bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Cigarette Smoking and Family History of Alcoholism on Sweet Taste Perception and Food Cravings in Women
Authors: Pepino Marta Yanina , Mennella Julie A.
Published: October 2007

Background:  Despite popular beliefs that smoking affects the sensitivity and liking of sweet‐tasting foods and beverages, few psychophysical studies have examined this phenomenon and none have taken into account the individual’s family history of alcoholism (FH+), a predictor of heightened sweet preferences.

Methods:  A within‐ and between‐subjects study was conducted to determine the effect of both cigarette smoking and an acute exposure to nicotine on sweet taste sensitivity and preferences in women. Two groups were studied on 2 days separated by 1 week: women who were current smokers (n = 27, 18 were FH+) and those who never smoked in their lifetime (n = 22, 9 were FH+). Current smokers smoked nicotine‐containing cigarettes during 1 test session and nicotine‐free cigarettes during the other. The procedures were identical during both test sessions for the group of never smokers, with the exception that they did not smoke. Two‐alternative staircase methods and forced‐choice tracking procedures were used to assess sucrose thresholds and preferences, respectively, during both test session. Standardized questionnaires were administered to assess food cravings as well as smoking and alcohol usage and dependence. The Family Interview for Genetic Studies was used to detect alcoholism according to the DSM III criteria for family members up to second‐degree relatives.

Results:  Acute exposure to nicotine did not affect sucrose detection thresholds or preferences, but smokers had significantly higher sucrose detection thresholds than never smokers. The greater the smoking dose in pack‐years, the lower the sucrose sensitivity. Regardless of smoking status, women who were FH+ preferred significantly higher sucrose concentrations and craved sweets more often than women who were not.

Conclusions:  Both smoking and having a family history of alcoholism had differential effects on sweet taste. Smoking was associated with decreased sweet taste sensitivity whereas having a family history of alcoholism was associated with heightened sweet preferences. These findings suggests that future research on the effects of smoking on food habits and cravings should take into account family history of alcoholism given its association with sweet liking and the increased likelihood to develop a tobacco disorder.
Use of Real‐Time Interactive Voice Response in a Study of Stress and Alcohol Consumption
Authors: Andersson Claes , Söderpalm Gordh Anna H. V. , Berglund Mats
Published: October 2007

Background:  The goal of this study was to investigate whether Interactive Voice Response is a technology with which to perform real‐time assessments of alcohol consumption and stress.

Methods:  Fifteen subjects (men and women) were recruited from a previous 4‐year intervention study (n = 2,032). The Interactive Voice Response technique was based on mobile telephones. During 1 week, stress and alcohol were measured automatically 3 times daily. In addition, the subjects called the system at the start of the drinking session, and an automated hourly contact was established for the drinking period.

Results:  Of the data collection calls, 305 (97%) were answered. Real‐time drinking was assessed 9 times of 9 (100%). The average length of the IVR assessment was only 28 seconds because of modified technology. Individuals with an estimated blood alcohol concentration above 0.1% under‐reported drinking in their day‐after reports by between 1 and 10 drinks. The same subjects had more pronounced stress reduction than those with lower BAC levels.

Conclusion:  Interactive Voice Response methodology offers a promising new technology for daily as well as real‐time assessments.
Loneliness in Older Chinese Adults: A Risk Factor for Elder Mistreatment
Authors: Dong XinQi , Simon Melissa A. , Gorbien Martin , Percak Jeffrey , Golden Robyn
Published: October 2007

OBJECTIVES: To examine loneliness as a risk factor for elder mistreatment in an urban, community‐dwelling Chinese population.

DESIGN: Cross‐sectional descriptive study.

SETTING: Major urban medical center in NanJing, China.

PARTICIPANTS: Four hundred twelve subjects aged 60 and older who presented to the general medical clinic. The mean age of the participants was 70, and 34% were female. Mean education level was 8.5 years of schooling.

MEASUREMENTS: Loneliness was assessed using validated instruments, and direct questions were asked regarding mistreatment experienced by older adults.

RESULTS: Elder mistreatment was found in 35.2% of the participants. After adjusting for confounding factors, feeling of often lacking companionship (odds ratio (OR)=4.06; 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.49–11.10) and feeling of sometimes being left out in life (OR=1.69; 95% CI=1.01–2.84) were positively associated with the risk of mistreatment. Risk of mistreatment was also correlated with higher total loneliness scores (OR=2.74; 95% CI=1.19–6.26).

CONCLUSION: Loneliness appeared to be a risk factor associated with elder mistreatment in this older Chinese population. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm this finding. An exploration of Chinese culture and tradition may yield insight into shaping a prevention framework for mistreatment of older Chinese people.
Elderly Patients' Preferences and Experiences with Providers in Managing Their Drug Costs
Authors: Tseng Chien‐Wen , Dudley R. Adams , Brook Robert H. , Keeler Emmett , Steers W. Neil , Alexander G. Caleb , Waitzfelder Beth E. , Mangione Carol M.
Published: October 2007

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether elderly patients with high drug expenditures want and receive providers' help in managing drug costs.

DESIGN: Cross‐sectional survey.

SETTING: A Medicare managed care plan (>400,000 members) in one state in 2002.

PARTICIPANTS: One thousand one hundred six seniors (62% response rate) sampled so that half exceeded caps on their drug benefits the previous year, and all had total drug expenditures in the top quartile of members in their cap level.

MEASUREMENTS: Participants' preferences and experiences with providers discussing costs and participation in choosing medications.

RESULTS: Two‐thirds reported difficulty paying for medications, and one‐fourth decreased medication use because of cost. Most wanted providers to ask about medication affordability (81%), consider cost (86%), offer choices (70%), and to persuade them or decide for them which medication to use (88%), but few said providers asked about affordability (17%), usually or always discussed prices (19%), or offered choices (45%), although nearly all said providers chose their medications (93%). Sixty‐two percent had asked providers for help with drug costs, although 34% who used less medication because of cost or had difficulty paying for medications had not asked for help.

CONCLUSION: Providers should be aware that elderly patients want their help in managing drug costs but do not always receive it or ask for help when they need it. Providers could improve communication by initiating conversations about cost and by asking patients about preferences when prescribing.
The “Sect Effect” in Charitable Giving: Distinctive Realities of Exclusively Religious Charitable Givers
Authors: James Russell N. , Sharpe Deanna L.
Published: October 2007

Abstract.  An examination of the charitable giving behavior of 16,442 households reveals intriguing patterns consistent with the club‐theoretic approach to religious sect affiliation. The club‐theoretic model suggests that individuals with lower socioeconomic standing will rationally be more likely to align themselves with exclusivistic sects. Because sect affiliation is also associated with more obligatory religious contributions, this approach generates novel predictions not anticipated by standard economic models of charitable behavior. Traditional analysis of charitable giving can mask the “sect effect” phenomenon, as low‐income giving is dwarfed by the giving of the wealthy. However, the application of a two‐stage econometric model—separating the participation decision from the subsequent decision regarding the level of gifting—provides unique insights. Basic socioeconomic factors have significant and opposite associations with different categories of giving, calling into question the treatment of charitable giving as a homogenous activity and supporting the understanding of sect affiliation, and potentially religious extremism, as rational choice phenomena.
Protestantism, Labor Force Participation, and Employment Across Countries
Authors: Feldmann Horst
Published: October 2007

Abstract.  Using data from 80 countries, this article analyzes whether Protestant religion affects labor market outcomes. Controlling for the impact of labor market regulations, business regulations, the tax burden, the business cycle, the level of economic development, demographic and geographical conditions, wars, and the transition from planned to market economy as well as unobserved country and year effects, we find that countries in which the largest portion of the population practices Protestant religion have substantially higher labor force participation and employment rates, particularly among women. We obtain the same result for a subgroup of 19 industrial countries for which we have better data to control for the impact of labor market institutions and business cycle fluctuations.
Culture and Economic Systems
Authors: Pryor Frederic L.
Published: October 2007

Abstract.  Applying a cluster analysis to the results of the World Value Study, this article shows that the OECD nations have five distinct patterns of cultural characteristics. Moreover, these five cultural systems are almost the same as a classification of economic systems that have been derived from a cluster analysis of their economic institutions. A comparison of the cultural characteristics of East and West Germany suggests that the economic system has relatively little influence on the cultural systems. Instead, in a democracy, where the economic system is not imposed by force, the cultural characteristics are more likely to determine the economic system, rather than the reverse.
China: From Democracy Wall to the Shopping Mall and Back
Authors: GARDELS NATHAN
Published: October 2007

Who would have thought that tainted pet food and toys would threaten to unravel the authoritarian export model of Chinese growth that the brutal Tiananmen crackdown in 1989 was meant to secure?
“Made in China” Label Won't Survive Without Rule of Law
Authors: PEI MINXIN
Published: October 2007

As it prepares to host the 2008 Olympics, China's authoritarian development model, which has sustained high growth for two decades, is entering a fragile new stage. Tainted toys and other products have made the American consumers on whom China relies wary even as the debt‐and‐deficit ridden American economy relies on China's massive foreign reserves to keep going. In the meantime, China's aggressive search for raw materials in Africa is causing a backlash while its cyberspying probes into Western defense systems are reviving Cold War‐like tensions. The US treasury secretary, a top China expert and former intelligence officials offer their views.
Chinese Reserves Make the World Go 'Round
Authors: PAULSON HENRY
Published: October 2007

As it prepares to host the 2008 Olympics, China's authoritarian development model, which has sustained high growth for two decades, is entering a fragile new stage. Tainted toys and other products have made the American consumers on whom China relies wary even as the debt‐and‐deficit ridden American economy relies on China's massive foreign reserves to keep going. In the meantime, China's aggressive search for raw materials in Africa is causing a backlash while its cyberspying probes into Western defense systems are reviving Cold War‐like tensions. The US treasury secretary, a top China expert and former intelligence officials offer their views.
Brangelina vs. Chinese Mercantilism in Africa
Authors: LAKE ANTHONY
Published: October 2007

As it prepares to host the 2008 Olympics, China's authoritarian development model, which has sustained high growth for two decades, is entering a fragile new stage. Tainted toys and other products have made the American consumers on whom China relies wary even as the debt‐and‐deficit ridden American economy relies on China's massive foreign reserves to keep going. In the meantime, China's aggressive search for raw materials in Africa is causing a backlash while its cyberspying probes into Western defense systems are reviving Cold War‐like tensions. The US treasury secretary, a top China expert and former intelligence officials offer their views.
Risking Regulation, Regulating Risk: Lessons from the Transatlantic Biotech Dispute
Authors: Zerbe Noah
Published: October 2007

Debates over the future of new technologies frequently implicate governmental policies and regulation, the purpose of which has traditionally been to mitigate the dangers of new technologies through promotion of conditions of safe use. It is increasingly recognized, however, that regulation is predicated on a particular conception of the nature of risk which may or may not correspond to the views and beliefs held by society. Here I explore three broadly related questions in the context of the debates around agricultural biotechnology. First, what are the implications of varying conceptions of risk for regulatory policy in the United States and in the European Union? Second, what are the implications of differing conceptions of risk and resulting regulatory policy for agricultural trade relations between the two giants of international trade? And finally, what lessons might we draw from contemporary disputes over agricultural biotechnology?
Registered Traveler Program: The Financial Value of Registering the Good Guys
Authors: Stone Charles A. , Zissu Anne
Published: October 2007

We discuss how the Registered Traveler (RT) program can enhance simultaneously aviation security and passenger convenience. We point out some of the potential weaknesses in the program from both a security and civil liberty perspective. The RT program is a public–private partnership between the Transportation Security Agency (TSA) and the private sector. As in any partnership between private enterprises and the public sector, there are tensions that must be monitored, managed, and resolved. We note that financial distress of a RT service provider will place increased pressure on TSA resources. We review the resources allocated by the public and private sectors and the natural tensions that exist between companies investing capital with the expectation of earning a market rate of return and an agency of the Department of Homeland Security, the TSA, with one of its responsibilities being to assure the safety and security of air travel.
Microstructural Evolution of Nanoparticle Aqueous Colloidal Suspensions During Freeze Casting
Authors: Lu Kathy
Published: October 2007

This study is focused on the microstructural evolution of Al2O3 nanoparticle aqueous suspension during freeze casting. Freeze casting aid glycerol plays an important role in avoiding large cleavage‐type fracture while undesirably lowering nanoparticle packing for freeze‐cast samples. “Fines” effect influences freeze‐cast surface nanoparticle packing. Trapped air bubbles in the suspension result in porous bulk microstructures if not allowed to escape from the suspension before freezing by prerest. Maintaining relatively open surface nanoparticle packing before freezing is critical in removing the air bubbles and achieving dense microstructures after freeze casting.
Sevoflurane Concentrations in Blood, Brain, and Lung After Sevoflurane‐Induced Death
Authors: Rosales Cecilia M. , Young Thomas , Laster Michael J. , Eger Edmond I , Garg Uttam
Published: October 2007

Abstract:  Sevoflurane concentrations in blood, brain, and lung were measured in an individual apparently dying from sevoflurane inhalation. Sevoflurane is a volatile nonflammable fluorinated methyl isopropyl ether inhaled anesthetic, chemically related to desflurane and isoflurane. The incidence of abuse of sevoflurane is lower than that of other drugs of abuse possibly due to its inaccessibility to the general public and less pleasurable and addicting effects. The dead subject was an anesthetist found prone in bed holding an empty bottle of sevoflurane (Ultane®). Serum, urine, and liver were screened for numerous drugs and metabolites using enzyme immunoassays and gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry. Analysis did not reveal presence of any drug, including ethanol, other than sevoflurane. Sevoflurane was determined by headspace gas chromatography and revealed concentrations of 15 μg/mL in blood and 130 mg/kg in brain and lung. Autopsy revealed pulmonary edema and frothing in the lung, pathological findings associated with death by sevoflurane or hypoxia. The cause of death was ruled as sevoflurane toxicity and the manner of death as accident.
Application of Low Copy Number STR Typing to the Identification of Aged, Degraded Skeletal Remains*
Authors: Irwin Jodi A. , Leney Mark D. , Loreille Odile , Barritt Suzanne M. , Christensen Alexander F. , Holland Thomas D. , Smith Brion C. , Parsons Thomas J.
Published: October 2007

Abstract:  Low copy number (LCN) STR typing was successfully applied to four interesting cases during developmental validation of the approach for degraded skeletal remains. Specific questions were addressed in each case, with the acquisition of STR data largely serving as additional confirmatory or investigatory information in any specific situation, and not necessarily providing the definitive evidence to establish identity. The cases involve missing U.S. service members from World War I, World War II, and the Vietnam War. The variety of these cases, in terms of the questions addressed, the age of the remains, and the type of reference material available for comparison, demonstrates the broad utility of LCN STR typing in the identification of degraded skeletal remains from missing persons.
The role of the plant in attracting parasitoids: response to progressive mechanical wounding
Authors: Connor Edward C. , Rott Anja S. , Samietz Jörg , Dorn Silvia
Published: October 2007

Based on the model system of Brussels sprouts [Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera (Brassicaceae)], the herbivore cabbage white caterpillar, Pieris brassicae (L.) (Lepidoptera: Pieridae), and the parasitoid wasp, Cotesia glomerata (L.) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), the influence of plant damage type, and damage duration were assessed on plant volatile emission and subsequent recruitment of natural antagonists of the herbivore. Plants were damaged by three methods for a period of either 3 or 8 h: herbivore damage (HD), progressive mechanical damage, and final mechanical damage inflicted in a single event. Wind‐tunnel bioassays evaluated whether the mode of damage affected female parasitoid oriented flight. After both periods of damage, all treatments were highly significantly preferred by naïve C. glomerata to undamaged control plants. After 3 h, herbivore‐damaged plants were significantly preferred to plants with final damage (FD). Most remarkably, following 8‐h damage, the parasitoid preferred both herbivore‐damaged and progressively damaged plants to plants with FD and did not significantly discriminate between herbivore and progressively damaged plants, thus indicating a similarity in plant response to herbivore and progressive mechanical damage. In addition to wind‐tunnel bioassays, emitted plant volatiles were collected and analysed by thermal desorption gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, following 3 and 8 h of damage in order to correlate volatiles released from different damage types with the attraction of the parasitoid. Differences in volatile profiles from all damage types were similar following both 3 and 8 h of damage, with only (Z)‐3‐hexenyl acetate found to be emitted in significantly higher quantities by final mechanical damage compared with HD after 3 h. In conclusion, the plant's response to progressive mechanical damage was more similar to HD than final mechanical damage deployed at a single point in time, irrespective of damage duration, and C. glomerata did not significantly discriminate between progressive damage and HD.
Strabismus and eye muscle function
Authors: Lennerstrand Gunnar
Published: October 2007

Studies of external eye muscle morphology and physiology are reviewed, with respect to both motor and sensory functions in concomitant strabismus. The eye muscles have a more complex fibre composition than other striated muscle, and they are among the fastest and most fatigue‐resistant muscles in the body. However, it is not generally believed that concomitant strabismus is due to a primary abnormality of the eye muscles or the ocular motor system. The gross anatomy of eye muscles, including the shape and position of the eye muscle pulleys, was not changed in strabismus. The histology of the eye muscle fibres was also basically the same, but changes have been observed in the cellular and biochemical machinery of the fibres, most notably in the singly innervated orbital fibres. Functionally, this was seen as slower contractions and reduced fatigue resistance of eye muscles in animals with strabismus and defects of binocular vision. Most likely the changes represented an adaptation to modified visual demands on the ocular motor control, because of the defects of binocular vision in strabismus from an early age. Adaptation of eye muscle function to visual demands could be seen also in the adult human ocular motor system, but here the effects could be reversed with treatment in some conditions. External eye muscles in the human have sensory organs, muscle spindles and tendon organs, responding to changes in muscle force and length. It is not known how these proprioceptors are used more specifically in ocular motor control, and there is no stretch reflex in the external eye muscles. However, a clear influence on space localization and eye position can be demonstrated with vibratory stimulation of the eye muscles, presumably activating muscle spindles. Different effects were observed in normal subjects and in adult patients with strabismus, which would indicate that the proprioceptive input from one eye of strabismic patients could be suppressed by the other eye, similar to visual suppression in concomitant strabismus. Such an interaction would most likely occur in the visual cortex, and not in the ocular motor system. Further studies of proprioceptive mechanisms, during the postnatal developmental stage and in adult concomitant strabismus may shed light on the mechanisms of childhood strabismus and may, in this respect, be a more fruitful avenue for further research than eye motor studies.
Glycaemic control and control of risk factors in diabetes patients in an ophthalmology clinic: what lessons have we learned from the UKPDS and DCCT studies?
Authors: Higgins Gareth T. , Khan Javeed , Pearce Ian A.
Published: October 2007

Purpose:  The Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) and UK Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS) have studied glycaemic control as well as other risk factors in preventing the progression of diabetic end‐organ disease, including diabetic retinopathy. We wished to determine to what extent a cross‐section of diabetes patients attending our eye clinic met the targets laid down by recent landmark studies.

Methods:  We prospectively assessed 44 consecutive diabetes patients attending outpatient clinics for assessment of diabetic retinopathy. Each patient had HbA1c levels, serum cholesterol and blood pressure checked. A proforma was completed for each patient.

Results:  Of the 44 patients studied, 11 had type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) and 33 had type 2 DM (11 insulin‐dependent DM [IDDM], 22 non‐insulin‐dependent DM [NIDDM]). The mean age of type 1 DM patients was 43 years; that of type 2 DM patients was 62 years. Five of 11 (46%) type 1 DM patients had poorly controlled diabetes (HbA1c > 9%) compared with four of 33 (12%) type 2 DM patients. Overall, 27 of 44 (62%) patients were on antihypertensive medication. The prevalence of poorly controlled blood pressure (> 150/85 mmHg treated; > 160/90 mmHg untreated) was 16 of 44 (36%) patients overall, and was higher for type 2 DM patients (13/33, 39%) than for type 1 DM patients (3/11, 27%). Random serum cholesterol levels > 5.2 were found in 10 of 44 (23%) patients overall (4/11 [36%] type 1 and 6/33 [18%] type 2 DM patients).

Conclusions:  Control of HbA1c, hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia can slow progression of retinopathy and other DM end‐points. Many of our patients were poorly controlled in terms of these risk factors. More attention should be addressed to these primary preventative factors in the management of diabetes patients.
Functional implications of short‐term retinal detachment in porcine eyes: study by multifocal electroretinography
Authors: Voss Kyhn Maria , Kiilgaard Jens F. , Lopez Ana Garcia , Scherfig Erik , Prause Jan U. , La Cour Morten
Published: October 2007

Purpose:  The aim of the study was to determine the type and magnitude of detectable changes in pig multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) induced by the vitreoretinal surgical procedures necessary to gain access to the subretinal space.

Methods:  Twenty pigs underwent posterior segment surgery. Six animals had a vitrectomy (V), six had in addition a retinal bleb detachment (V + B); five had in addition a retinal diathermia on the bleb (V + B + D) and three received a retinotomy in the diathermized retinal area (V + B + D + R). mfERG evaluation was performed at baseline and 1 and 6 weeks postoperatively. Selected eyes were enucleated for histological evaluation.

Results:  The retinal detachments blebs all reattached spontaneously. All four surgical sequences resulted in slight, non‐significant changes in the mfERG peaks. A trend towards an amplitude reduction of the mfERG peaks N1, P1 and N2 were observed within the first postoperative week. After 6 weeks, all amplitudes had normalized. Of the implicit times only that of peak N1 (after retinal diathermia) was prolonged significantly at 1 week (P = 0.037). However, it returned to the preoperative level after 6 weeks. Histologically, the retinal detachment bleb was characterized by transient double layering of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and loss photoreceptor outer segments.

Conclusion:  Access to the subretinal space in pigs can be gained without permanent detectable changes in the mfERG. A short‐term retinal detachment was found to cause only reversible electrophysiological and histological changes in the outer retina, which suggests that this procedure is tolerated well in the porcine retina. The size of the known destructive lesion (retinotomy) was too small to be detected, given the spatial resolution of the mfERG method applied. In the future, the presented protocol can be used to assess the functional outcome of surgery and transplantation in the subretinal space in pigs.
Paediatric cataract surgery
Authors: Zetterström Charlotta , Kugelberg Maria
Published: October 2007

Bilateral congenital cataract is the most common cause of treatable childhood blindness. Nuclear cataract is usually present at birth and is non‐progressive, while lamellar cataract usually develops later and is progressive. Prompt surgery has to be performed in cases with dense congenital cataract: if nystagmus has developed, the amblyopia is unfortunately irreversible. A treatment regime based on surgery within 2 months of life, combined with prompt optical correction of the aphakia and occlusion therapy with frequent follow‐up, have been successful in both unilateral and bilateral cases. The surgery ought to include anterior and posterior capsulorexis in all children at the present time. Intraocular lens implantation has been safely performed below the age of 1 year and has also been successfully performed in bilateral cases. Anterior dry vitrectomy should be performed in preschool children to avoid visual axis opacification. Visual axis opacification is the most common complication found after cataract surgery in children. Secondary glaucoma is by far the most sight‐threatening complication and is, unfortunately, common in the newborn so lifelong follow‐up is essential in these cases.
Drinking water supplementation with ascorbate is not protective against UVR‐B‐induced cataract in the guinea pig
Authors: Mody Vino C. , Kakar Manoj , Elfving Åse , Löfgren Stefan
Published: October 2007

Purpose:  To study if ascorbate supplementation decreases ultraviolet radiation (UVR)‐induced cataract development in the guinea pig.

Methods:  Sixty 6–9‐week‐old pigmented guinea pigs received drinking water supplemented with or without 5.5 mm l‐ascorbate for 4 weeks. After supplementation, 40 animals were exposed unilaterally in vivo under anaesthesia to 80 kJ/m2 UVR‐B. One day later, the animals were killed and lenses were extracted. Degree of cataract was quantified by measurement of intensity of forward lens light scattering. Lens ascorbate concentration was determined with high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with UVR detection at 254 nm. Twenty animals were used as non‐exposed control.

Results:  Supplementation increased lens ascorbate concentration significantly. In UVR‐exposed animals, mean 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for animal‐averaged lens ascorbate concentration (μmol/g wet weight lens) were 0.54 ± 0.07 (no ascorbate) and 0.83 ± 0.05 (5.5 mm ascorbate). In non‐exposed control animals, mean 95% CIs for animal‐averaged lens ascorbate concentration (μmol/g wet weight lens) were 0.72 ± 0.12 (0 mm ascorbate) and 0.90 ± 0.15 (5.5 mm ascorbate). All non‐exposed lenses were devoid of cataract. Superficial anterior cataract developed in all UVR‐exposed lenses. The lens light scattering was 39.2 ± 14.1 milli transformed equivalent diazepam concentration (m(tEDC)) without and 35.9 ± 14.0 m(tEDC) with ascorbate supplementation.

Conclusion:  Superficial anterior cataract develops in lenses exposed to UVR‐B. Ascorbate supplementation is non‐toxic to both UVR‐B‐exposed lenses and non‐exposed control lenses. Ascorbate supplementation does not reduce in vivo lens forward light scattering secondary to UVR‐B exposure in the guinea pig.
Five‐year follow‐up during antipsychotic treatment: efficacy, safety, functional and social outcome
Authors: Lindström E. , Eberhard J. , Levander S.
Published: October 2007

Objective:  Explore the long‐term course of schizophrenia and related disorders.

Method:  Naturalistic study of 225 patients initially treated with risperidone (monotherapy or in combination with other psychotropic drugs) over 5 years.

Results:  Stable symptomatology and side effects were observed. Clinician GAF scores were 55–61, but patients’ self‐ratings were higher. Clinician and patient CGI scores were at the same level. Annual in‐patient days decreased but days in sheltered accommodations increased still more. Only 12% of the patients studied or worked full‐time. One in four had no social contacts except with staff. Eight patients died during the 5 years.

Conclusion:  The findings underline the chronicity and seriousness of psychotic disorders in terms of social outcome and, indirectly, the low quality of life of this group of persons. Patients were generally well aware of their illness and able to sort out symptoms from drug side effects. This opens for more active involvement of patients in monitoring their own treatment.
Nicotine use and its correlates in patients with psychosis
Authors: Levander S. , Eberhard J. , Lindström E.
Published: October 2007

Objective:  To examine nicotine use and its correlates among psychotic patients.

Method:  Longitudinal naturalistic study of 176 patients, diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizophrenia‐related psychotic disorders, and treated with risperidone at study entry. Levels of nicotine use (smoking, snuffing) were measured along with other relevant ratings and measurements (symptoms, drug treatment, side effects, weight, cognitive functions and outcome) at baseline and once yearly for 5 years.

Results:  Nicotine use was twice as common as in the general population. Only few nicotine users had started after onset of psychoses. We could not find any differences among nicotine users and non‐users in diagnosis, symptoms, side effects, weight, cognitive functions, personality and outcome, cross‐sectionally and longitudinally, ruling against the ‘self‐medication’ hypothesis.

Conclusion:  A parsimonious interpretation of the findings is that patients suffering from psychosis fail to desist from nicotine rather than experience significant positive effects of the usage.
Speech adaptation after treatment of full edentulism through immediate‐loaded implant protocols
Authors: Molly Liene , Nackaerts Olivia , Vandewiele Katrien , Manders Eric , Van Steenberghe Daniel , Jacobs Reinhilde
Published: October 2007

Objectives: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the influence of immediate loading of implants on speech adaptation.

Material and methods: Ten patients (mean age 54, 6 females) were examined before surgery and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months afterwards. Articulation analysis was done using objective DAT‐recoded data evaluated by two groups of speech and language therapists and a computer software program. Besides, patient VAS‐scores, myofunctional problems and hearing impairment were recorded and analysed.

Results: In the present study only one patient suffered from deteriorated speech after immediate loading. Other patients showed unaffected or improved articulation 3 to 6 months after surgery with a strident and interdental pronunciation mostly becoming addental. Furthermore, myofunctional problems occurred in one patient, other patients adapted to the new situation after three months. Hearing impairment did not influence speech pathology in this study.

Conclusion: Immediate loading of oral implants does not seem to compromise the normal 3–6 months speech adaptation period. Whether such procedure presents advantages to the conventional 2‐stage rehabilitation remains to be investigated.
Polylactide and polyglycolide sponge used in human extraction sockets: bone formation following 3 months after its application
Authors: Serino Giovanni , Rao Walter , Iezzi Giovanna , Piattelli Adriano
Published: October 2007

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate (i) the degree of bone mineralization in the alveolar sockets 3 months following the use of a bio‐absorbable graft material and (ii) the degree of resorption of the grafted material.

Materials: Twenty patients, undergoing periodontal therapy, participated in this study. All patients were scheduled for extraction of one or more compromised monoradicular teeth and scheduled for replacement of the extracted teeth with dental implants.

Methods: Following elevation of full‐thickness flaps and extraction of teeth, the alveolar sockets were filled with a bioabsorbable polylactide–polyglycolide acid sponge (Fisiograft®) (Test group – T) or natural healing by clot formation was allowed (Control group – C). The flaps were sutured with no attempt to achieve primary closure of the surgical wound. Re‐entry for implant surgery was performed 3 months following the extractions.

Results: Fifteen biopsies (seven T and nine C) were harvested from the sites where the implants were placed. The biopsies harvested from the T sites revealed that the alveolar sockets healed with newly trabecular bone, highly mineralized and well structured. Particles of the grafted material could not be identified in any of the T biopsies. The bone formed in the C sites was also well structured, with a slightly minor percentage of mineralized bone. In both T and C biopsies, the apical portion presented a higher degree of mineralization compared with the coronal portion.

Conclusions: The results of this study indicated that the use of a bio‐absorbable synthetic sponge of polylactide–polyglycolide acid did not interfere with the formation of new bone in the alveolar sockets and that the characteristics of the 3‐month newly formed bone seemed to be optimal for dental implants' insertion. The biocompatibility, safety and characteristics of Fisiograft® suggest that the material is suitable for filling alveolar sockets following extractions, to prevent volume reduction and collapse of the overlying soft tissue flaps.
Comparative histomorphometry and resonance frequency analysis of implants with moderately rough surfaces in a loaded animal model
Authors: Al‐Nawas B. , Groetz K. A. , Goetz H. , Duschner H. , Wagner W.
Published: October 2007

Objectives: Test of favourable conditions for osseointegration with respect to optimum bone–implant contact (BIC) in a loaded animal model. The varied parameters were surface roughness and surface topography of commercially available dental implants.

Method: Thirty‐two implants of six types of macro and microstructure were included in the study (total 196). The different types were: minimally rough control: Branemark machined Mk III; oxidized surface: TiUnite MkIII and MkIV; ZL Ticer; blasted and etched surface: Straumann SLA; rough control: titanium plasma sprayed (TPS). Sixteen beagle dogs were implanted with the whole set of the above implants. After a healing period of 8 weeks, implants were loaded for 3 months. For the evaluation of the BIC areas, adequately sectioned biopsies were visualized by subsurface scans with confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM).

Results: The primary statistical analysis testing BIC of the moderately rough implants (mean 56.1±13.0%) vs. the minimally rough and the rough controls (mean 53.9±11.2%) does not reveal a significant difference (P=0.57). Mean values of 50–70% BIC were found for all implant types. Moderately rough oxidized implants show a median BIC, which is 8% higher than their minimally rough turned counterpart. The intraindividual difference between the TPS and the blasted and etched counterparts revealed no significant difference. The turned and the oxidized implants show median values of the resonance frequency [implant stability quotients (ISQ)] over 60; the nonself‐tapping blasted and etched and TPS implants show median values below 60.

Discussion: In conclusion, the benefit of rough surfaces relative to minimally rough ones in this loaded animal model was confirmed histologically. The comparison of different surface treatment modalities revealed no significant differences between the modern moderately rough surfaces. Resonance frequency analysis seems to be influenced in a major part by the transducer used, thus prohibiting the comparison of different implant systems.
Dental biofilm, gingivitis and interleukin‐1 adjacent to approximal sites of a bonded ceramic
Authors: Konradsson Katarina , Claesson Rolf , Van Dijken Jon W. V.
Published: October 2007

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate in vivo the influence of aged, resin‐bonded, ceramic restorations on approximal dental biofilm formation and gingival inflammatory response, associated with and without customary oral hygiene.

Material and Methods: In a cross‐sectional and in a 10‐day experimental gingivitis study, Quigley–Hein plaque index, gingival index (GI), crevicular fluid and its levels of interleukin (IL)‐1α, ‐1β and receptor antagonist were measured at appoximal surfaces of leucite‐reinforced bonded ceramic coverages, resin composite restorations and enamel and compared intra‐individually in 17 participants.

Results: No differences were found between the ceramic, composite and enamel regarding plaque index, GI, levels of IL‐1α, ‐1β and the receptor antagonist. Throughout, higher crevicular fluid amounts were observed at ceramic sites compared with the enamel (p<0.05). In the experimental gingivitis, plaque index, GI, crevicular fluid and its IL‐1α levels increased significantly.

Conclusion: The need for optimal oral hygiene and professional preventive oral health care does not seem to be reduced with regard to approximal surfaces of aged, resin‐bonded, leucite‐reinforced ceramic restorations in comparison with those of a hybrid, resin composite and enamel.
Exploring the contributions of components of caries risk assessment guidelines
Authors: Bader James D. , Perrin Nancy A. , Maupomé Gerardo , Rush William A. , Rindal Brad D.
Published: October 2007

Abstract –  Objective:  To examine the relative contribution of current caries activity, past caries experience, and dentists’ subjective assessment of caries risk classifications.

Methods:  Administrative data from two dental plans were analyzed to determine dentists’ risk classification, as well as current caries activity and previous caries experience at the time of the classification. The performance of these predictors in identifying patients who would experience subsequent caries was then modeled using logistic regression.

Results:  In both plans, current caries activity alone had relatively low sensitivity and high specificity in identifying patients who would experience subsequent caries. Sensitivity improved, but at the cost of specificity when previous caries experience was included in the models. Further improvement in sensitivity accrued when dentists’ subjective assessment was included, but performance was different in the two plans in terms of false‐positives.

Conclusions:  Consideration of previous caries experience tends to strengthen the predictive power of caries risk assessments. Dentists’ subjective assessments also tend to improve sensitivity, but overall accuracy may suffer.
Dynamics of satisfaction with dental appearance among dentate adults: 24‐month incidence
Authors: Meng Xiaoxian , Gilbert Gregg H. , Litaker Mark S.
Published: October 2007

Abstract –  Introduction:  Dental appearance comprises an important aspect of oral health and oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL). However, no study has investigated the dynamics of satisfaction with dental appearance and other aspects of oral health using a longitudinal study design. The current study aimed to: (i) quantify longitudinal patterns of change in satisfaction with dental appearance, and (ii) identify the dynamic relationships between the changes in satisfaction with dental appearance and other dimensions of oral health (oral disease/tissue damage and oral disadvantage), taking sociodemographic factors into account.

Methods:  Data were taken from the Florida Dental Care Study (FDCS), a population‐based longitudinal cohort study of oral health and OHRQoL. The sample included at baseline 873 subjects. Patterns of change in satisfaction with dental appearance during 24 months of follow‐up were quantified. The dynamic relationships between the changes in satisfaction with dental appearance and other dimensions of oral health were evaluated.

Results:  During follow‐up, 19–22% of the subjects were dissatisfied with dental appearance, depending on the time point of the interview. Onset of a certain oral health problem/condition or constantly having the problem/condition was associated with a lower likelihood of satisfaction improvement and a higher likelihood of deterioration. In comparison, recovery from a certain oral health problem/condition or not having the problem/condition was associated with a higher likelihood of improvement and a lower likelihood of deterioration.

Conclusion:  Change in satisfaction with dental appearance was substantially influenced by the dynamic changes in other aspects of oral health.
‘Nuclear grooves’ in nodular hidradenoma: frequency and significance of an unrecognized histopatological feature
Authors: Khurshid Amna , Yaqoob Nausheen , Devan Hafeez A. , Pervez Shahid
Published: October 2007

Background:  Nodular hidradenoma is a distinctive sweat gland neoplasm. In addition to the well‐known histological and cytological features, we hereby describe for the first time nuclear grooving as a useful morphological feature to aid in its diagnosis.

Methods:  All cases were analyzed for anatomic location, size, age, sex and histology, with attention focused mainly on the nuclear features. A semiquantitative method was used to estimate the percentage of nuclear grooves in five consecutive high‐power fields (×40), with confirmation on ×100. Electron microscopy was also performed to confirm light microscopic observation.

Results:  Totally, 34 cases of nodular hidradenoma were studied. All the tumors showed two types of cells. One type of cell contained clear cytoplasm with small, round nuclei. The second type of cell, which was the predominant type, had elongated nuclei. In 30 (88%) of the 34 cases, about 30% of these cells at ×40 and ×100 magnification showed nuclear grooving. Electron microscopy on these samples confirmed nuclear grooves.

Conclusions:  In this study, we reviewed 34 cases of nodular hidradenoma. In addition to the classical features, both histologically and cytologically, we describe for the first time the nuclear grooves as a frequent finding in these neoplasms. This finding was also confirmed by electron microscopy. We believe that this newly described histological feature will aid the practicing pathologist to make this important diagnosis.
Histopathologic findings and diagnostic difficulties posed with use of escharotic agents for treatment of skin lesions: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Moran Anna M. , Helm Klaus F.
Published: October 2007

Escharotic agents have been used as alternative therapy for treatment of skin cancer and skin problems for centuries. Internet web sites such as online health product stores and eBay have made them widely available to the general public. The use of these agents carries risk of incomplete removal of tumor, damage of surrounding healthy tissues and marked scarring with poor cosmetic outcome. We report the case of a 27‐year‐old man who presented with history of moles and self‐treatment with an escharotic agent containing bloodroot in order to document the histopathologic findings of topical bloodroot treatment and to show the clinical consequences that may occur in the unsuspecting public. To the best of our knowledge, the histological features following use of bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) have not yet been documented.
Food abundance affects both morphology and behaviour of juvenile perch
Authors: Borcherding J. , Magnhagen C.
Published: October 2007

Abstract –  Behaviour and morphology were both shown to differ between 1+ perch from two lakes that in earlier studies showed differences in size‐specific predation risk. As the level of nourishment is known to affect behaviour and morphology, we fed perch of the two lakes in tanks for 40 days with two food levels, to study whether observed differences remain stable with changes in food availability. The perch fed in excess grew significantly, while the perch at the low food conditions lost weight, clearly indicating undernourishment. In aquarium experiments, the starved perch from both lakes were much bolder in the trade‐off between foraging and predator avoidance than their well‐fed conspecifics. In addition, the shape of perch differed significantly between feeding treatments. At low food levels perch got a more slender body, while at high food levels they developed a deeper body and a relatively smaller head. Independent of feeding level, the comparison between the two lakes revealed a clearly deeper body and a larger head area for one population, a shape difference that remained stable after the feeding period. The results give evidence that the level of nourishment is an important factor that quickly alters risk‐taking behaviour. In body morphology, however, more stable shape characteristics must be distinguished from more flexible ones. Consequently, the level of nourishment is a potential factor that may quickly hide other proximate cues and must be considered attentively in studies, in which shape changes and behaviour are related to environmental factors like diet, predation pressure or habitat diversity.