bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mated Redback Spider Females Re‐Advertise Receptivity Months after Mating
Authors: Perampaladas Kuhan , Stoltz J. A. , Andrade M. C. B.
Published: May 2008

In many species, selection acts on males to recognize female reproductive status at a distance using pheromones. Unmated females may actively seek to attract males; however, mated females may become cryptic to avoid attracting additional males if multiple matings are costly. Although females of many species cease pheromone production after mating, it is often unclear whether this is a strategic part of a female reproductive strategy, or whether this is because of chemical manipulation by males. If variation in pheromone production is part of the female’s strategy, then we predicted mated females should eventually re‐advertise receptivity if the benefits of multiple mating increase with time since copulation (e.g. because of sperm depletion). Here, we tested this prediction in Australian redback spiders (Latrodectus hasselti). First, we replicated earlier results by showing that virgin males discriminate female maturity and mating status based exclusively on web‐borne chemicals. Our results show this difference must arise from a change in chemical deposition in the web as we controlled for web volume differences between mated and virgin females. Male activity on extracts from webs of virgin females exceeded activity on a solvent control and on extracts of webs of just‐mated females—confirming that female redbacks cease pheromone production immediately after mating. Second, we tested a new prediction that mated females might re‐advertise receptivity near the end of their normal breeding season to replenish diminished sperm stores prior to overwintering. Consistent with the prediction of strategic advertisement, we show that male activity on extracts from females’ webs increased significantly 3 mo after the female first mated (typical length of the breeding season). Thus, these females had begun to add pheromone to their web again. At this time, 26% of these females re‐mated with a second male. If females re‐advertise receptivity to ensure adequate sperm stores, then we predicted a positive relationship between female reproductive output during the 3‐mo interval after copulation and the subsequent intensity of male response to web extracts. However, differences in male activity time were not related to the total number of spiderlings or the number of egg sacs a female had produced during the 3‐mo interval after the first copulation. This result could arise if male chemical manipulation of female receptivity decreases with time after copulation, or if the testing interval used in our study was too long to reveal variation in sperm depletion in females. Thus, although our results are consistent with the idea that females strategically alter pheromonal advertisement, we cannot distinguish this from the hypothesis that female receptivity arises from chemical manipulation by males.
Time of the day for 11β‐HSD1 inhibition plays a role in improving glucose homeostasis in DIO mice
Authors: Véniant M. M. , Hale C. , Komorowski R. , Chen M. M. , St Jean D. J. , Fotsch C. , Wang M.
Published: May 2008

Aims:  The physiological effects of glucocorticoids in a given tissue are driven by the local level of the active glucocorticoid, which is determined by two sources: the plasma cortisol in human (or corticosterone in rodents) and the cortisol produced locally through 11β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β‐HSD1) activity. Because of the circadian variation of plasma glucocorticoids, the pharmacological efficacy of 11β‐HSD1 inhibition may depend on the time of the day for inhibitor administration.

Methods:  The circadian profile of corticosterone was established in lean and diet‐induced obesity (DIO) C57BL/6 mice from blood collected at different time of the day. 11β‐HSD1 enzyme activity was also measured throughout the day in DIO mice. To determine the optimal timing for administration of an 11β‐HSD1 inhibitor to obtain maximum efficacy, we used a DIO mouse model and a small molecule inhibitor of 11β‐HSD1 from our thiazolinone series. Based on the circadian profile of corticosterone obtained, we administered the 11β‐HSD1 inhibitor to these animals at different times of the day and evaluated the effects on plasma glucose levels and glucose tolerance.

Results:  We report that corticosterone circadian rhythm was similar between lean and DIO C57BL/6 mice, and 11β‐HSD1 enzyme activity undergoes minimal variations throughout the day. Interestingly, the compound exhibited maximum efficacy if dosed in the afternoon when plasma corticosterone is high; the morning dosing when plasma corticosterone is low did not lead to efficacy.

Conclusion:  These data suggest that because of the circadian rhythm of circulating glucocorticoids, the time of the day for 11β‐HSD1 inhibitor administration is important in achieving efficacy.
Advancing beef safety and quality: ProSafeBeef
Authors: Miles L. , Caswell H.
Published: May 2008

Summary  ProSafeBeef is a 5‐year integrated project funded by the European Commission under the Sixth Framework Programme. Its overall aim is to ensure that the European beef chain thrives, by conducting research in a number of areas including food safety, nutrition, consumer research and innovations in processing. This article discusses the importance of beef in the diet as a whole. Beef contains protein of high biological value and provides an important range of micronutrients, most notably B vitamins, vitamin D, zinc and iron. It is hoped that ProSafeBeef will have a significant impact on the beef industry by successfully transferring appropriate knowledge direct to the end user via its work on technology transfer, training and dissemination.
Survival and Decline of the Apprenticeship System in the Australian and UK Construction Industries
Authors: Toner Phillip
Published: May 2008

The preservation of the apprenticeship system in the Australian construction industry contrasts with its decline in Britain over the last three decades. This decline is conventionally ascribed to changes in industrial structure, specifically a decline in the role of the public sector, intensification of subcontracting and growth of self‐employment. Given that the Australian construction industry has undergone similar structural changes to those in the United Kingdom, this difference in outcome requires explanation. This article suggests that the contrasting outcomes are the result of institutional differences in the organization of the training system, employers and labour between the two countries. These institutional differences are, however, diminishing as arrangements for training and industrial relations in Australia are increasingly fashioned in the likeness of the United Kingdom.
SOME THEORY ON M‐SMOOTHING OF TIME SERIES
Authors: Härdle Wolfgang , Tuan Pham‐Dinh
Published: May 2008

Abstract. In recent years many robust smoothing procedures for time series have been introduced. Their extreme nonlinearity made them mathematically untractable and their behaviour was mostly analysed by means of Monte Carlo studies. In this paper we develop some mathematical theory of a specific class of nonlinear smoothers. We investigate the asymptotics of so‐called M‐smoothers and discuss robustness of M‐smoothers in some special cases.
SOME ASPECTS OF THE PERFORMANCE OF DIAGNOSTIC CHECKS IN BIVARIATE TIME SERIES MODELS
Authors: Poskitt D. S. , Tremayne A. R.
Published: May 2008

Abstract.This paper is concerned with the use of score, or Lagrangian multiplier and portmanteau tests of fitted model adequacy in vector autoregressive‐moving average processes. The relation between these alternative diagnostic checking devices is discussed from an asymptotic theoretic standpoint. Some finite sample properties of the tests are investigated in the context of bivariate models using Monte Carlo methods. Asymptotic theory is used to help determine the simulation design and also proves useful in appraising the experimental outcomes. The results provide evidence on the likely relative performance of the two procedures in practice and suggest that the score test is to be preferred.
Us, Them and It: Modules, Genes, Environments and Evolution
Authors: COWIE FIONA
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  The Architecture of Mind is an ambitious and informative work, surveying an impressive range of empirical literature and arguing that the mind is massively modular. However, it suffers from two major theoretical flaws. First, Carruthers’ concept of a module is weak, so much so that it robs his thesis of massive modularity of any real substance. Second, his conception of how the mind’s modules evolved ignores the role of niche construction and cultural evolution to its detriment.
Adaptation in the African egg‐eating snake: a comparative approach to a classic study in evolutionary functional morphology
Authors: Gartner G. E. A. , Greene H. W.
Published: May 2008

A key component to any adaptive hypothesis is that the adaptive trait in question must confer a performance advantage and, in turn, an increase in fitness, relative to those animals displaying the phylogenetically antecedent condition. Among the most striking purported adaptations in vertebrates are those found in the African snake genus Dasypeltis. These snakes are unique in that they eat bird eggs to the exclusion of all other prey. Detailed functional morphological analysis dating back 50 years has highlighted a suite of morphological features in the head and trunk region hypothesized to assist these animals in eating bird eggs, and yet no comparative performance studies of egg‐eating ability have ever been conducted in this group of snakes. The purpose of this study was twofold: first, we wanted to compare egg‐eating performance in Dasypeltis with a facultative egg eater, the common king snake Lampropeltis getula. Second, we wanted to test the hypothesis that a selective regime exists in Africa conducive to the selection and subsequent fixation of the hypothesized egg‐eating morphological adaptations. Our results show that a strong advantage exists in egg‐eating ability for Dasypeltis. The difference is so large (only large Lampropeltis can eat small eggs) that analysis by analysis of covariance becomes difficult due to problems with collinearity. Our results examining potential selective regimes show that more birds lay eggs of a readily ingestible size in Africa than in a representative region in the United States. Additionally, the largest radiation of African ground‐nesting birds existed in Africa before the colubrid explosion during the Miocene, which gave rise to Dasypeltis, giving further support to previous adaptive hypotheses regarding the unique morphology of these snakes.
Urine albumin concentration and albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio at 11+0 to 13+6 weeks in the prediction of pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Poon LCY , Kametas N , Bonino S , Vercellotti E , Nicolaides KH
Published: May 2008

Objective  To determine the performance of screening for pre‐eclampsia by maternal characteristics, urine albumin concentration and albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio (ACR) at 11+0 to 13+6 weeks.

Design  Prospective cross‐sectional observational study.

Setting  Routine antenatal visit.

Population  A total of 2679 pregnant women at 11+0 to 13+6 weeks of gestation.

Methods  Maternal variables, urine albumin concentrations and ACR of 51 women who developed pre‐eclampsia were compared with 2364 women who were unaffected by hypertensive disorders. Regression analysis was used first to determine which of the factors among the maternal characteristics were significant predictors of urine albumin concentration and ACR in the unaffected group and second to determine the contribution of urine albumin concentration and ACR in the prediction of pre‐eclampsia.

Main outcome measures  Development of pre‐eclampsia.

Results  In the unaffected group, log urine albumin concentration and log ACR were influenced by ethnic origin, age, body mass index (BMI), parity and smoking. In the prediction of pre‐eclampsia, significant contributions were provided by log urine albumin concentration, log ACR, ethnic origin, BMI, age, family and history of pre‐eclampsia. The median urine albumin concentration and the median ACR in the pre‐eclampsia group were significantly higher than those in the unaffected group. However, in screening for pre‐eclampsia, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was not significantly improved by the combined models than with maternal variables alone. The value of urine albumin concentration was not improved by correcting for the creatinine concentration.

Conclusion  In the prediction of pre‐eclampsia, urine albumin concentration at 11+0 to 13+6 weeks does not provide additional value to maternal variables.
Severe maternal morbidity during pregnancy, delivery and puerperium in the Netherlands: a nationwide population‐based study of 371 000 pregnancies
Authors: Zwart JJ , Richters JM , Öry F , De Vries JIP , Bloemenkamp KWM , Van Roosmalen J
Published: May 2008

Objective  To assess incidence, case fatality rate, risk factors and substandard care in severe maternal morbidity in the Netherlands.

Design  Prospective population‐based cohort study.

Setting  All 98 maternity units in the Netherlands.

Population  All pregnant women in the Netherlands.

Methods  Cases of severe maternal morbidity were collected during a 2‐year period. All pregnant women in the Netherlands in the same period acted as reference cohort (n = 371 021). As immigrant women are disproportionately represented in Dutch maternal mortality statistics, special attention was paid to the ethnic background. In a subset of 2.5% of women, substandard care was assessed through clinical audit.

Main outcome measures  Incidence, case fatality rates, possible risk factors and substandard care.

Results  Severe maternal morbidity was reported in 2552 women, giving an overall incidence of 7.1 per 1000 deliveries. Intensive care unit admission was reported in 847 women (incidence 2.4 per 1000), uterine rupture in 218 women (incidence 6.1/10 000), eclampsia in 222 women (incidence 6.2/10 000) and major obstetric haemorrhage in 1606 women (incidence 4.5 per 1000). Non‐Western immigrant women had a 1.3‐fold increased risk of severe maternal morbidity (95% CI 1.2–1.5) when compared with Western women. Overall case fatality rate was 1 in 53. Substandard care was found in 39 of a subset of 63 women (62%) through clinical audit.

Conclusions  Severe maternal morbidity complicates at least 0.71% of all pregnancies in the Netherlands, immigrant women experiencing an increased risk. Since substandard care was found in the majority of assessed cases, reduction of severe maternal morbidity seems a mandatory challenge.
Immediate or delayed repair of obstetric anal sphincter tears—a randomised controlled trial*
Authors: Nordenstam J , Mellgren A , Altman D , López A , Johansson C , Anzén B , Li Zhong‐ze , Zetterström J
Published: May 2008

Objective To investigate if an 8‐ to 12‐hour time delay of primary repair affects anal incontinence at 1‐year follow up.

Design Randomised controlled trial.

Setting University hospital in Sweden.

Population A total of 165 women diagnosed with a third‐ to fourth‐degree perineal tear.

Methods The participants were randomised to immediate or delayed (8‐ to 12‐hour delay) end‐to‐end repair; 78 were allocated to immediate operation and 87 to a delayed repair. An incontinence and pelvic floor symptom questionnaire was completed by the participants at baseline and at 6‐ and 12‐month follow up.

Main outcome measures Anal incontinence measured by the validated Pescatori incontinence score.

Results A total of 161 (98%) and 155 (94%) women completed the two follow‐up questionnaires. There was no significant difference in anal incontinence between the groups. There were no significant differences in pelvic floor symptoms between the groups. A multivariate proportional odds model revealed that increasing maternal age was significantly associated with both increased symptoms of faecal urgency and inability to discriminate flatus from faeces.

Conclusion Delayed repair provided the same functional outcome at 1‐year follow up. Delaying the repair should thus not be recommended routinely, but can be an alternative under special circumstances when appropriate surgical expertise is not readily available.
Objective assessment of surgical competence in gynaecological laparoscopy: development and validation of a procedure‐specific rating scale
Authors: Larsen CR , Grantcharov T , Schouenborg L , Ottosen C , Soerensen JL , Ottesen B
Published: May 2008

Objective  The purpose of this study was to develop a global‐ and a procedure‐specific rating scale based on a well‐validated generic model (objective structured assessment of technical skills) for assessment of technical skills in laparoscopic gynaecology. Furthermore, we aimed to investigate the construct validity and the interrater agreement (IRA) of the rating scale. We investigated both the gamma coefficient (Kendall’s rank correlation), which is a measure of the strength of dependence between observations, and the kappa value for each of the ten individual items included in the rating scale.

Design  Prospective cohort, observer‐blinded study.

Setting  Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in Zealand, Denmark.

Population  Twenty one gynaecologists or gynaecological trainees.

Material and methods  Twenty‐one video recordings of right side laparoscopic salpingectomies were collected prospectively, eight from novices (defined as <10 procedures), seven from intermediate experienced (20–50 procedures) and six from experts (>200 procedures). All operations were performed by the same operative principles and using a standardised technique. The recordings were analysed by two independent, blinded observers.

Main outcome measures  Construct validity of the rating scale based on operative performance (median of total score) and interrater reliability.

Results  There were significant differences between the three groups: median score of novices 24.00 versus intermediate 29.50 versus expert 39.50, P < 0.003) The IRA was 0.83 overall. The gamma correlation coefficient was 0.91. The kappa values varied from 0.510–0.933 for each of the individual items of the rating scale.

Conclusions  The procedure‐specific rating scale for laparoscopic salpingectomy is a valid and reliable tool for assessment of technical skills in gynaecological laparoscopy.
Psychological stress during pregnancy and stillbirth: prospective study
Authors: Wisborg K , Barklin A , Hedegaard M , Henriksen TB
Published: May 2008

Objective  To study the association between psychological stress during pregnancy and stillbirth.

Design  Prospective follow‐up study.

Setting  Aarhus University Hospital, Skejby, Denmark,1989–98.

Population  A total of 19 282 singleton pregnancies in women with valid information about psychological stress during pregnancy.

Methods  Information about psychological stress during pregnancy was obtained from questionnaires and measured by the 12‐item General Health Questionnaires (GHQ). A score was generated by the sum of all the answers, each contributing a value between 0 (low psychological stress) and 3 (high psychological stress). Women with an intermediate level of psychological stress (scores of 7–11) were considered the reference group. Scores of 0–6 were defined as a low level of psychological stress and scores of 12–36 as the highest level. The association between psychological stress and stillbirth was presented as relative risks with 95% CIs. Adjustment for potential confounding factors was carried out by logistic regression analyses.

Main outcome measures  Stillbirth (delivery of a dead fetus at >28 weeks of gestation).

Results  There were 66 stillbirths (3.4‰) in the population studied. Compared with women with an intermediate level of psychological stress during pregnancy, women with a high level of stress had 80% increased risk of stillbirth (relative risk = 1.8; 95% CI 1.1–3.2). Adjustment for maternal age, parity, maternal pre‐pregnancy body mass index, smoking habits, alcohol and caffeine intake during pregnancy, education and cohabitation failed to change the result. The results remained essentially unchanged after exclusion of preterm deliveries. Exclusion of women with complications during pregnancy such as diabetes, hypertension, vaginal bleeding, immunisation and imminent preterm delivery failed to change the results. Likewise, restriction to women’s first pregnancy in the cohort did not change the results.

Conclusion  Psychological stress during pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of stillbirth.
The use of inferior vena caval filters prior to major surgery in women with gynaecological cancer
Authors: Adib T , Belli A , McCall J , Ind TEJ , Bridges JE , Shepherd JH , Barton DPJ
Published: May 2008

Objective  To evaluate the use of inferior vena caval filters (IVCF) prior to surgery in women with gynaecological cancer and venous thromboembolism (VTE).

Design  Retrospective review of medical notes and electronic records.

Setting  Gynaecological oncology cancer centre.

Population  Women with gynaecological cancer and VTE requiring major surgery.

Methods  A retrospective analysis was performed on women treated for gynaecological malignancies who had had VTE, and an IVCF placed before major abdominal surgery were reviewed during the period 1996–2006.

Main outcome measures  Safety of IVCF placement and retrieval, peri‐operative morbidity and incidence of further VTE.

Results  The median age was 66 years (range 30–84 years). Of the 39 women, 35 (90%) women had a primary cancer diagnosis and 4 (10%) had recurrent disease. Twenty‐two women had ovarian cancer, 2 had borderline ovarian tumours, 9 had uterine cancer, 5 had cervical cancer and 1 woman had concurrent ovarian and endometrial cancers. The recurrent cancers were two cervical, one ovarian and one uterine. The IVCF used were either of the permanent or retrievable type, the latter being more commonly used in younger women. All filters were placed without morbidity, and none of these women who then underwent major abdominal surgery had VTE complications. In 43.6% of women (n = 17), surgery was performed within 6 weeks of the diagnosis of VTE. All women received perioperative anticoagulation in the form of subcutaneous low‐molecular‐weight heparin. Three retrievable filters were uneventfully removed postoperatively. No filter‐related problems occurred.

Conclusions  Surgery in women with gynaecological cancer and life‐threatening VTE is feasible with preoperative IVCF placement. The use of IVCF was safe with no worsening of the VTE, and without surgical or filter‐related problems. A short interval between the diagnosis of VTE and surgery was not associated with increased perioperative morbidity.
Folic acid use in pregnancy and embryo selection
Authors: Haggarty P , Campbell DM , Duthie S , Andrews K , Hoad G , Piyathilake C , Fraser I , McNeill G
Published: May 2008

Objective  Folic acid supplement use is recommended in pregnancy to reduce the risk of neural tube defect but concerns have been raised that increasing folic acid intake may select for embryos with genotypes that increase disease risk in the offspring. Our aim was to test for this effect.

Design  Observational prospective cohort study.

Setting  Aberdeen Maternity Hospital.

Population or Sample  Women born before the introduction of folic acid advice (1970–80) and carrying singleton pregnancies (n = 1234) and their offspring (n = 1083) born after (2001–03).

Methods  We measured the genotype (MTHFR C677T and A1298C, MTR A2756G, MTRR A66G and TCN G776C) of mothers and their offspring, maternal supplement intake, intake of folate and vitamin B12 from natural foods and maternal blood folate and B12 status at 19 weeks of gestation.

Main outcome measures  B vitamin related genotype of the offspring.

Results  There were no significant differences in any of the five genotype frequencies between mothers and their babies. There was no deviation from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium in either generation and no change in the frequency of doubly homozygous

MTHFR variants (677 TT/1298 CC). The genotype of the offspring was not related to maternal periconceptual supplement use, folate intake from foods or plasma and red cell folate measured at 19 weeks of gestation.

Conclusions  We found no evidence to support the concern that folic acid fortification or supplement use in pregnancy results in selection of deleterious genotypes.
Molecular Pharmacodynamics, Clinical Therapeutics, and Pharmacokinetics of Topiramate
Authors: Shank Richard P. , Maryanoff Bruce E.
Published: May 2008

Topiramate (TPM; TOPAMAX®) is a broad‐spectrum antiepileptic drug (AED) that is approved in many world markets for preventing or reducing the frequency of epileptic seizures (as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy), and for the prophylaxis of migraine. TPM, a sulfamate derivative of the naturally occurring sugar D‐fructose, possesses several pharmacodynamic properties that may contribute to its clinically useful attributes, and to its observed adverse effects. The sulfamate moiety is essential, but not sufficient, for its pharmacodynamic properties. In this review, we discuss the known pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of TPM, as well as its various clinically beneficial and adverse effects.
Protective Effects of Cilostazol against Transient Focal Cerebral ischemia and Chronic Cerebral Hypoperfusion Injury
Authors: Lee Jeong Hyun , Park So Youn , Shin Hwa Kyoung , Kim Chi Dae , Lee Won Suk , Hong Ki Whan
Published: May 2008

Cilostazol increases intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cyclic AMP) levels by inhibiting type III phosphodiesterase. It was approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of intermittent claudication. Its principal actions include inhibition of platelet aggregation, antithrombotic action in cerebral ischemia, and vasodilation, mediated by increased cyclic AMP levels. In a multicenter, randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind clinical trial, cilostazol has been shown to protect patients from recurrent cerebral infarction. It has been recently suggested that cilastozol could be useful in the treatment of transient focal cerebral ischemic injury. Beneficial effects of cilostazol in cerebral ischemic infarction and edema formation has been confirmed in rats by the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The preventive effect was ascribed to cAMP‐dependent protein kinase (PKA)‐coupled maxi‐K channel activation with additional antioxidant and poly(adenosine diphosphate [ADP]‐ribose) polymerase inhibitory actions. Most recently, cilostazol has been shown to prevent vacuolation and rarefaction in the white matter of the rats subjected to chronic cerebral hypoperfusion in association with suppression of astrocyte and microglial activation. Taken together, recent experimental studies with cilostazol showed promising results in cerebral ischemia and chronic cerebral hypoperfusion.
Alcohol Induces DNA Damage and the Fanconi Anemia D2 Protein Implicating FANCD2 in the DNA Damage Response Pathways in Brain
Authors: Rulten S. L. , Hodder E. , Ripley T. L. , Stephens D. N. , Mayne L. V.
Published: May 2008

Background:  The largest cause of neurological damage to children is prenatal exposure to alcohol and chronic alcohol use in adults is associated with neurodegeneration, dementia and long‐term behavioral changes. Microarray analysis identified the DNA damage response (DDR) gene, Fanconi anemia (Fanc) D2, to be robustly upregulated in mouse midbrain following 24‐hour in vivo exposure to ethanol. In this study, we investigate the ability of ethanol to generate DNA strand breaks, predicted substrates for the Fanc pathway and the potential role of FANCD2 in the DDR to ethanol in brain.

Methods:  The effect of ethanol on FANCD2 mRNA levels was measured by quantitative real time PCR using mouse brain and human neuronal cells. FANCD2 protein levels and ubiquitination were measured by Western blotting and immunocytochemistry. DNA damage induction by ethanol/acetaldehyde was measured using the Comet assay and γH2AX immunocytochemistry. Levels of DNA and RNA synthesis were measured in cell strains using 3H‐thymidine or 3H‐uridine up‐take.

Results:  Chronic exposure to ethanol induced FANCD2 in mouse midbrain in vivo and in the nucleus of human neuronal cells in culture. However, there was no concomitant increase in the amount of ubiquitinated FANCD2. Acetaldehyde also induced nonubiquitinated FANCD2 protein, and we were able to demonstrate the ability of acetaldehyde to generate DNA double strand breaks, lesions which normally induce ubiquitination of FANCD2. Ethanol also inhibited both RNA and DNA synthesis in proliferating cells consistent with effects on transcription and replication.

Conclusion:  In contrast to other DNA damaging agents, ethanol/acetaldehyde generated DNA strand breaks without inducing ubiquitination of FANCD2, despite increasing protein levels in the nucleus. These data are consistent with recent reports that suggest the Fanconi anemia pathway plays an important role in the adult brain in response to DNA damage. Further work is required to establish what this role is, in particular the potential function of nonubiquitinated FANCD2 and its role in the DNA damage response in postmitotic neurons and neural precursor cells.
Subjective and Objective Sleep Quality and Aging in the Sleep Heart Health Study
Authors: Unruh Mark L. , Redline Susan , An Ming‐Wen , Buysse Daniel J. , Nieto F. Javier , Yeh Jeun‐Liang , Newman Anne B.
Published: May 2008

OBJECTIVES: To examine the extent to which subjective and objective sleep quality are related to age independent of chronic health conditions.

DESIGN: Cross‐sectional study.

SETTING: The Sleep Heart Health Study (SHHS) is a multicenter study designed to determine the cardiovascular consequences and the natural history of sleep disordered breathing.

PARTICIPANTS: Five thousand four hundred seven community‐dwelling adults who participated in the SHHS (mean age 63, range 45–99; 52% women).

MEASUREMENTS: Unattended home polysomnography (PSG) and sleep questionnaires.

RESULTS: Older age was associated with shorter sleep time, diminished sleep efficiency, and more arousals in men and women. In men, age was independently associated with more Stage 1 and Stage 2 sleep and less slow‐wave (Stage 3 to 4) and rapid eye movement sleep. In women, older age was less strongly associated according to linear trend with sleep stage. Conversely, poor subjective sleep quality was not associated with older age in men, but older women had more trouble falling asleep, and there was a trend toward older women having more problems with waking up during the night and waking up too early. Associations between self‐report and directly measured sleep time and sleep latency were low to moderate across age groups (correlation coefficient=0.06–0.32).

CONCLUSION: Older age was more strongly associated with poorer sleep according to PSG in men than women, yet the subjective report of poor sleep with older age was stronger in women. The higher prevalence of chronic health conditions, including sleep apnea, in older adults did not explain changes of sleep parameters with aging and age–sex differences in these relationships.
Effects of Dehydroepiandrosterone Supplementation on Cognitive Function and Quality of Life: The DHEA and Well‐Ness (DAWN) Trial
Authors: Kritz‐Silverstein Donna , Von Mühlen Denise , Laughlin Gail A. , Bettencourt Ricki
Published: May 2008

OBJECTIVES: To examine the effects of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplementation on cognitive function and quality of life in healthy older adults.

DESIGN: Double‐blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial.

SETTING: Clinical research facility.

PARTICIPANTS: One hundred ten men and 115 women aged 55 to 85 (mean ± standard deviation 68 ± 8).

INTERVENTION: Fifty milligrams daily oral DHEA versus placebo for 1 year.

MEASUREMENTS: Six cognitive function tests at baseline and 12 months, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Medical Outcomes Study 36‐item Short Form Survey (SF‐36), the Life Satisfaction Index‐Z, the Satisfaction with Life Scale, the Female Sexual Function Index (in women), and the 15‐item International Index of Erectile Function (in men) at baseline and 3, 6, and 12 months.

RESULTS: There were no differences between the DHEA and placebo groups in change over time in cognitive function (P>.10). Over time, BDI scores decreased for men (P=.006) and women (P=.02), and Satisfaction with Life Scale scores increased for women (P=.004), but there were no differences between the DHEA and placebo groups over time on these measures or the SF‐36, Life Satisfaction Index‐Z scale, or sexual function scales (P>.10).

CONCLUSION: DHEA supplementation has no benefit on cognitive performance or well‐being in healthy older adults, and it should not be recommended for that purpose in the general population.
Faint and prefaint reactions in whole‐blood donors: an analysis of predonation measurements and their predictive value
Authors: Wiltbank Thomas B. , Giordano Gerald F. , Kamel Hany , Tomasulo Peter , Custer Brian
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: A small proportion of blood donors have adverse reactions. The purpose of this study was to determine predictors of faint and significant hypotensive reactions that could serve as targets for interventions to reduce reactions, thus improving the blood donation experience for those at higher risk of reactions and reducing the risk of serious adverse events.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The records of 422,231 allogeneic whole‐blood donations from a 9‐month period were assessed for adverse reactions. Incidents related to needle insertion, such as hematoma, were excluded. Demographic, biometric, and clinical measurements were collected. Reactions were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression analysis comparing donors with any adverse reaction to donors without reactions and by stratified rates according to reaction severity.

RESULTS: The overall reaction prevalence was 1.43 percent. Of the reactions, 63, 29, and 8 percent were classified as mild, moderate, and severe, respectively. Markers of reactions were age, sex, race, blood volume, blood pressure, pulse, and body mass index. Compared to donors without reactions, the strongest predictor of a reaction was a donor's blood volume of less than 3500 mL (odds ratio [OR], 2.9; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.57‐3.23). Age and first‐time status were also associated with a significantly higher risk of reaction with 17‐ to 18‐year‐olds (OR, 2.8; 95% CI, 2.59‐2.98) and 19‐ to 24‐year‐olds (OR, 2.39; 95% CI, 2.23‐2.56) at higher risk compared to 25‐ to 65‐year‐olds and first‐time donors at higher risk compared to repeat donors (OR, 2.2; 95% CI, 2.07‐2.33).

CONCLUSION: The results of this study are helpful in identifying donors at risk for adverse reactions and in understanding the contributors to reactions. Donor blood volume was an unexpectedly strong predictor of reaction. Potential interventions to reduce the frequency of reaction are discussed.
Epoetin‐associated pure red cell aplasia: past, present, and future considerations
Authors: McKoy June M. , Stonecash Robin E. , Cournoyer Denis , Rossert Jerome , Nissenson Allen R. , Raisch Dennis W. , Casadevall Nicole , Bennett Charles L.
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: Since 1988, millions of patients have received epoetin products intravenously (IV) and subcutaneously. In 1998, epoetin‐associated pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) was first reported and causation was attributed to formulations without human serum albumin (HSA), subcutaneous administration, and uncoated rubber stoppers.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Data on erythropoietin (EPO)‐associated PRCA were obtained from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), regulatory authorities in other countries, and the manufacturers of epoetin alfa, epoetin beta, and darbepoetin. The data included information on numbers of PRCA cases and estimated exposure‐adjusted incidence rates by EPO product, anemia etiology, administration route, country of PRCA identification, and date reported.

RESULTS: In 1999, academicians in Paris identified 12 EPO‐treated patients with antibody‐mediated PRCA; 11 of these patients were on hemodialysis and had received subcutaneous Eprex (Johnson & Johnson). In 2002, authorities in Europe, Australia, Singapore, and Canada mandated Eprex by IV route to hemodialysis patients, and the relevant manufacturers added Teflon coating to prefilled syringes of Eprex; PRCA cases subsequently decreased by 90 percent. By 2003, 180 Eprex‐associated PRCA cases were identified in Europe, Canada, Australia, and Asia, despite improvements in handling. Since 2002, FDA safety databases include information on 59 new cases of antibody‐associated PRCA, primarily associated with subcutaneous epoetin alfa and darbepoetin that does not contain HSA.

CONCLUSION: Independent actions by regulatory authorities, manufacturers, and academic researchers identified significant numbers of PRCA cases between 1998 and 2003 and characterized the probable etiology. Today, antibody‐mediated PRCA is an infrequent class toxicity occurring among some hemodialysis patients on EPOs.
A method for estimating incidence rate of infectious diseases among first‐time blood donors
Authors: Zou Shimian , Fang Chyang T. , Dodd Roger Y.
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: In certain circumstances, there is no method for estimating incidence based on testing results on a single blood sample from first‐time blood donors, severely limiting the ability to assess the residual risk of blood‐borne infections among this donor subpopulation.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Incidence rates were estimated for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) among first‐time donors using the formula (P2 − P1)/D, where P1 is the prevalence among blood donations from first‐time donors of the minimum eligible ages for donation, P2 is the prevalence among donations from first‐time donors of an older age group, and D is the age difference (in years) between the older and younger donor groups.

RESULTS: Estimating incidence among first‐time donors using the proposed method based on a single test for anti‐HCV produced similar results to those based on HCV nucleic acid test (NAT) yield cases, by sex and in different periods. Comparison of the proposed method with HIV NAT yield also showed similar results although the small number of HIV NAT yield cases limits interpretation.

CONCLUSIONS: The proposed method provides an alternative way for estimating incidence of certain blood‐borne infections among first‐time donors, provided that our assumptions are met. It helps residual risk assessment in donor populations where first‐time donors account for most of the donations and only one test result is available for each donor.
Controlled Evolution of Morphology and Microstructure in Laser Interference‐Structured Zirconia
Authors: Daniel Claus , Armstrong Beth L. , Howe Jane Y. , Dahotre Narendra B.
Published: May 2008

Tape‐cast pseudo‐cubic zirconia pellets were surface irradiated by two coherent interfering high‐power short‐pulse Nd:YAG laser beams. The interfering beams of the third harmonic with a wavelength of 355 nm of a 2.5‐ns Q‐switched laser produced a line‐like intensity distribution with a periodic distance of 3.3 μm due to the selected angle between the beams. The resulting nonuniform surface heating produced a microstructure consisting of ultrafine‐grained zirconia with a grain size of about 10 nm within the top 100–200 nm depth of the treated surface region due to the high cooling rates during short‐pulse laser processing (up to 1010 K/s). The surface morphology closely followed the microperiodic heat treatment provided by the interfering laser beams. The pore size distribution within the periodic surface morphology ranged from a few nanometers to a maximum of half of the periodic line distances.
Relating Grain‐Boundary Complexion to Grain‐Boundary Kinetics I: Calcia‐Doped Alumina
Authors: Dillon Shen J. , Harmer Martin P.
Published: May 2008

Because of the complex nature of internal interfaces it has been a continual challenge to link the grain growth behavior of alumina (especially the onset of abnormal grain growth) to the internal interface structure and chemistry, and the associated atomic transport rate. The present work considers the problem of normal and abnormal grain growth development in calcia‐doped alumina, a system noted for its complex abnormal grain growth behavior, in terms of the new concept of interface complexions. Calcia‐doped alumina was shown to exhibit four distinct grain‐boundary complexions in the temperature range of 1325°–1870°C. All four complexions may coexist at a single temperature. Each complexion is associated with a characteristic grain‐boundary mobility, all of which enhances the grain growth kinetics relative to undoped alumina. It was found that the activation energy for the different complexions (normal and abnormal grain growth) was approximately the same in each case (∼450 kJ/mol). This is discussed in the context of interface‐ versus diffusion‐controlled grain growth, and it is concluded that normal and abnormal grain growth in this system is diffusion controlled.
Recycle of Waste Glass into “Glass–Ceramic Stoneware”
Authors: Bernardo Enrico , Esposito Leonardo , Rambaldi Elisa , Tucci Antonella , Hreglich Sandro
Published: May 2008

The reuse of soda–lime–silica scrap or waste glasses as additives for traditional ceramics has been investigated extensively in the literature. Although interesting, this solution does not generally allow large quantities of glass to be recycled. This study reports a novel high glass recycle approach that replaces, in the formulation of porcelain stoneware, the feldspar flux with finely powdered glass derived from the melting of different waste products, e.g. lime from fume abatement systems, feldspar mining residues, and scrap soda–lime glass. At an optimized glass/clay ratio, the “glass–ceramic stoneware” samples sinter at 1000°C. The “glass–ceramic stoneware” has a bending strength approaching 90 MPa and a fracture toughness exceeding 2.0 MPa·m0.5, similar to those of conventional porcelain stoneware, which requires sintering at higher temperatures. The high strength and fracture toughness are attributed to the interaction between the glass and clay residues upon sintering, which allows the development of several different crystalline phases.
Crown‐root fracture of a lower first primary molar: report of an unusual case
Authors: Götze Gabriela da Rosa , Barreira Alice Kelly , Maia Lucianne Cople
Published: May 2008

Abstract –  Dental traumas are highly prevalent lesions in primary teeth, but crown‐root fractures are seldom observed in posterior teeth of this dentition. The aim of the present report was to describe the diagnosis, treatment, and a 24‐month follow‐up of an unusual case of complicated crown‐root fracture in a lower first primary molar of a 3‐year‐old boy.
Splinting of an injured tooth as part of emergency treatment
Authors: Lin Shaul , Emodi Omri , Abu El‐Naaj Imad
Published: May 2008

Abstract –  An essential procedure for the incorporation of the tooth into the alveolus following injury is fixation of an avulsed or luxated tooth. Multiple traumatic injuries, e.g., from road accidents, often accompany dental injury. As dental trauma is not life‐threatening, treatment is usually delayed and not given as much attention as general medical treatment. Simple and immediate tooth fixation with suturing in the emergency or operating room could improve long‐term prognosis of the injured tooth. This easy‐to‐perform procedure can prevent later complications and morbidity.
Dentists’ management of dental injuries and dental trauma in Australia: a review
Authors: Yeng Thai , Parashos Peter
Published: May 2008

Abstract –  This article reviews the available literature on the investigation of dentists’ management of dental trauma injuries and their perceptions of barriers to providing care. The levels of knowledge demonstrated by surveys of dentists were not high and dentists perceive inadequate financial remuneration as the main barrier to trauma management. With only a limited number of new dental traumatic injuries occurring annually, dentists may not be competent in providing appropriate care. The management of dental trauma and any hesitations that dentists might have in terms of knowledge and skills are important to investigate to formulate an approach to overcome their reluctance. There is a deficiency of literature on this subject.
Post thermoforming dimensional changes of ethylene vinyl acetate used in custom‐made mouthguards for trauma prevention – a pilot study
Authors: Geary Julian Lindsay , Kinirons Martin James
Published: May 2008

Abstract –  It is important that mouthguards have an adequate thickness of material if they are to be effective in the prevention of trauma. The aim of this study was to quantify dimensional changes that occur on thermoforming ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) sheets used in the construction of mouthguards. Fourteen batches of 3 mm thick sheet EVA were thermoformed over dental models under a number of common processing conditions including, model height, inclination, shape and model temperature, model position on thermoforming platform, plasticizing time and evacuation method. Thickness of thermoformed material was determined at anterior and posterior sites and measurements were compared to determine the magnitude and patterns of stretching collectively and within each processing condition. Overall, sheets of 3‐mm EVA stretched by 52% during the thermoforming conditions tested. Incisal/cuspal sites were found to be significantly thinner when compared with all other locations measured. A number of thermoforming conditions were demonstrated to have a significant effect on the degree to which the EVA material stretched. For the combination of materials and equipment tested in this study, current thermoforming practices may cause excessive thinning of EVA in critical areas including incisal edges and cusp tips, thereby reducing the protective effect for professionally made mouthguards. To optimize protection in vulnerable areas, it is important that clinicians distinguish between EVA sheet thickness and the cross‐sectional dimensions achieved in the finished mouthguards. They need to be specific in their prescription of the thickness of material they require especially in critical areas.
Esthetic rehabilitation of avulsed–replanted anterior teeth: a case report
Authors: Polat Zelal Seyfioğlu , Tacir İbrahim Halil
Published: May 2008

Abstract –  Avulsion is a complex injury affecting the pulp, periodontal ligament and the alveolar bone. Avulsed permanent teeth can survive following replantation. However, post‐traumatic external root resorption eventually resulting in loss of the traumatized tooth is a frequent finding. After replantation of the avulsed teeth, esthetic requirements can be needed. Treatment options include porcelain laminate veneers, metal‐ceramic restorations and all‐ceramic crowns as well as minimally invasive procedures such as direct resin composite bonding. This article describes the restoration of avulsed and replanted teeth with direct resin composite laminate veneers. Because of the fact that lost fragments were recovered with the loss of anterior esthetic, and bearing in mind the patient’s psychologically affected, we considered direct resin composite laminate veneer restoration of the avulsed and replanted teeth as the best therapeutic option. The patient was satisfied with the final result.