily conserved role for SEA autoproteolysis, serving to enable independent functions of mucin transmembrane subunits, enacted by a shared and poorly understood pathway of segregated subunit trafficking.
ARAP1 Regulates EGF Receptor Trafficking and Signalling
Authors: Daniele Tiziana , Di Tullio Giuseppe , Santoro Michele , Turacchio Gabriele , De Matteis Maria A.
Published: August 2008

The activation state of the EGF receptor (EGF‐R) is tightly controlled in the cell so as to prevent excessive signalling, with the dangerous consequences that this would have on cell growth and proliferation. This control occurs at different levels, with a key level being the trafficking and degradation of the EGF‐R itself. Multiple guanosine triphosphatases belonging to the Arf, Rab and Rho families and their accessory proteins have key roles in these processes. In this study, we have identified ARAP1, a multidomain protein with both Arf GTPase‐activating protein (GAP) and Rho GAP activities, as a novel component of the machinery that controls the trafficking and signalling of the EGF‐R. We show that ARAP1 localizes to multiple cell compartments, including the Golgi complex, as previously reported, and endosomal compartments, where it is enriched in the internal membranes of multivesicular bodies. ARAP1 distribution is controlled by its phosphorylation and by its interactions with the 3‐ and 4‐phosphorylated phosphoinositides through its five PH domains. We provide evidence that ARAP1 controls the late steps of the endocytic trafficking of the EGF‐R, with ARAP1 knockdown leading to EGF‐R accumulation in a sorting/late endosomal compartment and to the inhibition of EGF‐R degradation that is accompanied by prolonged signalling.
Sampling VOCs with Porous Suction Samplers in the Presence of Ethanol: How Much Are We Losing?
Authors: Freitas Juliana G. , Barker James F.
Published: August 2008

Porous suction samplers have been widely used to obtain ground water samples from the vadose zone. However, previous studies identified different mechanisms that may compromise the sample’s representativeness, such as volatilization and sorption. This issue is particularly important when dealing with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as in gasoline spills. Ethanol is common in modern fuels and so may be present in ground water contamination from fuel releases. The objective of this work was to evaluate the losses of VOCs in the presence of ethanol when using porous suction samplers. Laboratory experiments were performed using a ceramic porous suction sampler to sample test solution containing benzene, toluene, xylenes, trimethylbenzenes, naphthalene, and different volumetric fractions of ethanol. Significant losses were found up to 30% for ethylbenzene. Ethanol was found to affect the accuracy of the readings by two main mechanisms: first, negatively, by increasing the headspace in the sampling tube, and second, positively, increasing partition to the aqueous phase due to the cosolvent effect and therefore decreasing the mass loss by volatilization. As a consequence, the highest losses of VOCs were found at intermediate ethanol volume fractions: 10% and 20% (v/v). The losses can be anticipated by measuring the ratio of gas to water in the sampling line and then by applying simple partition models considering cosolvency by ethanol. The importance of adequate purging when using porous suction samplers was also shown.
Compliance costs, regulation, and environmental performance: Controlling truck emissions in the US
Authors: Thornton Dorothy , Kagan Robert A. , Gunningham Neil
Published: August 2008

When explaining regulatory policymaking and the behavior of regulated business firms, scholars have supplemented economic models by emphasizing the role of public‐regarding entrepreneurial politics and of normative pressures on firms. This article explores the limits of such entrepreneurial politics and “social license” pressures by examining regulation of emissions from diesel powered trucks in the US. We find that the economic cost of obtaining the best available control technology – new model lower emissions engines – has: (i) limited the stringency and coerciveness of direct regulation of vehicle owners and operators; (ii) dwarfed the reach and effectiveness of the governmental programs that subsidize the purchase of new less polluting vehicles; and (iii) elevated the importance of each company’s “economic license”– as opposed to its “social license”– in shaping its environmental performance. The prominence of this “regulatory compliance cost” variable in shaping both regulation and firm behavior, we conclude, is likely to recur in highly competitive markets, like trucking, that include many small firms that cannot readily either afford or pass on the cost of best available compliance technologies.
Effects of increasing days of exposure to prepartum transition diets on milk production and milk composition in dairy cows
Authors: Degaris PJ , Lean IJ , Rabiee AR , Heuer C
Published: August 2008

Objective   To evaluate the effects of length of exposure to prepartum transition diets on milk yield, fat and protein production.

Design   Prospective cohort study. The number of days that the cows were fed the prepartum transition diets was the exposure of interest.

Procedures   Holstein and Holstein × Jersey cows (n = 1008) were enrolled. Diets given in the far‐off dry period (from end of lactation until approximately 3 weeks before expected parturition) consisted of ad libitum access to perennial ryegrass pastures. Prepartum transition diets included perennial ryegrass pasture, ryegrass silage, cereal hay, grain, grain by‐product, protein meals, BioChlor®, sodium monensin, virginiamycin or tylosin, MgSO4, trace elements and vitamins. On a dry matter basis, these contained 16.0% crude protein, 4.2% rumen undegradable protein, and 9.9 mJ metabolisable energy/kg. Diets provided an estimated metabolisable protein balance of 286 g/day and dietary cation anion difference of −150 meq/kg dry matter. Statistical models controlled for effects of herd, calving day, breed, age and gestation period.

Results   Increasing length of exposure to the prepartum transition diets significantly increased the 4.0% fat‐ and 3.2% protein‐corrected milk yield and milk‐protein yield as a linear and quadratic effect. The optimal duration of exposure to the prepartum transition diets was 25 days for fat‐ and protein‐corrected milk production and 22 days for milk protein production. Milk‐fat percentage decreased significantly and linearly with increasing exposure to the prepartum transition diets; however, milk‐fat yield or milk‐protein percentage did not vary significantly with duration of exposure to the diets.

Conclusions   Increasing exposure to prepartum transition diets increased milk and milk‐protein yields and decreased the milk fat‐percentage, but not the milk‐protein percentage or milk‐fat yield.
Initial work experiences of veterinarians who graduated from Australian universities in 2005
Authors: Heath TJ
Published: August 2008

Objective  To describe the location, type, support from and effects of their first position for the veterinary graduates of 2005, and to make comparisons with graduates of 1950–2000.

Procedure  Questionnaires were sent to veterinarians who had graduated from an Australian university in 2005, and data were analysed with SAS System 8 for Windows.

Results  One‐sixth of the graduates left for overseas, and 55% (Murdoch) to 85% (Melbourne) of the remainder found their first veterinary position in the state where they were trained. More were in small animal (48%) and less in mixed practice (48%) than in previous decades, and they spent more time (79%) with dogs and cats, and less with horses (9%), cattle (8%) and other production animals (1%). The median income of males working full‐time was $43,000 and $39,000 for equivalent females. Most were satisfied with the help and support received from their boss and workplace; approximately 20% felt that support was inadequate, and many felt overworked and underpaid. The graduates with inadequate support were more likely to suffer stress and were less likely to have enjoyed their first year or to agree that they would become a veterinarian again. The levels of perceived support, and of stress, were similar to those reported by graduates of 2000, though more favourable than in the previous 2 decades.

Conclusions  Graduates of 2005 were less likely than their predecessors to start in mixed practice or to work with cattle and horses. Most felt poorly paid, but most, though not all, felt well supported in their first position.
Disease suspected to be caused by Ross River virus infection of horses
Authors: El‐Hage CM , McCluskey MJ , Azuolas JK
Published: August 2008

Ross River Virus (RRV) was believed to be the cause of acute illness in four horses around the Bellarine peninsula in south‐west Victoria, Australia. The horses presented with clinical signs including petechial haemorrhages, lymphadenopathy, distal limb swelling and reluctance to move. Fibrinogen was also elevated in three of the four horses. Whilst no virus was isolated, serological testing revealed elevated RRV IgM titres in all horses indicating acute infection. The outbreak occurred at a time when a known RRV vector, the mosquito Aedes camptorhynchus was recorded at very high levels in the region.

This report is one of very few to attribute specific signs of disease to RRV in horses in conjunction with serological evidence of infection.
Cerebellar ataxia in sheep grazing pastures infested with Romulea rosea (onion grass or Guildford grass)
Authors: Bourke CA , Bunker EC , Reece RL , Whittaker SJ
Published: August 2008

There have been anecdotal reports since 1962 of ‘staggers’ in sheep grazing Romulea rosea infested pastures, but this is the first detailed account. In September 2005, a locomotor disorder developed in 12 of 120 Merino wethers that had grazed R. rosea infested pasture at Albury, New South Wales, over several months. Affected sheep displayed signs that included limb paresis, knuckling over in the fetlocks, fine head tremor, incoordination, and an equilibrium disturbance characterised by frequent falling. The microscopic examination of brain and spinal cord tissues from two affected sheep revealed mild vacuolation, occasional lymphocytic cuffing around blood vessels, mild Wallerian degeneration, and occasional glial cells that contained honey‐brown cytoplasmic pigments. The most significant changes were found in the cerebellum, where there were decreased numbers of Purkinje cells, increased numbers of glial cells, scattered vacuoles and occasional swollen axons. Previous reports of cerebellar toxicoses in ruminants have involved goats and cattle and have been associated with the ingestion of six Solanum spp. The Purkinje cell loss in this type of disorder is ultimately extensive and consequently affected animals may survive, but will remain permanently disabled.
Evaluation of a capillary blood collection system for screening for hemoglobinopathies in remote areas
Authors: COLAH R. B. , WADIA M. , D’SOUZA E. , SAWANT P. M. , MOHANTY D. , MEHRA M.
Published: August 2008

Accurate estimation of hemoglobin (Hbs) A, Hb A2, Hb F and abnormal Hb is required for diagnosis of hemoglobinopathies and genetic counseling. High pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) is the most suitable approach available. But for 70% of the rural Indian population, HPLC analysis facilities are not available and screening would require transportation of samples to laboratories in bigger cities. We thus evaluated the feasibility of using a kit designed for measuring Hb A1c using capillary blood for collection and preservation of samples over a period of 15 days at different temperatures for screening for hemoglobinopathies. Capillary blood (5 μl) of 90 individuals was collected in the capillary collection system and run on the Variant Hemoglobin Testing System on days 1, 3, 5, 8, 12 and 15 after incubation at 4, 22, 37, 42 and 50 °C. The stability of different Hbs varied at different temperatures. The stability was maintained for 12 to 15 days by most of the samples up to 37 °C. Hb E was stable for 3 days up to at 37 °C and Hb D and Hb Q for 3 days up to 42 °C. This capillary blood collection system would have tremendous potential for sample collection and transportation under adverse climatic conditions for screening of hemoglobinopathies in remote areas in different countries.
Erroneous automated optical platelet counts in 1‐hour post‐transfusion blood samples
Authors: MAURER‐SPUREJ E. , PITTENDREIGH C. , YAKIMEC J. , DE BADYN M. HUDOBA , CHIPPERFIELD K.
Published: August 2008

Thrombocytopenic patients with acute leukemia may show high post‐transfusion count increments that significantly exceed the number of transfused platelets. This study demonstrates that the automated hematology analyzer Sysmex XE‐2100 reports erroneously high optical platelet counts when the blood sample contains particles in the size range of platelets or smaller. Thrombocytopenic or low‐normal whole blood samples were spiked with 1 μm latex beads (n = 14) to mimic contaminants under controlled conditions. Optical and impedance measurements of spiked and control samples with the Sysmex XE‐2100 were compared with the Advia 120 and the manual counts. The added beads unexpectedly increased the automated optical platelet counts in the Sysmex XE‐2100 and, to a lesser extent, the Advia 120 (Wilcoxon signed ranks test, P < 0.05), while the beads were not included in the impedance or the manual microscopic platelet counts. Differential interference contrast microscopy was used to investigate samples from platelet concentrates for transfusion. Platelet concentrates (32/128) were identified as possible sources for particles that were microscopically distinct from platelets but would be included in the automated optical count. Transfusion of platelet concentrates containing contaminating particles can lead to unexpectedly high post‐transfusion platelet counts and misdiagnosis of thrombocytopenic patients.
Earnings and Equity Valuation in the Biotech Industry: Theory and Evidence
Authors: Joos Philip , Zhdanov Alexei
Published: August 2008

We examine how the price‐earnings relation varies with the uncertainty about and the quality of a firm's investments. We develop a real option valuation framework to capture investment and abandonment options in the research‐intensive biotechnology industry. We hypothesize that the price‐earnings relation will be V‐shaped and change over the firm'slife cycle. We also show how nonfinancial information affects the pricing of earnings. Our empirical findings are based on a sample of 301 biotechnology firms that made IPOs between 1980 and 2000, and are generally consistent with our predictions.
Does Financial Distress Risk Drive the Momentum Anomaly?
Authors: Agarwal Vineet , Taffler Richard
Published: August 2008

This paper brings together the evidence on two asset pricing anomalies—continuation of prior returns (momentum) and the market mispricing of distressed firms—using UK data. Our analysis demonstrates both these effects are driven by market underreaction to financial distress risk. In particular, we find momentum is proxying for distress risk, and is largely subsumed by our distress risk factor. We also find, as with US studies, no evidence that size and book‐to‐market (B/M) effects in stock returns are linked to financial distress.
Portfolio Manager Ownership and Mutual Fund Performance
Authors: Evans Allison L.
Published: August 2008

This paper examines the association between a mutual fund manager's personal fund investment and mutual fund performance. From a data set of newly released managerial ownership disclosures, I find that fund ownership levels are diverse and, in many instances, quite large. Mutual fund returns are increasing in the level of managerial investment, consistent with personal ownership realigning decision‐maker and shareholder interests. Also consistent with the reduction of agency costs, I find that managerial ownership is inversely related to fund turnover. However, there is no evidence of an association between managerial ownership and a mutual fund's tax burden.
Isolation and characterization of 15 microsatellite loci for the Japanese gudgeon Sarcocheilichthys variegatus
Authors: FUJITA S. , KOMIYA T. , TAKESHIMA H. , WATANABE K. , NISHIDA M.
Published: August 2008

A microsatellite‐enriched genomic library was obtained for the Japanese gudgeon Sarcocheilichthys variegatus microoculus, and 15 dinucleotide markers were successfully isolated and characterized. These markers were also available for other Japanese congeners, Sarcocheilichthys variegatus variegatus and Sarcocheilichthys biwaensis. In three populations of Sarcocheilichthys from Lake Biwa and the Ashida River in western Japan, seven to 27 alleles were observed for each locus. Linkage equilibrium was observed among most loci, and only one locus showed significant deviation from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium in a population. These microsatellite markers will be useful for studies of the genetic structure of the Japanese gudgeons.
Development of 10 tri‐ and tetranucleotide microsatellite loci for population studies in the common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.)
Authors: HOU NING , LI DA‐YU , LI YONG , LU CUI‐YUN , SUN XIAO‐WEN , LIANG LI‐QUN
Published: August 2008

Ten tri‐ and tetranucleotide microsatellite DNA markers were isolated and characterized from common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) to estimate genetic potential. These markers were tested in the samples from two closely related carp populations (Cyprinus carpio var. xingguonensis and Cyprinus carpio var. wananensis). The number of the alleles ranged from three to nine, and observed and expected hererozygosities varied from 0.207 to 1.000 and from 0.499 to 0.900 in each population, respectively. No evidence for linkage disequilibrium was found, indicating that these markers will be useful for population studies.
New polymorphic microsatellite loci for the Macedonian crested newt, Triturus macedonicus, and cross‐priming testing in four other crested newt species
Authors: SOTIROPOULOS K. , TSAPARIS D. , ELEFTHERAKOS K. , KOTOULAS G. , LEGAKIS A. , KASAPIDIS P.
Published: August 2008

Eleven microsatellites have been characterized for Triturus macedonicus. Nine loci showed different variation patterns in a sample of 40 individuals from a single breeding pond in Zagori province (Greece), with an average number of 4.2 alleles per locus and an expected heterozygosity ranging from 0.1199 to 0.8079. Distinct cross‐priming amplification rates were recovered on four additional crested newt species. Two monomorphic T. macedonicus loci were polymorphic in other Triturus species. The microsatellites developed herein could be a useful intraspecific genetic tool to undertake fine‐scale population genetic analyses as well as in the study of contact zones between crested newt species.
Film Thickness Modulations in Starved Elastohydrodynamically Lubricated Contacts Induced by Time-Varying Lubricant Supply
Authors: Venner C. H. , Popovici G. , Lugt P. M. , Organisciak M.
Published: August 2008

Many elastohydrodynamically lubricated contacts in practical applications, e.g., in bearings, operate in the starved lubrication regime. As a result their performance is sensitive to variations of the lubricant layers present on the surfaces, which form the supply to the contact. Their shape is often determined by previous overrollings of the track and also by replenishment mechanisms and various migration effects. Variations of the layers induced in the direction of rolling lead to a time-varying lubricant supply to the contact. In this paper, by means of numerical simulations using a starved lubrication model, the film thickness modulations in the center of the contact induced by a harmonically varying inlet supply have been investigated. First, for a given load condition and layer wavelength, the effect of the nominal layer thickness (degree of starvation) and the layer variation amplitude is illustrated. Subsequently, using results for different load conditions, wavelengths, and degrees of starvation, it is shown that the response of the contact to such variations is determined by a nondimensional parameter, which represents the ratio of the entrainment length of the contact to the wavelength of the induced variation, and by the degree of starvation. A simple formula is presented for use in engineering predicting the ratio of the amplitude of the film modulations in the center of the contact to the amplitude of the layer variations in the inlet.
Formation and Characterization of Tribofilms
Authors: Kar Prasenjit , Asthana Pranay , Liang Hong
Published: August 2008

Fundamentals of tribofilm formation and their properties were studied. In order to understand the effects of lubricants on tribofilms, four base oils were investigated. Lubricants include castor oil, polyethylene glycol, mineral oil, and margarine. These oils were chosen based on their molecular structure, polarity, utility, and biodegradability. Experiments were conducted using a ball-on-disk tribometer to form tribofilms. Surface characterization was carried out using a stylus profilometer, a scanning electron microscope, and a transmission electron microscope. Results showed that oils with high polarity such as castor oil enhanced the formation of a transfer layer on the steel surface, whereas nonpolar oils such as mineral oil failed to do so. Oils with high polarity act as effective base oils to prevent metal hardening and bond debris particles to the metal surface. Oils with nonpolar components, on the other hand, generate abrasive nanoparticles during rubbing. Experiments with margarine at elevated temperature resulted in the formation of a hard and thick tribofilm. An adsorption model is illustrated to highlight the effects of lubricant molecules.
Approximate Analytical Model for Hertzian Elliptical Wheel/Rail or Wheel/Crossing Contact Problems
Authors: Fischer F. D. , Wiest M.
Published: August 2008

The Hertzian contact theory is approximated according to a concept by Tanaka (2001, “A New Calculation Method of Hertz Elliptical Contact Pressure,” ASME J. Tribol., 123, pp. 887–889) yielding simple analytical expressions for the elliptical semi-axes, the maximum contact pressure, the mutual approach and the contact spring constant. Several configurations are compared using the exact Hertz theory and the current approximation. The results agree within technical accuracy.