bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The mechanism of ischemic stroke in patients with dolichoectatic basilar artery
Authors: Kumral E. , Kisabay A. , Ataç C. , Kaya Ç. , Çalli C.
Published: May 2005

Basilar artery dolichoectesia (BD) may cause brainstem ischemia by multiple mechanisms, including thrombosis, embolism, occlusion of deep penetrating arteries. The objective of this study was to determine and characterize clinical, imaging findings and hemodynamic mechanisms in patients with cerebrovascular event associated with BD and compare these data with those for patients with BD who did not have stroke. We studied 29 consecutive stroke, two transient ischemic attack (TIA) patients with BD who have been admitted to our stroke unit. We sought the diameter of ectasia, height of the bifurcation, lateral displacement, shape deformities, and blood flow velocity of the basilar artery (BA) by transcranial Doppler. Imaging and hemodynamic findings were compared with those found in a group of 18 patients without stroke or TIA. The main infarct localization was pons, eight (28%) with restricted single lesion, 10 (32%) with multiple lesions involving thalamus, midbrain, posterior cerebral artery (PCA) territory. Patients with BD were more probably to have had stroke fitting a clinical and imaging patterns of multiple infarcts than those with restricted infarct in territories supplied by branches of the BA (60% vs. 40%). Hypertension and atherosclerotic changes of the posterior circulation were more frequent in patients with stroke than those without (P = 0.004 andP = 0.028, respectively), whilst the incidence of other vascular risk factors were not significantly different in two groups. Patients with stroke/TIA had more often low blood flow velocity but not significant in the BA when compared with those for BD patients without cerebrovascular event (71% vs. 39%;P = 0.1). Reduced blood flow velocity in the BA was correlated significantly with distal lesions involving thalamus, midbrain and PCA territory rather than those located in the territory supplied by branches of the BA (P = 0.02). In conclusion, it seems probably that BD may cause vertebrobasilar system ischemia by multiple mechanisms, especially reduced blood flow in the BA and atheromatous changes in the vertebrobasilar system may precipitate thromboembolic stroke.
Extra temporal involvement in herpes simplex encephalitis
Authors: Wasay M. , Mekan S. F. , Khelaeni B. , Saeed Z. , Hassan A. , Cheema Z. , Bakshi R.
Published: May 2005

Temporal lobe abnormalities on brain imaging have been described as strong evidence for herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) in appropriate clinical settings. Extra temporal abnormalities are less well described in these patients. We retrospectively reviewed 20 patients of HSE and found extra temporal involvement in 11 (55%) patients. Three patients (15 %) had pure extra temporal abnormalities. Twelve patients (60%) had temporal lobe involvement, four patients (20%) had pure temporal lobe involvement and five patients (25%) had normal CT/MRI scans. Our study suggests that extra temporal involvement on brain imaging is common in HSE and in a significant minority of the patients this can even be the sole abnormality.
Absence of focal neurological involvement in tick‐borne relapsing fever in northern Tanzania
Authors: Mayegga E. , Ljøstad U. , Mygland Å. , Monstad P.
Published: May 2005

The aim of the study was to chart incidence and clinical features of tick‐borne relapsing fever in Tanzania. Consecutive patients with fever and spirochetes demonstrated in a thick blood smear at Haydom Lutheran Hospital from 1 January to 31 December 2003 underwent clinical and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) examination. Forty‐four patients were included, making an estimated minimum annual incidence of 11 per 100 000 population in this region. The mortality rate was 2.3% (95% CI = 0–12). The most frequent complaints were generalized malaise (93%), headache (86%), nausea and vomiting (52%). None of the patients [0% (95% CI = 0–8)] had focal neurological symptoms. Cell count in CSF was normal in 22 and slightly elevated (6–12 leukocytes/mm3) in 20 patients. Two of three pregnancies had a poor outcome. Jarisch–Herxheimer reactions, bleeding complications and ocular manifestations were infrequent. In conclusion, tick‐borne relapsing fever is a common disease in the Northern highland of Tanzania, but in contrast to other parts of the world, neurological involvement is uncommon in this area.
A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study of the efficacy and safety of tolperisone in spasticity following cerebral stroke
Authors: Stamenova P. , Koytchev R. , Kuhn K. , Hansen C. , Horvath F. , Ramm S. , Pongratz D.
Published: May 2005

To study the efficacy and safety of tolperisone – a centrally acting muscle relaxant with membrane stabilizing activity – in the treatment of stroke‐related spasticity. This was a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, multicenter study with parallel groups. Treatment lasted 12 weeks and was started with a titration period of variable length (dose range 300–900 mg tolperisone daily). The degree of spasticity determined on the Ashworth Scale in the most severely affected joint area was defined as primary target parameter. Hundred and twenty patients (43 females, 77 males) in a mean age of 63.3 ± 10.6 years were recruited and received treatment. In the majority of patients both limbs of each side (right: n = 59; left: n = 56) were affected by the spasticity which on average had been present for 3.3 ± 4.4 years. A 62% of the patients were treated with a daily dose ≥600 mg tolperisone. Tolperisone reduced the mean Ashworth Score by a mean of 1.03 ± 0.71 compared with a mean reduction of 0.47 ± 0.54 in the placebo group (P < 0.0001). A 78.3% of the patients on tolperisone versus 45% of the placebo patients experienced a reduction by at least 1 point on the Ashworth Scale (P < 0.0001). Functional and overall assessments of efficacy confirmed superior efficacy of tolperisone. Adverse events occurred less often on active treatment (n = 19) than on placebo (n = 26) and were mostly of mild‐to‐moderate intensity. No withdrawals caused by adverse events were reported in the tolperisone group. The findings of the present study demonstrate the efficacy and excellent tolerance of tolperisone in the treatment of spastic hypertonia following cerebral stroke. Study data further suggest that an individual dose titration which may exceed the recommended maximum dose of 450 mg daily results in optimized therapeutic benefit.
Anterior and non‐anterior ruptured aneurysms: Memory and frontal lobe function performance following coiling
Authors: Manning L. , Pierot L. , Dufour A.
Published: May 2005

Our aim was to compare memory and frontal function performance between two groups of patients treated with Guglielmi detachable coil (GDC) following intracranial ruptured aneurysm. The subgroups drawn following the localization of the aneurysm consisted of 19 patients presenting with anterior communicating artery aneurysms and 16 patients exhibiting middle cerebral artery and posterior communicating artery aneurysms. The 35 patients and 35 normal controls were administered extensive neuropsychological assessment. Additionally, a scale of qualitative changes of mood was presented to the patients and patients’ relatives. The patients showed a better general performance on memory compared with the executive function performance, which was similarly impaired in both groups. We suggest that executive functions are more vulnerable to differently located lesions than memory functions.
Bone mineral density in familial amyloid polyneuropathy and in other neuromuscular disorders
Authors: Conceição I. M. , Miranda L. C. , Simões E. , Gouveia R. G. , Evangelista T. D. , de Carvalho M. A.
Published: May 2005

Neuromuscular diseases are a known risk factor for immobilization‐induced osteoporosis. The aim of the study was to analyse bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with familial amyloid polyneuropathy (FAP) type I (Val30 Met) and to compare them with a population of patients with other neuromuscular disorders. We studied 24, ambulatory, neuromuscular patients, all men and premenopausal women. We included 12 FAP patients (GI) and 12 patients with other disorders (GII). Clinical data included age, sex, height, weight, alcohol intake, smoking, calcium intake, physical activity and history of fractures. Serum and urinary calcium, osteocalcin, bone alkaline phosphatase, parathyroid hormone, thyroid stimulating hormone and urinary N‐telopeptide cross‐linked type 1 collagen were determined in all patients. Bone mineral density of lumbar spine, hip and wrist were determined by dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry scan. No statistical differences were found in clinical or analytic data between the two groups, except for body mass index and calciuria, which were lower in GI. In GI, 54.5% were osteoporotic, against 23.1% in GII (P = 0.04). Bone mineral density was lower in GI when compared with GII, and tended to decrease with disease duration. Decreased BMI and the early autonomic involvement in GI probably explain the results. The prevention and early treatment of osteoporosis, in FAP patients should be considered a priority.
The Vanishing Protestant Majority
Authors: SMITH TOM W. , KIM SEOKHO
Published: May 2005

Since colonial times, the United States has been a majority Protestant nation. But the proportion Protestant in the population has been falling for over a decade, and Protestants are poised to lose their majority status. This decline results from a decline in the intergenerational retention rate for Protestants and from the attrition of Protestants among the youngest cohorts. Shifts in immigration also contribute to the Protestant decline. We also consider the role of an increasing share of people identifying as generic Christians and as inter‐ or nondenominational.
Atlantic capelin (Mallotus villosus) tetranucleotide microsatellites
Authors: GORDOS K. , KENCHINGTON E. L. , HAMILTON L. C. , NAKASHIMA B. S. , TAGGART C. T.
Published: May 2005

Twelve microsatellite loci developed for Atlantic capelin (Mallotus villosus) using magnetic bead hybridization enrichment for tetranucleotide microsatellites revealed five loci composed of single repeat elements and six composed of complex repeats. Forty‐four beach‐spawning females from three different northwestern Atlantic Newfoundland beach‐spawning populations were screened at each locus. Loci were polymorphic (two to 59 alleles per locus) and all but two exhibited high heterozygosity (0.86–1). The loci are considered suitable for addressing questions related to fine‐scale population structure, spawning fidelity and survivorship/kinship issues.
Isolation and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite loci from an EST‐library of red sea bream (Chrysophrys major) and cross‐species amplification
Authors: CHEN S. L. , LIU Y. G. , XU M. Y. , LI J.
Published: May 2005

Microsatellite markers have been developed from a complementary DNA (cDNA) library of red sea bream, Chrysophrys major. Twenty‐eight microsatellites were selected for designing microsatellite primers, of which 11 gave working primer pairs. Observed and expected heterozygosities varied from 0.33 to 1.00 and from 0.38 to 0.83, respectively. Five additional fish species assessed for cross‐species amplification revealed between one and six positive amplifications and between 0 and 6 polymorphic loci per species.
Isolation and characterization of polymorphic microsatellites in Parnassius apollo and Euphydryas aurinia (Lepidoptera)
Authors: PETENIAN FREDERIC , MEGLÉCZ EMESE , GENSON GWENAELLE , RASPLUS JEAN‐YVES , FAURE ERIC
Published: May 2005

Microsatellite loci were developed from Parnassius apollo and Euphydryas aurinia, two endangered Palaearctic butterfly species. Respectively, six and five polymorphic loci were characterized from an enriched partial genomic library. Genetic diversity range from three to 25 alleles for the first species and from seven to 21 for the second. Although the presence of null alleles is suspected, these polymorphic loci are likely to provide important information on the fine scale genetic structure among populations of these species.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite markers in musk duck (Biziura lobata: Aves), and their application to other waterfowl species
Authors: GUAY P.‐J. , MULDER R. A.
Published: May 2005

We isolated and characterized 11 novel microsatellite loci to study paternity in the Australian musk duck (Biziura lobata), using nonradioactive PCR‐based techniques to screen GA and GAAA repeats enriched genomic DNA libraries. Nine of 11 loci showed no evidence of null alleles and were variable (mean HE = 0.825, mean number of alleles = 9). This set of nine loci is suitable for paternity assignment (exclusion probability for nine unlinked loci = 0.9999). We also demonstrated that many of these loci cross‐amplify in various other waterfowl species.
Characterization of tetranucleotide microsatellite markers in guppy (Poecilia reticulata)
Authors: PATERSON I. G. , CRISPO E. , KINNISON M. T. , HENDRY A. P. , BENTZEN P.
Published: May 2005

Ten tetranucleotide microsatellite loci are characterized for guppy, Poecilia reticulata, an important model species in the study of adaptation and mating systems. Loci were isolated following a microsatellite enrichment procedure using probe‐labelled magnetic beads. These microsatellites were designed for use in examining gene flow, reproductive isolation, and parentage within natural guppy populations.
M‐AFLP‐based protocol for microsatellite loci isolation in Cynara cardunculus L. (Asteraceae)
Authors: ACQUADRO A. , PORTIS E. , ALBERTINI E. , LANTERI S.
Published: May 2005

Nine microsatellite markers for Cynara cardunculus L. were developed using a two‐step ‘primer extension’ procedure, based on microsatellite‐amplified fragment length polymorphism (M‐AFLP) technique. In the first step, highly enriched SSR gel profiles were produced and, from the derived sequences of selected bands, forward primers directed towards the microsatellite motif were designed. In the second step, the opposite microsatellite flanking sequence was isolated using a nested approach on a restricted‐ligated genomic fraction. Polymorphism was explored in 24 plants of wild cardoon (Cynara cardunculus L. var. sylvestris) as well as two accessions of both globe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus L. var. scolymus), and cultivated cardoon (Cynara cardunculus L. var. altilis).
Characterization of nuclear microsatellite loci in South American Araucariaceae species
Authors: SALGUEIRO F. , CARON H. , DE SOUZA M. I. F. , KREMER A. , MARGIS R.
Published: May 2005

The Araucariaceae family has only two species in South America: Araucaria angustifolia and Araucaria araucana. Both species are mainly used for timber and have been overexploited in the past. Currently, they are found as fragmented populations and are classified under the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) guidelines as vulnerable species. Population fragmentation may seriously affect the genetic diversity of these two species of Araucariaceae and can consequently lead to decreased survival. To better understand the genetic structure of these South American Araucaria species, eight nuclear microsatellites are reported: six new microsatellites loci developed based on a membrane enrichment procedure and two microsatellites loci transferred from the related species, Araucaria cunninghamii.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite markers inPerilla frutescensBrit
Authors: KWON SOON‐JAE , LEE JU‐KYONG , KIM NAM‐SOO , YU JAE‐WOONG , DIXIT ANUPAM , CHO EUN‐GI , PARK YONG‐JIN
Published: May 2005

We isolated and characterized 13 polymorphic microsatellite primers fromPerilla frutescensBrit. var.frutescensby using a modified method that involves one‐way PCR amplification with single primer prior to enrichment with an ‘oligo hook’. The efficiency of this procedure for isolating unique microsatellite sequences was approximately 77%. The number of alleles per microsatellite locus ranged from three to 10 with an average of 6.5 alleles per locus while fragment size varied from 156 to 298 bp. The observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.52 to 0.86 and 0.52 to 0.89, respectively. These newly isolated microsatellite markers are expected to provide valuable resources for different genetic studies currently underway in ourPerillagenome research program.
Seventy‐five EST‐linked Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) microsatellite markers and their cross‐amplification in five salmonid species
Authors: VASEMÄGI ANTI , NILSSON JAN , PRIMMER CRAIG R.
Published: May 2005

An Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) expressed sequence tag (EST) database consisting of 58 146 ESTs was screened for microsatellite sequences. Subsequent development of 75 polymorphic EST‐associated microsatellite markers in this species is described together with cross‐species amplification results of 133 gene‐associated tandem repeat markers in five salmonid species (Salmo trutta, Oncorhynchus mykiss, Salvelinus aplinus, Thymallus thymallus, Coregonus lavaretus). The number of alleles among EST‐linked microsatellites in Atlantic salmon ranged from two to 41 with an average of 12 alleles per locus. Cross‐species amplification resulted in detection of a total of 111 polymorphic locus‐species combinations (12–32 loci per species).
Identification of 13 polymorphic microsatellite loci in the zebra finch,Taeniopygia guttata(Passeridae, Aves)
Authors: DAWSON DEBORAH A. , CHITTOCK JOHN , JEHLE ROBERT , WHITLOCK APRIL , NOGUEIRA DENISE , PELLATT JAYNE , BIRKHEAD TIM , BURKE TERRY
Published: May 2005

Polymorphic microsatellite loci were identified in order to determine paternity in a captive population of the zebra finch,Taeniopygia guttata. Primer sets from 93 published passerine microsatellite sequences were tested for cross‐species amplification. Thirteen loci were found to be polymorphic, of which, eight displayed null alleles and one locus (Ase50) was found to be Z‐chromosome linked.
Microsatellite loci in the eastern form of the giant freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii)
Authors: CHAND VINCENT , DE BRUYN MARK , MATHER PETER B.
Published: May 2005

Six microsatellite loci were identified and characterized in the eastern form of the widespread and commercially important giant freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii). The loci were detected by randomly screening for dinucleotide and trinucleotide repeat units within a partial genomic library developed for the species. In a sample of 29 prawns, number of alleles and heterozygosity per locus ranged from 12 to 18 and from 0.66 to 0.90, respectively. These markers provide powerful tools for the conservation and management of wild stocks, the improvement of cultured stocks of M. rosenbergii, and for investigating evolutionary processes underlying genetic divergence among populations.
Characterization of polymorphic microsatellite markers in the Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella (Hübner)
Authors: GRACE TONY , KAMBHAMPATI SRINIVAS , SUBRAMANYAM BHADRIRAJU
Published: May 2005

The Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella (Hübner), is a serious and widespread pest of stored food commodities worldwide. Studies on the population genetics and breeding structure of P. interpunctella are lacking. Understanding the breeding structure of this pest has implications for its management. Fifteen microsatellite loci were isolated, cloned and characterized using an enrichment method. Forty individuals from six subpopulations were tested for polymorphism. Nine loci were found to be polymorphic. The number of alleles varied from three to six per locus.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci in the striped mullet, Mugil cephalus
Authors: MIGGIANO E. , LYONS R. E. , LI Y. , DIERENS L. M. , CROSETTI D. , SOLA L.
Published: May 2005

Forty‐three microsatellites were isolated from grey mullet (Mugil cephalus) of Mediterranean origin using the standard enrichment methods followed by enhanced chemiluminescence for the rapid identification of clones containing microsatellites. Eleven microsatellites were characterized to assess genetic diversity of different populations surrounding the island of Sardinia in Italy. The versatility of these markers was also assessed using an Australian population. All 11 microsatellites were highly polymorphic with a mean heterozygosity of 0.834. The number of alleles ranged from 14 to 38 in the Sardinian populations and from 11 to 25 in the Australian samples.
Development and characterization of microsatellite markers from the yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa)
Authors: OLIVEIRA E. J. , PÁDUA J. G. , ZUCCHI M. I. , CAMARGO L. E. A. , FUNGARO M. H. P. , VIEIRA M. L. C.
Published: May 2005

Here we described the development of the first set of Passiflora microsatellite loci isolated from an enriched genomic library. A sample of 43 individuals from 12 accessions of the yellow passion fruit was used to characterize those loci, which revealed up to 20 alleles per locus. Two loci were monomorphic. The observed (HO) and expected (HE) heterozygosities were very similar, as expected for a self‐incompatible species. Allelic diversity (HT) was 0.444. This set of markers will permit genetic structure analyses of cultivated and wild populations of Passiflora, and contribute for integrating genetic maps based on dominant markers, as they can provide bridge alleles.
Isolation and cross‐familial amplification of 41 microsatellites for the brook charr (Salvelinus fontinalis)
Authors: PERRY GUY M. L. , KING TIM L. , ST.‐CYR JÉRÔME , VALCOURT MANON , BERNATCHEZ LOUIS
Published: May 2005

The brook charr (Salvelinus fontinalis; Osteichthyes: Salmonidae) is a phenotypically diverse fish species inhabiting much of North America. But relatively few genetic diagnostic resources are available for this fish species. We isolated 41 microsatellites from S. fontinalis polymorphic in one or more species of salmonid fish. Thirty‐seven were polymorphic in brook charr, 15 in the congener Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) and 14 in the lake charr (Salvelinus namaycush). Polymorphism was also relatively high in Oncorhynchus, where 21 loci were polymorphic in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and 16 in cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii) but only seven and four microsatellite loci were polymorphic in the more distantly related lake whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis) and Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), respectively. One duplicated locus (Sfo228Lav) was polymorphic at both duplicates in S. fontinalis.
Isolation and characterization of six microsatellite markers in the large yellow croaker (Pseudosciaena crocea Richardson)
Authors: GUO WEI , WANG ZHI‐YONG , WANG YI‐LEI , ZHANG ZI‐PING , GUI JIAN‐FANG
Published: May 2005

Six polymorphic microsatellite markers were isolated and characterized using an enriched library technique in the large yellow croaker (Pseudosciaena crocea Richardson, 1864), a commercially important marine fish in China. They showed PIC (polymorphism information content) ranging from 0.064 to 0.885 (average of 0.580) and allele numbers ranging from two to 13 (average of 7.5), which were useful for the studies on population genetics and selective breeding of the large yellow croaker.
Development and characterization of simple sequence repeat DNA markers for Zelkova serrata
Authors: FUKATSU E. , ISODA K. , HIRAO T. , TAKAHASHI M. , WATANABE A.
Published: May 2005

We developed 14 microsatellite loci from an enriched genomic DNA library of a broad‐leaved deciduous tree, Zelkova serrata. Of 198 clones from the library, 112 contained microsatellite repeat regions. The M13‐tailed primer method was used for economy. Sequence‐specific primer pairs were designed for 58 of 76 candidate clones. Fourteen of these primer pairs successfully amplified polymorphic single loci among 34 individuals collected from the Kanto breeding region in Japan. The expected heterozygosity for the 14 microsatellite markers ranged from 0.378 to 0.876, suggesting that these will prove valuable for breeding and ecological studies on Z. serrata.
Isolation of five polymorphic microsatellite loci in the invasive weed Ambrosia artemisiifolia (Asteraceae) using an enrichment protocol
Authors: GENTON B. J. , JONOT O. , THÉVENET D. , FOURNIER E. , BLATRIX R. , VAUTRIN D. , SOLIGNAC M. , GIRAUD T.
Published: May 2005

We report the development of five microsatellite markers for the invasive North American native plant Ambrosia artemisiifolia (Asteraceae). An enrichment protocol was used to isolate microsatellite loci and polymorphism was explored with samples from 16 natural populations collected in the native range, across North America, and in an invaded area along the Rhône Valley in France. In these areas, we found a high level of polymorphism within population and significant heterozygote deficiencies.
Sixty simple sequence repeat markers for use in the Festuca–Lolium complex of grasses
Authors: LAUVERGEAT V. , BARRE P. , BONNET M. , GHESQUIÈRE M.
Published: May 2005

So far only very few simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers developed from grass species have had their primer sequences published. To make more markers available to the scientific community, we isolated and sequenced 256 microsatellite‐containing clones from four genome libraries of a Lolium multiflorum×Festuca glaucescens F1 hybrid following enrichment in (TC)n, (TG)n, or both repeats. In this work, we report the primer sequences of 60 SSRs including preliminary results of polymorphism for mapping.
DNA microsatellites in the neon damselfish (Pomacentrus coelestis)
Authors: MILLER‐SIMS VANESSA , DELANEY MARTHA , ATEMA JELLE , KINGSFORD MICHAEL J. , GERLACH GABRIELE
Published: May 2005

To determine the degree of genetic exchange between populations of the neon damselfish, Pomacentrus coelestis, among different reefs of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia, we characterized seven polymorphic microsatellite loci.
Isolation and characterization of 12 tetranucleotide repeat microsatellite loci from the green‐backed tit (Parus monticolus)
Authors: WANG MEI‐TING , HSU YU‐CHENG , YAO CHENG‐TE , LI SHOU‐HSIEN
Published: May 2005

From a partial genomic library enriched for GATA short tandem repeats, we developed 12 polymorphic microsatellite loci from the green‐backed tit (Parus monticolus). We characterized these loci by genotyping 30 adult individuals with unknown relationship. The number of alleles ranged from four to 17 per locus (mean = 9.3 alleles) and the observed heterozygosity for each locus ranged from 0.633 to 0.933 (mean = 0.789). All loci conformed to Hardy–Weinberg expectations. Four of 66 possible pairwise comparisons between loci showed significant gametic disequilibrium.
Investor Rationality: Evidence from U.K. Property Capitalization Rates
Authors: Hendershott Patric H. , MacGregor Bryan D.
Published: May 2005

Recent analyses have suggested the irrationality of Australian and U.S. office property investors in that they have failed to raise capitalization rates sufficiently at rental cyclical peaks to account for the obvious mean reversion in real rents and thus have significantly overvalued properties. In this article, we present a model of capitalization rates and explain U.K. office and retail cap rates in an error correction framework. We demonstrate that our proxies for expected real rental growth do, in fact, forecast future real growth and that cap rates reflect rational expectations of mean reversion in future real cash flows. Moreover, property cap rates are linked to the equity capitalization rate (dividend/price ratio) and expected real dividend growth in the expected manner.
Real Estate and Economies of Scale: The Case of REITs
Authors: Ambrose Brent W. , Highfield Michael J. , Linneman Peter D.
Published: May 2005

Building on past research in the economies‐of‐scale debate, we test for scale economies in real estate investment trusts (REITs) by examining growth prospects, revenue and expense measures, profitability ratios, systematic risk and capital costs. Overall, we find that large REITs are increasing growth prospects while succeeding at lowering costs, leading to a direct relationship between firm profitability and firm size. Additionally, we find an inverse relationship between equity betas and firm size, and for all cost of capital measures we find significant scale economies. Further evidence from the stochastic frontier analysis suggests efficiency opportunities appear possible through continued growth and consolidation in REITs.
On the Time‐Series Properties of Real Estate Investment Trust Betas
Authors: Chiang Kevin C.H. , Lee Ming‐Long , Wisen Craig H.
Published: May 2005

The relation between real estate investment trust (REIT) returns and stock market returns is of significant importance to investors, practitioners and academics. The temporal properties of this relationship have a critical impact on the usefulness of REIT risk estimates and portfolio allocations to this asset class. Recent studies have suggested a decline in the market betas of equity real estate investment trusts (EREITs). This study applies a rigorous statistical test of the hypothesis that the market betas of EREITs have remained unchanged during the 1972 through 2002 time period. There is weak evidence of a downward trend in EREIT betas using a single‐factor model; however, the hypothesis is not rejected when using a three‐factor model.
In Memoriam: Mordecai Kaffman, M.D. (1917–2005)
Authors: Elizur Yoel
Published: May 2005

A word of warning: the following ideas will be presented in plain everyday language, avoiding any type of professional lexicon. It may be that this down‐to‐earth form of presentation will disappoint some of my potential readers who are accustomed to peruse material presented in sophisticated meta‐systemic language. All I can do is plead guilty, and in self‐defense put forward two arguments. First, that I cannot escape the universal truth, “the style is the man,” and second, that the simple ideas which I am to present here are all, without exception, the result of concrete clinical experience, with no admixture of theoretical armchair speculation.
Personal Experience in Professional Narratives: The Role of Helpers' Families in Their Work With Terror Victims
Authors: Shamai Michal
Published: May 2005

This article describes research on the narratives of social workers who help terror victims, focusing on the relationship between the helpers' families and their work. Qualitative analysis of three training groups of social workers who are responsible for helping in the event of terror attacks in different parts of Israel, and of three debriefing groups for social workers after terror attacks, reveals that the helpers' families play a role in the narratives constructed by the helpers. Two main themes were identified. The first centers on the interaction between work and the family, and shows that in the situation of a terror attack, the conflict between the two disappears and the family often serves as a support system for the helpers. The second theme refers to the family dimension alone, and focuses on the dichotomy between vitality and loss. The way that family life events affect helpers' professional intervention is described. The findings are discussed in light of Conservation of Resources Theory, the fight‐flight response to threat, and the concept of the family as a source of safety and risk taking.
The prevention of plaque re‐growth by toothpastes and solutions containing block copolymers with and without polypeptide
Authors: Claydon N. C. , Addy M. , Newcombe R. , Moran J.
Published: May 2005

Background/Aims: Chemicals which have a direct effect at inhibiting or reducing bacterial adherence to tooth surfaces may subsequently inhibit plaque growth and reduce gingival inflammation. This study investigated whether two anti‐adherent systems could inhibit plaque re‐growth in the mouth when rinsed as a solution or as a toothpaste slurry.

Methods: A total of 21 subjects took part in a partially blind, seven cell cross‐over study which compared the effects on plaque re‐growth of a binary system containing block copolymers, a ternary system containing block copolymers and polypeptide, both used as toothpaste slurry rinses, their corresponding solution rinses, a conventional fluoride toothpaste rinse, a positive control chlorhexidine rinse and a negative water control. Following a dental prophylaxis subjects then rinsed with 10 ml of one of the test products for 1 min. twice a day over a 4‐day period. Throughout each trial period the subjects were not permitted to use any other forms of oral hygiene. On the fifth day (96 h), the volunteers returned to the clinic, and plaque was assessed by (1) plaque index and (2) plaque area following disclosing with a food dye. The test phase of the trial was repeated for each agent and was followed by a 10‐day “washout” period.

Results: Essentially neither of the anti‐adherent systems inhibited plaque re‐growth, whether administered in a toothpaste slurry or solution compared with the controls. If anything, neither of the test pastes were as effective as the marketed commercial paste (p<0.001). As expected plaque recorded following use of the chlorhexidine rinse was significantly less than that seen with any of the other rinses (p<0.001).

Conclusions: Using this 4‐day plaque re‐growth model, the findings of this study failed to show any benefit in using the anti‐adherent systems, either in a rinse or toothpaste, with the aim of inhibiting or reducing plaque formation.
Effect of periodic preventive care on the progression of periodontal disease in young adults with Down's syndrome
Authors: Yoshihara Toshihiro , Morinushi Takanobu , Kinjyo Sachiko , Yamasaki Youichi
Published: May 2005

Objectives: To examine the effect of periodic preventive care on the progression of periodontal disease in 24 young adults with Down's syndrome (DS) (mean age±SD: 20.8±5.6 years)

Material and Methods: Subjects were divided into two groups: 13 subjects who had frequently visited our clinic (mean interval between visits: 3.7±1.3 months; managed group) and 11 subjects who had not visited our clinic for more than 1 year (mean duration of no visits: 27.5±10.1 months; interrupted group). The progression of periodontal disease in the subjects was evaluated clinically, microbiologically and roentgenologically.

Results: Clinical parameters (probing depth, frequency of the presence of a pathological periodontal pocket, alveolar bone loss, frequency of the incidence of pathological bone loss, and modified total PMA (M‐PMA)) and benzoyl‐dl‐arginine‐naphthylamide (BANA) scores in the interrupted group were significantly higher than those in the managed group. Subject age showed significant positive correlations with probing depth and alveolar bone loss. BANA scores showed significant positive correlations with probing depth, alveolar bone loss and M‐PMA in the interrupted group.

Conclusions: The results suggest that periodic preventive care is effective for suppressing the progression of periodontal disease in young adults with DS.
Fibrin clot adhesion to dentin conditioned with protein constructs: an in vitro proof‐of‐principle study
Authors: Baker David L. , Stanley Pavlow Sarah A. , Wikesjö Ulf M. E.
Published: May 2005

Objectives: Periodontal regeneration is contingent on the adsorption, uninterrupted adhesion, and maturation of a fibrin clot to a periodontally compromised root surface. Clot adhesion appears vitally dependent on the formation of a resilient union between the clot and the root surface. Root surface demineralization will remove a root surface smear layer exposing dentin tubules and collagen matrix for enhanced clot adhesion. Recently, protein constructs have been introduced to condition the root during periodontal surgery. The effect of such root conditioning on clot adhesion has not been clarified. The objective of this study was to evaluate clot adhesion to protein conditioned dentin surfaces.

Methods: Human dentin blocks (4 × 6 × 1 mm) were exposed to a saturated citric acid solution (CA) or a commercial ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) preparation using standardized protocols. Some dentin blocks were additionally conditioned with proteins, either bovine serum albumin (BSA) or an enamel matrix protein preparation (EMP). Fresh human whole blood was applied to the blocks. The blood was allowed to clot for 20 min. in a humidified chamber. The dentin blocks were rinsed 3 × 5 min. in phosphate‐buffered saline under standardized conditions to test clot adhesion. They were then processed for scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Two masked examiners independently evaluated the SEM images.

Results: CA removed the dentin smear layer, exposing dentin tubules and collagen. EDTA appeared less efficacious leaving smear layer residues. The BSA or EMP application resulted in a surface morphology similar to that of a smear layer. Fibrin clot adhesion was best supported by the CA‐treated dentin surface. Forces produced by the rinse protocol partially removed the fibrin clot from EDTA‐treated surfaces. BSA‐ or EMP‐treated surfaces poorly retained the fibrin clot.

Conclusions: CA surface demineralization removes a dentin surface smear layer to promote adhesion of a fibrin clot. The EDTA gel appears less effective. Further conditioning of the dentin surface with protein constructs produces a surface morphology similar to that of the smear layer with poor fibrin clot retention.
Approximal plaque and gingival sulcus bleeding in routine dental care patients: relations to life stress, somatization and depression
Authors: Klages Ulrich , Weber Andreas Gordon , Wehrbein Heinrich
Published: May 2005

Objectives: Previous research on relations between life stress and periodontal conditions was often based on indicators of periodontal destruction history and stimulus‐specific measures of life stress. The present study was undertaken to compare patients showing different degrees of gingival sulcus bleeding with patients without signs of bleeding, using an instrument measuring cognitive impacts of events and assessing reported symptoms of depression and somatization. Additionally the patient groups were compared with regard to dental status and dental visiting behaviour. Analog comparisons were conducted in patients with different degrees of approximal plaque.

Materials and Methods: 140 routine dental care patients attending a private dental practice were examined. Measurement devices were the sulcus bleeding index (SBI), the approximal plaque index (API), the Dental Avoidance Scale, the Life Experience Survey (LES), the Impact of Event Scale with the subtests cognitive intrusion and cognitive avoidance, and the SCL‐90‐R subscales somatization and depression.

Results: Patients with high API scores differed from their zero‐score counterparts in dental avoidance and time since last visit only. By contrast, subjects scoring high in the SBI not only had more missing teeth and reported more dental avoidance than their zero‐score counterparts but also had elevated scores in intrusive and avoidant thoughts related to a stressful event as well as in symptoms of somatization and depression. No difference was found for the measure of stimulus specific recent life events (LES).

Conclusions: The results suggest that cognitive preoccupation with adverse events and the presence of somatization and depression symptoms might play a role in gingival inflammation.
The effect of a dexibuprofen mouth rinse on experimental gingivitis in humans
Authors: Rosin M. , Kähler S. T. , Hessler M. , Schwahn Ch. , Kuhr A. , Kocher T.
Published: May 2005

Objectives: The pharmacodynamic properties of ibuprofen are related nearly exclusively to the S(+)enantiomer (dexibuprofen). This study investigated the effect of a 1.5% dexibuprofen mouth rinse in an experimentally induced gingivitis.

Materials and Methods: The trial was a randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled, two‐period and two‐sequence parallel group cross‐over study in 24 healthy volunteers aged 21–30 years (16 males, eight females). Customized guards were worn during tooth brushing to prevent any plaque removal from the experimental area (first and second pre‐molars and molars in one upper quadrant). After 22 days of plaque accumulation, the mouth rinses (1.5% dexibuprofen and placebo) were administered under supervision three times daily (rinsing for 1 min. with 15 ml) for 8 days. The wash‐out time between the two study periods was 14 days. Parameters evaluated at days 0, 7, 14, 22, and 30 were the Löe & Silness gingival index (GI) and the Quigley & Hein plaque index (QHI). Data were tested for treatment, period, and carry‐over effects (parametric cross‐over analysis).

Results: There was no statistically significant difference (p=0.240) in GI between placebo and dexibuprofen. However, the decrease in QHI was significantly greater (p=0.019) with dexibuprofen as compared with the placebo.

Conclusion: In the present study, a 1.5% dexibuprofen mouth rinse had no effect on gingivitis whereas an anti‐plaque effect was demonstrated.
Relationship between maternal periodontal disease and low‐birth‐weight pre‐term infants
Authors: Moreu Gerardo , Téllez Luís , González‐Jaranay Maximino
Published: May 2005

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of periodontal status on low‐birth‐weight pre‐term delivery.

Material and Methods: Ninety‐six pregnant women were examined in their first, second and third trimester to record plaque scores, clinically assessed gingival inflammation and probing depth (mean depth and percentage of sites with depth of >3 mm). Binary logistic regression analyses were performed using SUDAAN 7.5 program. The type 1 (α) error established at 0.05 and an (α) error of 0.05–0.1 were considered nearly significant.

Results: The 96 women delivered 89 newborns: 16 were pre‐term and seven of these were of low birth weight. There were seven miscarriages, all in the second trimester. No statistically significant association was found between gestational age and periodontal parameters. No significant relationship was found between low‐weight delivery and plaque index measurements, although the association with gingival index was close to significant. A relationship was observed between low‐weight birth and probing depth measurements, especially the percentage of sites of >3 mm depth, which was statistically significant (p=0.0038) even when gestational age was controlled for.

Conclusions: According to these results, periodontal disease is a significant risk factor for low birth weight but not for pre‐term delivery.
Gingival tissue proteoglycan and chondroitin‐4‐sulphate levels in cyclosporin A‐induced gingival overgrowth and the effects of initial periodontal treatment
Authors: Vardar Saynur , Baylas Haluk , Zihnioğlu Figen , Buduneli Nurcan , Emingil Gülnur , Atilla Gül
Published: May 2005

Objectives: Cyclosporin A (CsA) is a potent immunosuppressive drug used in organ transplant patients to prevent graft rejection. CsA‐induced gingival overgrowth is one of the side effects of this drug and its pathogenesis is still unclear. The present study was planned to comparatively analyse total proteoglycan (PG) and chondroitin‐4‐sulphate (C4S) levels in CsA‐induced overgrown gingival tissue samples obtained before and after initial periodontal treatment and to compare these findings with the situation in healthy gingiva.

Material and Methods: Gingival tissue samples were obtained from nine patients with CsA‐induced gingival overgrowth before and 4 weeks after initial periodontal treatment including oral hygiene instruction and scaling and also from 10 healthy control subjects. Total PG and C4S levels were determined by biochemical techniques. PG levels were analysed using modified Bitter and Muir method. C4S assay was carried out using chondroitin sulphate lyase AC and chondroitin‐6 sulphate sulphohydrolase enzymes. The results were tested statistically using non‐parametric tests.

Results: All clinical measurements in the CsA‐induced gingival overgrowth group demonstrated significant reductions 4 weeks after initial periodontal treatment (p<0.05). There was no significant difference between the levels of baseline total PG in CsA‐induced gingival overgrowth and healthy control groups (p>0.05). The gingival tissue levels of PG in CsA‐induced gingival overgrowth group decreased significantly 4 weeks after treatment (p=0.043). Gingival tissue C4S levels in the overgrowth group were significantly higher than the healthy control group at baseline (p=0.000). C4S levels of the overgrowth group were significantly reduced after treatment (p=0.033), but these levels were still significantly higher than the healthy control group (p=0.000).

Conclusion: The observed prominent increase in gingival tissue C4S levels may be interpreted as a sign of an increase in C4S synthesis in CsA‐induced gingival overgrowth. Furthermore, remission of clinical inflammation by means of initial periodontal treatment had a positive effect on tissue levels of these extracellular matrix molecules.
Proportional distribution of the red complex and its individual pathogens after sample storage using the checkerboard DNA–DNA hybridization technique
Authors: Katsoulis Joannis , Lang Niklaus P. , Persson G. Rutger
Published: May 2005

Background: Information on the impact of sample storage prior to analysis by DNA methods is limited.

Aims: To investigate the effect of microbial sample storage on bacterial detection and proportional distribution of the red complex and its individual pathogens.

Material and Methods: Subgingival plaque samples were analysed by (1) immediate processing, (2) after storage at +4°C for 6 weeks, (3) after storage at −20°C for 6 months or (4) after storage at −20°C for 12 months using the checkerboard DNA–DNA hybridization.

Results: Proportional distribution of the red complex did not differ between the first three protocols. However, the total bacterial DNA for pathogens studied decreased significantly in protocols 3 and 4. Relative amounts of Tannerella forsythensis, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Treponema denticola remained stable in the second protocols and changed in an unpredictable way if stored for 6 or 12 months.

Conclusions: Results from samples stored for maximum 6 months at −20°C with high proportional amounts of the red complex and T. denticola may be used as an indicator of persistence. All bacterial samples for DNA extraction should be processed following a standardized storage protocol (i.e. samples stored at +4°C for maximum 6 weeks) in order to get comparable qualitative and quantitative results for total DNA, bacterial complexes and individual pathogens. Most representative results are yielded if processing and hybridization could be performed immediately after sampling.