bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A PATCHWORK SAFETY NET: A SURVEY OF CLIOMETRIC STUDIES OF INCOME MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS IN THE UNITED STATES IN THE FIRST HALF OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY
Authors: Fishback Price , Allen Samuel , Fox Jonathan , Livingston Brendan
Published: October 2010

AbstractSocial welfare programs in the USA are designed to serve as safety nets for people in hard times, in contrast with the universal approach found in many other developed western nations. In a survey of cliometric studies of social welfare programs in the USA, we examine the variation in the safety net in the USA across states in the 20th century, the determinants of the variation and its impact on socioeconomic outcomes. The USA has always displayed substantial variation in the extent of the safety net because the features of most public social welfare programs have been and currently are determined by local and state governments, even after the federal government became involved in the 1930s. Differences across states persist strongly for typically a decade, although the persistence weakens with time, and there are some periods when federal intervention led to a re‐ordering. The rankings of state benefits differ from program to program, and economic and political factors have different weights in determining benefit levels in panel data estimation of their effects. Variation in benefits across programs during the early 1900s had significant impact on labour markets, economic activity, family formation, death rates and crime.
Suppression of hippocampal epileptic seizures in the kainate rat by Poisson distributed stimulation
Authors: Wyckhuys Tine , Boon Paul , Raedt Robrecht , Van Nieuwenhuyse Bregt , Vonck Kristl , Wadman Wytse
Published: October 2010

Purpose:  Hippocampal deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an experimental therapy for patients with pharmacoresistant temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Despite the successful clinical application of DBS, the optimal stimulation parameters are undetermined. We evaluate the efficacy of a new form of DBS, using continuous stimuli with Poisson distributed intervals (Poisson distributed stimulation, PDS) in the kainate (KA) rat model, a validated model for human TLE.

Methods:  Status epilepticus was elicited by injection of KA (i.p.). After development of spontaneous seizures, rats were implanted with hippocampal DBS‐ and depth electroencephalography (EEG) electrodes. After baseline EEG monitoring, one group of rats (n = 13) was treated with PDS and a second (n = 11) received regular high frequency stimulation (HFS) at 130 Hz. Stimulation intensity was 100 μA below the threshold for induction of epileptiform EEG activity.

Results:  Stimulation intensity was significantly lower for PDS (156 ± 20 μA) than HFS (207 ± 23 μA; p < 0.02). Seven (54%) of 13 rats treated with PDS and 5 (45%) of 11 rats treated with HFS experienced a significant reduction in seizure frequency. In PDS‐improved rats, seizure frequency was reduced to 33% (p < 0.01) of baseline value and in HFS‐improved rats to 50% (p < 0.01). After termination of PDS, seizure rate returned to baseline value.

Discussion:  Continuous hippocampal PDS significantly reduces the number of spontaneous seizures. Compared to regular HFS, there is a slightly larger number of improved rats and a larger efficacy at a considerably lower stimulus intensity. The first two observations leave room for optimization, whereas a lower intensity is beneficial for battery life.
Self‐Insurance and Self‐Protection as Public Goods
Authors: Lohse Tim , Robledo Julio R. , Schmidt Ulrich
Published: October 2010

Abstract

Many public goods provide utility by insuring against hazardous events. Those public goods can have self‐insurance and self‐protection character. For both situations we analyze the efficient public provision level and the provision level resulting from Nash behavior in a private provision game. We consider the interaction of public goods as insurance devices with market insurance. The availability of market insurance reduces the provision level of the public good for both public and private provision, regardless of whether we consider self‐insurance or self‐protection. Moreover, we show that Nash behavior has always a larger impact than the availability of market insurance.
Role of protein kinase C in caerulein induced expression of substance P and neurokinin‐1‐receptors in murine pancreatic acinar cells
Authors: Koh Yung‐Hua , Tamizhselvi Ramasamy , Moochhala Shabbir , Bian Jin‐Song , Bhatia Madhav
Published: October 2010

Substance P (SP) is involved in the pathophysiology of acute pancreatitis (AP) via binding to its high‐affinity receptor, neurokinin‐1‐receptor (NK1R). An up‐regulation of SP and NK1R expression was observed in experimental AP and in caerulein‐stimulated pancreatic acinar cells. However, the mechanisms that lead to this up‐regulation are not fully understood. In this study, we showed the role of protein kinase C (PKC) in caerulein‐induced SP and NK1R production in isolated mouse pancreatic acinar cells. Caerulein (10−7 M) stimulation rapidly activated the conventional PKC‐α and novel PKC‐δ as observed by the phosphorylation of these molecules. Pre‐treatment of pancreatic acinar cells with Gö6976 (1–10 nM) and rottlerin (1–10 μM) inhibited PKC‐α and PKC‐δ phosphorylation, respectively, but not the other way round. At these concentrations used, PKC‐α and PKC‐δ inhibition reversed the caerulein‐induced up‐regulation of SP and NK1R, indicating an important role of PKCs in the modulation of SP and NK1R expression. Further experiments looking into signalling mechanisms showed that treatment of pancreatic acinar cells with both Gö6976 and rottlerin inhibited the activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK). Inhibition of PKC‐α or PKC‐δ also affected caerulein‐induced transcription factor activation, as represented by nuclear factor‐κB and AP‐1 DNA‐binding activity. The findings in this study suggested that PKC is upstream of the mitogen‐activated protein kinases and transcription factors, which then lead to the up‐regulation of SP/NK1R expression in caerulein‐treated mouse pancreatic acinar cells.
Overweight and obesity weakly predict the development of periodontal infection
Authors: Saxlin Tuomas , Ylöstalo Pekka , Suominen‐Taipale Liisa , Aromaa Arpo , Knuuttila Matti
Published: October 2010

Saxlin T, Ylöstalo P, Suominen‐Taipale L, Aromaa A, Knuuttila M. Overweight and obesity weakly predict the development of periodontal infection. J Clin Periodontol 2010; doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01633.x.

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between body weight and periodontal infection in a longitudinal setting.

Material and methods: This study was based on a subpopulation of the Health 2000 Survey that included dentate, non‐diabetic subjects aged 30–59 years, who had never smoked and who had participated in the Follow‐Up Study on Finnish Adults' Oral Health approximately 4 years later (n=396). The number of new teeth with deepened (4 mm deep or deeper) periodontal pockets in the follow‐up examination was used as the outcome variable. Body weight was measured using body mass index, categorized into three categories: <25.0 (normal weight), 25.0–29.9 (overweight) and 30.0 or more (obesity). Incidence rate ratios were estimated using Poisson's regression models.

Results: Body weight was weakly, but not statistically significantly, associated with the number of new teeth with deepened periodontal pockets among subjects who were periodontally healthy in the baseline examinations, whereas only a minuscule association was found among subjects who had periodontal infection at baseline.

Conclusions: The results of this follow‐up study do not provide evidence that overweight and obesity can be considered significant risk factors in the pathogenesis of periodontal infection.
Peripheral CD4+ T‐cell differentiation regulated by networks of cytokines and transcription factors
Authors: Zhu Jinfang , Paul William E.
Published: October 2010

Summary:  CD4+ T cells, also known as T‐helper (Th) cells, play an important role in orchestrating adaptive immune responses to various infectious agents. They are also involved in the induction of autoimmune and allergic diseases. Upon T‐cell receptor (TCR)‐mediated cell activation, naive CD4+ T cells can differentiate into at least four major lineages, Th1, Th2, Th17, and iTreg cells, that participate in different types of immune responses. Networks of cytokines and transcription factors are critical for determining CD4+ T‐cell fates and effector cytokine production. Here, we review collaboration and cross‐regulation between various essential cytokines in the activation/induction of key transcription factors during the process of Th cell differentiation towards these distinct lineages. We also discuss the interactions of key transcription factors at both genetic and protein levels and the function of the resulting network(s) in regulating the expression of effector cytokines.
Molecular mechanisms by which T‐bet regulates T‐helper cell commitment
Authors: Miller Sara A. , Weinmann Amy S.
Published: October 2010

Summary:  Current research suggests that a number of newly identified T‐helper cell subsets retain a degree of context‐dependent plasticity in their signature cytokine expression patterns. To understand this process, a major challenge is to determine the molecular mechanisms by which lineage‐defining transcription factors regulate gene expression profiles in T‐helper cells. This mechanistic information will aid in our interpretation of whether a T‐helper cell state that expresses or retains the capacity to re‐express a combination of lineage‐defining transcription factors will have a stable or more flexible gene expression profile. Studies examining the developmental T‐box transcription factor T‐bet demonstrate the powerful information that is gained from combining in vivo analysis with basic biochemical and molecular mechanism approaches. Significantly, T‐bet’s ability to physically recruit epigenetic modifying complexes, in particular a Jmjd3 H3K27‐demethylase and a Set7/9 H3K4‐methyltransferase complex, to its target genes allows T‐bet to effectively reverse and establish new epigenetic states. This observation suggests that until T‐bet is permanently extinguished, T‐helper cells will retain some plasticity toward a T‐helper 1‐like program. Therefore, insight into the complexity of T‐helper cell commitment decisions will be aided by determining the molecular mechanisms for lineage‐defining transcription factors.
Critical roles of Bcl11b in T‐cell development and maintenance of T‐cell identity
Authors: Liu Pentao , Li Peng , Burke Shannon
Published: October 2010

Summary:  T‐cell development primarily occurs in the thymus and involves in the interactions of many important transcription factors. Until recently, no single transcription factor has been identified to be essential for T‐cell lineage commitment or maintenance of T‐cell identity. Recent studies have now identified the zinc finger transcription factor Bcl11b to be essential for T‐cell development and for maintenance of T‐cell identity. Remarkably, T cells acquire NK cell properties upon Bcl11b deletion. These reprogrammed cells have unique properties in proliferation, cytokine dependency and killing target cells, and may therefore provide a new cell source for some cell‐based therapies.
E proteins and the regulation of early lymphocyte development
Authors: De Pooter Renée F. , Kee Barbara L.
Published: October 2010

Summary:  Lymphopoiesis generates mature B, T, and NK lymphocytes from hematopoietic stem cells via a series of increasingly restricted developmental intermediates. The transcriptional networks that regulate these fate choices are composed of both common and lineage‐specific components, which combine to create a cellular context that informs the developmental response to external signals. E proteins are an important factor during lymphopoiesis, and E2A in particular is required for normal T‐ and B‐cell development. Although the other E proteins, HEB and E2‐2, are expressed during lymphopoiesis and can compensate for some of E2A’s activity, E2A proteins have non‐redundant functions during early T‐cell development and at multiple checkpoints throughout B lymphopoiesis. More recently, a role for E2A has been demonstrated in the generation of lymphoid‐primed multipotent progenitors and shown to favor their specification toward lymphoid over myeloid lineages. This review summarizes both our current understanding of the wide‐ranging functions of E proteins during the development of adaptive lymphocytes and the novel functions of E2A in orchestrating a lymphoid‐biased cellular context in early multipotent progenitors.
The intrathymic crossroads of T and NK cell differentiation
Authors: Klein Wolterink Roel G. J. , García‐Ojeda Marcos E. , Vosshenrich Christian A. J. , Hendriks Rudi W. , Di Santo James P.
Published: October 2010

Summary:  T lymphocytes depend on the thymic microenvironment for initiation of the T‐cell developmental program. As the progenitors in the thymus have lost the capacity to self‐renew, this process depends on the constant influx of hematopoietic progenitors that originate in the bone marrow. Nevertheless, thymic emigrants are heterogeneous and retain developmental plasticity for both the myeloid and lymphoid lineages. It is the role of the thymic microenvironment to steer these uncommitted progenitors toward a T‐cell fate. Still, the thymus also generates a unique population of thymic NK cells, thus raising the question of how the T versus NK lymphoid cell fate is determined intrathymically. Many factors have been implicated in the developmental pathways in the thymus, and the processes are characterized by both subtle and not so subtle modifications in gene expression. In this review, we consider the crucial factors governing lineage determination of T cells versus NK cells from bi‐potent thymic NK/T precursors. Recent reports have shed new light on the complex interactions of cytokines and transcription factors at different cell fate decision branch points in thymopoiesis. We discuss the implications of these findings and propose a model that may be applicable at this critical thymic NK/T juncture.
Regulation of the Ifng locus in the context of T‐lineage specification and plasticity
Authors: Balasubramani Anand , Mukasa Ryuta , Hatton Robin D. , Weaver Casey T.
Published: October 2010

Summary:  Study of the development of distinct CD4+ T‐cell subsets from naive precursors continues to provide excellent opportunities for dissection of mechanisms that control lineage‐specific gene expression or repression. Whereas it had been thought that the induction of transcription networks that control T‐lineage commitment were highly stable, reinforced by epigenetic processes that confer heritability of functional phenotypes by the progeny of mature T cells, recent findings support a more dynamic view of T‐lineage commitment. Here, we highlight advances in the mapping and functional characterization of cis elements in the Ifng locus that have provided new insights into the control of the chromatin structure and transcriptional activity of this signature T‐helper 1 cell gene. We also examine epigenetic features of the Ifng locus that have evolved to enable its reprogramming for expression by other T‐cell subsets, particularly T‐helper 17 cells, and contrast features of the Ifng locus with those of the Il17a–Il17f locus, which appears less promiscuous.
Transcriptional control of invariant NKT cell development
Authors: Das Rupali , Sant’Angelo Derek B. , Nichols Kim E.
Published: October 2010

Summary:  Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells comprise a rare lymphocyte sublineage with phenotypic and functional properties similar to T and NK cells. Akin to conventional αβ T cells, their development occurs primarily in the thymus, where they originate from CD4+ CD8+ double positive (DP) progenitors. However, the selection of iNKT cells is unique in that it is mediated by homotypic interactions of DP cells and recognition of glycolipid antigen‐CD1d complexes. Additionally, iNKT cells acquire an activated innate‐like phenotype during development that allows them to release cytokines rapidly following antigen exposure. Given their hybrid features, it is not surprising that the developmental program of iNKT cells partially overlaps with that of T and NK cells. Several recent reports have provided new and exciting insights into the developmental mechanisms that direct natural killer T (NKT) cell lineage commitment and maturation. In this review, we provide a discussion of the NKT cell developmental program with an emphasis on the signaling mechanisms and transcription factors that influence the ontogeny of this lineage. Continued investigations into the complex interplay of these transcription factors and their relationship with other extracellular and intracellular signaling molecules will undoubtedly provide important clues into the biology of this unusual T‐cell lineage.
Mapping of titanium particles in peri‐implant oral mucosa by Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry and high‐resolution optical darkfield microscopy
Authors: Flatebø R. S. , Høl P. J. , Leknes K. N. , Kosler J. , Lie S. A. , Gjerdet N. R.
Published: October 2010

J Oral Pathol Med (2011) 40: 412–420

The present study examines the quantity, size, element signatures and distribution of titanium particles in normal oral mucosal tissue and in oral mucosa exposed to a titanium implant. Tissue samples from six healthy patients were obtained by a full thickness biopsy taken from the edge of the oral mucosa when inserting a titanium dental implant. At the abutment insertion 6 months later, a punch test biopsy of oral mucosa was taken over the implant site. Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS) is a sensitive and specific multi‐element microanalytical technique that demonstrated the presence of Ti particles in the tissue adjacent to implant cover‐screws. The epithelial part of the control samples revealed more particles than the corresponding area of the test samples, consisting partly of newly formed scar tissue. High‐Resolution Optical Darkfield Microscope (HR‐ODM) confirmed the presence of particles in both the control and the test samples. The combination of LA‐ICP‐MS and HR‐ODM appears to be a powerful combination for detection of particles in oral tissues; optical microscopy provides an overview with histological references, whereas LA‐ICP‐MS identifies the chemical composition.
Treatment of tinea capitis – a critical appraisal
Authors: Ginter‐Hanselmayer Gabriele , Seebacher Claus
Published: October 2010

Griseofulvin has been introduced in 1958, ever since it remained the gold standard for the treatment of tinea capitis in the United States. Despite the availability of new antifungals like terbinafine, itraconazole and fluconazole –with few exceptions not licensed for their use in children – duration of tinea capitis treatment could not be shortened. The reasons therefore are the anatomic structure of the hair follicle, the dormant sebum‐production before onset of puberty, and the way of action of the new antifungals. Although data concerning the pharmacokinetics of allylamines and triazoles in childhood‐populations are lacking, some experience confirms a correlation of the way of action of modern antifungals and the causative pathogen.

In children the treatment of Microsporum infections of the scalp is crucial. That may be explained by the unique pharmacokinetic features of the substance of terbinafine: Terbinafine neither can be excreted by sweat nor by sebum before onset of puberty. Terbinafine is incorporated in the keratin of mature terminal hair in the anagen phase. In children it will not be built in the hair shaft and therefore it will not reach the surface of the scalp where the sheets of arthro‐conidia in microsporosis are located. This peculiar fact was not yet considered in clinical studies.
Lanthanum Carbonate Versus Sevelamer Hydrochloride: Improvement of Metabolic Acidosis and Hyperkalemia in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Filiopoulos Vassilis , Koutis Ioannis , Trompouki Sofia , Hadjiyannakos Dimitrios , Lazarou Dimitrios , Vlassopoulos Dimosthenis
Published: October 2010

Sevelamer hydrochloride (SH) has been reported to aggravate metabolic acidosis and hyperkalemia. This study was performed to evaluate acid–base status and serum potassium changes after replacing SH with lanthanum carbonate (LC) in hemodialysis patients. SH was prescribed for 24 weeks in 14 stable hemodialysis patients and replaced by LC in a similar treatment schedule. Laboratory tests, including indices of acid–base status, nutrition, bone/mineral metabolism, and dialysis adequacy, were performed monthly during the study. Dialysate bicarbonate, potassium and calcium concentrations remained constant. Serum bicarbonate and pH rose, and serum potassium dropped significantly under LC. Alkaline phosphatase also decreased significantly under LC. No significant differences were observed in the other studied parameters between the two treatment periods. Control of serum phosphate was similar under both phosphate‐binders and no differences were observed in calcium, Ca × P product, CRP, or lipid levels. Dialysis adequacy was constantly kept within K/DOQI target‐range. Although full compliance to treatment was reported, three patients on LC complained of gastrointestinal upset and/or a metallic taste, and four had difficulty chewing the LC tablet. LC improves metabolic acidosis and hyperkalemia in hemodialysis patients previously under SH. Although both medications are well‐tolerated, the gastrointestinal side‐effects appear to occur more frequently with LC; a fact that, together with difficulties in chewing the tablet, may result in decreased compliance.
HerMES: SPIRE detection of high-redshift massive compact galaxies in GOODS-N field
Authors: Cava A. , Rodighiero G. , Pérez-Fournon I. , Buitrago F. , Trujillo I. , Altieri B. , Amblard A. , Auld R. , Bock J. , Brisbin D. , Burgarella D. , Castro-Rodríguez N. , Chanial P. , Cirasuolo M. , Clements D. L. , Conselice C. J. , Cooray A. , Eales S. , Elbaz D. , Ferrero P. , Franceschini A. , Glenn J. , Solares E. A. González , Griffin M. , Ibar E. , Ivison R. J. , Marchetti L. , Morrison G. E. , Mortier A. M. J. , Oliver S. J. , Page M. J. , Papageorgiou A. , Pearson C. P. , Pohlen M. , Rawlings J. I. , Raymond G. , Rigopoulou D. , Roseboom I. G. , Rowan-Robinson M. , Scott D. , Seymour N. , Smith A. J. , Symeonidis M. , Tugwell K. E. , Vaccari M. , Valtchanov I. , Vieira J. D. , Vigroux L. , Wang L. , Wright G.
Published: October 2010

We have analysed the rest-frame far-infrared properties of a sample of massive (M★ > 1011 M⊙) galaxies at 2 ≲z≲ 3 in the Great Observatories Origins Deep Survey-North (GOODS-N) field using the Spectral and Photometric Imaging Receiver (SPIRE) instrument aboard the Herschel Space Observatory. To conduct this analysis we take advantage of the data from the Herschel Multi-tiered Extragalactic Survey (HerMES) key programme. The sample comprises 45 massive galaxies with structural parameters characterized with HST NICMOS-3. We study detections at submm Herschel bands, together with Spitzer 24-μm data, as a function of the morphological type, mass and size. We find that 26/45 sources are detected at MIPS 24 μm and 15/45 (all MIPS 24-μm detections) are detected at SPIRE 250 μm, with disc-like galaxies more easily detected. We derive star formation rates (SFRs) and specific star formation rates (sSFRs) by fitting the spectral energy distribution of our sources, taking into account non-detections for SPIRE and systematic effects for MIPS derived quantities. We find that the mean SFR for the spheroidal galaxies (∼50–100 M⊙ yr−1) is substantially (a factor ∼3) lower than the mean value presented by disc-like galaxies (∼250–300 M⊙ yr−1).
The effect of the application of gaseous ozone and ND:YAG laser on glass‐fibre post bond strength
Authors: Kıvanç Bağdagül H. , Arısu Hacer D. , Özcan Suat , Görgül Güliz , Alaçam Tayfun
Published: October 2010

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the application of gaseous ozone and Nd:YAG laser on glass‐fibre post bond strength. Forty‐two madibular premolar roots were cut, endodontically instrumented and irrigated with 2.5% NaOCl. Post spaces were prepared and roots were divided into three groups (n = 14). The antimicrobial pretreatment was conducted as follows: gaseous ozone, Nd:YAG laser and control (no additional disinfection methods). Scanning electron microscope analysis was made for each group (n = 2). A resin cement was used for luting the posts. For push‐out test, each root was cut horizontally (two cervical, two middle and two apical). Statistical analyses were performed with one‐way anova (α = 0.05). Fracture types were observed. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups (P > 0.05). There were statistically significant differences in cervical and apical segments of laser and control groups (P < 0.05). The disinfection of the post spaces with Nd:YAG laser and ozone had no adverse effects on bond strength of glass‐fibre post.
Evaluation of the antimicrobial activities of chlorhexidine gluconate, sodium hypochlorite and octenidine hydrochloride in vitro
Authors: Tirali Resmiye E. , Bodur Haluk , Sipahi Bilge , Sungurtekin Elif
Published: October 2010

The objective of this study was to compare the antimicrobial activity of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) and octenidine hydrochloride (OCT) in different concentrations against endodontic pathogens in vitro. Agar diffusion procedure was used to determine the antimicrobial activity of the tested materials. Enterococcus faecalis, Candida albicans and the mixture of these were used for this study. In the agar diffusion test, 5.25% NaOCl exhibited better antimicrobial effect than the other concentrations of NaOCl for all strains. All concentrations of OCT were effective against C. albicans and E. faecalis. Some 0.2% CHX was ineffective on all microorganisms. Antibacterial effectiveness of all experimental solutions decreased on the mixture of all strains. Decreasing concentrations of NaOCl resulted in significantly reduced antimicrobial effect.
Radiographic evaluation of the technical quality of root canal fillings performed by dental students
Authors: Rafeek Reisha N. , Smith William A. , Mankee Melissa S. , Coldero Larry G.
Published: October 2010

The objective of this study was to evaluate radiographically the technical quality of root canal fillings performed by dental students at the School of Dentistry, University of the West Indies. The school's database between 2000 and 2004 was investigated for patients with completed root canal treatment. The final sample consisted of 198 patients with 288 root‐filled teeth and 460 canals. The length, presence of voids, taper, curvature of canal and fractured instruments were recorded and scored. Chi‐squared analysis was used to determine statistically significant differences between the technical quality of root fillings and tooth type. Sixty‐three per cent, 27.6% and 72.2% of root‐filled canals had adequate length, density and taper respectively. The overall acceptability of root fillings having adequate length and taper, absence of voids and no fractured instruments was found in 10.9% of canals. Changes in teaching methods may be required to improve the technical quality of root canal treatment done by dental students.
Effect of light‐activated bleaching on pulp chamber temperature rise: An in vitro study
Authors: Kivanç Bağdagül Helvacıoğlu , Arisu Hacer Deniz , Ulusoy Özgür İlke Atasoy , Sağlam Baran Can , Görgül Güliz
Published: October 2010

This study aimed to compare the pulp chamber temperature changes that occur with the use of different light sources during vital bleaching with and without application of bleaching agents. One hundred and forty‐four mandibular incisor teeth were divided into four groups (n = 36) according to the use of halogen light, light‐emitting diode, 3 W and 1.5 W diode laser. The teeth in the main groups were divided into three subgroups (n = 12). First subgroup had no bleaching gel application. By White and Whiteness HP were applied with a thickness of 2 mm to the other subgroups respectively. The labial surfaces of the teeth were irradiated with a total time of 20 s. Temperature changes in the pulp chamber were measured and analysed by using anova and Tukey test. The 3 W diode laser induced the highest pulp chamber temperature rise (P = 0.000). Bleaching gel application reduced the temperature changes in the diode laser groups (P < 0.05). Diode laser activation during vital bleaching induces pulp chamber temperature rise, which may cause thermal tissue damage.
Traumatic bone cyst suggestive of a chronic periapical abscess: A case report
Authors: Kahler Bill
Published: October 2010

Traumatic bone cysts can mimic the signs and symptoms of an endodontic lesion. This case reports on a 19‐year‐old male patient who was referred for endodontic assessment of a symptomatic tooth with a gingival swelling and a draining sinus at the furcation of a mandibular second molar. Radiographically, a periradicular radiolucency is evident. A prior history of trauma as well as removal of the wisdom teeth was determined. After careful diagnosis unnecessary endodontic intervention was avoided. Surgical exploration, curettage and the generation of a blood clot resulted in healing at the 6 month review appointment. The tooth remained responsive to pulp sensibility testing at that time.
Evaluation of the antifungal activity of four solutions used as a final rinse in vitro
Authors: Mohammadi Zahed , Giardino Luciano , Palazzi Flavio
Published: October 2010

The aim of the study was to compare the antifungal activity of 1.3% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), 2% chlorhexidine (CHX), MTAD and Tetraclean as a final rinse against Candida albicans in a human tooth model in vitro. Ninety extracted human maxillary central and lateral incisor teeth were randomly divided into four groups each with 20 teeth, a positive and a negative control each with five teeth. After preparing the root canals, teeth were inoculated with Candida albicans (ATCC 10261) and incubated for 72 h. Teeth were divided into four experimental groups according to the irrigation solution as follows: NaOCl, CHX, MTAD and Tetraclean. After culturing aliquots from the experimental teeth on Sabouraud 4% dextrose agar, colony‐forming units were counted. The results showed that 1.3% NaOCl and 2% CHX were equally effective and significantly superior to MTAD and Tetraclean (P < 0.05). Furthermore, antifungal efficacy of Tetraclean was significantly superior to MTAD (P < 0.05).
Role of BNIP3 in proliferation and hypoxia‐induced autophagy: implications for personalized cancer therapies
Authors: Azad Meghan B. , Gibson Spencer B.
Published: October 2010

Autophagy is a regulated degradation pathway functioning in both cell survival and cell death. Its role in cancer is controversial because autophagy can be either protective or destructive to tumor cells, depending on individual genetic signatures and treatment conditions. Hypoxia is common in solid tumors, correlating with chemoresistance and poor prognosis. We have detected autophagic cell death in hypoxic cancer cells occurring independently of apoptosis through a mechanism involving the hypoxia‐inducible protein, Bcl‐2/E1B‐nineteen kilodalton interacting protein (BNIP3). Loss of BNIP3 was protective against hypoxia‐induced autophagy and cell death. Unexpectedly, BNIP3 ablation also caused differential cell cycle progression in vitro and increased cellularity in vivo. Collectively, these results support the emerging theory that autophagy could be effectively targeted as an alternative cell death pathway in hypoxic and/or apoptosis‐resistant tumors. Furthermore, our data suggest that BNIP3 may be a potential target molecule in this pathway.
Prenatal LPS increases Inflammation in the Substantia Nigra ofGdnfHeterozygous Mice
Authors: Granholm Ann‐Charlotte , Zaman Vandana , Godbee Jennifer , Smith Michael , Ramadan Riad , Umphlet Claudia , Randall Patrick , Bhat Narayan R. , Rohrer Baerbel , Middaugh Lawrence D. , Boger Heather A.
Published: October 2010

Prenatal systemic inflammation has been implicated in neurological diseases, but optimal animal models have not been developed. We investigated whether a partial genetic deletion of glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (Gdnf+/−) increased vulnerability of dopamine (DA) neurons to prenatal lipopolysaccharide (LPS). LPS [0.01 mg/kg intraperitoneal (i.p.)] or saline was administered to wild‐type (WT) orGdnf+/−pregnant mice on gestational day 9.5. Male offspring were examined at 3 weeks, 3 and 12 months of age. There was a progressive degeneration of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)‐positive neurons in the substantia nigra (SN) with age inGdnf+/−but not in WT mice, with no observed effects on locus coeruleus (LC) noradrenergic neurons or DA neurons of the ventral tegmental area. Inflammatory markers were elevated in SN of LPS treated offspring, with exacerbation inGdnf+/−mice. Intracellular accumulation of α‐synuclein (α‐syn) immunoreactivity in DA neurons of SN was observed in all groups ofGdnf+/−and in WT mice with prenatal LPS, with altered distribution between pars reticulata (pr) and pars compacta (pc). The findings suggest that prenatal LPS leads to accelerated neuropathology in the SN with age, and that a partial loss of GDNF exacerbates these effects, providing a novel model for age‐related neuropathology of the nigrostriatal DA system.
Numerical Analysis of Explicit One-Step Methods for Stochastic Delay Differential Equations
Authors: Baker Christopher T. H. , Buckwar Evelyn
Published: October 2010

We consider the problem of strong approximations of the solution of stochastic differential equations of Itô form with a constant lag in the argument. We indicate the nature of the equations of interest, and give a convergence proof in full detail for explicit one-step methods. We provide some illustrative numerical examples, using the Euler–Maruyama scheme.
Controlled sacrificial sidewall surface micromachining for the release of high length-to-thickness aspect ratio bridges
Authors: Raum Christopher R. , Tait R. Niall , Gauthier Robert
Published: October 2010

A surface micromachining technique for the release of high length-to-thickness aspect ratio (800:1) bridge structures is presented. During a timed etch release, the remaining side wall geometry of the sacrificial layer provides intrinsic support for the structural layer. The micromachining process itself is an equipment limited procedure in which the wet etchant for the sacrificial layer is replaced in solution (i.e., in situ) with a supportive photoresist layer. Once in solid form, the photoresist is removed via ashing in an oxygen plasma. This combination of controlling the sidewall etch profile of the sacrificial layer and its removal technique results in the successful release of bridge structures, which are 4000 μm long and 5 μm thick, with a 2 μm suspension gap.
TAIWAN'S EXCHANGE RATE AND MACROECONOMIC POLICIES OVER THE BUSINESS CYCLE
Authors: CHEN SHIU-SHENG , WU TSONG-MIN
Published: October 2010

This paper investigates exchange rate and monetary policies over the business cycle in Taiwan. We first characterize the business cycle dynamics in Taiwan and identify foreign shocks as the main cause of any fluctuations. We then briefly review the exchange rate system and policy operating in Taiwan since the early 1980s. Finally, we investigate the current recession, and discuss how the Taiwanese government is dealing with the economic slowdown.
BUDGET DEFICITS, EXTERNAL DEBT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH IN NIGERIA
Authors: OSINUBI TOKUNBO SIMBOWALE , DAUDA RISIKAT OLADOYIN S. , OLALERU OLADELE EMMANUEL
Published: October 2010

The necessity for governments to borrow in order to finance deficit budgets has led to the development of external debt. This study examines how the use of budget deficits as an instrument of stabilization leads to the accumulation of external debt with the attending effects on growth in Nigeria between 1970 and 2003. By synthesizing a relationship between budget deficits and external debt the study shows the implications on economic growth of conducting a fiscal policy within the contexts of debt stabilization and debt sustainability. The results of the econometric analysis confirm the existence of the debt Laffer curve and the nonlinear effects of external debt on growth in Nigeria. The study concludes that if debt-financed budget deficits are operated in order to stabilize the debt ratio at the optimum sustainable level debt overhang problems would be avoided and the benefits of external borrowing would be maximized.
PREDICTING LOW EMPLOYABILITY GRADUATES: THE CASE OF UNIVERSITI UTARA MALAYSIA
Authors: LIM HOCK-EAM
Published: October 2010

The persistence of the graduate unemployment problem warrants the need for predicting factors that are associated with low employability graduates. It is found that ethnicity, English language proficiency and types of degree obtained are significant predictors of graduates' employability which is measured either by the number of days being unemployed or probability of being unemployed. Compared to the Tobit model, the Probit model which does not accommodate the right censoring bias is found to have less predictive power in terms of the number of days being unemployed.
The Influence of SiO2 Shell on Fluorescent Properties of LaF3:Nd3+/SiO2 Core/Shell Nanoparticles
Authors: Kai Cui , Chao Gao , Bo Peng , Wei Wei
Published: October 2010

Distinct effects of the SiO2 shell on fluorescence properties of LaF3:Nd3+/SiO2 core/shell nanoparticles were demonstrated by annealling the nanoparticles at different temperatures. Emission spectra, excitation spectra, and decay curves of the nanoparticles were measured. A significant improvement of fluorescence intensity was observed for LaF3:Nd3+/SiO2 core/shell nanoparticles annealed at 900 ∘C. The phenomenon is ascribed to the change of environment of LaF3:Nd3+ core which is imposed by SiO2 shell. And the change is confirmed by the excitation spectra. It provides a useful way to improve fluorescent intensity of the SiO2‐coated LaF3:Nd3+ nanoparticles. The lifetime for nanoparticles annealed at 900 ∘C shows a slight decrease contrast with nanoparticles annealed at 400 and 600 ∘C. This is caused by the higher phonon energy of SiO2 than that of LaF3.
Analysis of the Pathogenesis of Experimental Autoimmune Optic Neuritis
Authors: Kezuka Takeshi , Usui Yoshihiko , Goto Hiroshi
Published: October 2010

Optic neuritis associated with multiple sclerosis has a strong association with organ‐specific autoimmune disease. The goal of our research is to establish an optimal organ‐specific animal model to elucidate the pathogenetic mechanisms of the disease and to develop therapeutic strategies using the model. This paper is divided into five sections: (1) clinical picture of optic neuritis associated with multiple sclerosis, (2) elucidation of pathogenesis using animal models with inflammation in optic nerve and spinal cord, (3) clinical relevance of concurrent encephalomyelitis in optic neuritis model, (4) retinal damage in a concurrent multiple sclerosis and optic neuritis model, and (5) development of novel therapies using mouse optic neuritis model. Advanced therapies using biologicals have succeeded to control intractable optic neuritis in animal models. This may ultimately lead to prevention of vision loss within a short period from acute onset of optic neuritis in human. By conducting research flexibly, ready to switch from the bench to the bedside and from the bedside to the bench as the opportunity arises, this strategy may help to guide the research of optic neuritis in the right direction.
A Troubling Diagnosis of Verrucous Squamous Cell Carcinoma (“the Bad Kind” of Keratosis) and the Need of Clinical and Pathological Correlations: A Review of the Literature with a Case Report
Authors: Santoro A. , Pannone G. , Contaldo M. , Sanguedolce F. , Esposito V. , Serpico R. , Lo Muzio L. , Papagerakis S. , Bufo P.
Published: October 2010

Verrucous carcinoma (also known as Ackerman tumor) is an uncommon exophytic low-grade well-differentiated variant of squamous cell carcinoma. This neoplasm typically involves the oral cavity, larynx, genitalia, skin, and esophagus. It is well known for its locally aggressiveness and for its clinically slow-growing behaviour with minimal metastatic potential. Verrucous carcinoma of oral cavity is so closely aligned with the use of snuff and chewing tobacco that it has been called the “snuff dipper's cancer”. Recent studies have proved the role of HPV. The typical clinical presentation of oral verrucous carcinoma has long been known, as its remarkably innocuous appearance and biological behaviour. In this work, we report a review of the scientific literature and describe a troublesome case of oral verrucous cancer.
Surface Modification of Titanium with Heparin-Chitosan Multilayers via Layer-by-Layer Self-Assembly Technique
Authors: Shu Yao , Ou Guomin , Wang Li , Zou Jingcai , Li Quanli
Published: October 2010

Extracellular matrix (ECM), like biomimetic surface modification of titanium implants, is a promising method for improving its biocompatibility. In this paper chitosan (Chi) and heparin (Hep) multilayer was coated on pure titanium using a layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly technique. The Hep-Chi multilayer growth was carried out by first depositing a single layer of positively charged poly-L-lysine (PLL) on the NaOH-treated titanium substrate (negatively charged surface), followed by alternate deposition of negatively charged Hep and positively charged Chi, and terminated by an outermost layer of Chi. The multilayer was characterized by DR-FTIR, SEM, and AFM, and osteoblasts were cocultured with the modified titanium and untreated titanium surfaces, respectively, to evaluate their cytocompatibilityin vitro. The results confirmed that Hep-Chi multilayer was fabricated gradually on the titanium surface. The Hep-Chi multilayer-coated titanium improved the adhesion, proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts. Thus, the approach described here may provide a basis for the preparation of modified titanium surfaces for use in dental or orthopedic implants.
Are Treatment Preferences Relevant in Response to Serotonergic Antidepressants and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in Depressed Primary Care Patients? Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial Including a Patients’ Choice Arm
Authors: Mergl Roland , Henkel Verena , Allgaier Antje-Kathrin , Kramer Dietmar , Hautzinger Martin , Kohnen Ralf , Coyne James , Hegerl Ulrich
Published: October 2010

Background: Little is known about the influence of depressed patients’ preferences and expectations about treatments upon treatment outcome. We investigated whether better clinical outcome in depressed primary care patients is associated with receiving their preferred treatment. Methods: Within a randomized placebo-controlled single-centre 10-week trial with 5 arms (sertraline; placebo; cognitive-behavioral group therapy, CBT-G; moderated self-help group control; treatment with sertraline or CBT-G according to patients’ choice), outcomes for 145 primary care patients with mild-to-moderate depressive disorders according to DSM-IV criteria were investigated. Preference for medication versus psychotherapy was assessed at screening using a single item. Post-baseline difference scores for the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17) were used to assess treatment outcome (mixed-model repeated-measures regression analysis). Results: Depressed patients receiving their preferred treatment (n = 63), whether sertraline or CBT-G, responded significantly better than those who did not receive their preferred therapy (n = 54; p = 0.001). The difference in outcome between both groups was 8.0 points on the HAMD-17 for psychotherapy and 2.9 points on the HAMD-17 for treatment with antidepressants. Results were not explained by differences in depression severity or dropout rates. Conclusions: Patients’ relative preference for medication versus psychotherapy should be considered when offering a treatment because receiving the preferred treatment conveys an additional and clinically relevant benefit (HAMD-17: +2.9 points for drugs; +8.0 points for CBT-G) in outcome.
Institutions and Policies to Protect Rural Livelihoods in REDD+ Regimes
Authors: Lawlor Kathleen , Weinthal Erika , Olander Lydia
Published: October 2010

While there is growing interest among researchers and practitioners concerning the risks that emerging REDD+ regimes pose to rural livelihoods, there has been little scholarly analysis of specific policies that could be applied to guard against these risks. We argue that for REDD+ regimes to avoid negative impacts on local populations, social safeguard policies will need to overcome the significant barriers posed by ambiguous property rights and weak governance and create five institutional conditions: (1) local community support for project-level activities, (2) citizen participation in reforms affecting property rights and land use, (3) transparency of forest carbon revenue flows, (4) citizen access to grievance mechanisms, and (5) opportunities for adaptive management through evaluation. We identify and discuss various policies that could be applied to produce these conditions. We argue that positively engaging rural populations in REDD+ may be integral to the effectiveness of programs in reducing deforestation and degradation, and enhancing forest carbon stores. Future research should aim to identify the causal mechanisms (policies and institutions) responsible for positive socioeconomic and ecological impacts in REDD+, while testing key theories that link participation to conservation and development outcomes.
Pleasure and transcendence of the self: Notes on ‘a dialogue too soon interrupted’ between Michel Foucault and Pierre Hadot
Authors: Irrera Orazio
Published: October 2010

The fact that the notion of ‘practice’ has achieved an ever-increasing relevance in the most various fields of knowledge must not overshadow that it can be interpreted in so many different ways as to orient fairly different historiographical paradigms and philosophical conceptions. Starting with the two main issues of Hadot’s criticism of Foucault (the lack of a distinction between joy and pleasure and the fact that his account does not underscore that the individual Self is ultimately transcended by universal Reason), I have tried to show how the two scholars’ philosophical and historiographical approaches entail a different notion of ‘practice’. According to Hadot, the performativity of a practice (or spiritual exercise) is intimately tied to a universal which transcends the individual self, whereas Foucault maintains that it does not require the appeal to any universal, being exclusively grounded on the modes of exertion of the practices which constitute the individual Self. According to this address, pleasure is a fundamental notion in order to historicize the different ways in which the ethical subject structures itself.
The politics of truth: A critique of Peircean deliberative democracy
Authors: Bacon Michael
Published: October 2010

Recent discussion in democratic theory has seen a revival of interest in pragmatism. Drawing on the work of C. S. Peirce, Cheryl Misak and Robert Talisse have argued that a form of deliberative democracy is justified as the means for citizens to assure themselves of the truth of their beliefs. In this article, I suggest that the Peircean account of deliberative democracy is conceived too narrowly. It takes its force from seeing citizens as intellectual inquirers, something that I argue is both problematic in itself and relies on a controversial understanding of truth and inquiry. The article goes on to propose reasons for favouring a Deweyan rather than a Peircean account of democracy, one in which deliberation is seen not simply as a matter of arriving at the truth, but as part of a broader view of human flourishing.