bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a diverse epiphyte community in response to phosphorus fertilization
Authors: Benner Jon W. , Vitousek Peter M.
Published: May 2007

The role of terrestrial soil nutrient supply in determining the composition and productivity of epiphyte communities has been little investigated. In a montane Hawaiian rainforest, we documented dramatic increases in the abundance and species richness of canopy epiphytes in a forest that had been fertilized annually with phosphorus (P) for 15 years; there was no response in forest that had been fertilized with nitrogen (N) or other nutrients. The response of N‐fixing lichens to P fertilization was particularly strong, although mosses and non‐N‐fixing lichens also increased in abundance and diversity. We show that enhancement of canopy P availability is the most likely factor driving the bloom in epiphytes. These results provide strong evidence that terrestrial soil fertility may structure epiphyte communities, and in particular that the abundance of N‐fixing lichens – a functionally important epiphyte group – may be particularly sensitive to ecosystem P availability.
Monogenic diabetes: implications for therapy of rare types of disease
Authors: Malecki Maciej T. , Mlynarski Wojciech
Published: May 2007

There are two major forms of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. However, monogenic diabetes, associated with severe β‐cell dysfunction or with severe resistance to insulin action, is diagnosed with increasing frequency by genetic testing. The list of such forms of diabetes includes MODY, mitochondrial diabetes, permanent neonatal diabetes (PNDM) and transient neonatal diabetes, familial lipodystrophies and some others. These rare forms constitute probably at least a few per cent of all diabetes cases seen in diabetic clinics. The identification of the molecular background of specific forms of diabetes gives new insight into the underlying aetiology. This knowledge helps to optimize treatment in specific clinical situations. The proper differential diagnosis also helps to predict the progress of diabetes in affected individuals and defines the prognosis in the family. For example, in patients with MODY2 because of glucokinase mutations who have very mild diabetes characterized by modest fasting, hyperglycaemia diet is frequently sufficient. Some other forms of monogenic diabetes associated with impaired function of the β‐cell, such as MODY3 and PNDM linked to mutations in Kir6.2 and SUR1 genes, can be successfully managed by sulphonylurea agents. Although the examples of pharmacogenetics seem to be less spectacular in rare syndromes of insulin resistance, those patients can also benefit from genetic testing. In this paper, the aetiology of some monogenic diabetes forms is reviewed together with the clinical aspects of management of the affected individuals.
Improvement in erectile function on vardenafil treatment correlates with treatment satisfaction in both patients and their partners
Authors: Ralph David , Eardley Ian , Kell Philip , Dean John , Hackett Geoff , Collins Owen , Edwards David
Published: May 2007

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of vardenafil on both erectile function (EF) and treatment satisfaction (an aspect of quality of life) in men and their partners, as erectile dysfunction (ED) has a profound effect on patients’ quality of life and that of their partners, and treatment for ED tends to be focused on improving functional measures of EF.

PATIENTS, SUBJECTS AND METHODS

For this randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial, men with ED for >6 months, according to the USA National Institutes of Health Consensus Statement, were recruited. In all, 611 patients were randomized to treatment with either vardenafil (10 mg for 4 weeks, titrated to preferred dose, 5, 10 or 20 mg, during the next 8 weeks, and maintained at preferred dose for the following 14 weeks), or placebo.

RESULTS

At 18 weeks (primary endpoint), the mean improvement in the EF domain of International Index of EF (IIEF‐EF) vs baseline was significantly greater with vardenafil than placebo (12.70 vs 1.69, P < 0.001). This was accompanied by significant benefits at 26 weeks and in various secondary variables relating to sexual satisfaction. Qualitative assessment of the treatment effect revealed three categories of importance to patients: effectiveness, confidence and quality of life. There were significant linear correlations between patients’ EF and treatment satisfaction, and between patients’ EF and their partners’ treatment satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

Functional improvements in response to vardenafil treatment are significantly correlated with treatment satisfaction for both patients with ED and their partners. These findings apply to patients with a wide range of baseline characteristics.
Self‐reported urinary incontinence, voiding frequency, voided volume and pad‐test results: variables in a prospective study in children
Authors: Bael An M. , Lax Hildegard , Hirche Herbert , Gäbel Elisabeth , Winkler Pauline , Hellström Anna‐Lena , Van Zon Roelie , Janhsen Ellen , Güntek Sophie , Renson Catherine , Van Gool Jan D. ,   the European Bladder Dysfunction Study (EC BMH1‐CT94‐1006)
Published: May 2007

OBJECTIVE

To determine the congruence between self‐reported and objective data on incontinence, voided volume (VV) and voiding frequency (VF), in a prospective study of treatment of functional urinary incontinence (UI) due to urge syndrome or dysfunctional voiding in children.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 202 children, enrolled in the European Bladder Dysfunction Study (EBDS), provided self‐reported data on UI, VV and VF, before and after treatment, with validated questionnaires and 72‐h voiding diaries. Objective data were obtained with uroflowmetry and a 12‐h pad test, also before and after treatment. Questionnaires and diaries were checked and scored by a urotherapist, at scheduled office visits that were combined with uroflowmetry.

RESULTS

At entry, parents under‐reported UI on the questionnaires in 45% of cases, compared with the urotherapist’s scores, and the 12‐h pad test sensitivity for UI was only 64% (95% confidence interval 55–73%). The voiding diaries had inconsistent entries on UI and on VV. VF was overestimated in the questionnaires and underestimated in the diaries, compared with the urotherapist’s scores. A VF of >7/day decreased significantly after EBDS treatment, but with no correlation with treatment outcome. The mean VV increased significantly after treatment for UI, also with no correlation with treatment outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Voiding diaries and questionnaires are useful tools for charting individual treatment and for screening, but they are ill‐suited to documenting outcome variables in urge syndrome or dysfunctional voiding, because of over‐ and under‐reporting. VV and VF lack specificity as outcome variables in children with urge syndrome or dysfunctional voiding. The 12‐h pad test is not sensitive enough to complement self‐reported symptoms of UI in children with urge syndrome or dysfunctional voiding. Clinical studies on UI rely on complaints and self‐reported symptoms, but in children the reporting should be supervised by a trained urotherapist, to provide the necessary checks and balances.
Do simple questions about diet and physical activity help to identify those at risk of Type 2 diabetes?
Authors: Simmons R. K. , Harding A‐H. , Wareham N. J. , Griffin S. J. ,   on behalf of the EPIC‐Norfolk project team
Published: May 2007

Aims  Diet and physical activity interventions can prevent diabetes in those at high risk due to impaired glucose tolerance. We determined whether simple measures of physical activity and diet predicted incident diabetes and enhanced prediction by known risk factors including age, body mass index and family history.

Methods  This was a population‐based prospective cohort study (EPIC‐Norfolk). Participants aged 40–79 years (n = 25 633) attended a health check between 1993 and 1998 and completed diet and activity questionnaires. We assessed the association between simple behavioural indices of physical activity and diet derived from the questionnaires as well as known risk score variables with incident diabetes at follow‐up (mean 4.6 years). We developed a new diabetes risk score incorporating simple behavioural indices in a randomly selected half of the EPIC dataset using forward step‐wise multivariate logistic regression, and tested this score in the remaining half. We compared existing and new scores using receiver–operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

Results  There were 417 incident cases of diabetes during 115 137 years of follow‐up. A simple physical activity index independently predicted risk of diabetes. Eating one or more daily portion of vegetables, fresh fruit and wholemeal bread was associated with reduced risk; whilst eating meat products was associated with increased risk. The area under the ROC curves for the new and original score was the same (76.3%).

Conclusions  Simple indices of diet and activity are feasible to collect, predict future diabetes risk and might enhance routine data collection in primary care. However, they do not improve the prediction of risk scores based on known risk factors.
A nursing tool validated as an effective measure over MMSE and FAB in dementia
Authors: Yamashita M. , Kubota T. , Fuchita E. , Yokoyama K. , Hayashi H. , Okamoto S. , Sano E. , Matsuo A. , Shimasue N. , Watanabe T. , Kawashima R. , Sugimoto K.
Published: May 2007

Aim:  To evaluate the clinical use of the Abilities Assessment Instrument (AAI) when used together with Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), thus examining the concurrent validity of the instrument. Also, to evaluate the effect of a learning program administered for elders with dementia.

Methods:  Fourteen older people, who were afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias, were invited into a learning program. Measures were taken at baseline, at 3 months and 6 months to see the effects of the program. Instruments used in the study were the AAI, the MMSE and the FAB.

Findings:  There were statistically significant differences measured by the Japanese version of the AAI in the subjects’ abilities to perform the learning tasks between 3 and 6 months after intervention. No statistical significant differences were noted at any points in time measured by the MMSE or the FAB.

Conclusion:  The translated AAI promises to be a valid instrument for nurses’ use in their day‐to‐day assessment of Japanese elders. The AAI appears also to be useful in learning programs with this population, and may have value as a screening tool.
Confidence bounds for the mean in nonparametric multisample problems
Authors: Bentkus V. , Kalosha N. , Van Zuijlen M. C. A.
Published: May 2007

In auditing practice it often occurs that a statement regarding the accounting error in a population consisting of several subpopulations has to be made. As the relative proportion of errors can differ dramatically across these subpopulations, it is desirable to take independent fixed‐size dollar‐unit samples from each of them, as this often leads to lower variability compared with dollar‐unit sampling from the whole population. It also occurs that the results of the separate investigations of, e.g. different branches of one company need to be combined to make a statement on the bookkeeping quality in general.

The problem of estimating the total accounting error is thus related to the problem of estimating linear combinations of the mean values corresponding to several families of identically distributed independent random variables.

In this article, we propose several confidence upper bounds for such linear combinations based on Hoeffding‐type inequalities and show how they can be applied to the actual auditing problems. Simulation results comparing these modifications to the Hoeffding‐based bounds for the one‐sample case are also provided. It must be emphasized that the technique that we propose in this paper is fully justified from a mathematical point of view.

Although the simulations show the proposed bounds to be highly conservative, they still present great interest, since we are not aware of any other method for estimation of the total accounting error in the multisample setting. Moreover, it is shown that significant improvements are hardly possible given the present conditions.
INVESTMENT RISK AND THE TRANSITION INTO HOMEOWNERSHIP*
Authors: Turner Tracy M. , Seo Daigyo
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT This paper investigates the extent to which house–price uncertainty affects the transition of renter households into homeownership. Using a 14‐year household panel from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics during the years 1984–1997 and measures of the time‐varying risk and return to owner‐occupied housing, we estimate a Cox proportional hazard model of the effect of house–price volatility on the transition into homeownership. Results indicate that house–price uncertainty has a negative and dramatic impact on transitions into homeownership. In addition, we find that the low‐wealth renters are particularly sensitive to house–price risk.
Democratization, International Knowledge Institutions, and Global Governance
Authors: MILLER CLARK A.
Published: May 2007

The central problem of democracy has long been theorized as how to place appropriate constraints on the responsible exercise of power. Today, this problem is most acute in global governance. This article examines the rapid rise in the creation of international knowledge institutions, arguing that these institutions reflect a growing effort by nations and publics to assert democratic constraints on the on the global exercise of power through their ability to structure processes of reasoning and deliberation in global society. Specifically, the article argues for the need to attend carefully to processes of knowledge‐making in international institutions, including the roles of international institutions in setting standards for the exercise of reasoning, their contributions to the making of global kinds through their work in classifying and reclassifying the objects of international discourse, and through their roles in opening up and constraining participation in international deliberation. The article concludes that the construction and deployment of policy‐relevant knowledge are a significant source of power in their own right in global governance that need to be subject to their own democratic critique.
Societal Safety: Concept, Borders and Dilemmas
Authors: Olsen Odd Einar , Kruke Bjørn Ivar , Hovden Jan
Published: May 2007

In most industrialized countries, the end of the Cold War marked a change in focus from preparedness for war to an increasing focus on civil society's own vulnerability and safety. To meet new threats and changing risks, there is also a need for new analytical concepts. Societal safety is a concept developed in Norway during the last decade. It could be defined as: ‘The society's ability to maintain critical social functions, to protect the life and health of the citizens and to meet the citizens' basic requirements in a variety of stress situations’. It aims to be a systematic approach for understanding, mitigating and responding to social problems such as extraordinary stresses and losses, interferences in complex and mutual dependent systems, or lack of trust in vital social institutions. Future threats to society are not limited to specific sectors or areas, but stem from complex interactions amongst economic, technological, social and cultural factors. Thus, the main challenges to improve societal safety will be the ability to coordinate, organize and assign clear roles to different actors at the international, national and local levels. Societal safety has interfaces with other safety‐related areas such as national security, sustainable development, human security and incident management (handling of isolated accidents, common illness and ordinary criminal acts). Societal safety is, however, a sensitive political issue containing dilemmas and value choices that are hardly possible to perceive or solve as pure scientific problems.
Three‐dimensional confocal morphometry – a new approach for studying dynamic changes in cell morphology in brain slices
Authors: Chvátal Alexandr , Anděrová Miroslava , Kirchhoff Frank
Published: May 2007

Pathological states in the central nervous system lead to dramatic changes in the activity of neuroactive substances in the extracellular space, to changes in ionic homeostasis and often to cell swelling. To quantify changes in cell morphology over a certain period of time, we employed a new technique, three‐dimensional confocal morphometry. In our experiments, performed on enhanced green fluorescent protein/glial fibrillary acidic protein astrocytes in brain slices in situ and thus preserving the extracellular microenvironment, confocal morphometry revealed that the application of hypotonic solution evoked two types of volume change. In one population of astrocytes, hypotonic stress evoked small cell volume changes followed by a regulatory volume decrease, while in the second population volume changes were significantly larger without subsequent volume regulation. Three‐dimensional cell reconstruction revealed that even though the total astrocyte volume increased during hypotonic stress, the morphological changes in various cell compartments and processes were more complex than have been previously shown, including swelling, shrinking and structural rearrangement. Our data show that astrocytes in brain slices in situ during hypotonic stress display complex behaviour. One population of astrocytes is highly capable of cell volume regulation, while the second population is characterized by prominent cell swelling, accompanied by plastic changes in morphology. It is possible to speculate that these two astrocyte populations play different roles during physiological and pathological states.
Methods of DNA extraction and PCR amplification for individual freshwater mussel (Bivalvia: Unionidae) glochidia, with the first report of multiple paternity in these organisms
Authors: CHRISTIAN ALAN D. , MONROE EMY M. , ASHER ALLISON M. , LOUTSCH JEANNETTE M. , BERG DAVID J.
Published: May 2007

Freshwater mussels (Unionidae) are among North America's most imperilled organisms. Mussels produce small larvae (glochidia) that parasitize aquatic vertebrates. We modified the Epicentre QuickExtract protocol to extract DNA from a single glochidium, collected directly from the marsupium of a female mussel, to use as template in polymerase chain reactions (PCRs). Yield per glochidium in a 40 µL extraction volume provided enough DNA for ≥ 15 PCRs per individual. We were successful in using this DNA for microsatellite analysis of up to three loci per individual. Offspring from one female showed evidence for multiple paternity within her brood. Our results are the first documentation of this phenomenon in freshwater mussels.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite markers for red elm (Ulmus rubra Muhl.) and cross‐species amplification with Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila L.)
Authors: ZALAPA J. E. , BRUNET J. , GURIES R. P.
Published: May 2007

Ulmus pumila is an elm species, non‐native to the USA that hybridizes with Ulmus rubra. In order to study the genetic structure and hybridization patterns between these two elm species, we developed 15 primer pairs for microsatellite loci in U. rubra and tested their cross‐amplification in U. pumila. All 15 primers amplified in both species, 11 of which possessed species‐specific alleles. Eight loci were polymorphic in U. pumila and eight in U. rubra, each with two to eight alleles per locus. In addition, five primer pairs previously developed in U. laevis and U. carpinifolia (syn. U. minor) cross‐amplified and showed polymorphic loci in U. pumila and/or U. rubra. These markers will facilitate the study of genetic structure and gene flow between U. rubra and exotic, invasive U. pumila.
13C‐urea Breath Test during Hospitalization for the Diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori Infection in Peptic Ulcer Bleeding
Authors: Gisbert Javier P. , Esteban Carlos , Jimenez Isabel , Moreno‐Otero Ricardo
Published: May 2007

Objective:  To evaluate the accuracy of 13C‐urea breath test (UBT) to detect Helicobacter pylori infection in patients hospitalized with peptic ulcer bleeding and treated with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).

Methods:  Patients hospitalized with peptic ulcer bleeding, and treated with omeprazole, had a first UBT performed the day after resuming oral feeding. Patients with a negative UBT during hospitalization underwent a repeated UBT 15 days after stopping PPIs.

Results:  The first UBT during hospitalization was positive in 86% of 131 patients. Time between admission and performance of the test was longer in patients with negative versus positive UBT (5.2 ± 0.7 versus 4.3 ± 0.5 days; p < .001). The repeated UBT became positive in 15 of 18 (83%) patients with a negative first UBT. In the multivariate analysis, the only variable associated with a negative first UBT was the time elapsed between admission and performance of the test (odds ratio = 6.6; 95%CI = 2.9–15.1).

Conclusion:  Most H. pylori‐positive patients with ulcer bleeding have a positive UBT (performed just after resuming oral feeding) despite previous treatment with high‐dose PPIs. Nevertheless, to preclude false‐negative results due to PPI therapy, the UBT should be performed as early as possible. If the infection cannot be demonstrated with this first UBT, H. pylori still needs to be definitively excluded with a second UBT performed after stopping PPIs.
Immune and Proliferative Cellular Responses to Helicobacter pylori Infection in the Gastric Mucosa of Mexican Children
Authors: Muñoz Leopoldo , Camorlinga M. , Hernández R. , Giono S. , Ramón G. , Muñoz O. , Torres J.
Published: May 2007

Background:  Helicobacter pylori infection occurs mostly during childhood, but few studies on this age group have addressed the innate immune and the proliferative response to this infection. Mexico has a high H. pylori prevalence in children, but a low risk of gastric cancer. The aim of this work was to study the cellular responses of the gastric mucosa to this infection in Mexican children.

Methods:  Antral and corpus gastric biopsies were obtained from 44 H. pylori‐infected children (mean age 12 ± 3.2 years) and 44 uninfected children (mean age 10 ± 3 years). Mucosal cellular responses were studied by immunohistochemistry, using anti‐Ki67 antibodies for proliferation studies, antihuman tryptase for mast cells, and antihuman CD68 for macrophages. T and B lymphocytes were stained with a commercial integrated system. The intensity of cellular responses was estimated histologically using the software ks300.

Results:  Epithelium proliferation and infiltration of macrophages and T and B lymphocytes were significantly higher in H. pylori‐infected than in uninfected children. A balanced increase of CD4, CD8, and CD20 lymphocytes was observed in infected children. However, activated mast cells were decreased, and infiltration of neutrophil and mononuclear cells was low. Epithelial proliferation was associated with polymorphonuclear infiltration but not with infiltration of macrophages or lymphocytes. Inflammation and proliferation was higher in CagA (+)‐infected children.

Conclusions:  Mexican children respond to H. pylori infection with a low inflammatory response, a balanced increase of T and B lymphocytes, and a high regenerative activity.
Enhanced Activation of Cyclooxygenase‐2 Downregulates Th1 Signaling Pathway in Helicobacter pylori‐infected Human Gastric Mucosa
Authors: Pellicanò Antonia , Imeneo Maria , Leone Isabella , Larussa Tiziana , Luzza Francesco
Published: May 2007

Background:  Evidence suggests that an impaired T‐cell response against Helicobacter pylori plays a role in the pathogenesis of H. pylori‐related diseases. Cyclooxygenase (COX) 2 has been shown to inhibit the production of T‐helper (Th) 1 cytokines. This study aimed to ascertain whether COX‐2 downregulates Th1 signaling pathway in human gastric mucosa colonized by H. pylori.

Methods:  COX‐2 expression and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production were determined in total proteins extracted from freshly obtained gastric biopsies of H. pylori‐infected and uninfected patients by Western blotting and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Phosphorylated (p)STAT4, pSTAT1, T‐bet, and pSTAT6 expression and interleukin (IL)‐12, interferon (IFN)‐γ, and IL‐4 production were also determined by Western blotting and ELISA, respectively, in total protein extracts from gastric biopsy cultures of H. pylori‐infected patients treated without and with COX‐2 inhibitor NS‐398.

Results:  Enhanced expression of COX‐2 and production of PGE2 was found in H. pylori‐infected compared to uninfected patients. COX‐2 inhibition significantly increased expression of Th1 transcription factors along with production of IL‐12 and IFN‐γ. By contrast, no changes in the expression of STAT6 and production of IL‐4 were found.

Conclusion:  This study provides a mechanism by which H. pylori may actually interfere with normal T‐cell activation in human gastric mucosa, possibly enhancing its pathogenicity. The use of COX‐2 selective inhibitors as immunomodulators in the course of H. pylori infection deserves investigations.
Presence of Biventricular Dysfunction in Patients With Type II Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Movahed Mohammad‐Reza , Milne Norah
Published: May 2007

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has been found to be associated with depressed left ventricular (LV) function. Right ventricular (RV) function in DM patients, however, has not been well studied. The goal of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of LV and RV dysfunction in patients with DM. A series of 157 patients underwent simultaneous measurement of LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and RV ejection fraction (RVEF). Four of 26 DM patients had RVEF <30% (15.4%) vs 4 of 126 controls (3.2%) (P=.01). Eleven of 27 (40.7%) patients with DM had LVEF <30% vs 9 of 128 controls (7%) (P<.0001). Using multivariate analysis, DM remained independently associated with severely decreased biventricular function (RVEF <30%; odds ratio, 5.7; confidence interval, 1.3–25.4 [P=.02] and LVEF <30%; odds ratio, 12.9; confidence interval, 3.8–43.7 [P<.0001]). These results suggest that diabetic cardiomyopathy involves both ventricles as an independent pathologic process.
CHARACTERIZATION OF A DINOFLAGELLATE CRYPTOCHROME BLUE‐LIGHT RECEPTOR WITH A POSSIBLE ROLE IN CIRCADIAN CONTROL OF THE CELL CYCLE1
Authors: Brunelle Stephanie A. , Hazard E. Starr , Sotka Erik E. , Dolah Frances M. Van
Published: May 2007

Karenia brevis (C. C. Davis) G. Hansen et Moestrup is a dinoflagellate responsible for red tides in the Gulf of Mexico. The signaling pathways regulating its cell cycle are of interest because they are the key to the formation of toxic blooms that cause mass marine animal die‐offs and human illness. Karenia brevis displays phased cell division, in which cells enter S phase at precise times relative to the onset of light. Here, we demonstrate that a circadian rhythm underlies this behavior and that light quality affects the rate of cell‐cycle progression: in blue light, K. brevis entered the S phase early relative to its behavior in white light of similar intensity, whereas in red light, K. brevis was not affected. A data base of 25,000 K. brevis expressed sequence tags (ESTs) revealed several sequences with similarity to cryptochrome blue‐light receptors, but none related to known red‐light receptors. We characterized the K. brevis cryptochrome (Kb CRY) and modeled its three‐dimensional protein structure. Phylogenetic analysis of the photolyase/CRY gene family showed that Kb CRY is a member of the cryptochrome DASH (CRY DASH) clade. Western blotting with an antibody designed to bind a conserved peptide within Kb CRY identified a single band at ∼55 kDa. Immunolocalization showed that Kb CRY, like CRY DASH in Arabidopsis, is localized to the chloroplast. This is the first blue‐light receptor to be characterized in a dinoflagellate. As the Kb CRY appears to be the only blue‐light receptor expressed, it is a likely candidate for circadian entrainment of the cell cycle.
A TUBULAR MASTIGONEME‐RELATED PROTEIN, OCM1, ISOLATED FROM THE FLAGELLUM OF A CHROMOPHYTE ALGA,OCHROMONAS DANICA1
Authors: Yamagishi Takahiro , Motomura Taizo , Nagasato Chikako , Kato Atsushi , Kawai Hiroshi
Published: May 2007

The phylogenetic group stramenopiles refers to the systematic groups that possess tripartite tubular hairs (stramenopiles) on their flagella. There have been a number of studies describing the fine structure of these mastigonemes and a few studies isolating the component proteins; however, these proteins and their gene sequences have not yet been identified. In the present study, we identified a mastigoneme protein (Ocm1) of the chrysophycean algaOchromonas danicaPringsh. (UTEX LB1298). Its corresponding gene,Ocm1, was identified by using degenerate primers that correspond to the partial amino acid sequences of a protein (85 kDa) obtained from a mastigoneme‐rich fraction of isolated flagella. The polypeptide encoded byOcm1has four cysteine‐rich, epithelial growth factor (EGF)–like motifs, potentially involved in protein–protein interactions. It lacks obvious hydrophobic regions characteristic of transmembrane domains, suggesting that this polypeptide is not likely a protein for anchoring the mastigoneme. In addition, a polyclonal antibody against Ocm1 labeled the area where the tubular shafts of the mastigonemes are located, but not the basal portion or the terminal filaments.
UNIVERSAL PRIMERS AMPLIFY A 23S rDNA PLASTID MARKER IN EUKARYOTIC ALGAE AND CYANOBACTERIA1
Authors: Sherwood Alison R. , Presting Gernot G.
Published: May 2007

The challenge in the development of universal algal primers lies in the genetic diversity contained within the vast array of evolutionary lineages present in this informally named group of organisms. A comparative genomics approach was used previously to identify conserved primers flanking a region of the plastid genome. Our present research illustrates the feasibility of amplifying and sequencing this marker across multiple algal lineages. We present a preliminary framework of 107 novel sequences of this region from 62 red algae, 19 green algae, 14 brown algae, 8 cyanobacteria, 2 diatoms, 1 xanthophyte, and 1 euglenoid, and illustrate levels of divergence of the marker for well‐represented groups in a neighbor‐joining analysis. This ∼410 nt region distinguishes most species included in the analysis. The remarkable universality of these primers suggests potential for their use in assays of environmental samples in which they could be used to simultaneously detect a number of different algal lineages.
IDENTIFICATION AND COMPARATIVE GENOMIC ANALYSIS OF SIGNALING AND REGULATORY COMPONENTS IN THE DIATOM THALASSIOSIRA PSEUDONANA1
Authors: Montsant Anton , Allen Andrew E. , Coesel Sacha , Martino Alessandra De , Falciatore Angela , Mangogna Manuela , Siaut Magali , Heijde Marc , Jabbari Kamel , Maheswari Uma , Rayko Edda , Vardi Assaf , Apt Kirk E. , Berges John A. , Chiovitti Anthony , Davis Aubrey K. , Thamatrakoln Kimberlee , Hadi Masood Z. , Lane Todd W. , Lippmeier J. Casey , Martinez Diego , Parker Micaela S. , Pazour Gregory J. , Saito Mak A. , Rokhsar Dan S. , Armbrust E. Virginia , Bowler Chris
Published: May 2007

Diatoms are unicellular brown algae that likely arose from the endocytobiosis of a red alga into a single‐celled heterotroph and that constitute an algal class of major importance in phytoplankton communities around the globe. The first whole‐genome sequence from a diatom species, Thalassiosira  pseudonana Hasle et Heimdal, was recently reported, and features that are central to diatom physiology and ecology, such as silicon and nitrogen metabolism, iron uptake, and carbon concentration mechanisms, were described. Following this initial study, the basic cellular systems controlling cell signaling, gene expression, cytoskeletal structures, and response to stress have been cataloged in an attempt to obtain a global view of the molecular foundations that sustain such an ecologically successful group of organisms. Comparative analysis with several microbial, plant, and metazoan complete genome sequences allowed the identification of putative membrane receptors, signaling proteins, and other components of central interest to diatom ecophysiology and evolution. Thalassiosira  pseudonana likely perceives light through a novel phytochrome and several cryptochrome photoreceptors; it may lack the conserved RHO small‐GTPase subfamily of cell‐polarity regulators, despite undergoing polarized cell‐wall synthesis; and it possesses an unusually large number of heat‐shock transcription factors, which may indicate the central importance of transcriptional responses to environmental stress. The availability of the complete gene repertoire will permit a detailed biochemical and genetic analysis of how diatoms prosper in aquatic environments and will contribute to the understanding of eukaryotic evolution.
A Quality Assessment of the Casting Process on Magnetic Keepers
Authors: Luk Henry W.K. , Pow Edmond H.N. , Dias Andrew P.L.H.
Published: May 2007

Purpose: The objective of this study was to qualitatively investigate the effect of the burn‐out (mold) temperature, investment material, and casting alloy on the surface integrity of the Magfit EX keeper.

Materials and Methods: Forty‐two Magfit EX keepers were waxed‐up, invested in five investment materials (Beauty‐Cast, Cristobalite, CM‐10, Cera‐Fina, Castorit‐super), and subjected to burn‐out temperatures ranging from 450 to 700°C at intervals of 50°C. The keeper samples were then cast into copings with three alloys (Castwell, Protor 3, Optimum) under standard conditions. The keeper surfaces were then examined under a microscope, and the compositions were assessed by an X‐ray micro‐analyzer in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). A new keeper served as control.

Results: At a burn‐out temperature of 550°C, the keeper surface started to disintegrate. X‐ray micro‐analysis showed an increase in oxygen content with increasing temperature. At 700°C, the keeper surface disintegrated, and the composition differed markedly from that of the new keeper. The keeper surfaces were intact with all investments except those with Beauty‐Cast. The keeper surfaces were found to be damaged when the casting alloy was Optimum.

Conclusions: Beauty‐Cast investment with a burn‐out temperature of 700°C is unsuitable for casting the Magfit EX keeper‐coping unit. Also, high fusing alloys are not recommended for casting Magfit EX keepers.
Precision of Fit of Two Margin Designs for Metal‐Ceramic Crowns
Authors: Limkangwalmongkol Penwadee , Chiche Gerard J. , Blatz Markus B.
Published: May 2007

Statement of Problem: Although metal‐ceramic restorations are widely used, there is a lack of information about how the fit is affected by margin designs.

Purpose: This study measured and compared the precision of fit of metal‐ceramic crowns with two margin designs.

Material and Methods: Thirty‐two extracted human premolar teeth were prepared for complete‐coverage restorations with an internally rounded shoulder preparation. Impressions were made from all teeth, and master dies were poured with improved stone type V. MC crowns were fabricated with a porcelain‐butt margin on the buccal aspect (n = 32) and a feather‐edge metal margin on the lingual aspect (n = 32), which served as a control group. Precision of fit was measured three times at the mid‐buccal and mid‐lingual margins of each crown with a profilometer. The data were statistically analyzed with the paired t‐test (α < .05).

Results: Mean marginal gap size of porcelain‐butt margins was 27.93 μm (±15.84) and of feather‐edge metal margins 42.43 μm (±24.12). The marginal gap size of feather‐edge metal margins was statistically significantly greater than that of porcelain‐butt margins (p = 0.0045).

Conclusion: The marginal fit of porcelain‐butt margins was significantly better than that of feather‐edge metal margins.

Clinical Implications
: Porcelain‐butt margins in this study had a better marginal fit than feather‐edge metal margins, and thus have given clinicians evidence to prefer the use of porcelain‐butt margins.
Effect of Different Finishing and Polishing Agents on the Surface Roughness of Cast Pure Titanium
Authors: Reddy E. Srinivas , Patil Narendra P. , Guttal Satyabodh S. , Jagadish H.G.
Published: May 2007

Purpose:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of finishing and polishing agents on surface roughness of cast commercially pure titanium using scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis.

Materials and Methods:
A standardized square steel die measuring 10 × 10 mm with a thickness of 2 mm was machine cut. An impression of this die was used to create wax patterns for casting. Sixty specimens were cast in commercially pure titanium. These were divided into three groups (A, B, and C) of 20 specimens each. Group A specimens were polished with black, brown, and green rubber discs followed by green polishing compound with buff. Group B specimens were polished with black, brown, and green rubber cones, buffed with yellow polishing cake designed for gold alloy. Group C specimens were polished with silicium carbide cones and buffed with orange polishing cake. Surface roughness of the test specimens was measured in microns with a perthometer. Data were analyzed with ANOVA and Tukey's honest significant difference (HSD) multiple comparison tests among the different groups. Qualitative analysis was done by SEM photomicrographs.

Results:
Surface roughness values Ra for Groups A, B, and C were 0.68 μm, 0.78 μm, and 0.27 μm, respectively. SEM photomicrographs and the statistical analysis revealed that the finishing and polishing were better with Group C test specimens with lower surface roughness values compared with groups A and B. Tests showed that Group C was statistically smoother (p< 0.01).

Conclusion:
Within the limitations of this study, surface roughness was less on cast CpTi specimens that were finished and polished from the cutters designed specifically for titanium.
The Effect of Water Immersion on the Shear Bond Strength Between Chairside Reline and Denture Base Acrylic Resins
Authors: Azevedo Andrea , Machado Ana Lucia , Giampaolo Eunice Teresinha , Pavarina Ana Claudia , Vergani Carlos Eduardo
Published: May 2007

Purpose: The effect of water immersion on the shear bond strength (SBS) between 1 heat‐polymerizing acrylic resin (Lucitone 550‐L) and 4 autopolymerizing reline resins (Kooliner‐K, New Truliner‐N, Tokuso Rebase Fast‐T, Ufi Gel Hard‐U) was investigated. Specimens relined with resin L were also evaluated.

Materials and Methods: One hundred sixty cylinders (20 × 20 mm) of L denture base resin were processed, and the reline resins were packed on the prepared bonding surfaces using a split‐mold (3.5 × 5.0 mm). Shear tests (0.5 mm/min) were performed on the specimens (n = 8) after polymerization (control), and after immersion in water at 37°C for 7, 90, and 180 days. All fractured surfaces were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to calculate the percentage of cohesive fracture (PCF). Shear data were analyzed with 2‐way ANOVA and Tukey's test; Kruskall‐Wallis test was used to analyze PCF data (α= 0.05).

Results: After 90 days water immersion, an increase in the mean SBS was observed for U (11.13 to 16.53 MPa; p < 0.001) and T (9.08 to 13.24 MPa, p= 0.035), whereas resin L showed a decrease (21.74 MPa to 14.96 MPa; p < 0.001). The SBS of resins K (8.44 MPa) and N (7.98 MPa) remained unaffected. The mean PCF was lower than 32.6% for K, N, and T, and higher than 65.6% for U and L.

Conclusions: Long‐term water immersion did not adversely affect the bond of materials K, N, T, and U and decreased the values of resin L. Materials L and U failed cohesively, and K, N, and T failed adhesively.
Optimization of Tooth Color and Shade Guide Design
Authors: Paravina Rade D. , Majkic Goran , Imai Francisco H. , Powers John M.
Published: May 2007

Purpose:
One critical prerequisite for dental shade guides is to match the color range and distribution of human teeth. The purpose of this study was to design computer models for dental shade guides and compare them with an existing shade guide. A targeted coverage error for a newly developed shade guide was ΔEab < 2 with a corresponding CIE2000 value.

Materials and Methods:
A total of 1064 teeth were evaluated in vivo using an intra‐oral spectrophotometer. Shade guide models were designed using different methods for representation of the data set, hierarchical clustering, and nonlinear constrained optimization. Coverage error was calculated for both CIELAB and CIE2000 values. Recorded values were compared with coverage error of Vitapan Classical (VC) shade guide. Wilcoxon signed‐rank test for paired samples and linear regression were used in statistical analysis.

Results:
Coverage error of VC was 4.1 (SD 1.8), ranging from 0.5 to 11.5 ΔEab. Group A shades had the best match for human teeth (43.9%) followed by Groups C (24.1%), B (20.4%), and D (11.7%) shades, respectively. CIELAB coverage error of the newly designed 24‐tab shade guide using clustering and optimization was 2.05 (0.95) and 1.96 (0.92), respectively. Corresponding CIE2000 coverage error values were 1.43 (0.68) and 1.40 (0.65), respectively. A significant difference between results obtained using clustering and optimization was determined. CIELAB color differences were greater, but highly correlated as compared with their CIE2000 counterparts (ΔE00= 0.64 ×ΔE76+ 0.13, r > 0.99).

Discussion:
This study demonstrated that, compared with existing shade guides, future shade guides can provide either (a) similar coverage of tooth color with fewer tabs, thus simplifying shade matching procedure, or (b) better coverage of tooth color with a similar number of tabs, in both cases increasing the chances of satisfactory matches and, consequently, better esthetics.

Conclusions:
Both clustering and optimization enabled better representation of tooth color as compared with an existing dental shade guide. Optimization outperformed clustering and is therefore recommended as a method of choice for representation of tooth color and designing of dental shade guides.
Restoration of the Partially Dentate Patient with Conventional Fixed and Removable Prostheses
Authors: Thongthammachat‐Thavornthanasarn Sudsukh
Published: May 2007

This clinical report documents the treatment of a 65‐year‐old Caucasian female referred for fixed and removable partial denture fabrication following completion of her orthodontic treatment.
Factors Affecting the Strength of Denture Repairs
Authors: Seó Rosangela Seiko , Neppelenbroek Karin Hermana , Filho João Neudenir Ariolli
Published: May 2007

Fracture of dentures is a common clinical finding in daily prosthodontic practice, resulting in great inconvenience to both patient and dentist. A satisfactory repair should be cost‐effective, simple to perform, and quick; it should also match the original color and not cause distortion to the existing denture. Different repair materials, surface designs, and mechanical and chemical surface treatments have been recommended in order to obtain stronger repairs. This article reviews some of the available literature with regard to the most important factors that may influence the strength of denture repairs.
Rehabilitation of the Edentulous Maxilla after the Failure of an Implant‐Supported Bar
Authors: Grossmann Yoav , Pasciuta Marianna
Published: May 2007

Dental implants provide patients with multiple restorative options for the complete edentulous maxilla. This article describes a technique for restoration of the edentulous maxilla with a tissue‐implant‐supported overdenture after the mechanical failure of an implant‐supported bar. This technique allows the clinician to use the existing restoration with better distribution of the occlusal load between the implants and the supporting tissues.
A Dual Impression Technique for Implant Overdentures
Authors: Jannesar Sina , Siadat Hakimeh , Alikhasi Marzieh
Published: May 2007

This article describes a technique for a two‐stage selective pressure impression with a custom tray for implant‐retained, tissue‐supported overdentures.
The Integrated Abutment Crown™, a Screwless and Cementless Restoration for Single‐Tooth Implants: A Report on a New Technique
Authors: Urdaneta Rainier A. , Marincola Mauro
Published: May 2007

A technique is presented for the restoration of single‐tooth, implant‐supported crowns where the abutment and the crown material are chemomechanically bonded; therefore, there is no need for cement, and the implant and implant‐abutment are connected with a screwless locking‐taper. The clinical and laboratory procedures involved in the fabrication and insertion of the restoration are described in detail. This restoration offers the restorative dentist some advantages: excellent marginal adaptation with a cementless interface, a bacterially sealed implant‐abutment connection, a crown material with a similar wear rate and hardness values of human enamel, a simple laboratory technique, and a reduced number of prosthetic components. Due to the light‐cured nature of the crown material, chairside modifications can be accomplished. The major drawbacks are: studies are necessary to assess the long‐term performance of the Integrated Abutment Crown™ (IAC)'s in both anterior and posterior areas of the mouth. Resin materials have higher roughness values, accumulate plaque at a higher rate, and are more likely to stain than tooth structure and all‐ceramic restorations.
A Simplified Guide for Arranging 30° Pilkington Turner Posterior Denture Teeth in a Balanced Occlusion
Authors: Nilsson Dennis , Meng Thomas
Published: May 2007

A simple technique is presented for achieving balanced occlusion when setting 30° Pilkington‐Turner teeth. This technique involves the rotation of the mandibular posterior teeth around three axes: the vertical axis, to align the grooves and embrasures with the lateral path of the movement of the cusps; the mesio‐distal axis, to achieve the Curve of Wilson; and the bucco‐lingual axis, resulting in the Curve of Spee.
Oxcarbazepine and Carbamazepine: Expected and Unexpected Differences and Similarities
Authors: Abou-Khalil Bassel W.
Published: May 2007

Effects of Carbamazepine and Oxcarbazepine on the Reproductive Endocrine Function in Women with Epilepsy. Lofgren E, Tapanainen JS, Koivunen R, Pakarinen A, Isojarvi JI. Epilepsia 2006;47(9):1441–1446. PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to compare the effects of carbamazepine (CBZ) and oxcarbazepine (OXC) on the reproductive endocrine function in women with epilepsy. OXC is a novel antiepileptic drug (AED), and the occurrence of reproductive dysfunction in women treated with OXC monotherapy for epilepsy has not been studied previously. METHODS: Thirty-five women with epilepsy were examined in the Department of Neurology at Oulu University Hospital. Sixteen patients were treated with CBZ monotherapy, and nineteen patients were treated with OXC monotherapy. The subjects were clinically examined, vaginal ultrasonography was performed, and serum sex hormone concentrations were measured. RESULTS: The women taking CBZ or OXC had lower serum testosterone (T) levels and lower free androgen indexes (FAIs) than the control subjects. CBZ medication was associated with increased concentrations of serum sex hormone–binding globulin (SHBG). The patients taking OXC had higher concentrations of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) and androstendione (A) than did the women taking CBZ. Moreover, the prevalence of polycystic ovaries (PCOs) was high in the OXC-treated women. CONCLUSIONS: CBZ and OXC have different effects on the reproductive endocrine function. Although both drugs were associated with low serum T concentrations and low FAIs, only OXC was associated with a high frequency of elevated levels of A and DHEAS and with an increased prevalence of PCOs. These findings suggest that OXC may be disadvantageous for women with epilepsy and hyperandrogenism, whereas CBZ may be beneficial for these women.