bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of smoking on human milk tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐1β, and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 levels at postpartum seventh day
Authors: Ermis Bahri , Yildirim Abdulkadir , Tastekin Ayhan , Ors Rahmi
Published: March 2009

Background:  The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of maternal smoking during pregnancy on human milk interleukin‐1β, tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 levels at the postpartum seventh day.

Methods:  Forty‐four mothers (age range: 21–34 years) were enrolled in the study. Mothers were interviewed and classified according to their smoking status into one of two groups: the smoking mothers (n= 21) and the nonsmoking mothers (n= 23).

Results:  There were no significant differences between study groups with respect to human milk interleukin‐1β (P= 0.12) and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 levels (P= 0.83). However, TNF‐α levels were found to be significantly lower in the smoking mothers compared with the controls (P= 0.002).

Conclusion:  This study shows that maternal smoking during pregnancy affects the levels of TNF‐α in milk. The protective effect of human milk against infections seems to be impaired in smoking mothers.
Turnover of quorum sensing signal molecules modulates cross‐kingdom signalling
Authors: Tait Karen , Williamson Holly , Atkinson Steve , Williams Paul , Cámara Miguel , Joint Ian
Published: March 2009

N‐acylhomoserine lactone (AHL) quorum‐sensing molecules modulate the swimming behaviour of zoospores of the macroalga Ulva to facilitate the location of bacterial biofilms. Here we show that the intertidal surfaces colonized by Ulva are dominated by Alphaproteobacteria, particularly the Rhodobacteraceae family, and the Bacteroidetes family Flavobacteriaceae, and that this diverse assemblage both produces and degrades AHLs. N‐acylhomoserine lactones could also be extracted from the surfaces of pebbles recovered from intertidal rock‐pools. Bacteria representative of this assemblage were isolated and tested for the production and degradation of AHLs, and for their ability to modulate zoospore settlement at different biofilm densities. Of particular interest was a Shewanella sp. This strain produced three major AHLs (OC4, OC10 and OC12) in the late exponential phase, but the longer‐chain AHLs were rapidly degraded in the stationary phase. Degradation occurred via both lactonase and amidase activity. A close relationship was found between AHL synthesis and Ulva zoospore settlement. The Shewanella isolate also interfered with AHL production by a Sulfitobacter isolate and its ability to enhance zoospore settlement in a polymicrobial biofilm. This influence on the attachment of Ulva zoospores suggests that AHL‐degrading strains can affect bacterial community behaviour by interfering with quorum sensing between neighbouring bacteria. More importantly, these interactions may exert wider ecological effects across different kingdoms.
HOW WELL HAS THE NEW DEAL FOR YOUNG PEOPLE WORKED IN THE UK REGIONS?
Authors: McVicar Duncan , Podivinsky Jan M.
Published: March 2009

The UK New Deal for Young People (NDYP) is a mandatory active labour market programme aimed at helping unemployed young people into jobs. This paper examines how the programme affected hazard rates for unemployment exits across the UK regions in its first few years. The regional focus is motivated by the belief that differences between regional labour markets, between claimants, and differences in implementation may have led to differences in programme outcomes. The paper shows that NDYP increased outflows from unemployment in all regions but that its impact was larger in some regions than in others. The paper also shows differential NDYP impacts across the regions on destination‐specific hazard rates from unemployment to employment, to education/training, to inactivity and to ‘other’. Possible explanations for these results are then discussed.
Population density and youth antisocial behavior
Authors: Paige Harden K. , D’Onofrio Brian M. , Van Hulle Carol , Turkheimer Eric , Rodgers Joseph L. , Waldman Irwin D. , Lahey Benjamin B.
Published: March 2009

Theoretical models concerning how neighborhood contexts adversely influence juvenile antisocial behavior frequently focus on urban neighborhoods; however, previous studies comparing urban and rural areas on the prevalence of youth antisocial behavior have yielded mixed results. The current study uses longitudinal data on the offspring of a nationally representative sample of mothers (N = 4,886) in the US. There was no relation between density and mother‐reported child conduct problems across ages 4–13 years, but youth living in areas of greater population density exhibited more youth self‐reported delinquency across 10–17 years. Families often moved to counties with greater or lesser population density, but longitudinal analyses treating population density as a time‐varying covariate did not support the hypothesis that living in densely populated counties influenced youth delinquency. Rather, the association between population density and delinquency appears to be due to unmeasured selection variables that differ between families who live in more or less densely populated counties.
Autobiographical memory functioning among abused, neglected, and nonmaltreated children: the overgeneral memory effect
Authors: Valentino Kristin , Toth Sheree L. , Cicchetti Dante
Published: March 2009

Background:  This investigation addresses whether there are differences in the form and content of autobiographical memory recall as a function of maltreatment, and examines the roles of self‐system functioning and psychopathology in autobiographical memory processes.

Methods:  Autobiographical memory for positive and negative nontraumatic events was evaluated among abused, neglected, and nonmaltreated school‐aged children.

Results:  Abused children’s memories were more overgeneral and contained more negative self‐representations than did those of the nonmaltreated children. Negative self‐representations and depression were significantly related to overgeneral memory, but did not mediate the relation between abuse and overgeneral memory.

Conclusions:  The meaning of these findings for models of memory and for the development of overgenerality is emphasized. Moreover, the clinical implications of the current research are discussed.
Sensory and motor deficits in children with cerebral palsy born preterm correlate with diffusion tensor imaging abnormalities in thalamocortical pathways
Authors: HOON JR ALEXANDER H , STASHINKO ELAINE E , NAGAE LIDIA M , LIN DORIS DM , KELLER JENNIFER , BASTIAN AMY , CAMPBELL MICHELLE L , LEVEY ERIC , MORI SUSUMU , JOHNSTON MICHAEL V
Published: March 2009

Aim  Cerebral palsy (CP) is frequently linked to white matter injury in children born preterm. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is a powerful technique providing precise identification of white matter microstructure. We investigated the relationship between DTI‐observed thalamocortical (posterior thalamic radiation) injury, motor (corticospinal tract) injury, and sensorimotor function.

Method  Twenty‐eight children born preterm (16 males, 12 females; mean age 5y 10mo, SD 2y 6mo, range 16mo–13y; mean gestational age at birth 28wks, SD 2.7wks, range 23–34wks) were included in this case–control study. Twenty‐one children had spastic diplegia, four had spastic quadriplegia, two had hemiplegia, and one had ataxic/hypotonic CP; 15 of the participants walked independently. Normative comparison data were obtained from 35 healthy age‐matched children born at term (19 males, 16 females; mean age 5y 9mo, SD 4y 4mo, range 15mo–15y). Two‐dimensional DTI color maps were created to evaluate 26 central white matter tracts, which were graded by a neuroradiologist masked to clinical status. Quantitative measures of touch, proprioception, strength (dynamometer), and spasticity (modified Ashworth scale) were obtained from a subset of participants.

Results  All 28 participants with CP had periventricular white‐matter injury on magnetic resonance imaging. Using DTI color maps, there was more severe injury in the posterior thalamic radiation pathways than in the descending corticospinal tracts. Posterior thalamic radiation injury correlated with reduced contralateral touch threshold, proprioception, and motor severity, whereas corticospinal tract injury did not correlate with motor or sensory outcome measures.

Interpretation  These findings extend previous research demonstrating that CP in preterm children reflects disruption of thalamocortical connections as well as descending corticospinal pathways.
The co‐occurrence of autism and birth defects: prevalence and risk in a population‐based cohort
Authors: SCHENDEL DIANA E , AUTRY ANDREW , WINES ROBERTA , MOORE CYNTHIA
Published: March 2009

Aim To estimate the prevalence of major birth defects among children with autism, the prevalence of autism in children with birth defects, and the risk for autism associated with having birth defects.

Method Retrospective cohort including all children born in Atlanta, GA, USA, 1986 to 1993, who survived to age 3 years and were identified through Georgia vital records. Children with autism and other developmental disabilities residing in Atlanta at ages 3 to 10 years in 1996 were identified through the Metropolitan Atlanta Developmental Disabilities Surveillance Program. Children with major birth defects through age 6 years were identified by the Metropolitan Atlanta Congenital Defects Program.

Results Birth defects were found among 6% of children with autism (totaln=617; 488 males, 129 females) and was associated with a near twofold increased risk for autism overall. However, the risk magnitude and statistical significance varied by type of birth defect. With any type of birth defect, the risk for autism accompanied by intellectual disability or other developmental disabilities was typically higher than the risk for autism alone. A 6:1 to 8:1 male bias was observed among children with autism and a birth defect.

Interpretation Investigation of the association between autism and birth defects is warranted, especially for the role of birth defects in autism among sex‐specific or autism subgroups.
Determinants of retirement planning behaviour and differences by age
Authors: Hira Tahira K. , Rock Whitney L. , Loibl Caezilia
Published: March 2009

This paper presents the results of an investigation into the determinants of retirement planning behaviour and differences among three age groups: 21‐ to 39‐year‐olds, 40‐ to 59‐year‐olds and those aged 60 years and older. A national survey of 911 individuals from households with incomes of $75 000 or greater was conducted in the US. The significance of socio‐demographic variables, the ability to recover from loss, behavioural tendencies and perceived or actual personal control were investigated; together with their role in the prediction of maximization of retirement contributions and ownership in the personal individual retirement account (IRA) or Keogh accounts. The results identified several significant variables in the prediction of ownership in a personal IRA or Keogh, including age, sources of financial information, being an early investor and investor activity. The results also identified several significant variables in the prediction of the maximization of retirement contributions, including employment, income, savings activity, ex ante research, review of investment performance, early investor, investor activity, such as planning for financial future, setting up automatic deposits and reviewing financial information in the mail.
Sex differences in jealousy: Misinterpretation of nonsignificant results as refuting the theory
Authors: EDLUND JOHN E. , SAGARIN BRAD J.
Published: March 2009

Studies examining sex differences in jealousy using continuous measures have produced inconsistent findings. To  explain these inconsistencies, this study critically evaluates the criterion used to test the sex difference in jealousy, demonstrating that the Participant Sex × Infidelity Type interaction is the only relevant effect. Then, using a U.S.‐based sample, the sex difference is investigated using 14 continuous‐measure response formats, revealing a highly significant overall sex difference (p < .001, g= .300), despite the sex difference being nonsignificant for 9 of 14 individual formats. Results highlight the danger of falling prey to the belief in the law of small numbers, manifest in this debate as the erroneous interpretation of individual nonsignificant results as refuting the theory.
Quantifying the Indicator Power of an Indicator Species
Authors: HALME PANU , MÖNKKÖNEN MIKKO , KOTIAHO JANNE S. , YLISIRNIÖ ANNA‐LIISA , MARKKANEN ANNI
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Biodiversity indicator species are needed for classifying biotopes and sites for conservation, and a number of methods have been developed for determining indicator species for this purpose. Nevertheless, in addition to site classification, there is sometimes a need to define an indicator species that indicates the occurrence of another species. For example, when a species of interest (target species) is difficult to detect or identify, a reliable indicator species can function as a tool that saves time and money. We derived a method that provides a quantitative measure of the indicator power (IP) of an indicator species for the target species or any species assemblage. We calculated the measure of IP from a presence–absence matrix that covered several sites. The method provided a list of indicator species, the presence of which reliably indicated the presence of another species (e.g., a threatened or rare species in a given area). The IP of the species was highest when the number of shared occurrences between the indicator species and the target species was high and, simultaneously, when the indicator species and the target species occurred separately in only a few cases. The IP was also positively influenced by the number of sites with no occurrences of either the indicator or the target species. Our method can also be used to quantify different types of species occurrence indications. We refer to these types as presence–presence, presence–absence, absence–presence, and absence–absence indications. To clarify the use of the method, we examined the situation with red‐listed polypores in White‐backed Woodpecker (Dendrocopos leucotos) habitats in Fennoscandia and found some suitable indicator species. Our method provides a new, objective way to evaluate the IP of an indicator species.
A population‐based study on the association between type 2 diabetes and periodontal disease in 12,123 middle‐aged Taiwanese (KCIS No. 21)
Authors: Wang Ting‐Ting , Chen Tony Hsiu‐Hsi , Wang Po‐En , Lai Hongmin , Lo Ming‐Te , Chen Pearl Yi‐Chun , Chiu Sherry Yueh‐Hsia
Published: March 2009

Aim: We investigated the association between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and periodontal disease (PD) in the context of the current periodontal aetiology model.

Material and Methods: In total, 14,747 community residents aged 35–44 years were invited to a community‐based PD survey between 2003 and 2006 using the community periodontal index. Significant factors modifying the association between T2DM and PD were ascertained. We further assessed the association between T2DM and the risk for PD, within strata of significant effect modifiers, after controlling for other putative factors.

Results: The prevalence rate was 10% higher in subjects with T2DM than in those without. After controlling for significant factors, T2DM was positively associated with the risk for PD (adjusted odds ratio=1.34,95% confidence interval: 1.07–1.74). The results of interaction assessment showed that only the waist was identified as a statistically significant effect modifier for such a positive association.

Conclusions: The association between T2DM and the risk for PD among young adult was demonstrated. This finding, together with other aetiological factors, fit with the current hypothesized model of the aetiology of periodontitis. However, the effect of T2DM modified by waist measurement should be verified in future studies.
Co‐declining mammals and dung beetles: an impending ecological cascade
Authors: Nichols E. , Gardner T. A. , Peres C. A. , Spector S. ,   The Scarabaeinae Research Network
Published: March 2009

Biodiversity loss can precipitate extinction cascades and impair ecological processes. These ‘downstream’ effects will be exacerbated if functionally important taxa are tightly linked with species threatened by extinction or population decline. We review the current evidence that such a scenario is currently playing out in the linked declines of persistently hunted mammal populations and the dung beetles communities (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae) that depend on them for adult and larval food resources. Through a close evolutionary association, mammal assemblages have played a fundamental role in structuring extant dung beetle communities. Today many game mammal species’ populations are severely depleted by subsistence or commercial hunting, especially in tropical forest systems. Multiple lines of evidence from temperate and tropical systems indicate that the regional‐scale decline or extirpation of medium and large bodied mammal faunas can severely disrupt the diversity and abundance of dung beetle communities through alterations in the composition and availability of dung resources. These observed community disassemblies have significant short‐ and long‐term implications for the maintenance of key ecosystem processes including nutrient recycling and secondary seed dispersal. Identifying the species‐ and community‐level traits that buffer or exacerbate these species and functional responses is essential if we are to develop a better understanding of the cascading ecological consequences of hunting in tropical forests.
How do management and restoration needs of mountain grasslands depend on moisture regime? Experimental study from north‐western Slovakia (Western Carpathians)
Authors: Galvánek Dobromil , Lepš Jan
Published: March 2009

Question: How does species composition change in traditionally managed meadows after mowing has ceased, and in abandoned meadows after re‐introduction of mowing? Are there differences in the dynamics of dry and moderately wet meadows?

Location: Zázrivá‐Plešivá (19°11′N, 49°16′E), north‐western Slovakia, western Carpathians.

Methods: Pairs of experimental plots (mown and unmown) were established to replicate each combination of dry/wet and traditionally managed/abandoned meadows. Changes in species composition were studied over 5 years. The data on changes in species composition was analysed by constrained and unconstrained ordinations, and visualized using Principal Response Curves.

Results: Species composition of newly abandoned wet grasslands was changing towards the corresponding long‐abandoned plots even in the first year of abandonment. Similarly, newly established restoration mowing in abandoned dry grasslands rapidly shifted the stand species composition towards that of traditionally managed ones. Nevertheless, 4 year after reintroduction of mowing, the species composition of the restored plots was still far from the target composition. The effect of mowing in abandoned wet grasslands and abandonment in dry grasslands was much less pronounced and slower.

Conclusions: Moisture regime is a very important factor determining the management needs of various grassland types. Wet grasslands are much more sensitive to abandonment, with a rapid degradation rate and limited possibilities for restoration, which can be extremely slow. Even in the dry grasslands, that quickly responded to restoration mowing, restoration is a long‐term process.
Effect of seawater temperature on reproductive seasonality and fecundity of Pseudoplexaura porosa (Cnidaria: Octocorallia): latitudinal variation in Caribbean gorgonian reproduction
Authors: De Putron Samantha J. , Ryland John S.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. The majority of tagged colonies of Pseudoplexaura porosa in Bermuda were reproductive over 2 months in the summer. They spawned 5–8 d after the full moon, with a peak on the sixth day, similar to colonies in Panama. The months of spawning were August and September in 1998, but July and August in 1999 and 2000. This temporal difference between the months of spawning corresponded to inter‐annual variations in seawater temperature profiles. Initial gamete development each year occurred only when the daily mean seawater temperature during the month before spawning exceeded 27°C. There was a significant positive relationship between reproductive effort (gamete volume) of colonies and rising seawater temperature in the month preceding spawning; this was true for both the initial and the second spawning months. The end of the reproductive season each year was triggered by the decline in seawater temperature past the summer maximum. The duration of the reproductive season of conspecifics at the central Caribbean reef of Panama is 2 months longer than in Bermuda. This can be explained by the smaller annual temperature range at the lower latitude and the earlier onset of temperatures favorable for gamete development. Fecundity estimates for members of P. porosa (mean oocyte and spermary densities) in Bermuda were lower than for conspecifics in Panama. The shorter reproductive season in Bermuda, in addition to the lower fecundity of colonies, indicates that reproduction in P. porosa is compromised at this high latitude reef.
Does Rural Residence Affect Access to Prenatal Care in Oregon?
Authors: Epstein Beth , Grant Therese , Schiff Melissa , Kasehagen Laurin
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT: 
Context: Identifying how maternal residential location affects late initiation of prenatal care is important for policy planning and allocation of resources for intervention. Purpose: To determine how rural residence and other social and demographic characteristics affect late initiation of prenatal care, and how residence status is associated with self‐reported barriers to accessing early prenatal care. Methods: This observational study used data from the 2003 Oregon Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) (N = 1,508), with late initiation of prenatal care (after the first trimester) as the primary outcome. We used Rural‐Urban Commuting Area (RUCA) codes to categorize maternal residence as urban, large rural, or small/isolated rural. Multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate whether category of residence was associated with late initiation of prenatal care after adjusting for other maternal factors. Association between categories of barriers to prenatal care and maternal category of residence were determined using the Cochran‐Mantel‐Haenszel test of association. Findings: We found no significant association between residence category and late initiation of prenatal care, or residence category and barriers to prenatal care initiation. Urban women tended to be over age 34 or nonwhite. Women from large rural areas were more likely to be younger than 18 years, unmarried, and have an unintended pregnancy. Women from small rural areas were more likely to use tobacco during pregnancy. Conclusions: Maternal residence category is not associated with late initiation of prenatal care or with barriers to initiation of prenatal care. Differences in maternal risk profiles by location suggest possible new foci for programs, such as tobacco education in small rural areas.
Teledermatology Consultations Provide Specialty Care for Farmworkers in Rural Clinics
Authors: Vallejos Quirina M. , Quandt Sara A. , Feldman Steven R. , Fleischer, Jr Alan B. , Brooks Thanh , Cabral Gonzalo , Heck Judy , Schulz Mark R. , Verma Amit , Whalley Lara E. , Arcury Thomas A.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT: 
Context: Rural patients have limited access to dermatologic care. Farmworkers have high rates of skin disease and limited access to care. Purpose: This exploratory study assessed whether teledermatology consultations could help meet the needs of health care providers for farmworkers in rural clinics. Methods: Dermatologists provided 79 consultations, using store‐and‐forward teledermatology, to farmworkers who presented with a skin disease to rural North Carolina clinics. Clinic providers rated the value of the consultation. Findings: Most requests for consultations (94%) came from family nurse practitioners or physician assistants. Twelve percent of consultations were rated somewhat helpful, and the remainder helpful or very helpful. After receiving the consultation, providers changed the diagnosis in 13% of cases. The consultation led providers to contact or attempt to contact 21% of patients to change treatment recommendations. Conclusions: Access to expert dermatologic services is needed by rural health care providers. Teledermatology consultations may be a helpful tool to meet this need.
The Five‐Gene‐Network Data Analysis with Local Causal Discovery Algorithm Using Causal Bayesian Networks
Authors: Yoo Changwon , Brilz Erik M.
Published: March 2009

Using microarray experiments, we can model causal relationships of genes measured through mRNA expression levels. To this end, it is desirable to compare experiments of the system under complete interventions of some genes, such as by knock out of some genes, with experiments of the system under no interventions. However, it is expensive and difficult to conduct wet lab experiments of complete interventions of genes in a biological system. Thus, it will be helpful if we can discover promising causal relationships among genes with no interventions or incomplete interventions, such as by applying a treatment that has unknown effects to modeled genes, in order to identify promising genes to perturb in the system that can later be verified in wet laboratories. In this paper we use causal Bayesian networks to implement a causal discovery algorithm—the equivalence local implicit latent variable scoring method (EquLIM)—that identifies promising causal relationships even with a small dataset generated from no or incomplete interventions. We then apply EquLIM to analyze the five‐gene‐network data and compare EquLIM's predictions with true causal pairwise relationships between the genes.
Lateral lingual cyst with respiratory epithelium: a rare case
Authors: Horie N. , Shimoyama T. , Kawano R. , Ide F.
Published: March 2009

Lingual cyst with respiratory epithelium, also known as anterior median lingual cyst or lingual cyst of foregut origin, is an uncommon developmental lesion in neonates or infants. As its name implies, all cases reportedly developed in the midline of the anterior tongue. We present here a hitherto undescribed form of a laterally positioned lingual cyst with respiratory epithelium in a 3‐year‐old boy, with the immunohistochemical investigation of the cytokeratin profile of the lining epithelium.
Evaluation of Pacific Islands Early Childhood Caries Prevention Project: Republic of the Marshall Islands
Authors: Milgrom Peter , Tut Ohnmar K.
Published: March 2009

Objectives: This communication reports an outcomes evaluation of the Pacific Islands Early Childhood Caries Prevention Project. Methods: The evaluation includes children in three conditions: a) topical fluoride varnish three times per school year; b) varnish plus twice‐per‐day toothbrushing; and c) intervention 2 plus three‐times‐per‐day xylitol containing gummy bear snacks at school and home visits to encourage parental involvement. For this evaluation, groups 2 and 3 have been combined. Results: One year after project implementation, mean decayed, extracted, or filled primary teeth was 10.3 [standard deviation (SD) = 4.3] teeth for group 1, and 8.2 (SD = 4.0) teeth for the combination of groups 2 and 3 (P < 0.05). Twenty‐four percent of group 1 had cavitated lesions in any permanent molar versus 12.8 percent in groups 2 and 3 combined (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Evaluation confirms the outcome of a program including both in‐school twice‐daily toothbrushing with fluoridated toothpaste and frequent applications of fluoride varnish.
Comparison of the Generic and Condition‐Specific Forms of the Oral Impacts on Daily Performances (OIDP) Index
Authors: Bernabé Eduardo , De Oliveira Cesar M. , Sheiham Aubrey , Tsakos Georgios
Published: March 2009

Objective:This study aimed to compare generic and condition‐specific forms of the Oral Impacts on Daily Performances (OIDP) in terms of their ability to discriminate between adolescents with and without normative need for orthodontic treatment.Methods:A total of 1,060 15‐ to 16‐year‐old adolescents without history of previous or current orthodontic treatment were randomly selected from all secondary schools in Bauru, Brazil. Adolescents were clinically examined by using the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI). Normative need for orthodontic treatment was defined by using three different suggested cutoff values on DAI score; 28, 31, and 36 points. Two different estimates (overall score and prevalence of oral impacts) were calculated by using the generic and the condition‐specific OIDP (CS‐OIDP) attributed to malocclusion. Discriminative ability was assessed, comparing both estimates between groups. Effect size and adjusted odds ratios were used to interpret the magnitude and meaning of differences.Results:The overall score and prevalence of oral impacts on quality of life in the last 6 months were significantly lower for the CS‐OIDP attributed to malocclusion than for the generic OIDP (P < 0.001 in both cases). However, effect sizes and adjusted odds ratios were always larger for the CS‐OIDP attributed to malocclusion than for the generic OIDP.Conclusions:Although generic and condition‐specific OIDP forms were able to discriminate adolescents with normative need for orthodontic treatment from those without such a need, CS‐OIDP attributed to malocclusion had better ability to distinguish between groups. Further studies are needed to compare discriminative ability of both OIDP forms between groups with different levels of other oral conditions.
BAYESIAN METHODS OF FORECASTING INVENTORY INVESTMENT
Authors: Gupta Rangan
Published: March 2009

This paper develops a Bayesian Vector Error Correction Model (BVECM) for forecasting inventory investment. The model is estimated using South African quarterly data on actual sales, production, unfilled orders, price level and interest rate, for the period 1978 to 2000. The out‐of‐sample‐forecast accuracy obtained from the BVECM over the forecasting horizon of 2001:1 to 2003:4, is compared with those generated from the classical variant of the Vector Autoregresssive (VAR) model and the VECM, the Bayesian VAR, and the recently developed ECM by Smith et al., for the South African economy. The BVECM with the most‐tight prior outperforms all the other models, except for a relatively tight BVAR which also correctly predicts the direction of change of inventory investment over the period of 2004:1 to 2006:3.
ELECTRICITY REFORMS IN MALI: A MACRO–MICRO ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECTS ON POVERTY AND DISTRIBUTION
Authors: Boccanfuso Dorothée , Estache Antonio , Savard Luc
Published: March 2009

This paper uses a computable general equilibrium (CGE) micro‐simulation model to explore the distributional and poverty‐related effects of price reform in the electricity sector of Mali, a poor country in West Africa. In the first part of the paper we analyse the distribution of electricity in Mali by income deciles, showing that few poor households are connected to the electricity grid. We then apply a sequential CGE micro‐simulation model to track the transmission mechanisms between increases in electricity prices and changes in poverty and inequality among different household groups. Our results show that direct price increases have a minimal effect on poverty and inequality, whereas the general equilibrium effects of such increases are quite strong and negative. The compensating policies we tested do not help those who lose from the pricing reform. In fact they amplify the negative effects.
Effects of Language Anxiety on Three Proficiency‐Level Courses of Spanish as a Foreign Language
Authors: Marcos‐Llinás Mónica , Garau Maria Juan
Published: March 2009

Abstract: This article investigates the effects of language anxiety on course achievement in three foreign language proficiency levels of Spanish, namely, beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Participants completed the Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (Horwitz, Horwitz, & Cope, 1986) and a background questionnaire. Results showed that language anxiety actually differed across proficiency levels. In the present study, advanced learners showed higher levels of anxiety than beginning and intermediate learners. In addition, there was an interrelation between language anxiety and course achievement. However, students with high levels of anxiety did not necessarily exhibit lower course achievement in comparison to students with low levels of language anxiety, as concluded in previous studies. Furthermore, there was a medium level of language anxiety among most participants, with no significant effect on course achievement.
Rapid Ca2+ flux through the transverse tubular membrane, activated by individual action potentials in mammalian skeletal muscle
Authors: Launikonis Bradley S. , Stephenson D. George , Friedrich Oliver
Published: March 2009

Periods of low frequency stimulation are known to increase the net Ca2+ uptake in skeletal muscle but the mechanism responsible for this Ca2+ entry is not known. In this study a novel high‐resolution fluorescence microscopy approach allowed the detection of an action potential‐induced Ca2+ flux across the tubular (t‐) system of rat extensor digitorum longus muscle fibres that appears to be responsible for the net uptake of Ca2+ in working muscle. Action potentials were triggered in the t‐system of mechanically skinned fibres from rat by brief field stimulation and t‐system [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]t‐sys) and cytoplasmic [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]cyto) were simultaneously resolved on a confocal microscope. When initial [Ca2+]t‐sys was ≥ 0.2 mm a Ca2+ flux from t‐system to the cytoplasm was observed following a single action potential. The action potential‐induced Ca2+ flux and associated t‐system Ca2+ permeability decayed exponentially and displayed inactivation characteristics such that further Ca2+ entry across the t‐system could not be observed after 2–3 action potentials at 10 Hz stimulation rate. When [Ca2+]t‐sys was closer to 0.1 mm, a transient rise in [Ca2+]t‐sys was observed almost concurrently with the increase in [Ca2+]cyto following the action potential. The change in direction of Ca2+ flux was consistent with changes in the direction of the driving force for Ca2+. This is the first demonstration of a rapid t‐system Ca2+ flux associated with a single action potential in mammalian skeletal muscle. The properties of this channel are inconsistent with a flux through the L‐type Ca2+ channel suggesting that an as yet unidentified t‐system protein is conducting this current. This action potential‐activated Ca2+ flux provides an explanation for the previously described Ca2+ entry and accumulation observed with prolonged, intermittent muscle activity.
Gating of the CFTR Cl− channel by ATP‐driven nucleotide‐binding domain dimerisation
Authors: Hwang Tzyh‐Chang , Sheppard David N.
Published: March 2009

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) plays a fundamental role in fluid and electrolyte transport across epithelial tissues. Based on its structure, function and regulation, CFTR is an ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporter. These transporters are assembled from two membrane‐spanning domains (MSDs) and two nucleotide‐binding domains (NBDs). In the vast majority of ABC transporters, the NBDs form a common engine that utilises the energy of ATP hydrolysis to pump a wide spectrum of substrates through diverse transmembrane pathways formed by the MSDs. By contrast, in CFTR the MSDs form a pathway for passive anion flow that is gated by cycles of ATP binding and hydrolysis by the NBDs. Here, we consider how the interaction of ATP with two ATP‐binding sites, formed by the NBDs, powers conformational changes in CFTR structure to gate the channel pore. We explore how conserved sequences from both NBDs form ATP‐binding sites at the interface of an NBD dimer and highlight the distinct roles that each binding site plays during the gating cycle. Knowledge of how ATP gates the CFTR Cl− channel is critical for understanding CFTR's physiological role, its malfunction in disease and the mechanism of action of small molecules that modulate CFTR channel gating.
Ormen Lange Gas Field: Immediate Settlement of Offshore Rock Supports
Authors: de Vries Guus , Brennodden Harald , van der Meer Joop , Wendel Stein
Published: March 2009

Located approximately 120 km offshore, Ormen Lange, with an estimated 400×109 m3 of natural gas, is the second-largest gas discovery on the Norwegian shelf. The water depth is up to 850 m, making Ormen Lange the first deepwater project on the Norwegian continental shelf. The development of Ormen Lange is under shared operatorship between Norsk Hydro and Shell. Ormen Lange’s untreated well stream will be transported to shore in two 120 km long, 30 in. diameter pipelines to a processing plant at Nyhamna, Norway. From there, gas will be exported via a 42 in., 1200 km subsea pipeline (Langeled) to Easington at the east coast of the UK. The pipelines have to pass over the Storegga slide edge, which rises 200–300 m toward the continental shelf in very steep slopes, which are also encountered in the nearshore Björnsundet area. The uneven and steep seabed conditions require the use of approximately 2.8×106 tons of rock to support and stabilize the pipelines. The sea bottom conditions on the Norwegian continental shelf are characterized by many outcrops as well as very soft clay deposits. The immediate settlement of the rock supports during installation forms a significant amount of the total required rock volume. In this paper a procedure is presented on how to assess these immediate settlements recognizing four contributing components all being discussed separately. The calculation results are compared with a back analysis, performed during the execution of the Ormen Lange rockworks, proving the suitability of the calculation method.
Three-Dimensional Numerical Simulations of Flows Past Smooth and Rough/Bare and Helically Straked Circular Cylinders Allowed to Undergo Two Degree-of-Freedom Motions
Authors: Pontaza Juan P. , Menon Raghu G. , Chen Hamn-Ching
Published: March 2009

We simulate the flow past smooth and rough rigid circular cylinders that are either bare or outfitted with helical strakes. We consider operating conditions that correspond to high Reynolds numbers of 105 and 106, and allow for two degree-of-freedom motions such that the structure is allowed to respond to flow-induced cross-flow and in-line forces. The computations are performed using a parallelized Navier–Stokes in-house solver using overset grids. For smooth surface simulations at a Reynolds number of 105, we use a Smagorinsky large eddy simulation turbulence model and for the Reynolds number cases of 106 we make use of the unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations with a two-layer k-epsilon turbulence model. The rough surface modifications of the two-layer k-epsilon turbulence model due to Durbin et al. (2001, “Rough Wall Modification of Two-Layer k-Epsilon,” ASME J. Fluids Eng., 123, pp. 16–21) are implemented to account for surface roughness effects. In all our computations we aim to resolve the boundary layer directly by using adequate grid spacing in the near-wall region. The predicted global flow parameters under different surface conditions are in good agreement with experimental data, and significant vortex-induced vibration suppression is observed when using helically straked cylinders.
Improved dual‐energy material discrimination for dual‐source CT by means of additional spectral filtration
Authors: Primak A. N. , Ramirez Giraldo J. C. , Liu X. , Yu L. , McCollough C. H.
Published: March 2009

The use of additional spectral filtration for dual‐energy (DE) imaging using a dual‐source CT (DSCT) system was investigated and its effect on the material‐specific was evaluated for several clinically relevant materials. The x‐ray spectra, data acquisition, and reconstruction processes for a DSCT system (Siemens Definition) were simulated using information provided by the system manufacturer, resulting in virtual DE images. The factory‐installed filtration for the 80 kV spectrum was left unchanged to avoid any further reductions in tube output, and only the filtration for the high‐energy spectrum was modified. Only practical single‐element filter materials within the atomic number range of were evaluated, with the aim of maximizing the separation between the two spectra, while maintaining similar noise levels for high‐ and low‐energy images acquired at the same tube current. The differences between mean energies and the ratio of the 140 and 80 kV detector signals, each integrated below 80 keV, were evaluated. The simulations were performed for three attenuation scenarios: Head, body, and large body. The large body scenario was evaluated for the DE acquisition mode using the 100 and 140 kV spectra. The for calcium hydroxyapatite (simulating bone or calcifications), iodine, and iron were determined for CT images simulated using the modified and factory‐installed filtration. Several filter materials were found to perform well at proper thicknesses, with tin being a good practical choice. When image noise was matched between the low‐ and high‐energy images, the spectral difference in mean absorbed energy using tin was increased from 25.7 to 42.7 keV (head), from 28.6 to 44.1 keV (body), and from 20.2 to 30.2 keV (large body). The overlap of the signal spectra for energies below 80 keV was reduced from 78% to 31% (head), from 93% to 27% (body), and from 106% to 79% (large body). The for the body attenuation scenario increased from 1.45 to 1.91 (calcium), from 1.84 to 3.39 (iodine), and from 1.73 to 2.93 (iron) with the additional tin filtration compared to the factory filtration. This use of additional filtration for one of the x‐ray tubes used in dual‐source DECT dramatically increased the difference between material‐specific DE ratios, e.g., from 0.39 to 1.48 for calcium and iodine or from 0.28 to 1.02 for calcium and iron. Because the ability to discriminate between different materials in DE imaging depends primarily on the differences in DE ratios, this increase is expected to improve the performance of any material‐specific DECT imaging task. Furthermore, for the large patient size and in conjunction with a 100/140 kV acquisition, the use of additional filtration decreased noise in the low‐energy images and increased contrast in the DE image relative to that obtained with 80/140 kV and no additional filtration.
Development and performance evaluation of an experimental fine pitch detector multislice CT scanner
Authors: Imai Yasuhiro , Nukui Masatake , Ishihara Yotaro , Fujishige Takashi , Ogata Kentaro , Moritake Masahiro , Kurochi Haruo , Ogata Tsuyoshi , Yahata Mitsuru , Tang Xiangyang
Published: March 2009

The authors have developed an experimental fine pitch detector multislice CT scanner with an ultrasmall focal spot x‐ray tube and a high‐density matrix detector through current CT technology. The latitudinal size of the x‐ray tube focal spot was . The detector dimension was 1824 channels rows (longitudinal direction) at row width of , in which a thinner reflected separator surrounds each detector cell coupled with a large active area photodiode. They were mounted on a commercial 64‐slice CT scanner gantry while the scan field of view and gantry rotation speed can be maintained. The experimental CT scanner demonstrated the spatial resolution of with the acrylic slit phantom and in‐plane 50%‐MTF and 10%‐MTF . In the longitudinal direction, it demonstrated the spatial resolution of with the high‐resolution insert of the CATPHAN phantom and as the full width at half maximum of the slice sensitivity profile. In low‐contrast detectability, at 0.3% was visualized at the of . Two types of diameter vessel phantoms with in‐stent stenosis at 25%, 50%, and 75% stair steps were scanned, and the reconstructed images can clearly resolve the stenosis at each case. The experimental CT scanner provides high‐resolution imaging while maintaining low‐contrast detectability, demonstrating the potentiality for clinical applications demanding high spatial resolution, such as imaging of inner ear, lung, and bone, or low‐contrast detectability, such as imaging of coronary artery.
Automated registration of large deformations for adaptive radiation therapy of prostate cancer
Authors: Godley Andrew , Ahunbay Ergun , Peng Cheng , Li X. Allen
Published: March 2009

Available deformable registration methods are often inaccurate over large organ variation encountered, for example, in the rectum and bladder. The authors developed a novel approach to accurately and effectively register large deformations in the prostate region for adaptive radiation therapy. A software tool combining a fast symmetric demons algorithm and the use of masks was developed in based on ITK libraries to register CT images acquired at planning and before treatment fractions. The deformation field determined was subsequently used to deform the delivered dose to match the anatomy of the planning CT. The large deformations involved required that the bladder and rectum volume be masked with uniform intensities of −1000 and 1000 HU, respectively, in both the planning and treatment CTs. The tool was tested for five prostate IGRT patients. The average rectum planning to treatment contour overlap improved from 67% to 93%, the lowest initial overlap is 43%. The average bladder overlap improved from 83% to 98%, with a lowest initial overlap of 60%. Registration regions were set to include a volume receiving 4% of the maximum dose. The average region was , taking approximately 9 min to register on a dual 2.8 GHz Linux system. The prostate and seminal vesicles were correctly placed even though they are not masked. The accumulated doses for multiple fractions with large deformation were computed and verified. The tool developed can effectively supply the previously delivered dose for adaptive planning to correct for interfractional changes.
Capsular Type and Antibiotic Resistance in
Streptococcus agalactiae
Isolates from Patients, Ranging from Newborns to the Elderly, with Invasive Infections
Authors: Murayama Somay Yamagata , Seki Chizuko , Sakata Hiroshi , Sunaoshi Katsuhiko , Nakayama Eiichi , Iwata Satoshi , Sunakawa Keisuke , Ubukata Kimiko
Published: March 2009

Streptococcus agalactiae
isolates (
n
= 189) from patients with invasive infections were analyzed for capsular type by PCR, for antimicrobial susceptibility, and for the presence of resistance genes. In contrast to the predominance of capsular type III in children, types Ib and V were most common among adults. All 45 levofloxacin-resistant strains had two amino acid substitutions, Ser
81
Leu in the
gyrA
gene and Ser
79
Phe in the
parC
gene, and showed similar pulsed-field gel electrophoresis patterns.