bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Territorial bounds to virtual space: transnational online and offline networks of Iranian and Turkish–Kurdish immigrants in the Netherlands
Authors: VAN DEN BOS MATTHIJS , NELL LIZA
Published: February 2006

AbstractIn this article we question a central trope of transnationalism and new media – deterritorialization – and its application to border crossing Internet usage by Iranian and Turkish‐Kurdish migrants in the Netherlands. Their Internet usage indicates the extent to which territoriality channels these groups' online practice. We found Dutch‐Iranian sites reflected correspondingly sparse offline community networks and state boundaries moulded their transnational ties, while regionally specific transnational dynamics were evident in Turkish‐Kurdish website surfing. These cases indicate that transnationalism and new media need not broaden or dissolve geographical identity or connectivity, but may reinforce it. Finally, we address the relations of territoriality with generation (first and second) and network medium (web forums versus conventional sites). Whereas first‐generation migrants' life online often reveals extensions of offline networks, the online practice of the second generation frequently reflects these networks in subtler ways, forming partially sovereign online communities that pivot on hyphenated identities. However, the relations of generation and network medium differ for Turkish Kurds and Iranians in the Netherlands.
Transnational development networks: bringing development and postcolonial approaches into dialogue
Authors: MCFARLANE COLIN
Published: March 2006

This paper explores some of the ways in which a dialogue between development and postcolonial scholarship might contribute to the theorizing of transnational networks in contemporary development. It does so through consideration of three inter‐related themes: epistemologies, spatialities and ethico‐politics. The discussion of epistemologies points to the potential benefit in reworking the analysis of the relationship between structure and agency in networks, whereas the discussion of spatialities focuses attention on the interface between the global and the local. Dialogue between development and postcolonial approaches also creates space for considering the politics and ethics of transnational development networks. In particular, this discussion prompts challenges around how to ethically research subaltern knowledge in transnational development networks, including how to trace the translation and redeployment of subaltern knowledge through networks. Consideration of these themes highlights not just overlaps and disjunctures between development and postcolonial approaches, but opportunities for further dialogue and future research on transnational development networks. To illustrate the points made in the paper, examples are drawn from Slum/Shack Dwellers International (SDI), a transnational network of civil society organizations working with urban poverty.
Instrument‐ and protocol‐dependent variation in the enumeration of CD34+ cells by flow cytometry
Authors: Rivadeneyra‐Espínoza Liliana , Pérez‐Romano Beatriz , González‐Flores Adriana , Guzmán‐García María Olga , Carvajal‐Armora Fernando , Ruiz‐Argüelles Alejandro
Published: February 2006

BACKGROUND:  The information regarding the minimum number of CD34+ cells that are necessary to reconstitute hematopoiesis in patients undergoing peripheral blood progenitor cell transplantation is quite controversial. Some of the differences in these figures might be due to the selection of antibodies, staining protocols, and acquisition strategies for the flow cytometric enumeration of these cells.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:  Twenty‐seven human umbilical cord blood samples and 33 leukapheresis products were consecutively collected for this study. Cells were stained following two different protocols, both using monoclonal antibodies to CD45 and CD34, and analyzed by the same operator in two different flow cytometers to enumerate the percentage of CD34+ mononuclear cells.

RESULTS:  Relevant differences in the proportion of cells were encountered, and the correlation between the results yielded by both instruments and protocols, although statistically valid, was suboptimal.

CONCLUSIONS:  Both interinstrument and interprotocol variation can provide additional explanation for the redundantly reported discrepancies concerning the numbers of CD34 cells that suffice to secure hemopoietic grafting. These results point to the need for new and different standardization approaches in this clinically relevant field.
A Cost‐Benefit Analysis of Alternative Device Configurations for Aviation‐Checked Baggage Security Screening
Authors: Jacobson Sheldon H. , Karnani Tamana , Kobza John E. , Ritchie Lynsey
Published: February 2006

The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 have resulted in dramatic changes in aviation security. As of early 2003, an estimated 1,100 explosive detection systems (EDS) and 6,000 explosive trace detection machines (ETD) have been deployed to ensure 100% checked baggage screening at all commercial airports throughout the United States. The prohibitive costs associated with deploying and operating such devices is a serious issue for the Transportation Security Administration. This article evaluates the cost effectiveness of the explosive detection technologies currently deployed to screen checked baggage as well as new technologies that could be used in the future. Both single‐device and two‐device systems are considered. In particular, the expected annual direct cost of using these devices for 100% checked baggage screening under various scenarios is obtained and the tradeoffs between using single‐ and two‐device strategies are studied. The expected number of successful threats under the different checked baggage screening scenarios with 100% checked baggage screening is also obtained. Lastly, a risk‐based screening strategy proposed in the literature is analyzed. The results reported suggest that for the existing security setup, with current device costs and probability parameters, single‐device systems are less costly and have fewer expected number of successful threats than two‐device systems due to the way the second device affects the alarm or clear decision. The risk‐based approach is found to have the potential to significantly improve security. The cost model introduced provides an effective tool for the execution of cost‐benefit analyses of alternative device configurations for aviation‐checked baggage security screening.
Applying a Health Behavior Theory to Explore the Influence of Information and Experience on Arsenic Risk Representations, Policy Beliefs, and Protective Behavior
Authors: Severtson Dolores J. , Baumann Linda C. , Brown Roger L.
Published: February 2006

The common sense model (CSM) shows how people process information to construct representations, or mental models, that guide responses to health threats. We applied the CSM to understand how people responded to information about arsenic‐contaminated well water. Constructs included external information (arsenic level and information use), experience (perceived water quality and arsenic‐related health effects), representations, safety judgments, opinions about policies to mitigate environmental arsenic, and protective behavior. Of 649 surveys mailed to private well users with arsenic levels exceeding the maximum contaminant level, 545 (84%) were analyzed. Structural equation modeling quantified CSM relationships. Both external information and experience had substantial effects on behavior. Participants who identified a water problem were more likely to reduce exposure to arsenic. However, about 60% perceived good water quality and 60% safe water. Participants with higher arsenic levels selected higher personal safety thresholds and 20% reported a lower arsenic level than indicated by their well test. These beliefs would support judgments of safe water. A variety of psychological and contextual factors may explain judgments of safe water when information suggested otherwise. Information use had an indirect effect on policy beliefs through understanding environmental causes of arsenic. People need concrete information about environmental risk at both personal and environmental‐systems levels to promote a comprehensive understanding and response. The CSM explained responses to arsenic information and may have application to other environmental risks.
Predictive Bayesian Microbial Dose‐Response Assessment Based on Suggested Self‐Organization in Primary Illness Response:Cryptosporidium parvum
Authors: Englehardt James D. , Swartout Jeff
Published: February 2006

The probability of illness caused by very low doses of pathogens cannot generally be tested due to the numbers of subjects that would be needed, though such assessments of illness dose response are needed to evaluate drinking water standards. A predictive Bayesian dose‐response assessment method was proposed previously to assess the unconditional probability of illness from available information and avoid the inconsistencies of confidence‐based approaches. However, the method uses knowledge of the conditional dose‐response form, and this form is not well established for the illness endpoint. A conditional parametric dose‐response function for gastroenteric illness is proposed here based on simple numerical models of self‐organized host‐pathogen systems and probabilistic arguments. In the models, illnesses terminate when the host evolves by processes of natural selection to a self‐organized critical value of wellness. A generalized beta‐Poisson illness dose‐response form emerges for the population as a whole. Use of this form is demonstrated in a predictive Bayesian dose‐response assessment for cryptosporidiosis. Results suggest that a maximum allowable dose of 5.0 × 10−7oocysts/exposure (e.g., 2.5 × 10−7oocysts/L water) would correspond with the original goals of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Surface Water Treatment Rule, considering only primary illnesses resulting from Poisson‐distributed pathogen counts. This estimate should be revised to account for non‐Poisson distributions ofCryptosporidium parvumin drinking water and total response, considering secondary illness propagation in the population.
Decreasing Pain and Anxiety Associated with Patient‐Activated Atrial Shock: A Placebo‐Controlled Study of Adjunctive Sedation with Oral Triazolam
Authors: FABIAN TANYA J. , SCHWARTZMAN DAVID S. , UJHELYI MICHAEL R. , COREY SHARON E. , BIGOS KRISTIN L. , POLLOCK BRUCE G. , KROBOTH PATRICIA D.
Published: February 2006

Introduction: Implantable atrial defibrillators (IADs) have proved to be safe and effective in the management of atrial fibrillation. A potential limitation of self‐activated IAD therapy is patient‐reported pain and anxiety. The main objective of the present study was to determine whether triazolam improved patient perception of the shock experience or altered patient memory of shock discomfort relative to placebo.

Methods and Results: A total of 15 men and women (mean age: 59 ± 6 years) were enrolled in this double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover study of triazolam. Randomized study medication was administered orally 75 minutes prior to scheduled atrial shock delivery. Patient perception of the shock experience was assessed along with sedation, memory, anxiety, and mood. Triazolam reduced mean pre‐shock anxiety (t= 2.98, df = 14, P = 0.01) and shock‐related pain (t= 2.74, df = 13, P = 0.01) and intensity (t= 2.64, df = 13, P = 0.018) relative to placebo. Similarly, participants recalled less discomfort the morning after shock with triazolam than with placebo (t= 2.82, df = 11, P = 0.017).

Conclusions: This study was the first to investigate the use of an oral benzodiazepine administered prior to patient‐activated shock delivery with an IAD. Our data indicate that oral triazolam is beneficial in decreasing pain and anxiety associated with self‐activated atrial defibrillation. If triazolam provides a similar benefit in the community to that which has been reported here, this medication could be offered to patients as an adjunct to intermittent IAD therapy.
Mechanisms of Atrial Tachyarrhythmias Following Surgical Atrial Fibrillation Ablation
Authors: MAGNANO ANTHONY R. , ARGENZIANO MICHAEL , DIZON JOSE M. , VIGILANCE DEON , WILLIAMS MATHEW , YEGEN HILARY , RUETER KEVIN , OZ MEHMET , GARAN HASAN
Published: February 2006

Introduction: Typical and atypical atrial flutters (AFLs) and atrial tachycardias (ATs) have been reported in patients with prior surgical atrial fibrillation ablation. The underlying mechanisms for this group of atrial tachyarrhythmias have not been well characterized and the efficacy of catheter ablation in their treatment is unknown.

Methods and Results: Twenty patients (6 females) with a surface ECG diagnosis of AFL or AT following surgical atrial fibrillation ablation underwent 26 electrophysiology studies. Patients manifesting sustained, organized, and beat‐by‐beat reproducible atrial electrical activity underwent complete right and left atrial catheter mapping and catheter ablation. One patient had no inducible tachyarrhythmia, while 5 patients had nonmappable arrhythmias. Nineteen of the 31 potentially mappable atrial tachyarrhythmias were completely characterized in 14 patients. The underlying mechanisms were macro‐reentrant left AFL (n = 9), focal left AT (n = 3), typical right AFL (n = 6), and atypical right AFL (n = 1). Of the 19 completely characterized atrial arrhythmias, catheter ablation was performed for 18, and the procedure was successful for 13 of these. After a mean follow‐up of 15 ± 10 months, 15 of 20 patients (75%) were in sinus rhythm including 10 of 13 patients (77%) with AT/flutter ablation. Ten patients, including 6 following ablation, were maintaining sinus rhythm without antiarrhythmic medications.

Conclusions: Patients with an ECG diagnosis of AFL or AT following surgical atrial fibrillation ablation may have multiple tachycardia mechanisms with the right or left atrium as the site of origin. Many of these rhythms may resolve with further maturation of surgical atrial fibrillation ablation (SAFA) lesions or be treatable with antiarrhythmic medication. However, persistent tachyarrhythmias can often be treated successfully with catheter mapping and ablation.
Calmodulin Antagonist W‐7 Prevents Sparfloxacin‐Induced Early Afterdepolarizations (EADs) in Isolated Rabbit Purkinje Fibers: Importance of Beat‐to‐Beat Instability of the Repolarization
Authors: LU HUA RONG , VLAMINCKX EDDY , VAN DE WATER ANDRE , GALLACHER DAVID J.
Published: February 2006

Introduction:The occurrence of early afterdepolarizations (EADs) has been related to the incidence of torsades de pointes in drug‐induced long QT (LQT). The generation of EADs may be facilitated by Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II (CaM kinase).

Methods and Results:In the present study, we investigated a possible involvement of Ca2+/Calmodulin dependent protein kinase in the generation of sparfloxacin‐induced EADs in isolated rabbit Purkinje fibers by means of a calmodulin antagonist W‐7. EADs were evident in 8 of the 10 preparations perfused with sparfloxacin at 1 × 10−4M and stimulated at 0.2 Hz. The induction of EADs by sparfloxacin was associated with a large prolongation of the duration of the action potential (APD), an increase in the triangulation, and the short‐term instability of the repolarization. CaM kinase blockade with the calmodulin antagonist W‐7 inhibited sparfloxacin‐induced EADs in a concentration‐dependent manner (EADs were induced in 3 of 10, 1 of 10, and 0 of 8 preparations in the presence of W‐7 at 5 × 10−7M, 5 × 10−6M, and 5 × 10−5M, respectively; P < 0.01 at 5 × 10−6M and 5 × 10−5M). The inhibition of sparfloxacin‐induced EADs by W‐7 at 5 × 10−7M and 5 × 10−6M was associated with a significant decrease in the beat‐to‐beat instability but not associated with a significant shortening of the APD and reduction of Vmax.

Conclusion:The present findings support the hypothesis that CaM kinase may be a proarrhythmic signaling molecule and demonstrate that CaM kinase may be involved in the generation of EADs in drug‐induced LQT and enhanced beat‐to‐beat instability of repolarization is essential for the genesis of EADs in rabbit in vitro.
Intravenous Cocaine and QT Variability
Authors: HAIGNEY MARK C.P. , ALAM SHAMA , TEBO SCOT , MARHEFKA GREGARY , ELKASHEF AHMED , KAHN ROBERTA , CHIANG C. NORA , VOCCI FRANK , CANTILENA LOUIS
Published: February 2006

Background:Dynamic instability in cardiac repolarization may contribute to drug‐induced arrhythmogenesis. We hypothesized that intravenous cocaine would significantly destabilize repolarization as measured by QT variability.

Methods and Results:Twenty‐nine cocaine‐experienced volunteers not seeking treatment for cocaine addiction received randomized, sequential intravenous infusions of placebo or cocaine (20 and 40 mg). Five‐minute epochs of digitized ECG were recorded 10 minutes before, during, and at intervals following the infusions. QT variability was measured using a semiautomated method and expressed as the log ratio of normalized QT variance to normalized heart rate variance (QTVI). Seventeen subjects received a repeat course of cocaine infusions 1 week later. Placebo infusion resulted in a small but significant increase in QTVI, while cocaine caused a highly significant, dose‐dependent increase in QTVI that peaked at 10 minutes and dissipated by 45 minutes following infusion (P < 0.0001). The increase in QTVI was reproducible at 1 week (P = 0.8).

Conclusions:Cocaine injection results in a significant dose‐dependent increase in QT variability as indexed by QTVI. This destabilizing effect on repolarization may increase vulnerability to reentrant arrhythmias and may partially explain an increased risk of sudden cardiac death associated with cocaine use.
Mapping the Critical Diastolic Pathway in Intra‐Atrial Reentrant Tachycardia Using an Automated Voltage Mapping Program
Authors: KALTMAN JONATHAN R. , SCHULTZ JOHN R. , WIEAND TAMMY S. , TANEL RONN E. , VETTER VICTORIA L. , SHAH MAULLY J.
Published: February 2006

This case report demonstrates the use of an automated voltage mapping algorithm to facilitate the rapid mapping of the low‐voltage zone and isolate the critical diastolic pathway of an intra‐atrial reentrant tachycardia circuit. Catheter ablation targeted to this pathway successfully terminated the arrhythmia.
The Full Stomach Test as a Novel Diagnostic Technique for Identifying Patients at Risk of Brugada Syndrome
Authors: IKEDA TAKANORI , ABE ATSUKO , YUSU SATORU , NAKAMURA KENTARO , ISHIGURO HARUHISA , MERA HISAAKI , YOTSUKURA MASAYUKI , YOSHINO HIDEAKI
Published: February 2006

Introduction: Autonomic modulation, particularly high vagal tone, plays an important role in the occurrence of ventricular tachyarrhythmias in the Brugada syndrome. Food intake modulates vagal activity. We assessed the usefulness of a novel diagnostic technique, the “full stomach test,” for identifying a high‐risk group in patients with a Brugada‐type electrocardiogram (ECG).

Methods and Results: In 35 patients with a Brugada‐type ECG, we assessed 12‐lead ECGs before and after a large meal, a pilsicainide pharmacological test, spontaneous ST‐segment change, late potentials by signal‐averaged ECG, microvolt T‐wave alternans, and four other ECG parameters. These patients were divided into two groups (i.e., high‐risk group [n = 17] and indeterminate risk group [n = 18]). The full stomach test was defined as positive when augmentation of characteristic ECG abnormalities was observed after meals. Thirteen patients had a prior history of life‐threatening events such as aborted sudden death and syncope, with a total of 30 episodes. These episodes had a circadian pattern, at night and after meals. The full stomach test was positive in 17 of the study patients (49%). A positive test outcome was characterized by a higher incidence of a history of life‐threatening events than a negative test outcome (P = 0.015, odds ratio = 7.1). In comparison between the two groups, the incidence (82%) of positive outcomes in the high‐risk group was significantly higher than that (17%) in the indeterminate risk group (P = 0.0002).

Conclusions: Characteristic ECG changes diagnostic of Brugada syndrome are augmented by a large meal. These data are associated with a history of life‐threatening events in Brugada syndrome.
Right Ventricular versus Biventricular Antitachycardia Pacing in the Termination of Ventricular Tachyarrhythmia in Patients Receiving Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy: The ADVANCE CRT‐D Trial
Authors: SCHWAB JOERG O. , GASPARINI MAURIZIO , ANSELME FRÉDÉRIC , MABO PHILIPPE , PEINADO RAFAEL , LAVERGNE THOMAS , BOCCHIARDO MARIO , MASCIOLI GIOSUÈ , PASSARDI MICAELA , MAINARDIS MARC
Published: February 2006

Background: The purpose of this investigation is to compare the efficacy of antitachycardia pacing (ATP) delivered via the right ventricular (RV) lead versus ATP delivered simultaneously via the right and left ventricular leads (biventricular [BiV]) in the termination of ventricular tachyarrhythmia (VT) in patients receiving cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) with ICD capabilities.

Methods and Results: The ADVANCE CRT is a prospective, multicenter, randomized, parallel trial evaluating RV versus BiV ATP in the termination of VT in CRT patients. The study will test the hypothesis that BiV ATP is superior to RV ATP in the termination of VT and fast VT. All patients with class I and IIa indications for an ICD implantation and CRT are included. The sample size has been estimated to 400 participants followed for 12 months to show a 10% benefit of BiV versus RV ATP. The efficacy of BiV ATP to terminate all VT presents the primary endpoint. The investigation is expected to be completed in 2007.

Conclusions: The ADVANCE CRT trial is the first large randomized clinical investigation evaluating the efficacy of BiV ATP in patients under CRT and ICD therapy.
Catheter Ablation of Stable and Unstable Ventricular Tachycardias in Patients with Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Dysplasia
Authors: SATOMI KAZUHIRO , KURITA TAKASHI , SUYAMA KAZUHIRO , NODA TAKASHI , OKAMURA HIDEO , OTOMO KIYOSHI , SHIMIZU WATARU , AIHARA NAOHIKO , KAMAKURA SHIRO
Published: February 2006

Introduction: A reentrant circuit within an area of abnormal myocardium is suspected as the origin of ventricular tachycardia (VT) in patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia (ARVD).

Objectives: To examine the relationship between the reentrant circuits of VT and the abnormal electrograms in ARVD, and to assess the feasibility of a block line formation in the reentrant circuit isthmus utilizing electroanatomical mapping system (CARTO) guidance.

Methods and Results: An electrophysiological study and catheter ablation (CA) were performed in 17 ARVD patients (13 men, 47 ± 17 year) using CARTO. Endocardial mapping during sinus rhythm demonstrated electrogram abnormalities extended from the tricuspid annulus (TA) or the right ventricular outflow tract in 16 of 17 patients. In 13 hemodynamically stable VTs, the reentrant circuits and critical slow conduction sites for the CA were investigated during VTs. The entire macro‐reentrant pathway was identified in 6/13 stable VTs (figure‐of‐8 in 4, single loop in 2). In the remaining seven VTs, a focal activation pattern was found in four and an unidentifiable pattern in three. CA successfully abolished all the macro‐reentrant and focal tachycardias, however, not effective in three unidentifiable VTs. In the 13 cases with unstable VT, the linear conduction block zone was produced between the sites with abnormal electrograms and the TA. Ultimately, 23/26 VTs (88%) became noninducible after the CA. During follow‐up (26 ± 15 months), 13/17 patients remained free from any VT episodes.

Conclusions: CARTO is useful for characterizing the anatomical and electrophysiological substrates, and for identifying the optimal ablation sites for VT associated with ARVD.
Influence of platelet‐rich plasma on a bioglass and autogenous bone in sinus augmentation
Authors: Klongnoi Boworn , Rupprecht Stephan , Kessler Peter , Thorwarth Michael , Wiltfang Joerg , Schlegel Karl Andreas
Published: March 2006

Abstract: Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) has been introduced to the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery for a decade, but its beneficial effects on maxillary sinus augmentation remain unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the short‐ and long‐term effects of PRP on osseointegration following single‐stage sinus augmentation in a randomized prospective animal study. The maxillary premolars of 24 minipigs were extracted bilaterally and allowed to heal for 2 months. Consecutively all animals underwent bilateral sinus floor elevation using autogenous bone, Biogran® as well as a combination of the materials with PRP. Three dental implants (Ankylos®, Dentsply Co., Mannheim, Germany) were installed in each sinus simultaneously. Four animals were sacrificed at each period of observation (1, 2, 8 and 12 months). Microradiographic images of the specimens were made for quantitative evaluation of the bone–implant contact (BIC) and light microscopic images were made for qualitative analysis. An increment of the BIC during the observation time could be seen over the observation time in all groups. Autogenous bone exhibited a level of BIC from 25.1±9.96% at 1 month to 55.1±13.10% at 12 months; on adding PRP, the BIC ranged from 28.4±4.64% to 52.5±17.06%. Biogran® with and without PRP led to BIC levels from 16.3±4.64% to 37.6±16.40% and 21.7±4.33% to 46.6±19.37%, respectively. The results of this study did not show a significantly positive effect of PRP on the BIC following sinus augmentation in both groups.
Psychological impact of sports activity in spinal cord injury patients
Authors: Gioia M. C. , Cerasa A. , Di Lucente L. , Brunelli S. , Castellano V. , Traballesi M.
Published: February 2006

Objective: To investigate whether sports activity is associated with better psychological profiles in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) and to evaluate the effect of demographic factors on psychological benefits.

Methods: The State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory, Form X2 (STAI‐X2), the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire for extraversion (EPQ‐R (E)) and the questionnaire for depression (QD) were administered in a cross‐sectional study of 137 males with spinal cord injury including 52 tetraplegics and 85 paraplegics. The subjects were divided into two groups according to sports activity participation (high frequency vs no sports participation). Moreover, multiple regression analysis was adopted to investigate the influence of demographic variables, such as age, educational level, occupational status and marital status, on psychological variables.

Results: Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the groups for anxiety (STAI‐X2), extraversion (EPQ‐R (E)) and depression (QD). In particular, SCI patients who did not practice sports showed higher anxiety and depression scores and lower extraversion scores than sports participants. In addition, with respect to the paraplegics, the tetraplegic group showed the lowest depression scores. Following multiple regression analysis, only the sports activity factor remained as an independent factor of anxiety scores.

Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that sports activity is associated with better psychological status in SCI patients, irrespective of tetraplegia and paraplegia, and that psychological benefits are not emphasized by demographic factors.
Molecular fingerprinting methods for the discrimination between C. albicans and C. dubliniensis
Authors: Neppelenbroek KH , Campanha NH , Spolidorio DMP , Spolidorio LC , Seó RS , Pavarina AC
Published: February 2006

Opportunistic fungal pathogens are becoming increasingly important causes of both community‐acquired and nosocomial infections. The most important fungal pathogens are yeast species belonging to the genus Candida. These species show differences in levels of resistance to antifungal agents and mortality. Consequently, it is important to correctly identify the causative organism to the species level. Identification of Candida dubliniensis in particular remains problematic because of the high degree of phenotypic similarity between this species and Candida albicans. However, as the differences between both are most pronounced at the genetic level, several studies have been conducted in order to provide a specific and rapid identification fingerprinting molecular test. In most candidal infectious, no single DNA fingerprinting technique has evolved as a dominant method, and each method has its advantages, disadvantages and limitations. Moreover, the current challenge of these techniques is to compile standardized patterns in a database for interlaboratory use and future reference. This review provides an overview of most common molecular fingerprinting techniques currently available for discrimination of C. albicans and C. dubliniensis.
RANKL in human periapical granuloma: possible involvement in periapical bone destruction
Authors: Vernal R , Dezerega A , Dutzan N , Chaparro A , León R , Chandía S , Silva A , Gamonal J
Published: February 2006

Objectives:  The cytokine receptor activator of nuclear factor κB‐ligand (RANKL) has been involved in both the physiological and pathological regulation of osteoclast life span and bone metabolism. Periapical granuloma is a periradicular lesion characterized by periapical bone destruction. The aims of this study were to associate the RANKL mRNA levels to periapical granulomas using the real‐time reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) technique and to determine the specific cell involved in RANKL synthesis.

Methods:  In eight periapical granuloma and eight periodontal ligament samples from periodontally healthy volunteers, RANKL mRNA was detected by real‐time RT‐PCR. Expression of RANKL on infiltrate leukocytes was further investigated by flow cytometry in six periapical granulomas.

Results:  Receptor activator of nuclear factor κB‐ligand mRNA levels were higher in periapical granulomas than in healthy periodontal ligament as its RANKL mRNA cycle threshold (Ct) and ΔCt were significantly lower than that of controls (33.07 ± 1.24 vs 36.96 ± 1.69 and 11.58 ± 3.02 vs 15.60 ± 3.31, respectively). A 16.2‐fold (2.0–131.6) higher RANKL gene expression was detected in the granulomas compared with the control tissues. We determined by flow cytometry that lymphocytes were the predominant leukocyte cells (53.31%), and monocytes and dendritic cells were the main RANKL synthesizers in granuloma lesions.

Conclusions:  These data indicate that monocytes synthesized RANKL in periapical granulomas and suggest that RANKL is involved in bone loss associated with periapical lesions.
Pilocarpine for the treatment of salivary glands’ impairment caused by radioiodine therapy for thyroid cancer
Authors: Aframian DJ , Helcer M , Livni D , Markitziu A
Published: February 2006

Objectives:  To study the effect of single‐dose pilocarpine hydrochloride 5 mg on the whole unstimulated and stimulated salivary flow in patients suffering from thyroid cancer treated with radioiodine therapy, and to investigate the changes in vital signs during the treatment.

Subjects and methods:  Five such patients were referred with complaints of dry mouth, rampant caries, and pain in the parotid gland region or history of chronic recurrent suppurative sialodenitis. A single dose of 5 mg pilocarpine hydrochloride was administered to each patient and blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature and salivary secretion rate were monitored at 1, 2 and 3 h.

Results:  A significant elevation of unstimulated and stimulated saliva flow rate was observed in four patients without significant alteration of the monitored vital signs.

Conclusions:  Treatment with pilocarpine hydrochloride may be beneficial in the case of impaired salivary function in patients treated with radioiodine.
CD10 expression in stromal cells of oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma: a clinic and pathologic correlation
Authors: Piattelli A , Fioroni M , Iezzi G , Perrotti V , Stellini E , Piattelli M , Rubini C
Published: February 2006

Objective:  CD10 is expressed on the majority of follicle‐center lymphomas and Burkitt lymphomas. CD10 has also been shown to be present in a variety of other neoplasms.

Design:  The aim of this study was a correlation of CD10 and several parameters: age, tumor size, presence of lymph node metastases, clinic stage, histologic grading, presence of local recurrences.

Materials and Methods:  The tissues of 77 consecutive patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma were evaluated using immunostaining with monoclonal antibody for CD10.

Main Outcome Measures:  Highly significant correlations were found with the lymph node status, the presence of local recurrences and the histologic grading. The presence of CD10‐positive cells was not correlated with the age of patients, tumor size and clinic stage.

Results:  The results of the present study show that in oral squamous cell carcinoma CD10 positivity is an indicator of worse prognosis. Another strong correlation was found with the presence of local recurrences. Also the histologic grade was significantly correlated with the CD10 positivity.

Conclusion:  Our results point to the fact that CD10 expression can, perhaps, have an important role in tumor invasion, probably facilitating the occurrence of metastases.
Effect of deproteinization on composite bond strength in hypocalcified amelogenesis imperfecta
Authors: Şaroğlu I , Aras Ş , Öztaş D
Published: February 2006

Objective:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the treatment of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) after acid conditioning of the enamel and dentin of the primary teeth affected with hypocalcified amelogenesis imperfecta (HCAI) on the shear bond strength of the composite material.

Materials and Methods:  Primary teeth from a 12‐year‐old girl affected with HCAI and primary teeth collected from apparently healthy children were used. A total of four groups, experimental and control with and without NaOCl treatment were specified. In the control group conventional composite procedure was performed and in the treatment group 5% NaOCl was applied after acid conditioning and then the procedure continued as in the control group.

Results:  In teeth affected with HCAI, enamel shear bond strengths were significantly enhanced in the treatment group compared with the conventional procedure.

Conclusion:  Deproteinization could be attributed as effective in enhancing the enamel bonding in HCAI teeth and could be used to overcome the high failure rates of adhesive restorations in HCAI cases.
Early Intervention in an International Perspective
Authors: Guralnick Michael J. , Albertini Giorgio
Published: March 2006

Abstract  The importance and potential value of a worldwide commitment to provide comprehensive early intervention services for children at risk for or with identified intellectual disabilities are considered in the context of this special issue on early intervention. Further refinement of policies and advances in effective practices will result through the application of relevant research findings, through the development and implementation of comprehensive professional training programs, and through model program development with corresponding efforts to bring programs to scale. Articles in this special issue are discussed as representing major early intervention themes in the international community.
Arousal, Attention, and Neurobehavioral Assessment in the Neonatal Period: Implications for Intervention and Policy
Authors: Gardner Judith M. , Karmel Bernard Z. , Freedland Robert L. , Lennon Elizabeth M. , Flory Michael J. , Miroshnichenko Inna , Phan Ha T. T. , Barone Anthony , Harin Anantham
Published: March 2006

Abstract  Neonatal assessments should provide valid estimates of behavior and neurological status, reflect recovery from acute effects, predict subsequent outcome, and point to specific intervention strategies for any problems noted. The authors report relations among measures designed to evaluate early behavioral capabilities and dysfunctions in areas frequently disrupted by central nervous system (CNS) injury that involve arousal‐modulated attention and elicited and spontaneous movements, to each other and to the Bayley Scales of Infant Development over the first 2 years. Infants were classified into four CNS injury groups based on auditory brainstem responses and cranial ultrasonography. CNS injury was associated with all behavioral measures in neonates, but the strength of the relationships changed for each over time, as did the degree and time‐course for performance recovery. CNS findings alone were insufficient to predict later outcome. Early behavioral evaluations were better predictors into the second year and indicated that: (1) high‐risk infants who performed normally as neonates had normal development; (2) those with early transient abnormalities appeared to normalize by 4 months but started to decline by 13–16 months; and (3) consistently abnormal early behavior predicted the worst outcome. Use of multiple measures in the neonatal period and repeated assessments across early infancy provide a useful and accurate approach for evaluating recovery from CNS injury, predicting later mental and motor performance and helping to design early intervention strategies.
Carbon Monoxide Alleviates Salt‐Induced Oxidative Damage in Wheat Seedling Leaves
Authors: Huang Ben‐Kai , Xu Sheng , Xuan Wei , Li Ming , Cao Ze‐Yu , Liu Kai‐Li , Ling Teng‐Fang , Shen Wen‐Biao
Published: March 2006

Carbon monoxide (CO), a by‐product released during the degradation of heme by heme oxygenases (EC 1.14.99.3) in animals, is regarded as an important physiological messenger or bioactive molecule involved in many biological events that has been recently reported as playing a major role in mediating the cytoprotection against oxidant‐induced lung injury. In the present study, we first determined the protective effect of exogenous CO against salt‐induced oxidative damage in wheat seedling leaves. Wheat seedlings treated with 0.01 μmol/L hematin as the CO donor demonstrated significant reversal of chlorophyll decay, dry weight, and water loss induced by 300 mmol/L NaCl stress. Interestingly, the increase in lipid peroxidation observed in salt‐treated leaves was reversed by 0.01 nmol/L hematin treatment. Time‐course analyses showed that application of 0.01 μmol/L hematin enhanced guaiacol peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase and catalase activities in wheat seedling leaves subjected to salt stress. These effects are specific for CO because the CO scavenger hemoglobin (1.2 mg/L) blocked the actions of the CO donor hematin. However, higher concentration of the CO donor (1.0 μmol/L) did not alleviate dry weight and water loss of salt‐stressed wheat seedlings. These results suggest that exogenous application of low levels of a CO donor may be advantageous against salinity toxicity.

(Managing editor: Ping He)
Variant Scaling Relationship for Mass‐Density Across Tree‐Dominated Communities
Authors: Li Hai‐Tao , Han Xing‐Guo , Wu Jian‐Guo
Published: March 2006

The past few decades have seen a resurgence of interest in biological allometry. Specifically, a number of recent studies has suggested a ‐4/3 invariant scaling relationship between mass and density that is universally valid for tree‐dominated communities, regardless of their phyletic affiliation or habitat. In the present study, we test this scaling relationship using a comprehensive forest biomass database, including 1 266 plots of six biomes and 17 forest types across China. The present study shows that the scaling exponent of the mass‐density relationship varies across different tree‐dominated communities and habitats. This great variability in the scaling exponent makes any generalization unwarranted. Although inappropriate regression methods can lead to flawed estimation of the scaling exponent, inconsistency of theoretical framework and empirical patterns may have undermined the validity of previous work.

(Managing editor: Ya‐Qin Han)
‘I Can't Eat That, It's Purple’: a Geography Field Course in Vanuatu and Fiji
Authors: CONNELL JOHN
Published: February 2006

A month‐long field course in the Pacific island states of Vanuatu and Fiji focused on development issues, involving lectures, seminars and much informal interaction. Students completed daily journals as a means of learning, a form of self‐assessment of learning, a way of evaluating their participation in the course and their perception of its value. Journal themes reflected an evolution from unsettling rhetorical questions towards notions of discovery, autonomy, reflexivity and emerging cultural sensitivity. Students developed valuable social skills, and gained first‐hand experience of various concepts of development and social justice. Grading the journals was difficult because of the extent of subjectivity and diverse personal experiences. The course, and the journals, emphasised the diverse values and roles of courses both on, and particularly in, developing countries, despite the substantial costs.
Doing Fieldwork in Development Geography: Research Culture and Research Spaces in Vietnam
Authors: SCOTT STEFFANIE , MILLER FIONA , LLOYD KATE
Published: February 2006

Rapid socioeconomic and institutional changes in Vietnam since the early 1990s have opened up new geographical spaces for field research. Reflecting on the experiences of three doctoral student researchers engaged in distinct development geography fieldwork projects in Vietnam, this paper profiles some of the conditions and procedures for carrying out fieldwork in order to serve as a basis for comparison of changing ‘fieldwork possibilities’ in Vietnam and other developing and transitional socialist countries.
Exploring the Transition: Coursework to Research‐Based Study in the Geography Honours Year
Authors: SCHWEINSBERG STEPHEN , MCMANUS PHIL
Published: February 2006

The transition from coursework study to independent research is a component of many geography Honours programs in Australian tertiary institutions. Despite being canvassed at the 2003 annual meeting of the Australian Heads of Geography Units, it is a topic that has, to date, received relatively little academic attention.

This paper developed from a review of the Geography Honours program at the University of Sydney, conducted by the authors in early 2004. The paper aims to help address the perceived deficiency of research into Honours study. Three topics, related to the Honours year transition, are discussed. These are: the rationale for the Honours year transition from undergraduate coursework to research‐focussed study; the composition and rationale behind coursework programs for geography Honours students, and student‐supervisor relations and their impact on independent Honours research. In the process of examining these issues this paper offers suggestions as to how tertiary geography schools can look to develop their Honours year programs. These recommendations are made with the understanding that all tertiary Honours programs are unique and that issues such as staffing levels and departmental structure will influence what suggestions are appropriate for individual institutions. It is hoped that this paper will encourage more discussion about the nature of the Honours year. It is through such communication that the value of the Honours year in student development can be enhanced
Re‐sampling for Soil‐caesium‐137 to Assess Soil Losses after a 19‐year Interval in a Hunter Valley Vineyard, New South Wales, Australia
Authors: LOUGHRAN ROBERT J. , BALOG RICHARD M.
Published: February 2006

Soils in a lower Hunter valley vineyard, New South Wales, Australia, were sampled and analysed for caesium‐137, an indicator of soil erosion status, in 1984–1985 and 2004. From the time of the vineyard's first establishment in 1971 to 1985, estimated soil losses were 250 tonnes (equivalent to 64.2 t ha−1 yr−1). Re‐sampling in 2004 showed that soil losses were 48 tonnes in the 19 years since 1985, equivalent to 9.7 t ha−1 yr−1. The decline in erosion rates may be explained by a change in land and soil management from intensive cultivation to one of no cultivation (sod culture) in 1998, and a lower annual rainfall and fewer rain‐days per year in the period from 1986 to 2004.
Indigenous Research: Whose Priority? Journeys and Possibilities of Cross‐Cultural Research in Geography
Authors: HODGE PAUL , LESTER JOHN
Published: February 2006

Decolonising research in geography is part of a broader ‘reflexive’ process which continues to question the positivist status of ‘researcher as observer’. This paper contributes to this reflexive turn, drawing on the particular experiences of a cross‐cultural Honours thesis. The paper is pursued through a parallel journey involving a non‐Indigenous researcher (and author of the cross‐cultural Honours thesis) engaging Indigenous research1 with interpretative insight from an Indigenous adviser or ‘on‐looker’. The methodological difficulties revealed by the parallel journey are emphasised to highlight both the complexities and reflexive possibilities of cross‐cultural research but also to consider potential institutional and pedagogic implications that stem from the experience. One of the substantial findings of the paper is that, by linking Indigenous community priorities to research and coursework, conventional (and often unequal) research relations are minimised and colonising tendencies reduced. By challenging the conventional way that cross‐cultural research is conceived, and the way that institutional practices and research frameworks are implemented, geographers can continue their prolonged and complex efforts at decolonisation of the field and their own practices.
An Experimental Investigation of a High Flux Heat Pipe Heat Sink
Authors: Ma H. B. , Lofgreen K. P. , Peterson G. P.
Published: March 2006

An experimental investigation of a highly efficient heat pipe heat sink was investigated, in which the interline region was optimized using sintered particles. The effects of condenser size, sintered particles, and forced air flow on the heat transfer performance were investigated experimentally. The experimental results indicated that the thin film evaporation could significantly increase the evaporating heat transfer coefficient and remove heat fluxes up to 800kW∕m2. In addition, a theoretical model capable of predicting the temperature drop occurring in this device was developed. The predicted performance was in good agreement with the experimental data and the resulting model can be used to assist in the design of high heat flux, heat pipe heat sinks.
Numerical Analysis of Blockage and Optimization of Heat Transfer Performance of Fractal-like Microchannel Nets
Authors: Wang Xiang-Qi , Mujumdar Arun S. , Yap Christopher
Published: March 2006

The conjugate fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics of fractal-like microchannel nets embedded in a disk-shape heat sink are investigated using a three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approach. A constant heat flux is applied to the top wall of the heat sink. The intrinsic advantages of fractal-like microchannel nets such as low flow resistance, temperature uniformity, and reduced danger of blockage compared with the traditional parallel channel nets are demonstrated. In addition, various optimized designs with parameters such as the number of branches, number of branching levels, and number of channels that reach the center of the disk are addressed in this context.