bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post‐fledging body mass increase in Common TernsSterna hirundo: influence of age, sex and year
Authors: SCHAUROTH CARMEN , BECKER PETER H.
Published: June 2007

We studied the inter‐year and inter‐sex variation of the post‐fledging body mass development of Common TernsSterna hirundoin 2000 and 2001 at the Banter See colony, northern Germany. Here, post‐fledglings can be identified and weighed remotely and automatically by a transponder system that makes use of automated balances installed at the colony. Individuals were sexed with PCR amplification methods. After fledging, young generally continued to increase their mass. However, in 2000, the young did not significantly increase their mass during the post‐fledging period. In 2001, conditions were more favourable and body mass increased continuously. Further, in 2001, male post‐fledglings were significantly heavier than female post‐fledglings. Once having left the colony area (on average 18–23 days after fledging in 2000, and 14–16 days after fledging in 2001), post‐fledgling body mass had still not reached adult body mass. The longer a juvenile stayed at the colony, the higher was its final body mass, which if acting as a threshold level may control departure time. Neither brood size nor hatching order affected post‐fledging mass or period. In the unfavourable year 2000, when many individuals were found dead after fledging, fledging age but not fledging mass was found to be a predictor of post‐fledging survival before departure: individuals fledging when older had a lower survival probability. Our results stress the importance of the post‐fledging period for body mass increase and survival prior to departure. The variation in post‐fledging mass growth between years and between the sexes is discussed with respect to parental effort and a possible selective provisioning of sons over daughters.
Unraveling the Spanish Inquisition: Inquisitorial Studies in the Twenty‐First Century
Authors: Lynn Hossain Kimberly
Published: June 2007

In the 1970s and 1980s, there was an important revisionist moment in the historical study of the Spanish Inquisition. Now, in the early twenty‐first century, scholars are beginning to revise and add nuance to these now classic surveys of inquisitorial history. New historical studies have used Inquisition sources to revise depictions of the converso and morisco communities of early modern Spain; they have mined them on questions of gender. In addition, with the proliferation of Anglophone scholarship on the Spanish Inquisition, historians are uprooting the last vestiges of the Black Legend.
Inhibition of Platelet Receptors Involved in Neutrophil–Platelet Interaction in Model Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Åsberg Ann Elisabeth , Videm Vibeke
Published: June 2007

Abstract:  We investigated the interactions between neutrophils, platelets, and artificial surfaces, and whether blocking of relevant receptors on platelets reduced unwanted activation responses in model cardiopulmonary bypass. Isolated neutrophils and platelets resuspended in heparin‐anticoagulated plasma were recirculated with and without blocking antibodies to CD62P, CD42b, or junctional adhesion molecule C (JAM‐C) in polyvinyl chloride tubing using a roller pump. Platelet adhesion to the tubing was inhibited by anti‐CD42b and anti‐CD62P, and adhesion of neutrophils by anti‐JAM‐C. Formation of platelet–neutrophil and platelet aggregates was reduced by anti‐CD62P. Anti‐JAM‐C decreased platelet–neutrophil aggregation at low concentrations and platelet macroaggregates at high concentrations. Anti‐CD62P increased neutrophil CD11b expression but not degranulation. Anti‐JAM‐C substantially increased neutrophil degranulation and slightly increased CD11b expression. Platelet activation increased when CD62P was blocked and decreased with anti‐CD42b antibody. High‐dose anti‐JAM‐C reduced platelet activation. In conclusion, inhibiting platelet and neutrophil–platelet interactions had useful effects but no single blocking antibody seemed capable of inducing only beneficial effects.
An Empirical Examination of Factors Affecting Group Effectiveness in Information Systems Projects
Authors: Hasan Bassam , Ali Jafar
Published: June 2007

Although group project concepts and skills have become a major component in most information systems (IS) academic programs, very little research has attempted to examine factors that may improve or undermine effectiveness of IS group projects. Accordingly, based on relevant literatures, this study develops and empirically tests a model of factors affecting IS group project effectiveness. The research model posits that group cohesion and group efficacy will have positive effects on group effectiveness (project success and expected impact), whereas perceived loafing is expected to have a negative effect on IS group effectiveness. Data collected from 104 students working in 29 groups to complete semester‐long projects in two IS courses revealed that group efficacy had positive impact on group effectiveness and perceived loafing demonstrated a partial effect. Contrary to expectations, the impact of group cohesion was nonsignificant. These results could be useful in evaluating groups' potential for success and creating conditions conducive to enhancing effectiveness and success of IS student group projects.
Reengineering Academic Teams Toward a Network Organizational Structure*
Authors: Kaldis Emmanouil , Koukoravas Konstantinos , Tjortjis Christos
Published: June 2007

This article examines student teamwork in the academic field from a structural perspective. Student teams are often prearranged and then left to organize themselves and get on with their work, without any further structural support; this, however, can become a negative experience on teamwork. A varied contribution among team members often occurs and unavoidably leads to friction and reduced performance. The aim of this project is to explore the main problems in academic teamwork and investigate tools that provide relevant solutions. We present the concept of network organizational structure and discuss how this can improve collaboration and communication. The main tools to achieve a structural transformation from the more traditional form of team organization to the fairer network form, and their implications are discussed.
Applying the Collective Causal Mapping Methodology to Operations Management Curriculum Development*
Authors: Hays Julie M. , Bouzdine‐Chameeva Tatiana , Goldstein Susan Meyer , Hill Arthur V. , Scavarda Annibal José
Published: June 2007

Although the field of operations management has come a long way since its beginnings in scientific management, the field still appears somewhat amorphous and unstructured to many. Introductory operations management textbooks usually include a number of largely disjointed topics, which leave many students (and their instructors) without a coherent framework for understanding the field. As a result, the importance and sequencing of topics varies widely between courses and instructors, even within the same university. This article applies the newly developed Collective Causal Mapping Methodology to create a causal map for the entire field of operations management. The causal map is built on expert opinions collected from over 250 academics and practitioners representing many areas of expertise, schools, organizations, and countries. This collective causal map is then used to create a new framework for understanding and teaching operations management. This framework can aid instructors in determining which topics should be taught in an operations management course, how these topics might be grouped and sequenced, and the important interrelationships among the topics that should be stressed to students.
Dimensions of Perceived Usefulness: Toward Enhanced Assessment
Authors: Saadé Raafat George
Published: June 2007

Students' perceptions about the use of online learning tools have been shown to vary among studies. Their perceptions may have a profound impact on performance in the course and subsequent behavior toward continued use. This article presents a theoretical framework to identify three dimensions of perceived usefulness, namely, performance‐related outcome expectations, personal‐related outcome expectations, and intrinsic motivation. Based on the technology acceptance model (TAM), a new expanded model is proposed to capture more details about students' perceptions of an online learning tool. I also examine the relationships of these three dimensions with perceived ease of use, attitudes, and behavioral intentions to use in the context of online technologies used as an integral component of the course requirements. My findings demonstrate the utility of the expanded TAM to distinguish between the influences of the three proposed dimensions. Results also show that, within the context of this study setup, intrinsic motivation had the most influence on intentions and perceived ease of use of the learning tool had relatively little importance. Limitations and implications are offered.
Intelligent Agent–Supported Online Education
Authors: Li Xiaoqing
Published: June 2007

With the development of Internet technologies, online distance education is becoming an important format for teaching, learning, and instruction. In the 21st century, bleeding edge technologies make it possible for more and more students, especially adults, to benefit from an online education. This new paradigm in education allows students to pursue a second or third degree without sacrificing their jobs. Despite the advances in technology, existing online course management systems are far behind in the technological applications needed to deliver the highest quality online education. The existing distance education systems do not give enough consideration to many important issues, like personalization, mobility of students and instructors, and coordination among online study groups, which seriously affect further development of online education. This article discusses the potential applications of intelligent agents and other modern technologies to solve these problems and make online education more accountable in the open and dynamic environment.
Reliability of Doppler Methods in the Evaluation of the Left Ventricular Systolic Function in Patients with Idiopathic Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Akpinar Onur , Bozkurt Abdi , Acartürk Esmeray
Published: June 2007

Background: There are many new methods for evaluating the left ventricle (LV) systolic function. The aim of this study was to compare the methods, which evaluate the systolic function such as Simpson's method, myocardial performance index (MPI), systolic Sm wave, and dp/dt value of the mitral regurgitation. Methods: Forty patients (27 male, 13 female, mean age 52.5 ± 18.2 years) with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy and 40 healthy subjects (27 male, 13 female, mean age 49.3 ± 10.8 years) were included in the study. All patients and controls underwent echocardiographic examination by M‐mode, two‐dimensional, pulsed‐wave (PW) and continuous wave Doppler and tissue Doppler imaging (TDI). The MPI were measured by the summation of the isovolumetric contraction and relaxation times division of the LV ejection time, with both PW and TDI methods. Results: The cardiac chamber dimensions, MPI, and modified MPI were greater, LV ejection fraction and TDI Sm wave were lower in the patients compared to the controls (P < 0.001). The LV ejection fraction of patients calculated by Simpson's method compared with novel methods. Value of dp/dt (P = 0.010, r = 0.546), MPI (P = 0.002, r =−0.470) and modified MPI (P = 0.038, r =−0.330) were related to the LV ejection fraction. Tissue Doppler Systolic Sm wave had a modest correlation with LV ejection fraction (P < 0.001, r = 0.604). Conclusion: Doppler and tissue Doppler imaging methods correlate with traditional echocardiographic methods and can be used reliably and safely for left ventricular performance regardless of the patient's echogenity.
Influence of Image Quality on the Accuracy of Real Time Three‐Dimensional Echocardiography to Measure Left Ventricular Volumes in Unselected Patients: A Comparison with Gated‐SPECT Imaging
Authors: Tighe Dennis A. , Rosetti Mihaela , Vinch Craig S. , Chandok Dinesh , Muldoon Diane , Wiggin Barbara , Dahlberg Seth T. , Aurigemma Gerard P.
Published: June 2007

Background: Patient selection, often restricted to those with ideal image quality, and timing of studies in relation to reference methods may limit clinical applicability of cardiac volumes derived from 3D echocardiography. Methods: To test the influence of image quality on LV volumes by real time 3DE (RT3DE), we compared results obtained by RT3DE to those from gated‐SPECT imaging in 64 consecutive patients referred for clinically indicated nuclear perfusion imaging. To minimize hemodynamic effects, RT3DE was performed immediately following G‐SPECT. LV volumes by RT3DE were calculated using at least three orthogonal plane pairs. Image quality was rated as good if 75–100% of the endocardial border was visualized, fair if 60–74% was visualized, and poor if 50–60% was visualized. Results: Image quality was good in 25 (39%), fair in 20 (31%), and poor in 13 (20%) patients. Six patients (9%) were excluded for uninterpretable echo images. For the entire cohort, EDV and ESV agreed closely (all P = NS). When stratified by image quality, the EDV and ESV of those with good and fair image quality agreed closely with minimal bias (average 1 ± 9 mL and 2 ± 7 mL, respectively). Poor image was associated with less strong agreement and much greater bias for EDV and ESV (7 ± 25 mL and 7 ± 20 mL, respectively). Conclusions: When applied to patients studied in routine clinical practice, LV volumes by RT3DE compare favorably to G‐SPECT. RT3DE results are more reliable when >60% of endocardium is visualized.
Comparison of Accuracy of Aortic Valve Area Assessment in Aortic Stenosis by Real Time Three‐Dimensional Echocardiography in Biplane Mode versus Two‐Dimensional Transthoracic and Transesophageal Echocardiography
Authors: Blot‐Souletie Nathalie , Hébrard Aurélien , Acar Philippe , Carrié Didier , Puel Jacques
Published: June 2007

Our aim was to validate the clinical feasibility of assessment of the area of the aortic valve orifice (AVA) by real time three‐dimensional echocardiography (RT3DE) in biplane mode by planimetry and to compare it with the echo‐Doppler methods more commonly used to evaluate valvular aortic stenosis (AS).
RT3DE in biplane mode is a novel technique that allows operators to visualize the aortic valve orifice anatomy in any desired plane orientation. Its usefulness and accuracy have not previously been established.
Using this technique, we studied a series of patients with AS and compared the results with those obtained by two‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) planimetry and two‐dimensional transthoracic echocardiography using the continuity equation (TTE‐CE). RT3DE planimetries in biplane mode were measured by two independent observers. Bland–Altman analysis was used to compare these two methods.
Forty‐one patients with AS were enrolled in the study (15 women, 26 men, mean age 73.5 ± 8.2 years). RT3DE planimetry was feasible in 92.7%. Average AVA determined by TTE‐CE was 0.76 ± 0.20 cm, by TEE planimetry 0.73 ± 0.1 cm, and by RT3DE planimetry 0.76 ± 0.20 cm2. The average differences in AVA were−0.001 ± 0.254 cm2 and 0.03 ± 0.155 cm2 (RT3DE/TEE). The correlation coefficient for AVA (RT3DE/TTE‐CE) was 0.82 and for AVA (RT3DE/TEE) it was 0.94, P < 0.0001. No significant intra‐ and interobserver variability was observed. In conclusion, RT3DE in biplane mode provides a feasible and reproducible method for measuring the area of the aortic valve orifice in aortic stenosis.
Primary Benign Schwannoma of the Left Ventricle Coursing under the Left Anterior Descending Artery
Authors: Sevimli Serdar , Erkut Bilgehan , Becit Necip , Aksakal Enbiya , Polat Pinar
Published: June 2007

A 57‐year‐old female patient with a mass adjacent to the left ventricle coursing along the left anterior descending artery has been reported. The maximum possible resection was performed at a maximum degree; however without complete removal. Histological examination revealed a benign primary schwannoma of the heart. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of benign schwannoma of left ventricle in an adult.
Incorporation of Pulmonary Vascular Resistance Measurement into Standard Echocardiography: Implications for Assessment of Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Ulett Kimberly B. , Marwick Thomas H.
Published: June 2007

Doppler estimation of pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) from tricuspid regurgitation velocity is a simple approach to the detection of pulmonary hypertension but may be influenced by right ventricular stroke volume. We sought the clinical utility of incorporating Doppler calculation of pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) into determination of pulmonary hypertension in 578 consecutive patients with tricuspid regurgitation. Right atrial pressure was estimated from vena caval dimensions and collapsibility. Pulmonary hypertension was classified on the basis of a) PASP >35mmHg, b) age‐/gender normalized PASP, c) PVR >2 Wood units. The mean PASP was 40 ± 13 mmHg and PVR was 1.9 ± 0.8 Wood units. Standard PASP identified pulmonary hypertension in 58%, compared with 36% by age‐/gender normalized PASP (P < 0.0001), and 31% by PVR (P < 0.0001). Of patients who had pulmonary hypertension by PASP, 33% were reclassified as normal on the basis of PVR and 6% were reclassified from normal to pulmonary hypertension. PVR is easy to incorporate into a standard echo exam, and identifies a small group with normal PASP as having PAH, and a larger group of apparently increased PASP as normal.
Cutaneous Reactions to Antibacterial Agents
Authors: Joseph A. Witkowski , Lawrence Charles Parish
Published: June 2007

Antibacterial agents may cause a variety of untoward reactions. Some range from transient, mild erythema to toxic epidermal necrolysis, often resulting in disability and death. Both in vivo and in vitro tests are becoming useful for the diagnosis of the causative agent in drug eruptions. The drug hypersensitivity syndrome may be associated with thyroid abnormalities often occurring months after the drug has been withdrawn. Symmetrical small joint polyarthritis, fever, and malaise may be the presenting findings in a patient with drug‐induced lupus erythematosus. Exanthematous drug eruptions without high fever, mucosal involvement, or joint symptoms often resolve without discontinuation of the drug. The differential diagnosis of Stevens‐Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis depends on the percentage of epidermal detachment.
Professional burnout and work engagement among dentists
Authors: Brake Hans Te , Bouman Anne‐Marthe , Gorter Ronald , Hoogstraten Johan , Eijkman Michiel
Published: June 2007

A recent development within burnout research is the shift to its conceptual opposite: work engagement. This study aimed to unravel the concepts of burnout and work engagement, and to determine their levels among dentists. A representative sample of 497 Dutch general dental practitioners was included (survey response rate of 59%), consisting of 372 men and 121 women (the gender of 4 dentists remained unknown). The hypothesized three‐factor structure of work engagement (vigor, dedication, and absorption), as measured by the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES), was substantiated among dentists. It was also found that work engagement was related negatively to burnout, as measured by the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). However, a model consisting of a reduced (‘core’) burnout factor and an ‘enhanced’ engagement factor (composed of the three original factors plus the burnout factor, personal accomplishment) showed the best fit. Overall burnout levels among dentists are low, and the levels of engagement indicate that dentists have a positive working attitude.
Reproducibility of DIAGNOdent 2095 and DIAGNOdent Pen measurements: results from an in vitro study on occlusal sites
Authors: Kühnisch Jan , Bücher Katharina , Henschel Volkmar , Hickel Reinhard
Published: June 2007

The aim of this in vitro study was to investigate the intra‐ and interdevice reproducibility of the DIAGNOdent 2095 (DD2095) and the new DIAGNOdent Pen (DDPen) on non‐cavitated occlusal caries sites. Altogether, 241 sites on 90 molars were inspected twice with both devices and by four examiners. The intra/interdevice reproducibilities were assessed by means of the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) as well as by the range of the 95% limits of agreement of Bland & Altman. Additionally, a linear mixed‐effects model was fitted with fixed effects for the visual scores and the devices used and random effects for occlusal sites and examiners within each measurement site. In result, the following values were determined for the intradevice reproducibility: DD2095: ICC 0.89, range 42.3; and DDPen: ICC 0.88, range 49.3. The interdevice reproducibility was found to be in the same order of magnitude (ICC 0.82, range 53.7). The comparison between both devices indicated significantly lower mean values for the DDPen. The estimates of the linear model show that there is a high variation between the sites that cannot be explained by the fixed effects. In conclusion, both devices showed an imperfect reproducibility, which indicate the usage as adjunct tool only in clinical practice.
In situ localization of gelatinolytic activity during development and resorption of Meckel's cartilage in mice
Authors: Sakakura Yasunori , Hosokawa Yoichiro , Tsuruga Eichi , Irie Kazuharu , Yajima Toshihiko
Published: June 2007

Degradation of Meckel's cartilage in the middle portion is accompanied by hypertrophy and death of chondrocytes, calcification of the cartilaginous matrix, and chondroclastic resorption. We hypothesize that the gelatinolytic activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) largely contributes to the degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the process. The activity in Meckel's cartilage of mouse mandibular arches at embryonic days 14–16 (E14–E16) was examined by a combination of in situ zymography (ISZ), using quenched fluorescent dye‐labeled gelatin as a substrate, with CTT (a selective inhibitor of MMP‐2 and ‐9) or with EDTA (a general MMP inhibitor). On E14 and E15, ISZ showed fluorescence in the perichondrium, in the intercellular septa between chondrocytes, and in the nucleus of chondrocytes. CTT attenuated fluorescence, and EDTA eliminated it. On E16, calcified cartilaginous matrix showed intense fluorescence, and dot‐like fluorescence was observed in as‐yet uncalcified intercellular septa, even after CTT treatment. EDTA inhibited fluorescence, but unexpectedly intense fluorescence was found in the cytoplasm of hypertrophic chondrocytes facing the resorption front. MMP‐2, ‐9, and ‐13 immunoreactivity was detected in the perichondrium and chondrocytes of Meckel's cartilage. These findings suggest that MMPs and other proteinases capable of degrading gelatin play an integral role in the development, calcification, and resorption of Meckel's cartilage through ECM reconstitution.
Effects of adding fluids to solid foods on muscle activity and number of chewing cycles
Authors: Van Der Bilt Andries , Engelen Lina , Abbink Jan , Pereira Luciano J.
Published: June 2007

The production of a sufficient amount of saliva is indispensable for good chewing. In the present study, we examined the hypothesis that adding fluid to a food will facilitate the chewing process, especially for dry foods. The effect might be larger for subjects with relatively low salivary flow rates. Furthermore, adding fluids that contain mucins or α‐amylase may have a larger facilitating effect on mastication than the addition of water alone. Twenty subjects chewed on melba toast, breakfast cake, carrot, peanut, and Gouda cheese. In addition, they chewed on these foods after different volumes of water, artificial saliva containing mucins, or a solution of α‐amylase had been added. Muscle activity and number of chewing strokes until swallowing were measured. The salivary flow rates of the subjects were also determined. Adding fluid to the food significantly reduced the number of chewing cycles and total muscular work (i.e. the integrated surface electromyograpy of masseter and temporalis muscles measured bilaterally, summed for all chewing cycles) until swallowing for all foods, except carrot. The largest effects were observed for melba and cake, which are dry products requiring sufficient saliva to form a coherent bolus safe for swallowing. More facilitation of the chewing process was observed after adding fluid to breakfast cake for subjects with relatively low salivary flow rates. The type of fluid had no significant effect on the chewing process.
Dental caries and oral health behavior in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Blomqvist My , Holmberg Kirsten , Fernell Elisabeth , Ek Ulla , Dahllöf Göran
Published: June 2007

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common developmental disorder. This study tested the hypothesis that children with ADHD exhibit a higher caries prevalence and poorer oral health behavior than children in a control group. Twenty‐one children with ADHD and a control group of 79 children, all aged 13 yr, underwent a clinical dental examination and completed two questionnaires on dietary habits and dental hygiene habits. Differences between the groups regarding decayed, missed, or filled surfaces, decayed surfaces, initial caries lesions, and gingival inflammation were non‐significant. Forty‐eight percent in the ADHD group brushed their teeth every evening compared with 82% in the control group. The corresponding frequencies for brushing the teeth every morning were 48% and 75%. Children with ADHD were 1.74 times more likely to eat or drink more than five times a day than children in the control group. In conclusion, at age 13, children with ADHD do not exhibit a statistically significantly higher caries prevalence but do have poorer oral health behavior than children in a control group. The intervals between dental examinations of children with ADHD should be shorter than for other children to prevent a higher caries incidence in adolescence because of their oral health behavior.
Effect of wet vs. dry testing on the mechanical properties of hydrophilic self‐etching primer polymers
Authors: Hosaka Keiichi , Tagami Junji , Nishitani Yoshihiro , Yoshiyama Masahiro , Carrilho Marcela , Tay Franklin R. , Agee Kelli A. , Pashley David H.
Published: June 2007

Self‐etching primers and adhesives contain very hydrophilic methacrylate monomers that result in high water sorptions by their polymers. Water sorption plasticizes the polymers and lowers their mechanical properties. The purpose of this work was to rank the hydrophilicity of a series of acidic primers by their Hoy's solubility parameters (δ) to determine if there was a significant relationship between the δ of polymers and their mechanical properties. A series of six acidic primer blends containing a fixed concentration of phenyl‐P but variable amounts of 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), 2,2 bi[4‐(2‐hydroxy‐3‐methacryloyloxy)propane (BisGMA), and triethylene‐glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) was formulated and their Hoy's solubility parameters calculated. The polymers were cast into small ‘I’ beams and light‐cured. The modulus of elasticity (E) and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) were measured in dry polymers and after immersion in water for 24 h. The results showed significant correlations between E and UTS under dry or wet conditions. Both E and UTS fell significantly when the specimens were immersed in water. After water immersion, the E and UTS showed significant correlations with Hoy's δp values. Both E and UTS correlated significantly with the BisGMA concentration of the polymers, either wet or dry. The percentage changes in E or UTS were significantly correlated with the water sorption of the polymers.
Chemotactic effect of melatonin on leukocytes
Authors: Peña Caterina , Rincon Jaimar , Pedreanez Adriana , Viera Ninoska , Mosquera Jesus
Published: June 2007

Abstract:  Melatonin seems to be an important stimulatory factor of the immune system. This indolamine is capable of inducing activation of leukocytes. Tissue leukocyte infiltration is a key feature of inflammatory and immune responses; however, there is no information about the effect of melatonin on leukocyte chemotaxis. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the in vitro and in vivo effects of melatonin on leukocyte chemotaxis, on modulation of leukocyte chemotaxis to other chemoattractants and on the in vivo induction of leukocyte chemokines. Neutrophils and mononuclear leukocytes (PBMC) were isolated by a discontinuous gradient on Hystopaque. Chemotaxis was performed in blind well Boyden’s chambers. In vivo chemotaxis was determined after intraperitoneal injection of melatonin into rats. Leukocyte chemotactic response and leukocyte chemokine expression were determined in human volunteers treated with 20 mg daily of melatonin. Increased neutrophils and PBMC chemotaxis in response to 1.2 nm melatonin was observed in vitro. Peritoneal leukocytes were found increased after melatonin injection. Humans treated with melatonin showed an increased neutrophil chemotactic response to a physiological chemoattractant and increased expression of intracellular chemokines; however, decreased chemotactic response and no chemokine expression were observed in PBMC. These data suggest that melatonin could have a relevant role during the tissue leukocyte infiltration in inflammatory and immune responses.
Is Bupropion a More Specific Substrate for Porcine CYP2E than Chlorzoxazone andp‐Nitrophenol?
Authors: Skaanild Mette T. , Friis Christian
Published: June 2007

Abstract:  Porcine microsomes are able to hydroxylate chlorzoxazone andp‐nitrophenol, the most commonly used human test substrates for CYP2E1. However, in pigs, CYP2E appears not to be the only enzyme involved in the hydroxylation of chlorzoxazone andp‐nitrophenol, as the enzyme capacity and immunochemical level of the apoprotein do not correlate. The present study shows that the hydroxylation of chlorzoxazone andp‐nitrophenol is inhibited 50–65% by anti‐human CYP2A6, suggesting that these substrates are metabolized almost equally well by CYP2A and CYP2E in pigs. To find an alternative probe to porcine CYP2E, bupropion, another human substrate, was examined. Incubation with bupropion concentrations ranging from 0.05 to 20 mM and with various inhibitors revealed that this substrate is metabolized by both CYP2A and CYP2E. At the high substrate concentration (5 mM), however, the CYP2A6 inhibition decreased compared to inhibition percentages found using the low substrate concentration (0.5 mM). The opposite was found for CYP2E, as inhibition studies with antibodies and diethyldithiocarbamate indicate that it catalysed a negligible part of the reaction at the low substrate concentration and up to 84% at the high concentration. Thus, hydroxylation of bupropion follows the same pattern in pigs as in human beings and the activity measured in pigs is comparable with the human counterpart. Furthermore, bupropion is a more specific substrate for CYP2E than chlorzoxazone andp‐nitrophenol although not perfect.
External World Skepticism
Authors: Greco John
Published: June 2007

Recent literature in epistemology has focused on the following argument for skepticism (SA): I know that I have two hands only if I know that I am not a handless brain in a vat. But I don't know I am not a handless brain in a vat. Therefore, I don't know that I have two hands. Part I of this article reviews two responses to skepticism that emerged in the 1980s and 1990s: sensitivity theories and attributor contextualism. Part II considers the more recent ‘neo‐Moorean’ response to skepticism and its development in ‘safety’ theories of knowledge. Part III argues that the skeptical argument set out in SA is not of central importance. Specifically, SA is parasitic on skeptical reasoning that is more powerful and more fundamental than that displayed by SA itself. Finally, Part IV reviews a Pyrrhonian argument for skepticism that is not well captured by SA, and considers a promising strategy for responding to it.
Spirituality and the Body in Late Modernity
Authors: Dziuban Agata
Published: June 2007

The aim of this article is to examine the role of the body in contemporary spirituality. The body is understood here as being simultaneously individual and social, a corporeal phenomenon, that is, on one hand, a ‘lived experience’ that forms the basis of self‐identity and, on the other, an entity affected by the social system. As such, the body plays an important role in mediating the relationship between one's self‐identity and one's social identity. This article focuses on three particular contemporary phenomena: the conceptualizations of the body presented by both the New Age movements and feminism (especially ecofeminism), as well as the trend towards modifying the body in particular ways, primarily through tattooing and piercing. These movements are understood in terms of Anthony Giddens’ broader conceptualization of the conditions of life in late modernity, in particular his discussion of the reflexive project of identity, and his and other theorists’ speculations on the new grounds for spirituality in the face of heightened ontological uncertainty of our times. I will show that, during the processes of both autonomous self‐expression and identity (trans)formation, the body (as well as the self) is being sacralized, in the sense that it is treated as the subject, rather than an object, through which an individual undertakes the quest for spiritual development.
Quantitative Imaging of Stable Isotopes by Ion Microprobe
Authors: Aléon Jérôme , Chaussidon Marc , Champenois Michel , Mangin Denis
Published: June 2007

A new analytical procedure has been developed to measure oxygen isotopic ratios and, more generally, stable isotopic ratios in microparticles with a few % precision. This procedure uses ion microprobe quantitative imaging with a scanning microbeam. In this mode, ion images are acquired on the electron multiplier. Image processing allows extraction of areas of interest from the whole image and computation of isotopic ratios in the selected areas. The accuracy of this method has been tested for the analysis of the 18O/16O ratio in quartz and magnetite reference samples powdered to a grain size of 2‐5 μm. A detailed study of the instrumental mass fractionation allowed an understanding of differences between classical spot analysis and scanning ion imaging, and showed that fractionation effects were related to grain topography for microparticle analysis, and to image processing or to secondary optical settings for ion imaging. The precision obtained for the measurement of ä18O was 3% for grains having a diameter of 2 μm.
Endothelium‐dependent relaxation of isolated splanchnic arteries from cirrhotic patients: Role of reactive oxygen species
Authors: Salcedo Adely , Garijo Jesús , Monge Luis , Sánchez Ana , Fernández Nuria , García‐Villalón Angel L. , Turrión Víctor S. , Cuervas‐Mons Valentín , Diéguez Godofredo
Published: June 2007

Aim:  To examine the endothelium‐dependent relaxation of splanchnic arteries during cirrhosis as well as the role of reactive oxygen species in this relaxation using hepatic arteries from cirrhotic patients undergoing liver transplantation and mesenteric arteries from liver donors.

Methods:  Arterial segments 3 mm long were mounted in organ baths for isometric tension recording and precontracted with the thromboxane A2 analog U46619 (10−7−10−6 M).

Results:  The relaxation to acetylcholine (10−8−10−4 M), but not to sodium nitroprusside (10−8−10−4 M) was lower in hepatic arteries. The inhibitor of nitric oxide synthesis, Nω‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester (l‐NAME, 10−4 M), the inhibitor of cyclooxygenase, meclofenamate (10−5 M), or l‐NAME (10−4 M) + meclofenamate (10−5 M) diminished the relaxation to acetylcholine only in mesenteric arteries. l‐NAME (10−4 M) + meclofenamate (10−5 M) combined with charybdotoxin (10−7 M) + apamine (10−6 M) inhibited the relaxation toacetylcholine in both types of arteries, and this inhibition was greater than with l‐NAME + meclofenamate. The scavenger of hydrogen peroxide, catalase (1000 U/mL), the superoxide dismutase mimetic, tiron (10−2 M) or the inhibitor of NAD(P)H oxidase, diphenyleneiodonium (5 × 10−6 M), but not the inhibitor of superoxide dismutase, diethyldithiocarbamate (10−3 M) potentiated the acetylcholine‐induced relaxation only in hepatic arteries. l‐NAME did inhibit the relaxation to acetylcholine in hepatic arteries pretreated with catalase or tiron.

Conclusions:  Cirrhosis may decrease endothelial release and/or bioavailability of nitric oxide and prostacyclin in splanchnic arteries, which might be caused partly by increased production of reactive oxygen species.
Changes in circulating cytokine levels and lymphocyte subsets in healthy liver donors after partial hepatectomy
Authors: Nakashima Sayori , Katano Yoshiaki , Nakano Isao , Hirooka Yoshiki , Ito Akihiro , Ishigami Masatoshi , Hayashi Kazuhiko , Honda Takashi , Goto Hidemi
Published: June 2007

Aim:  Studies of animal models have determined that liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy is mediated by a various cytokines. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the levels of these cytokines and subsets of circulating lymphocytes in healthy humans after partial hepatectomy.

Methods:  Four individuals underwent partial hepatectomy for living‐related donor liver transplantation. We also evaluated for comparison, three patients with myoma uteri who underwent hysterectomy. Blood samples were obtained before surgery and on postoperative days (PD) 1, 3, and 7. Serum levels of hepatocyte growth factor, interleukin (IL)‐6, ‐10, and plasma levels of transforming growth factor beta were measured.

Results:  Increased circulating levels of hepatocyte growth factor and transforming growth factor beta were observedafter hepatectomy. The levels of IL‐6 and IL‐10 peaked on PD 1. Circulating white blood cell counts increased remarkably, whereas lymphocyte count decreased particularly on PD 1 and 3. CD4/CD8 and T‐helper cell (Th)1/Th2 ratios were still decreased on PD 7. The percentage of natural killer cells was increased on PD 1. Partial hepatectomy in healthy humans leads not only to decreased lymphocyte counts, but also to remarkable changes in lymphocyte subsets.

Conclusion:  These findings suggest that immune suppression after partial hepatectomy involves decreases in CD4+ helper T cells, particularly Th1 cells.
Alterations of DNA methylation and histone modifications contribute to gene silencing in hepatocellular carcinomas
Authors: Kondo Yutaka , Shen Lanlan , Suzuki Seiji , Kurokawa Tsuyoshi , Masuko Kazuo , Tanaka Yasuhito , Kato Hideaki , Mizuno Yoshiki , Yokoe Masamichi , Sugauchi Fuminaka , Hirashima Noboru , Orito Etsuro , Osada Hirotaka , Ueda Ryuzo , Guo Yi , Chen Xinli , Issa Jean‐Pierre J. , Sekido Yoshitaka
Published: June 2007

Aim:  The aim of the present study was to examine DNA methylation and histone modification changes in hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC).

Methods:  DNA methylation in the P16, RASSF1a, progesterone receptor (PGR) and estrogen receptor α (ERα) promoters was determined by quantitative bisulfite‐pyrosequencing technique in HCC patients. Histone H3‐lysine (K) 4, H3‐K9 and H3‐K27 modifications in all these four genes were examined by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay in HCC cell lines. Expression of two DNA methyltransferases (DNMT1 and DNMT3b) and three histone methyltransferases (SUV39H1, G9a and EZH2) in HCC patients was measured by real‐time polymerase chain reaction.

Results:  Aberrant DNA methylation was detected in all the HCC. Patients with DNA methylation in the RASSF1a, PGR andERα promoters in cancers also had substantial DNA methylation in their non‐cancerous liver tissues, whereas DNA methylation in the P16 promoter was cancer specific. Epigenetic states in HCC cell lines showed that silencing of P16 and RASSF1a depended on DNA methylation and histone H3‐K9 methylation. However, silencing of the PGR and ERα genes was more closely related to H3‐K27 methylation rather than DNA methylation. Consistent with the alteration of histone status, higher expression of G9a and EZH2 was found in HCC than in non‐cancerous liver tissues (P < 0.01).

Conclusion:  These data suggest that multiple epigenetic silencing mechanisms are inappropriately active in HCC cells.
The fraction of long-term sickness absence attributable to work environmental factors: prospective results from the Danish Work Environment Cohort Study: Table 1
Authors: Bang Christensen Karl , Lund Thomas , Labriola Merete , Villadsen Ebbe , Bültmann Ute
Published: June 2007

Objective:To examine the fraction of long-term sickness absence periods attributable to physical and psychosocial work environmental risk factors.

Method:A random population sample was followed for 18 months in a national register of social transfer payments. Mutually adjusted hazard ratios for onset of long-term sickness absence and aetiological fractions were computed.

Results:After mutual adjustment, no significant effect of psychosocial work environment factors remained. In men, 23% and 28% of long-term sickness absence were attributable to working mainly standing or squatting, and lifting or carrying loads, respectively. In women, 27% of long-term sickness absence was attributable to bending or twisting of the neck or back.

Conclusions:Physical work environment exposures explained between 10% and 30% of long-term sickness absence. The potential for reducing long-term sickness absence is substantial.
MORSE HOMOLOGY AND MANIFOLDS WITH BOUNDARY
Authors: AKAHO MANABU
Published: June 2007

We introduce Morse homology for manifolds with boundary, and construct relative Morse homology sequences.
AN INTRINSIC PROOF OF GROMOLL–GROVE DIAMETER RIGIDITY THEOREM
Authors: CAO JIANGUO , TANG HONGYAN
Published: June 2007

Using the spherical trip theorem, we present a new intrinsic proof of Gromoll–Grove diameter rigidity theorem: "If a simply-connected Riemannian manifold has sectional curvature ≥ 1 and diameter [Formula: see text], then either it is homeomorphic to a sphere, or it is isometric to one of classic projective spaces".
LARGE DEFLECTION FINITE STRIP ANALYSIS OF FUNCTIONALLY GRADED PLATES UNDER PRESSURE LOADS
Authors: OVESY H. R. , GHANNADPOUR S. A. M.
Published: June 2007

Description is given for a finite strip method for analyzing the large deflection response of simply supported rectangular functionally graded plates under normal pressure loading. The material properties of the functionally graded plates are assumed to vary continuously through the thickness of the plate, according to the simple power law and exponential law distribution. Both distributions of material properties are used to examine the stress variations. The fundamental equations for rectangular plates of functionally graded material (FGM) are obtained by discretizing the plate into some finite strips, which are developed by combining the Von–Karman theory for large transverse deflection and the concept of functionally graded material. The solution is obtained by the minimization of the total potential energy. The Newton–Raphson method is used to solve the non-linear equilibrium equations. Numerical results for square functionally graded plates are given in dimensionless graphical forms, and compared to the available results, wherever possible. The effects of material properties on the stress field through the thickness and on the variation of the central deflection at a given value of normal pressure loading are determined and discussed.
EXPERIMENTS ON BUCKLING AND POSTBUCKLING OF THIN-WALLED CFRP STRUCTURES USING ADVANCED MEASUREMENT SYSTEMS
Authors: DEGENHARDT RICHARD , KLING ALEXANDER , KLEIN HERMANN , HILLGER WOLFGANG , GOETTING HANS CHRISTIAN , ZIMMERMANN ROLF , ROHWER KLAUS , GLEITER ANDREAS
Published: June 2007

The aircraft and space industry strives for significantly reduced development and operating costs. Reduction of structural weight at safe design is one possibility to reach this objective which is aimed by the following two running research projects: the EC project "COCOMAT" and the ESA study "Probabilistic Aspects of Buckling Knock Down Factors". These projects develop improved concepts and tools for a fast and reliable simulation of the buckling and the postbuckling behavior of thin-walled structures up to collapse, respectively, which allow the exploitation of considerable reserves in primary fibre composite structures in aerospace applications. For the validation of the concepts and tools, a sound database of experiments is needed which is also performed within these projects. This paper focuses on the experimental activities within these projects performed at the buckling test facility of the Institute of Composite Structures and Adaptive Systems (DLR). It presents an overview about the DLR buckling, postbuckling and collapse tests which are already finished and gives an outlook to the results which are expected until the end of the running projects. This paper explains the working of the buckling test facility, the advanced measurement systems, which are running in parallel to the tests, and gives exemplarily two test results. The structures considered are unstiffened cylinders (ESA study) as well as panels, which are understood as sections of cylinders, stiffened by stringers (COCOMAT project). The unstiffened cylinders are more related to space applications (e.g. Ariane busters or parts of the international space station ISS) and the stiffened panels focus more on aircraft structures (e.g. fuselage). The load case considered for all investigations presented in this paper is axial compression under static loading although the test facility is also ready to apply torsion and internal pressure, as well as dynamic axial impact.
NUMERICAL ANALYSIS OF SLENDER STEEL SHEAR PANELS FOR ASSESSING DESIGN FORMULAS
Authors: FORMISANO A. , MAZZOLANI F. M. , DE MATTEIS GIANFRANCO
Published: June 2007

In the framework of passive control devices for the seismic protection of new and existing buildings, large attention is getting more focused on Steel Plate Shear Walls (SPSW). Such a system, which is characterized by the use of slender steel panels, has been largely adopted in the last few years both in the North America and Japan. The structural behavior of slender shear walls is strongly conditioned by buckling phenomena, which may have a significant influence also on the ultimate strength of the system, despite the development of stable post-critical behavior due to tension field mechanism. In order to assess the influence of the geometry on the structural behavior of shear plates, in this paper, the theoretical behavior of steel panels in shear, based on existing simplified methodologies (PFI method and strip model theory) is analyzed and then compared to the results obtained by an extensive numerical study carried out by means of accurate finite element models. The comparison between theoretical and numerical results has been developed with reference to different values of the thickness and by varying the aspect ratio of the plate. In addition, the influence of intermediate stiffeners is investigated. On the whole, the obtained results provide useful information for the correct design of slender steel plates in shear to be used as stiffening and strengthening devices in new and existing framed structures.