bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonsupercritically Dried Silica–Alumina Aerogels—Effect of Gelation pH
Authors: Aravind Parakkulam Ramaswamy , Shajesh Palantavida , Smitha Sashidharan , Mukundan Poothayil , Warrier Krishna Gopakumar
Published: April 2008

Silica–alumina mixed oxide aerogels, with 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 wt% of alumina in silica, have been synthesized by a hybrid sol–gel technique followed by subcritical drying. The gelation has been carried out under pH values of 3 and 5. pH is a decisive parameter that affects the rate of hydrolysis and condensation of alkoxides. Moreover, it also influences the surface area and porosity features of the final material. The gelation time has been found to be much longer for gels that were gelled at pH 3. Nitrogen sorption studies of the aerogels calcined at 500°C indicate that the mixed oxide aerogels are mesoporous in nature and the gels prepared under a gelation pH of 3 have been found to have higher surface area than the pH 5 counterpart. Transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction analysis have been performed to verify the homogeneity of the mixed oxide aerogel.
Effect of Additives on the Crystallization Kinetics of Barium Strontium Titanate Glass–Ceramics
Authors: Gorzkowski Edward P. , Pan Ming‐Jen , Bender Barry A. , Wu Carl C. M.
Published: April 2008

Barium strontium titanate (BST) has been targeted as one potential ferroelectric glass–ceramic for high‐energy density dielectric materials. Previous testing has shown that the dielectric constant of these materials was as high as 1000 and the dielectric breakdown strength up to 800 kV/cm. This did not, however, result in exceptional energy density (∼0.90 J/cc). In order to increase overall energy density refining agents can be added to the melt, but the nucleation and growth of the ceramic particles can also play a role. Therefore, in this study the crystallization kinetics were studied to more fully understand how BST phase forms so that the optimal energy density could be obtained. It was determined that the activation energy of the crystallization of BST 70/30 glass–ceramic is approximately 430 kJ/mol which is close to the dissociation energy of Si–O bonds. The Avrami parameter was found to be ∼3 meaning that three‐dimensional growth is dominant and the mechanism of growth was interface controlled.
Design of Electroceramics for Solid Oxides Fuel Cell Applications: Playing with Ceria
Authors: Esposito Vincenzo , Traversa Enrico
Published: April 2008

Nanostructured samaria‐ and gadolinia‐doped ceria (SDC and GDC) powders were synthesized at low temperature (400°C) using diamine‐assisted direct coprecipitation method. Fast‐firing (f.f.) processes, where sintering temperatures are reached in a short time to promote lattice diffusion, were compared with conventional sintering, for the formation of dense microstructures from the nanostructured powders. Highly dense SDC and GDC samples (96%) with reduced grain size (150 nm) were obtained by f.f. even at 1300°–1400°C and, unexpectedly, high electrical conductivity and low blocking effect at grain boundary was obtained. Conventionally sintered samples showed that the grain boundary resistivity decreased with increasing the grain size, in agreement with the increase in geometrical bulk volume/grain boundary area ratio. Conversely, f.f. samples showed grain boundary resistivity smaller for small grain size. The above effect was observed only for high dopant (>10% molar) contents. The combined effect of powder grain size, dopant content, and sintering temperature–time profile, can be exploited to tune ceria microstructures for specific ionic device applications.
Predicted Changes to Alkali Concentration Adjacent to Glass–Crystal Interfaces
Authors: Rushton Michael J. D. , Grimes Robin W. , Owens Scott L.
Published: April 2008

Atomic scale molecular dynamics simulation is used to investigate how alkali concentrations in glass adjacent to interfaces with crystal surfaces, might differ from those within the interior of a bulk glass. A sodium, lithium alkali‐borosilicate glass and its interfaces with the (1 0 0) and (1 1 0) surfaces of MgO, CaO, and SrO are considered. These six interfaces were formed by melt‐quenching the glass in the presence of the crystal surface, providing glass alkali ions with the opportunity to either migrate towards or away from the crystal surface. The resulting alkali contents adjacent to the interface are found to differ depending on crystal composition and surface orientation.
Piezoelectric Properties of PZT‐Based Ceramic with Highly Aligned Pores
Authors: Lee Seung‐Ho , Jun Shin‐Hee , Kim Hyoun‐Ee , Koh Young‐Hag
Published: April 2008

Porous lead zirconate titanate–lead zinc niobate (PZT–PZN) piezoelectric ceramics with a high degree of pore alignment were fabricated using directional freeze casting of a ceramic/camphene slurry. Well‐aligned pores were formed as the replica of the camphene dendrites that grew in a preferential orientation, while a high porosity of 90% was achieved by employing a low initial solid loading of 5 vol%. As the orientation angle of the pores to the poling direction was decreased, the hydrostatic piezoelectric properties, such as hydrostatic piezoelectric strain coefficient (dh), the hydrostatic piezoelectric voltage coefficient (gh), and the hydrostatic figure of merit, increased significantly. The sample containing pores aligned parallel to the poling direction showed an extremely high HFOM of 161019 × 10−15 Pa−1, which was ∼1300 times higher than that (124 × 10−15 Pa−1) of the dense sample, owing to the presence of aligned pores.
Thermal Conductivity Characterization of Hafnium Diboride‐Based Ultra‐High‐Temperature Ceramics
Authors: Gasch Matthew , Johnson Sylvia , Marschall Jochen
Published: April 2008

We evaluated the thermal conductivity of HfB2‐based ultra‐high‐temperature ceramics from laser flash diffusivity measurements in the 25°–600°C temperature range. Commercially available powders were used to prepare HfB2 composites containing 20 vol% SiC, some including TaSi2 (5 vol%) and Ir (0.5 or 2 vol%) additions. Samples were consolidated via conventional hot pressing or spark plasma sintering. Processing differences were shown to lead to differences in magnitude and temperature dependence of effective thermal conductivity. We compared results with measured values from heritage materials and analyzed trends using a network model of effective thermal conductivity, incorporating the effects of porosity, grain size, Kapitza resistance, and individual constituent thermal conductivities.
Effect of Filler Content on the Dielectric Properties of PTFE/ZnAl2O4–TiO2 Composites
Authors: Thomas Sherin , Deepu Vasudevan Nair , Mohanan Pezholil , Sebastian Mailadil T.
Published: April 2008

ZnAl2O4–TiO2 (ZAT)/polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composites were prepared by powder processing method. The structure and microstructure of the composites were analyzed using X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopic techniques. The effect of different volume fraction of ZAT (0–0.6) on the dielectric properties of the composites was investigated at 1 MHz and at the microwave frequency of 7 GHz. The dielectric properties (relative permittivity and dielectric loss) were found to increase with the ZAT content. The samples with 60 vol.% of ZAT filler showed a relative permittivity of 3.9 and dielectric loss of 0.009, respectively, at 7 GHz. The variation of relative permittivity and dielectric loss showed only a very small variation with temperature in the range 25°–70°C for various ZAT/PTFE composites. The relative permittivity obtained experimentally were compared with that of the theoretical values predicted using modified Lichtenecker, Jayasundere—Smith, and Series mixing formulae. They were found to agree well with the predicted values for low filler content.
Mechanical Characterization of Diesel Particulate Filter Substrates
Authors: Shyam Amit , Lara‐Curzio Edgar , Watkins Thomas R. , Parten Randy J.
Published: April 2008

Test procedures for the mechanical evaluation of diesel particulate filter (DPF) substrate materials have been developed and applied for the characterization of porous cordierite under ambient conditions. Specifically the double‐torsion test method was employed to characterize fracture toughness and slow crack behavior while resonant ultrasound spectroscopy (RUS) was used to determine the elastic properties of the substrate walls. A dry grinding procedure was developed to fabricate test specimens for these tests. The fracture behavior of porous cordierite was related to the pore structure inside the filter wall. Implications of the test results on the mechanical reliability of DPFs are discussed.
Mass‐Produced Mullite Crucibles in Medieval Europe: Manufacture and Material Properties
Authors: Martinón‐Torres Marcos , Freestone Ian C. , Hunt Alice , Rehren Thilo
Published: April 2008

Crucibles from the German region of Hesse have been famous since the Middle Ages due to their exceptional quality, regarded by many as a mystery. We analyzed 50 Hessian and non‐Hessian archeological crucibles using SEM‐EDS, FESEM, and XRD to investigate their technology and material properties. It was revealed that Hessian crucibles were systematically made of kaolinitic clay with a low flux content, mixed with quartz sand, and fired to temperatures in excess of 1300°C. Primary mullite developed in most of the glass matrix, with secondary mullite in some regions of clay–feldspar relict mixtures. Consequently, the vessels showed superior creep and thermal shock resistance, high‐temperature strength, and thermal and chemical refractoriness. These crucibles represent the earliest industrial exploitation of mullite in Europe, which explains their historical success.
Local minocycline as an adjunct to surgical therapy in moderate to severe, chronic periodontitis
Authors: Hellström Maj‐Karin , McClain Pamela K. , Schallhorn Robert G. , Bellis Lynn , Hanlon Alexandra L. , Ramberg Per
Published: April 2008

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of minocycline microspheres on periodontal probing depth reduction when used in combination with surgery in adults with moderate to severe, chronic periodontitis.

Material and Methods: Sixty patients with a minimum of one non‐molar periodontal site 6 mm in two oral quadrants received either local minocycline microspheres at baseline, immediately following each of two surgical therapies (Weeks 2 and 3), and at Week 5 or surgery alone.

Results: The mean probing depth reduction at Week 25 at sites 5 mm at baseline was 2.51 mm in the test group and 2.18 mm in the control group. Smokers in the test group had a significantly greater probing depth reduction (2.30 mm) than smokers in the control group (2.05 mm). The number of sites with probing depth reductions of 2 and 3 mm were significantly higher in the test group than in the control group.

Conclusion: Applications of local minocycline as an adjunct to surgery in adults with moderate to severe, chronic periodontitis were associated with statistically significant greater reductions in probing depth than surgery alone.
Surfactive and antibacterial activity of cetylpyridinium chloride formulations in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Busscher Henk J. , White Don J. , Atema‐Smit Jelly , Geertsema‐Doornbusch Gesinda , De Vries Joop , Van Der Mei Henny C.
Published: April 2008

Aim: To compare effects of three cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) formulations with and without alcohol and Tween80 on physico‐chemical properties of salivary pellicles, bacterial detachment in vitro and bacterial killing in vivo.

Material and Methods: Adsorption of CPC to salivary pellicles in vitro was studied using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and water contact angle measurements. Adhesion and detachment of a co‐adhering bacterial pair was determined in vitro using a flow chamber. Killing was evaluated after live/dead staining after acute single use in vivo on 24‐ and 72‐h‐old plaques after 2‐week continuous use.

Results: The most pronounced effects on pellicle surface chemistry and hydrophobicity were observed after treatment with the alcohol‐free formulation, while the pellicle thickness was not affected by any of the formulations. All CPC formulations detached up to 33% of the co‐adhering pair from pellicle surfaces. Bacterial aggregate sizes during de novo deposition were enhanced after treatment with the alcohol‐free formulation. Immediate and sustained killing in 24 and 72 h plaques after in vivo, acute single use as well as after 2‐week continuous use were highest for the alcohol‐free formulation.

Conclusions: CPC bioavailability in a formulation without alcohol and Tween80 could be demonstrated through measures of pellicle surface properties and bacterial interactions in vitro as well as bacteriocidal actions on oral biofilms in vivo.
Regulatory influence of melatonin on collagen accumulation in the infarcted heart scar
Authors: Drobnik Jacek , Karbownik‐Lewińska Małgorzata , Szczepanowska Alicja , Słotwińska Donata , Olczak Sławomir , Jakubowski Lucjusz , Dąbrowski Ryszard
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  The regulatory influence of the pineal gland on superficial wound healing and collagen content is documented. The aim of the present study was to determine whether the pineal gland and its secretory product melatonin regulate collagen accumulation in the scar of the infarcted heart and to explain the mechanisms of its action. To induce myocardial infarction in rats the left coronary artery was ligated. Metoprolol at the dose of 0.2 mg/100 g body weight (b.w.) was injected intraperitoneally to inhibit melatonin secretion. Pinealectomy was performed on some animals. For the in vitro study, cells were isolated from the heart scar and cultured in Dulbecco’s modified Eagle medium with 3% fetal calf serum and antibiotics. Collagen content was evaluated as hydroxyproline content according to the Woessner method. Melatonin subcutaneously injected into the rats at the doses of 30 μg/100 g or 60 μg/100 g b.w. increased collagen accumulation in the heart scar. The doses of 3 μg/100 g b.w. and 300 μg/100 g b.w. were not effective. Surgical and pharmacological pinealectomies had opposite effects and reduced collagen content in the scar. However, melatonin administration (60 μg/100 g b.w.) to pinealectomized rats reversed the effect of pinealectomy and normalized collagen levels in heart after infarction. Cells isolated from the heart scar were identified as myofibroblasts. Melatonin (10−7–10−8 m) increased collagen accumulation in the cultures. Collagen accumulation in the scar of the infarcted heart is regulated by melatonin and it exerts effects directly on the myofibroblasts of the infarcted area. Therefore, melatonin‐induced collagen accumulation in the infarcted heart could be considered as the event improving the tensile strength of the scar and retarding the development of complications.
THE EPISTEMIC VALUE OF CURIOSITY
Authors: Schmitt Frederick F. , Lahroodi Reza
Published: April 2008

Abstract In this essay, Frederick Schmitt and Reza Lahroodi explore the value of curiosity for inquiry and knowledge. They defend an appetitive account of curiosity, viewing curiosity as a motivationally original desire to know that arises from having one’s attention drawn to the object and that in turn sustains one’s attention to it. Distinguishing curiosity from wonder, the authors explore several sources of the epistemic value of curiosity. First, curiosity is tenacious: curiosity whether a proposition is true leads to curiosity about related issues, thereby deepening our knowledge. Second, it is to some extent biased in favor of topics in which we already have a practical or epistemic interest. Third, and most important, curiosity is largely independent of our interests: it fixes our attention on objects in which we have no antecedent interest, thereby broadening our knowledge. Schmitt and Lahroodi elucidate the value of curiosity by outlining its role in levels of development — an approach indebted to John Dewey’s explanation of the value of curiosity. Finally, they raise some questions about the implications of their account for educational practice.
INDOCTRINATION AND THE SPACE OF REASONS
Authors: Hanks Chris
Published: April 2008

Abstract The “paradox of indoctrination” has proven to be a persistent problem in discussions of the cultivation of autonomy through education. In short, if indoctrination means instilling beliefs without reasons, and if children lack the rational capacity to evaluate reasons, how can that capacity be cultivated without indoctrination? Some educational theorists have relied on a transcendental justification of rational autonomy that avoids indoctrination, while others have accepted that some indoctrination is inevitable, focusing instead on defending acceptable forms of indoctrination. In this essay, Chris Hanks draws on a conception of rationality, mind, and nature developed by John McDowell to suggest an alternative understanding of the relation between indoctrination and autonomy. He argues that McDowell’s notion of the “space of reasons” defuses standard debates about indoctrination. Here, rationality is understood in both a naturalistic sense, whereby the development of autonomy is the process of being awakened to the space of reasons, and in a sui generis sense, whereby reason cannot be reduced to mechanistic principles or relations. The implications of this view for education point us to the notion of Bildung as the process that cultivates rational autonomy.
SCHEFFLER AND THE COGNITIVE ENDS OF TEACHING
Authors: Pollack George
Published: April 2008

Abstract The Schefflerian notion that teaching intentionally tries to bring about knowledge has been spiritedly challenged by Catherine Elgin. Perhaps, in light of our enlightened understanding of the limits of our claims to knowledge in the scientific realm, knowledge emerges as too ambitious a goal for teaching to set itself. In this essay, George Pollack explores the maneuvers Israel Scheffler employs to deflect the onslaught of this challenge. Pollack addresses this issue by examining the so‐called rationality constraints on teaching championed by Scheffler. The thesis that these constraints are definitive of teaching is, the author argues, not arrived at on conceptual grounds, but draws for its support on the several strands of epistemological reasoning woven together in Scheffler’s celebrated work, Conditions of Knowledge. The notion of a dynamically engaged‐in teacher‐pupil interaction, harnessed to a mutually shared system of beliefs, is shown to take on a heightened prominence.
Improvement of a monopartite ecdysone receptor gene switch and demonstration of its utility in regulation of transgene expression in plants
Authors: Tavva Venkata S. , Palli Subba R. , Dinkins Randy D. , Collins Glenn B.
Published: April 2008

In plants, regulation of transgene expression is typically accomplished through the use of inducible promoter systems. The ecdysone receptor (EcR) gene switch is one of the best inducible systems available to regulate transgene expression in plants. However, the monopartite EcR gene switches developed to date require micromolar concentrations of ligand for activation. We tested several EcR mutants that were generated by changing one or two amino acid residues in the highly flexible ligand‐binding domain of Choristoneura fumiferana EcR (CfEcR). Based on the transient expression assays, we selected a double mutant, V395I + Y415E (VY), of CfEcR (CfEcRVY) for further testing in stable transformation experiments. The CfEcRVY mutant only slightly improved the induction characteristics of the two‐hybrid gene switch, whereas the CfEcRVY mutant significantly improved the induction characteristics of the monopartite gene switch (VGCfEVY). The ligand sensitivity of the VGCfEVY switch was improved by 125–15 625‐fold in different transgenic lines analyzed, compared to the VGCfEWt switch. The utility of the VGCfEVY switch was tested by regulating the expression of an Arabidopsis zinc finger protein gene (AtZFP11) in both tobacco and Arabidopsis plants. These data showed that the VGCfEVY switch efficiently regulated the expression of AtZFP11 and that the phenotype of AtZFP11 could be induced by the application of ligand. In addition, the affected plants recovered after withdrawal of the ligand, demonstrating the utility of this gene switch in regulating the expression of critical transgenes in plants.
Analysis of the regulatory motifs in eukaryotic initiation factor 4E‐binding protein 1
Authors: Lee Vivian H. Y. , Healy Timothy , Fonseca Bruno D. , Hayashi Amanda , Proud Christopher G.
Published: April 2008

Mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) phosphorylates proteins such as eukaryotic initiation factor 4E‐binding protein 1 (4E‐BP1) and the S6 kinases. These substrates contain short sequences, termed TOR signalling (TOS) motifs, which interact with the mTORC1 component raptor. Phosphorylation of 4E‐BP1 requires an additional feature, termed the RAIP motif (Arg–Ala–Ile–Pro). We have analysed the interaction of 4E‐BP1 with raptor and the amino acid residues required for functional RAIP and TOS motifs, as assessed by raptor binding and the phosphorylation of 4E‐BP1 in human cells. Binding of 4E‐BP1 to raptor strongly depends on an intact TOS motif, but the RAIP motif and additional C‐terminal features of 4E‐BP1 also contribute to this interaction. Mutational analysis of 4E‐BP1 reveals that isoleucine is a key feature of the RAIP motif, that proline is also very important and that there is greater tolerance for substitution of the first two residues. Within the TOS motif, the first position (phenylalanine in the known motifs) is most critical, whereas a wider range of residues function in other positions (although an uncharged aliphatic residue is preferred at position three). These data provide important information on the structural requirements for efficient signalling downstream of mTORC1.
Autoantigen Estimation and Simple Screening Assay Against Cardiodepressant Autoantibodies in Patients With Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Baba Akiyasu
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  The objective of this study was to identify the cardiodepressant autoantibodies that could directly influence left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), as well as to establish a simple screening method for these antibodies. Not only acute hemodynamic but also chronic prognosis improvements were reported with immunoadsorption in some patients with DCM. Various antibodies determined by immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (β1‐adrenergic [β1‐] receptors, muscarinic M2‐acetylcholine [M2‐] receptors, troponin I, or Na‐K‐ATPase) were measured in 104 patients with DCM. Cardiodepressant antibodies were also determined by ultrasonic echocardiography (UCG) of 18 day old chick embryos after adding the patients' purified immunoglobulin G, and the following clinical features were compared: age, gender, New York Heart Association class, LVEF, neurohumoral factors, arrhythmias, and other antibodies. We also checked the in vitro immunoadsorption effect against these cardiodepressant antibodies. Cardiodepressant antibodies were found in 63% of 104 patients with DCM and had no relation to other clinical parameters, except for some antibodies such as anti‐β1‐receptor antibodies (81% vs. 52%, P < 0.01), anti‐M2‐receptor antibodies (83% vs. 48%, P < 0.01), or anti‐Na‐K‐ATPase antibodies (85% vs. 55%, P < 0.01). However, cardiodepressant antibodies were similarly found in patients with and without antibodies against troponin I (56% vs. 64%). The LVEF of chick embryos measured by UCG in the presence of patient serum was improved after in vitro immunoadsorption. The ex vivo system using chick embryos was able to determine cardiodepressant antibodies. By multivariate analysis, antibodies against β1‐ or M2‐receptors was a predictor of these autoantibodies.
Comparison of Sevelamer Hydrochloride With Colestimide, Administered Alone or in Combination With Calcium Carbonate, in Patients on Hemodialysis
Authors: Itoh Kazuko , Tanaka Motoko , Hashiguchi Junichiroh , Funakoshi Satoshi , Nakano Hirofumi , Kubo Hitoshi , Kono Takashi , Uchino Junji , Masaki Kazunobu , Date Toshiyuki , Shigematsu Takashi ,   the Research Group for Future Hemodialysis
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  Since hyperphosphatemia in hemodialysis patients can cause secondary hyperparathyroidism and promotes vascular calcification, serum phosphate (Pi) levels must be controlled by phosphate binders. Although sevelamer and colestimide are known as similar non‐calcium, non‐aluminum phosphate binders in hemodialysis patients, there are no studies that compare the effects of the two agents as either a monotherapy or in combination with calcium carbonate (CaCO3). We randomly allocated 62 hemodialysis patients with hyperphosphatemia to treatment with sevelamer (3.0 g/day) and colestimide (3.0 g/day). During the study, 35 subjects dropped out, leaving 13 in the sevelamer group and 14 in the colestimide group. After a 2‐week CaCO3 washout, all subjects received the monotherapy for 4 weeks and then CaCO3 (3.0 g/day) was added for another 4 weeks. Serum corrected calcium levels tended to decrease in both groups during the washout period and monotherapy, but there was no significant difference between the two groups after the addition of CaCO3. Although the calcium × phosphorus product (Ca × P) in the two groups increased during the washout period, there was no significant change or difference between the two groups during monotherapy. However, the addition of CaCO3 significantly reduced serum Pi at Week 8 compared to that at Week 0 in both groups, and significantly lowered Ca × P only in the sevelamer group, but not in the colestimide group. In this short‐term study, sevelamer and colestimide similarly ameliorated hyperphosphatemia, but the combination of sevelamer and CaCO3 was more effective than colestimide with CaCO3 in controlling the Ca × P product, and it may improve cardiovascular mortality in hemodialysis patients.
Clinical Evaluation of Pneumonia‐associated Rhabdomyolysis With Acute Renal Failure
Authors: Abe Masanori , Kaizu Kazo , Matsumoto Koichi
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  This study aims to evaluate the clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment efficacy in patients with pneumonia‐associated rhabdomyolysis and acute renal failure. The subjects included six patients who had presented with rhabdomyolysis and acute renal failure due to bacterial or viral pneumonia on admission to our university hospital and the Yokohama Social Insurance Central Hospital between 2004 and 2005. The causative organisms were identified as Legionella pneumophila (N = 1), Staphylococcus epidermidis (N = 2), Staphylococcus aureus (N = 1), and Unknown (N = 2). For anuric or oliguric patients (N = 4), a blood purification therapy was performed, while conservative therapy was administered to those with a normal urine volume (N = 2). The patient suffering from L. pneumophila pneumonia did not survive, while the other patients regained full kidney function. It is important to identify, evaluate, and treat patients with bacterial or viral pneumonia‐associated rhabdomyolysis and acute renal failure.
A Case Report of Refractory Warm Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia Treated With Plasmapheresis and Rituximab
Authors: Aglieco Fabio , Manickaratnam Srimathi , Bona Robert , Kaplan Andre A
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  A 30‐year‐old male presented with severe, warm autoimmune hemolysis 17 months subsequent to a matched, unrelated peripheral hematopoietic stem cell transplant. The patient responded poorly to conventional therapy with steroids and immunoglobulin, prompting the initiation of rituximab. On account of persistent, severe hemolysis, therapeutic plasma exchange was employed as a bridge until the rituximab therapy became effective. Immediately following plasmapheresis, the patient demonstrated clinical improvement followed by attenuation of the hemolysis and improved reticulocytosis. The hemoglobin concentration and reticulocyte index demonstrated further improvement following subsequent doses of rituximab and continued following the cessation of plasmapheresis. This case suggests the utility of plasmapheresis and rituximab in severe, life‐threatening cases of warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia refractory to conventional therapy.
A Case Report of Recurrent Vascular Access Thrombosis in a Hemodialysis Patient Reveals Combined Acquired and Inherited Thrombophilia
Authors: Eleftheriadis Theodoros , Antoniadi Georgia , Akritidou Aliki , Kasimatis Efstratios , Apostolidis Georgios , Pashalidou Sonia , Salmas Marios , Liakopoulos Vassilis , Barboutis Konstantinos
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  Vascular access thrombosis represents a serious and unfortunately common problem in hemodialysis patients. Usually, but not always, this complication can be attributed to low access blood flow. However, there are some patients who experience thrombosis despite a well functioning vascular access. We describe the case of a 31‐year‐old Caucasian male, who was hemodialyzed via an arteriovenous fistula for two years due to Alport's syndrome. During this time period he had two episodes of vascular access thrombosis that destroyed two arteriovenous fistulas. Both fistulas were functioning well and the thrombosis events took place in days between the hemodialysis sessions. Thrombophilia was suspected and the relative investigation revealed high levels of factor VIII procoagulant, which is frequent in hemodialysis patients, and resistance to activated protein C. Polymerase chain reaction detected that the patient was heterozygous for factor V Leiden, which is quite common in general population. Thereafter, a new arteriovenous fistula was formed and the patient started oral anticoagulation therapy with warfarin. Now, three years after the last arteriovenous fistula formation, the patient is hemodialyzed without vascular access problems. In conclusion, evaluation of the coagulation cascade in hemodialysis patients with recurrent vascular access thrombosis is necessary.
SENSORY CHARACTERIZATION OF EMOLLIENTS
Authors: PARENTE MARÍA EMMA , GÁMBARO ADRIANA , ARES GASTÓN
Published: April 2008

Emollients are one of the most commonly used ingredients in cosmetic emulsions, being closely related to the sensory properties of cosmetics and their skin sensory performance. In the present work, the sensory properties of four commonly used emollients (cyclomethicone, dimethicone, isopropyl mirystate and octyldodecanol) and four emollients from ratites oil (emú oil, ñandú oil and two products obtained by thermal fractionation of ñandú oil – estearin and olein) were characterized by means of quantitative descriptive analysis. A panel of 12 sensory assessors evaluated the following attributes: difficulty of spreading, gloss, residue, stickiness and oiliness. Considering their sensory characteristics, the evaluated emollients were sorted into five groups. By evaluating the development of residue with time after application, emollients could be regarded as dry or protective emollients, whereas considering the development of oiliness with time after application, fatty emollients were identified.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The evaluated emollients showed highly significant differences in their sensory profiles, suggesting that they might provide different sensory properties to the cosmetic emulsions in which they are incorporated. Results from the present study could be used during the development of new cosmetic products, in order to select different emollients to provide different sensory characteristics to the product or while applied on the skin.
THE SIGNAL DETECTION THEORY ROC CURVE: SOME APPLICATIONS IN FOOD SENSORY SCIENCE
Authors: O'MAHONY M. , HAUTUS M.J.
Published: April 2008

In psychology, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve is a key part of Signal Detection Theory, which is used for calculating d′ values in discrimination tests. In food sensory science, the ROC curve can also be a useful tool. To give a specific example, it is not always convenient to use forced‐choice protocols for difference tests; foods may be fatiguing, and assessments with single presentations, like the Yes–No procedure, might be more appropriate. In this case, ROC curves provide a useful method for computing d′ values. More generally, ROC curves give information about cognitive strategies. Cognitive strategies are important for difference tests. Values of d′ can only be computed if the cognitive strategy used in the test is known.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

When using methods other than two‐alternative forced‐choice in difference testing, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve would be required to compute d′. This is because when assessing discrimination ability, the cognitive strategy of the subject must be taken into account, and ROC curves can sometimes reveal the cognitive strategy used by the subject. This article describes how the cognitive strategy can be determined from the subject's ROC curve. The hidden assumptions made when using ROC curves and how these assumptions can be tested are also given. This information is essential to researchers in sensory evaluation as well as those using these methods in a practical setting.
A LEXICON FOR GREEN ODOR OR FLAVOR AND CHARACTERISTICS OF CHEMICALS ASSOCIATED WITH GREEN
Authors: HONGSOONGNERN PAIRIN , CHAMBERS IV EDGAR
Published: April 2008

The sensory characteristic “green” has been used frequently in descriptive sensory analyses of various foods. A six‐member highly trained descriptive panel determined that “green” is not a single characteristic, but can have several different manifestations. Generally, green can be characterized as unripe, peapod, grassy/leafy, viney, fruity or combinations of those. Additional attributes that were important to the green character included musty/earthy, pungent, bitter, overall sweet and floral. This research also examined the odor characteristics of 22 chemicals in concentrations from 1 to 100,000 ppm. Thirteen chemicals including aldehydes, alcohols, ketones, azoles and ester derivatives had been reported to have green aroma. Nine additional ester derivatives, containing a six carbon core similar to hexanal, were included. Most chemicals tested were found to be green at concentrations of 1,000 ppm and higher. Green‐grassy/leafy was the most common green note and musty/earthy and pungent were frequent green adjunct aromas.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Because “green” notes have been used commonly to describe the characteristics of many food products, especially, fruits and vegetables, it is important to understand the types of green characteristics present in products. Prior literature has suggested various chemicals may be responsible for green, suggesting that there could be different types of green notes. A better understanding of “green” aromas and flavors can help researchers better describe specific sensory characteristics and make improvements to products where green impacts the sensory properties, either positively or negatively.
DOES THE ENHANCEMENT OF CHEMOSENSORY STIMULI IMPROVE THE ENJOYMENT OF FOOD IN INSTITUTIONALIZED ELDERLY PEOPLE?
Authors: LAUREATI M. , PAGLIARINI E. , CALCINONI O.
Published: April 2008

Thirty‐six institutionalized elderly people and 45 young adults rated their degree of liking for different foods (first courses and fruit juice) modified in appearance, taste and flavor, as compared with unmodified version of the same foods. Taste and odor sensitivities were also measured in both age cohorts. The aim was to evaluate whether food with enhanced taste and flavor, and modified appearance was preferred by both young and elderly people, and to verify whether sensory performance influenced food preference. The elderly had a lower taste and odor abilities and more varying sensory performances than the young. Age had a significant effect on liking; the elderly scored higher than the young, especially for taste and flavor fortified food. Subdividing the elderly according to their sensory performance showed that performance did not influence liking for fruit juice, whereas it had a small, though nonsignificant, effect on first courses.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The present article deals with the elderly people's food preference, an important, though poorly understood, topic. Although a steady increase in elderly population has been observed in recent years, institutionalized elderly people still represent a neglected part of the consumers. Because of elderly specific requirements, some interest is being paid to developing food formulations and dietary guidelines for institutionalized elderly people. In this study, the degree of liking for first courses and fruit juice commonly consumed in Italian nursing homes has been examined and compared with the young adults’ preferences. Taste and odor sensitivities were also measured and compared both to investigate whether age‐related differences in sensory performance could be observed and to examine, within the elderly group, the effect of taste and odor sensitivities on food preference. Results obtained may contribute to throw some light on elderly people's sensory perception and preference and help to improve food administration in nursing homes.
AN ALTERNATIVE METHOD FOR ASSESSING LIKING: POSITIONAL RELATIVE RATING VERSUS THE 9‐POINT HEDONIC SCALE
Authors: CORDONNIER S.M. , DELWICHE J.F.
Published: April 2008

An alternative rating method, known as positional relative rating (PRR), or rank rating, was compared with the traditional 9‐point hedonic scale. Initially, category scale and line scale versions of PRR were investigated to see which of either was better at differentiating samples. Four lemonades were assessed in duplicate on both scales (category and line). Overall quality, sweetness intensity and sourness intensity were assessed in separate sessions by groups of ∼50 consumers, depending on session. The category scale better differentiated samples than did the line scale for two of three attributes assessed, with differentiation being the same in the third. Subsequently, the overall liking of these same lemonades was assessed by 100 consumers on both the PRR category scale and the traditional 9‐point hedonic scale. The differentiation of samples for both scales was equivalent, although mean values were somewhat lower with PRR.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This work explores an alternative to the traditional 9‐point scale. Positional relative rating (PRR) performs as well as the traditional 9‐point scale in differentiating samples, suggesting that it is a viable alternative. However, as PRR seems to give consistently lower mean values than does the traditional 9‐point hedonic scale, those using a “hurdle” approach to screen products may wish to lower that hurdle when PRR is used. Findings also suggest that consistency errors are reduced when samples are presented simultaneously (rather than in a serial monadic fashion) and judges are allowed to adjust their ratings.
Sodium dietary restriction, knowledge, beliefs, and decision‐making behavior of older females
Authors: Sheahan Sharon L. , Fields Becky
Published: April 2008

Purpose: The purposes of this qualitative/descriptive study were to (a) explore experiences and decision‐making behaviors associated with adoption of a sodium‐restricted diet (SRD) among older women with hypertension or heart failure and (b) identify healthcare system and contextual factors that facilitate or impede adherence to SRD.

Data sources: Participants were 33 single older women, aged 65–98 years, residing in three congregate living facilities in the high‐risk “coronary valley” area of the United States. A semistructured interview format was employed with three focus groups. The audio‐taped transcribed data were content analyzed for themes by the researchers with the assistance of ATLAS.Ti computer software.

Conclusions: Predominant themes were lack of SRD education by healthcare providers, a desire for more information about sodium, including the use of alternative herbal seasonings, and large‐print informational materials. Eating alone with no motivation to cook and share meals was a contextual barrier to healthy nutrition.

Implications for practice: To prevent costly hospitalizations and rehospitalization from nonadherence to SRD, clinicians need to provide more structured SRD education supplemented with printed brochures. Exploring the client’s nutritional social setting may improve SRD adherence.
Obtaining a thorough sleep history and routinely screening for obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Lamm Jamie , Poeschel Jane , Smith Sheila
Published: April 2008

Purpose: To present a clinical case study of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and discuss a potential correlation between OSA, unexplained distal pain symptoms, and pyschoemotional concerns.

Data sources: A review of the scientific literature was performed on OSA using the Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature and MEDLINE.

Conclusions: OSA is potentially life threatening and can have serious consequences to a patient’s health. Many of the obvious signs of OSA occur at night, and the symptoms of OSA may correspond to a variety of other diseases. Clinicians should recognize a possible correlation between OSA and unexplained distal pain symptoms as well as psychoemotional concerns. These clinically associated conditions may be less apparent but may dramatically affect quality of life. By improving recognition and treatment of OSA, morbidity and mortality can be reduced and quality of life can be improved for patients and their families.

Implications for practice: It is imperative that clinicians are attentive and take detailed histories to recognize the clinical signs and symptoms of OSA, paying more attention to the less obvious symptomatology that may be significantly impacting quality of life.
Relationship Between Physical Disabilities or Long‐Term Health Problems and Health Risk Behaviors or Conditions Among US High School Students*
Authors: Jones Sherry Everett , Lollar Donald J.
Published: April 2008

Background:  This study explores the relationship between self‐reported physical disabilities or long‐term health problems and health risk behaviors or adverse health conditions (self‐reported engagement in violent behaviors, attempted suicide, cigarette smoking, alcohol and other drug use, sexual activity, physical activity, dietary behaviors, self‐reported overweight [based on height and weight], physical health, and mental health) among US high school students.

Methods:  Data were from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s 2005 national Youth Risk Behavior Survey, a cross‐sectional paper‐and‐pencil survey collected from a representative sample of public and private high school students (grades 9 through 12) in the United States.

Results:  Significantly more students with physical disabilities or long‐term health problems than without described their health as fair or poor and reported being in a physical fight, being forced to have sexual intercourse, feeling sad or hopeless, seriously considering and attempting suicide, cigarette smoking, using alcohol and marijuana, engaging in sexual activity, using computers 3 or more hours per day, and being overweight (for all, p ≤ .05). For none of the health risk behaviors analyzed were the rates significantly lower among students with physical disabilities or long‐term health problems than among other students.

Conclusions:  Young people who live with physical disabilities or long‐term health problems may be at greater risk for poor health outcomes. Public health and school health programs, with guidance from health care providers, need to work with these adolescents and their families to develop and implement appropriate interventions, with particular emphasis on promoting mental health.
The Varied Circumstances Prompting Requests for Emergency Contraception at School‐Based Clinics
Authors: Sidebottom Abbey , Harrison Patricia A. , Donna Amidon , Finnegan Katie
Published: April 2008

Background:  Little is known about the circumstances that prompt teenagers to request emergency contraception (EC). This evaluation was designed to refine the EC clinical protocol and improve pregnancy prevention efforts in high school–based clinics by analyzing information on EC use and subsequent contraception use of EC patients.

Methods:  Sites included 5 clinics located at mainstream, racially diverse, and urban high schools. Nursing staff documented all EC‐related visits during the 2002‐2003 school year on a standardized form. These forms and additional information were collected from chart reviews.

Results:  EC was requested in 113 instances involving 91 students and dispensed in all but 4 instances. The most frequently reported circumstance prompting an EC request was the use of no protection (37.2%), followed by a condom mishap (27.4%) and questionable protection from a hormonal method (23.9%). Anxiety despite adequate protection from a hormonal method (9.7%) or a condom (1.8%) accounted for the remaining cases. Although the clinical protocol included a follow‐up appointment 2 weeks after receipt of EC, 39.5% of EC users failed to keep this appointment. The chart review revealed that hormonal contraception was eventually initiated following two thirds (68.0%) of the EC instances that involved either no protection or only a condom.

Conclusions:  Because young EC seekers vary considerably in terms of sexual experience, contraceptive use consistency, and pregnancy risk, individualized risk assessment and counseling are essential. The EC visit may be an optimal time to encourage initiation or reinstitution of hormonal methods of birth control.
Factors Influencing Teachers’ Implementation of an Innovative Tobacco Prevention Curriculum for Multiethnic Youth: Project SPLASH
Authors: Sy Angela , Glanz Karen
Published: April 2008

Background:  The effectiveness of school‐based tobacco use prevention programs depends on proper implementation. This study examined factors associated with teachers’ implementation of a smoking prevention curriculum in a cluster randomized trial called Project SPLASH (Smoking Prevention Launch Among Students in Hawaii).

Methods:  A process evaluation was conducted and a cross‐condition comparison used to examine whether teacher characteristics, teacher training, external facilitators and barriers, teacher attitudes, and curriculum attributes were associated with the dose of teacher implementation in the intervention and control arms of the study. Data were collected from a total of 62 middle school teachers in 20 public schools in Hawaii, during the 2000‐2001 and 2001‐2002 school years. Sources included teacher questionnaires and interviews. Chi‐square test and t test revealed that implementation dose was related to teachers’ disciplinary backgrounds and skills and student enjoyment of the curriculum.

Results:  Content analysis, within case, and cross‐case analyses of qualitative data revealed that implementing the curriculum in a yearlong class schedule and high teacher self‐efficacy supported implementation, while high perceived curriculum complexity was associated with less complete implementation.

Conclusions:  The results have implications for research, school health promotion practice, and the implementation of evidence‐based youth tobacco use prevention curricula.