bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systemic Text Analysis in the ESL Writing Classroom: Does It Work?
Authors: Ho Debbie Guan Eng
Published: December 2009

■ The Systemic Textual Analysis (STA) is a text-based approach to teaching writing based on a combination of the genre-based theory and systemic functional linguistics. Central to this approach is the teacher-learner collaborative analysis of various text types in terms of structure and texture through the use of genre analysis and systemic functional grammar. The critical question posed in this paper is: To what extent does STA help ESL learners become proficient writers? In other words, how can helping students analyse the macro and micro elements of a text help them improve the overall structure and texture of their own writing? This paper attempts to address this question and compares the pre- and post-instruction pieces of review writing produced by an ESL undergraduate in the English class. Using STA as an instruction method, the paper discusses the extent to which progress has been made in the student’s post-instruction text in terms of structure and texture and also the implications of such an approach for further language teaching and learning directions.
Study on post‐treatments for electroless Ni–P coating
Authors: Wang L L , Chen H J , Chen Z L
Published: December 2009

In this paper, post‐treatments, including dehydrogenation process and passivation process for electroless Ni–P coating, are discussed. Porosity test and potentiodynamic polarisation curves were used to evaluate the porosity and corrosion resistance of electroless Ni–P coatings. The results indicated that the ideal dehydrogenation heat treatment temperature is 180–200°C. The passivation process can further increase the corrosion resistance of electroless Ni–P coating. Both dehydrogenation process and passivation process are essential to obtain compact, corrosion resistant electroless Ni–P coating.
A structural model for charoite
Authors: Rozhdestvenskaya I. V. , Kogure T. , Abe E. , Drits V. A.
Published: December 2009

The crystal structure of charoite was investigated mainly by using selected-area electron diffraction (SAED), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and high-resolution electron microscopy (HREM). SAED and XRD patterns indicate that the structure has a monoclinic cell: a = 32.296, b = 19.651, c = 7.16 Å, β = 96.3° and V = 4517 Å3. The space group inferred from systematic absences and HREM images is P21/m. A model of the charoite structure is proposed that is based on the features of related Ca-alkaline silicate structures and HREM images. The structure of charoite consists of three different silicon-oxygen radicals (polymerized SiO4 tetrahedra) which are located between Ca polyhedra. Two of these radicals form continuous tubular structures comprising pectolite-like tetrahedral chains. Calcium polyhedra are joined to form blocks, each of which consists of four columns sharing edges and apices. Potassium and H2O molecules are probably located inside the tubular silicate radicals. From these results, a general formula is derived: K6-7(Ca,Na)18[(Si6O17)(Si12O30)(Si18O45)](OH,F)2.nH2O with two formula units in the unit cell (Z = 2).
Characterization of the states and diffusivity of intergranular water in a chalcedonic quartz by high-temperature in situ infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Fukuda J. , Yokoyama T. , Kirino Y.
Published: December 2009

Infrared spectroscopy was performed on a thin section of a chalcedonic quartz at high temperature in order to investigate the states and diffusivity of intergranular water. The sample contained 0.3 wt.% of silanol (Si—OH) and 0.3 wt.% of molecular H2O, located mainly at intergranular regions but also as fluid inclusions. We monitored the diffusion of molecular H2O associated with dehydration by in situ analyses at 350—500°C and determined the bulk-diffusion coefficients as expressed by an Arrhenius relationship: Dbulk (m2 sec—1) = 10—4.5 exp(—107±17/RT), where R is the gas coefficient and T the temperature. The activation energy for our sample is similar to those previously reported for diffusion in quartz aggregates with incompletely-connected grain boundaries. This result and our previous measurements of electrical conductivity imply that diffusion of molecular H2O at incompletely- connected intergranular regions is the main mechanism for the dehydration. The diffusion coefficients in chalcedony are larger than those previously reported for rhyolitic glass and other granular aggregates. Intergranular regions, inherent larger pores and cracks created during heating can act as efficient diffusion paths within the chalcedony.
Effects of Intrauterine Exposure to Synthetic Glucocorticoids on Fetal, Newborn, and Infant Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Function in Humans: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tegethoff Marion , Pryce Christopher , Meinlschmidt Gunther
Published: December 2009

Background: Synthetic glucocorticoids are commonly used in reproductive medicine. Fetal organ systems are highly sensitive to changes in the intrauterine environment, including overexposure to glucocorticoids. Structural and functional alterations resulting from such changes may persist throughout life and have been associated with diverse diseases. One system that could be particularly sensitive to fetal glucocorticoid overexposure is the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (hpa) axis. Many human studies have investigated this possibility, but a systematic review to identify consistent, emergent findings is lacking.

Methods: We systematically review 49 human studies, assessing the effects of intrauterine exposure to synthetic glucocorticoids on fetal, neonate, and infant hpa function.

Results: Study quality varied considerably, but the main findings held true after restricting the analyses to higher-quality studies: intrauterine exposure to synthetic glucocorticoids reduces offspring hpa activity under unstimulated conditions after pain but not pharmacological challenge. Although reduced unstimulated hpa function appears to recover within the first 2 wk postpartum, blunted hpa reactivity to pain is likely to persist throughout the first 4 months of life. There is some evidence that the magnitude of the effects is correlated with the total amount of glucocorticoids administered and varies with the time interval between glucocorticoid exposure and hpa assessment.

Conclusions: This systematic review has allowed the demonstration of the way in which intrauterine exposure to various regimens of synthetic glucocorticoids affects various forms of hpa function. As such, it guides future studies in terms of which variables need to be focused on in order to further strengthen the understanding of such therapy, whilst continuing to profit from its clinical benefits.
9,9-Diarylfluorene Moiety Incorporated into Polymer Main Chains: An Essential Skeleton Exhibiting Prominent Physical, Chemical, and Optical Properties
Authors: Koyama Yasuhito , Nakazono Kazuko , Hayashi Hideki , Tataka Toshikazu
Published: December 2009

The present review summarizes the prominent properties, in particular, the unique optical properties, generated by 9,9-diarylfluorene moiety introduced into polymer main chains in addition to the synthesis of polymers containing diarylfluorene moieties on the basis of results of the studies reported mainly in this decade. Polymers usually show both high refractive index and low birefringence besides many other physical and chemical properties. This review focuses not only on the polymers but also the composite materials, and discloses excellent polymer materials. In addition, synthesis and properties of novel related monomers and their corresponding polymers are also described.
Tether-assisted Synthesis of [3]Rotaxane by Olefin Metathesis
Authors: Iwamoto Hajime , Yawata Yukimi , Fukazawa Yoshimasa , Haino Takeharu
Published: December 2009

The tether-assisted synthesis of [3]rotaxane by olefin metathesis is described. The bis(crown ether)s, in which two crown ethers are connected by a linker, were converted to tethered rotaxanes, followed by removal of the linkers to produce [3]rotaxane. The biscrown structures promoted the formation of the tethered rotaxane, resulting in a notable improvement in the yield of the [3]rotaxane.
11B–11B Two-dimensional Correlation Nuclear Magnetic Resonance on Sodium Borosilicate Glass
Authors: Murakami Miwa , Shimizu Tadashi , Tansho Masataka , Akai Tomoko , Yazawa Tetsuo
Published: December 2009

To study microstructure of Na2O–B2O3–SiO2–Al2O3 glass, which is a starting material for preparing porous glass, 11B one-dimensional (1D) magic-angle spinning (MAS) spectra and results of two-dimensional (2D) 11B–11B homonuclear correlation experiment under MAS are examined at 21.8 T. We conclude that two of the four peaks observed for 11B are assigned to borate rings, which we assign as the main components in the boron-rich phase to be removed by acid leaching.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of BaSiF6 Hexagonal Needles
Authors: Jeong Hye-Li , Huh Young-Duk
Published: December 2009

Hexagonal needles of BaSiF6 microcrystals have been prepared by using a hydrothermal method with Ba(NO3)2, SiO2, and HF in the presence of NH4Cl or ethylenediamine dihydrochloride as the metal chelating agent. The metal chelating agent plays an important role in controlling the aspect ratios of the BaSiF6 microcrystals. X-ray diffraction was used to confirm that the axes of the hexagonal needles of BaSiF6 are aligned along the c axis.
Identification of the Fe–O2 and the Fe=O Heme Species for Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase during Catalytic Turnover
Authors: Yanagisawa Sachiko , Yotsuya Keiko , Hashiwaki Yumi , Horitani Masaki , Sugimoto Hiroshi , Shiro Yoshitsugu , Appelman Evan H , Ogura Takashi
Published: December 2009

Resonance Raman spectroscopy has been applied to two distinct temporal species of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase during catalytic turnover. We have identified two oxygen-isotope-sensitive Raman modes at 569 and 798 cm−1 for the two respective species. The 16O18O analysis of the 798 cm−1 band indicates the existence of a ferryl-oxo heme, which is inconsistent with the previously proposed reaction mechanism. The present study thus provides a physical basis for the structures of the possible reaction intermediates.
Association between serum uric acid and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in Korean adults
Authors: Lee Yong-Jae , Lee Hye-Ree , Lee Jung-Hyun , Shin Youn-Ho , Shim Jae-Yong
Published: December 2009

Background: Increased uric acid is associated with the metabolic syndrome, conditions linked to oxidative stress and insulin resistance. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is now considered a hepatic manifestation of insulin resistance. However, little has been written regarding the association between uric acid and NAFLD.

Methods: We examined the association between uric acid and the presence of NAFLD in 3768 Koreans (2133 men, 1635 women; aged 20–75 years) in a health examination program. Uric acid quartiles were categorized separately as follows: Q1: ≤291.5, Q2: 291.6–333.1, Q3: 333.2–380.7, and Q4: ≥380.8 μmol/L for men; Q1: ≤202.2, Q2: 202.3–232.0, Q3: 231.1–267.7, and Q4: ≥267.8 μmol/L for women. Hepatic steatosis was diagnosed based on abdominal ultrasonographic findings by hyperechogenicity of liver tissue, difference of echogenicity between the liver and diaphragm, and visibility of vascular structures. The odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for NAFLD were calculated across each quartile of serum uric acid.

Results: The prevalence of NAFLD was 25.8% (32.2% in men and 17.4% in women). After adjustment for age, body mass index (BMI), smoking, regular exercise, blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, the ORs (95% CIs) for NAFLD according to each quartile of uric acid were 1.00, 1.55 (1.13–2.14), 1.77 (1.30–2.41), and 2.01 (1.45–2.78) for men and 1.00, 0.69 (0.40–1.20), 1.12 (0.67–1.88), and 1.94 (1.21–3.13) for women.

Conclusions: Serum uric acid is independently associated with the presence of NAFLD, and uric acid may be a useful additional measure in assessing the risk of NAFLD in the clinical setting.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:175–80.
Use of flow cytometry (Sysmex® UF-100) to screen for positive urine cultures: in search for the ideal cut-off
Authors: Brilha Sara , Proença Helena , Cristino José Melo , Hänscheid Thomas
Published: December 2009

Background: Cultures for urinary tract infections (UTI) constitute a large workload in the clinical microbiology laboratory, although up to 80% are usually negative. Several automated methods are available to screen urines for UTI, one being the flow cytometry-based Sysmex® UF-100.

Methods: The performance of the UF-100 was evaluated over a 16-month period using urine culture as the reference method.

Results: During this period, a total of 5356 urine samples were studied (469 children; 3229 women and 1658 men), of which 706 were culture positive (593 grew Gram negative bacilli). Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis showed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.83 for leukocytes and 0.85 for bacterial count. Applying cut-off values reported in the literature gave sensitivities ranging from 75% to 90%, resulting in 73–174 false negatives (FN). Using a logical combination (leukocytes ≥15×106/L OR bacteria ≥500×106/L) gave a sensitivity of 98%. However, the specificity dropped to 25%, resulting in 15 FN.

Conclusions: Screening urine samples for UTI detects a large number of culture positive samples. However, the rather large number of FN observed precludes the use of the UF-100 as a routine screening method to exclude urine samples from culture.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:289–92.
Mean leukocyte telomere length and risk of incident colorectal carcinoma in women: a prospective, nested case-control study
Authors: Lee I-Min , Lin Jennifer , Castonguay Amy J. , Barton Nathaniel S. , Buring Julie E. , Zee Robert Y.L.
Published: December 2009

Background: To date, no prospective epidemiological data are available, particularly in women, on mean leukocyte telomere length as a risk predictor.

Methods: Using leukocyte DNA samples collected at baseline in a prospective cohort of over 28,000 initially healthy women, we examined the relationship between mean leukocyte telomere repeat copy number to single gene copy number (TSR) in 134 incident cases of colorectal carcinoma (CRC), and 357 matched controls; all were Caucasian.

Results: The observed loge-transformed TSRs were similar between cases and controls (p=0.79). Using an adjusted analysis, we found no evidence for an association of the loge-TSRs with CRC risk [adjusted odds ratio (OR)=0.943, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.647–1.376, p=0.762]. Stratified analysis by median follow-up time, or postmenopausal status also showed similar null findings.

Conclusions: In concordance with our previous findings in Caucasian men, the present study in Caucasian women found no evidence for an association of mean leukocyte telomere length with risk of incident CRC, further suggesting that leukocyte telomere length may not be a useful indicator for risk assessment.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:259–62.
Probabilidade de ocorrência de temperaturas mínimas menores que 5ºC na região do médio Paranapanema
Authors: Prela-Pantano Angélica , Rolim Glauco de Souza , Camargo Marcelo Bento Paes de
Published: December 2009

Na Região do Médio Paranapanema do Estado de São Paulo ocorrem temperaturas mínimas abaixo de 5 ºC (Tmin5) de maio a setembro, com pouca ocorrência de geadas. Este estudo objetivou determinar a probabilidade de ocorrência de Tmin5 que podem ser prejudiciais à agricultura. Para tanto, foram analisados dados de 13 anos de temperaturas mínimas diárias observadas em sete localidades que fazem parte do Médio Paranapanema (Assis, Manduri, Tarumã, Palmital, Santa Cruz do Rio Pardo, Quatá e Pedrinhas Paulista). A análise dos dados foi feita em duas etapas: primeiramente, foi aplicado um teste para determinar se a série de dados existente seria suficiente para o estudo proposto e, a seguir, foram feitos ajustes à distribuição de probabilidade gaussiana, considerando-se 10 classes de temperatura (entre 4 e 5 ºC, 3 e 4 ºC, 2 e 3 ºC, 1 e 2 ºC, 0 e 1 ºC, -1 e 0 ºC, -2 e -1 ºC, -3 e -2 ºC, -4 e -3 ºC, -5 e -4 ºC), separadamente, de maio a setembro. Com essas análises, foi possível concluir que para a Região do Médio Paranapanema uma série de seis anos é suficiente para análise de Tmin. Os ajustes da distribuição gaussiana para as diferentes faixas de temperatura nos diferentes meses foram todos significativos a 5%. Observou-se que houve diferenças de Tmin5 entre as localidades e entre os meses analisados, visto que em junho e julho existe maior probabilidade de ocorrência de Tmin5 e localidades como Manduri, Assis e Tarumã podem ser consideradas as mais frias da Região. Observou-se também que a maior probabilidade de ocorrência de temperatura mínima foi aproximadamente de 7% para toda a Região do Médio Paranapanema, em julho, para temperaturas entre 0 e 5 ºC.
Cuidado, autocuidado e cuidado de si: uma compreensão paradigmática para o cuidado de enfermagem
Authors: Silva Irene de Jesus , Oliveira Marília de Fátima Vieira de , Silva Sílvio Éder Dias da , Polaro Sandra Helena Isse , Radünz Vera , Santos Evanguelia Kotzias Atherino dos , Santana Mary Elizabeth de
Published: December 2009

Este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar uma reflexão sobre os conceitos de cuidado, autocuidado e o cuidado de si, estabelecendo suas relações com os paradigmas da totalidade e da simultaneidade. Na primeira parte do texto, contextualiza-se o cuidado nos seus aspectos gerais; na segunda parte aborda-se o cuidado na perspectiva filosófica de Martin Heidegger; na terceira parte explora-se o autocuidado na concepção de Dorothea Orem; na quarta parte discute-se o cuidado de si preconizado por Michael Foucault; e finalmente, na quinta parte, busca-se estabelecer a relação entre os conceitos autocuidado e o cuidado de si, com os paradigmas da totalidade e da simultaneidade. O autocuidado e o cuidado de si estão atrelados ao objetivismo da totalidade, e ao subjetivismo da simultaneidade havendo, para a Enfermagem, a necessidade de se compreender esta herança paradigmática e suas implicações para o cuidado de enfermagem.
Procedimentos coletivos de saúde bucal: gênese, apogeu e ocaso
Authors: Carvalho Luís Antonio Cherubini , Scabar Luiz Felipe , Souza Djalmo Sanzi , Narvai Paulo Capel
Published: December 2009

Descreve-se o surgimento e o que significaram para a política nacional de saúde bucal os procedimentos coletivos (PC) de saúde bucal, introduzidos em 1992 e extintos em 2006. Realizou-se pesquisa bibliográfica e análise documental. Criados no governo Collor (1990-1992) como elemento central da sua política de saúde bucal, os PC pretendiam reverter o modelo assistencial cirúrgico-restaurador e extinguir o TC (tratamento completado) como instrumento para remuneração do setor, visando a possibilitar que estados e municípios fossem remunerados por ações preventivas. Durante os anos 1990, os PC ocuparam lugar de destaque nas ações de saúde bucal no SUS, impulsionando, sob apoio financeiro, as ações de promoção e prevenção em centenas de municípios. Mas a sua vinculação com os mecanismos de transferência de recursos, tida inicialmente como um avanço, foi tirando a sua característica de instrumento potente para mudar o modelo de atenção. Não obstante as dificuldades e limitações, sua criação e amplo emprego representaram um esforço para alterar substancialmente o modelo de prática odontológica predominante no setor público, redirecionando-o para ações preventivas e de promoção da saúde, o que se tornou seu principal legado.
Pesquisa em gestão da produção na indústria de calçados: revisão, classificação e análise
Authors: Godinho Filho Moacir , Fernandes Flávio César Faria , Lima Andrey Domingues de
Published: December 2009

Este trabalho apresenta uma revisão bibliográfica que pretende ser completa (209 trabalhos) sobre Gestão da Produção na indústria calçadista a partir do ano 1980, revisão esta não encontrada até agora na literatura de Gestão da Produção. A partir de tal revisão propôs-se um sistema de classificação baseado em 5 categorias: origem do trabalho; grande área da Engenharia de Produção focada no trabalho; subárea da Engenharia de Produção focada no trabalho; procedimento de pesquisa utilizado; e fonte do trabalho, que serviu para classificar e estruturar os artigos da revisão. Uma vez classificada e estruturada, a revisão bibliográfica sobre Gestão da Produção na indústria calçadista serviu de base para uma ampla análise do tema. Essa análise se baseou em dois pontos fundamentais: i) um estudo quantitativo das grandes áreas da Engenharia de Produção focadas nos trabalhos, assim como da origem, fonte e procedimentos de pesquisa utilizados nos trabalhos; e ii) um estudo qualitativo dos principais assuntos e objetivos alcançados por esses trabalhos. As principais contribuições deste trabalho são: servir de base para um maior conhecimento da literatura atualmente sobre Gestão da Produção na indústria de calçados e propor sugestões de pesquisas futuras na área.
Abfractions and Attachment Loss in Teeth With Premature Contacts in Centric Relation: Clinical Observations
Authors: Reyes Elio , Hildebolt Charles , Langenwalter Eric , Miley Douglas
Published: December 2009

Background: It has been suggested that eccentric occlusal forces may be an etiologic factor for abfraction lesions. It has also been suggested that traumatic occlusal forces may have a damaging effect on the periodontal tissues. The purpose of this study was to determine whether associations were present between premature contacts in centric relation (PCCR), clinical attachment loss, and abfraction lesions.

Methods: Forty‐six subjects were examined. Within subjects, the mean attachment loss was determined for teeth with and without PCCR and for teeth with and without abfractions. In addition, teeth with PCCR (experimental group) were matched with contralateral teeth without PCCR (control group). Comparisons between groups were made with the Wilcoxon signed rank test, Wilcoxon rank sums test, and the Spearman ρ correlation coefficient.

Results: The results demonstrated that attachment loss increased with age. Within subjects, teeth with abfraction lesions had significantly more buccal attachment loss than teeth without abfraction lesions (P <0.01). The majority of abfractions and PCCR occurred in premolars. The presence of PCCR had no influence on the appearance of an abfraction lesion or increased attachment loss. Similarly, subjects who exhibited abfractions had similar attachment loss as those subjects without abfraction lesions.

Conclusions: Within the same patient, teeth with abfractions presented more attachment loss than those without abfractions. However, associations were not demonstrated between PCCR and the presence of abfractions or increased attachment loss. Future studies are needed to improve the knowledge regarding interactions among occlusal factors, attachment loss, and abfractions.
The Role of Toll‐Like Receptor 2 in the Recognition of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans
Authors: Gelani Valéria , Fernandes Ana Paula , Gasparoto Thaís Helena , Garlet Thiago Pompermaier , Cestari Tânia Mary , Lima Hayana Ramos , Ramos Erivan Schnaider , de Souza Malaspina Tatiana Salles , Santos Carlos Ferreira , Garlet Gustavo Pompermaier , da Silva João Santana , Campanelli Ana Paula
Published: December 2009

Background: Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (previously Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans) is a Gram‐negative bacterium present in the oral cavity and is usually associated with localized aggressive periodontitis. Isolated antigens from A. actinomycetemcomitans can activate innate immune cells through Toll‐like receptors (TLRs), which are molecules that recognize structural components conserved among microorganisms. In this study, we evaluate the role of TLR2 in the recognition of A. actinomycetemcomitans.

Methods: Macrophages and neutrophils from knockout mice with targeted disruption of TLR2 (TLR2−/− mice) and wild‐type mice were collected and used for the subsequent assays. The production of cytokines and chemokines was evaluated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the presence of apoptotic cells was determined by flow cytometry. In addition, the mechanisms that modulate the outcome of A. actinomycetemcomitans‐induced periodontal disease in TLR2−/− mice were examined.

Results: The results show that TLR2‐deficient mice developed more severe periodontitis after A. actinomycetemcomitans infection, characterized by significantly higher bone loss and inflammatory cell migration to periodontal tissues. The inflammatory cell influx into the peritoneal cavities of TLR2−/− mice was three‐fold lower than that observed for the littermate controls. A significantly diminished production of the cytokines tumor necrosis factor‐alpha and interleukin‐1β as well as the chemokine CC‐ligand‐5 in the peritoneal cavities of TLR2−/− mice was observed. In addition, a high frequency of apoptotic cells in the inflammatory exudates from TLR2−/− mice was observed. Phagocytosis and nitric oxide production was diminished in cells from TLR2−/− mice, facilitating the dissemination of the pathogen to the spleen.

Conclusion: The results of this study highlight the involvement of TLR2 in recognizing A. actinomycetemcomitans and its essential role in controlling A. actinomycetemcomitans infection.
Oral Malodorous Compound Inhibits Osteoblast Proliferation
Authors: Imai Toshio , Ii Hisataka , Yaegaki Ken , Murata Takatoshi , Sato Tsutomu , Kamoda Takeshi
Published: December 2009

Background: Oral malodorous compounds including hydrogen sulfide (H2S) are causative agents of periodontitis because the toxicities are similar to that of cyanate. Previous studies demonstrated that volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) were highly toxic to periodontal tissues, causing a large reduction in the amount of collagen in human gingival fibroblasts and extracellular matrix as well as, for example, apoptosis, immunologic responses, and matrix metalloproteinase production. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of H2S on the proliferation of osteoblasts and a signaling transduction pathway through the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK).

Methods: Normal human osteoblasts (NHOst) and murine osteoblasts (cell line MC3T3‐E1) were incubated with H2S. Cell proliferation was assessed by measuring [3H]thymidine incorporation. The effects of H2S on the signal transduction pathways, the MAPK cascade, that control cell proliferation were evaluated in NHOst by determining extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 and p38 phosphorylation with a Western blot analysis.

Results: After incubating NHOst with H2S for 24 hours, [3H]thymidine incorporation into the DNA significantly decreased dose‐dependently with H2S. At a concentration of 100 ng/ml H2S, [3H]thymidine incorporation decreased 79% compared to the control. Similar results were obtained from MC3T3‐E1. The phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and p38 was increased by H2S at 10 minutes after starting the treatment and then decreased time dependently. The activation of ERK1/2 and p38 induced by H2S was inhibited by the specific inhibitor of MAPK/ERK kinase ([MEK]; U0126) or p38 (SB203580).

Conclusion: H2S inhibited the proliferation of human osteoblastic cells through the MAPK pathway.
Serotypes of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in Patients With Different Ethnic Backgrounds
Authors: Kim Ti‐Sun , Frank Patrick , Eickholz Peter , Eick Sigrun , Kim Chong Kwan
Published: December 2009

Background: The identification of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (previously Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans) serotypes may add some important information to the understanding of the pathogenetic background of severe periodontal infections. This study compared serotypes of A. actinomycetemcomitans in two groups of periodontal patients with different ethnic backgrounds.

Methods: A total of 194 patients (96 Germans and 98 Koreans) with aggressive or severe chronic periodontitis participated in the study. Microbiologic analysis of pooled samples from subgingival plaque was performed by using a real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for A. actinomycetemcomitans. In patients who tested positive for A. actinomycetemcomitans, serotypes (a through f) were determined by nucleic acid‐based methods.

Results: The prevalence of patients who tested positive for A. actinomycetemcomitans with the real‐time PCR was comparable in both groups (Germans: 27.0%; Koreans: 22.2%). In German patients, the serotypes detected most frequently were b (33.3%), c (25.0%), and a (20.8%), whereas in Korean patients, the serotype distribution was different, with serotypes c (61.9%) and d (19.0%) accounting for >80% of the complete serotype spectrum.

Conclusion: Even if the percentage of patients who tested positive for A. actinomycetemcomitans was identical in patients with generalized aggressive and severe chronic periodontitis and different ethnic backgrounds, the distribution of A. actinomycetemcomitans serotypes may exhibit marked differences.
A Clinical Study of 406 Sinus Augmentations With 100% Anorganic Bovine Bone
Authors: Ferreira Carlos E.A. , Novaes Arthur B. , Haraszthy Violet I. , Bittencourt Márcio , Martinelli Carolina B. , Luczyszyn Sonia M.
Published: December 2009

Background: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the use of anorganic bovine bone (ABB) associated with a collagen membrane (CM) for a sinus graft by means of clinical, histologic, and radiographic parameters in cases with bone availability ≤7 mm. A preliminary evaluation consisted of a clinical examination, computed tomography (CT), and a panoramic x‐ray.

Methods: Ninety‐two patients requiring bilateral sinus grafts and 222 requiring unilateral procedures (total: 406 sinuses) participated in this study. A total of 1,025 implants were placed in the grafted sinuses. A total of 118 implants were placed simultaneously with the sinus graft (one stage), and 907 implants were placed in a subsequent surgery (two stages), 6 to 12 months after the graft was performed. In seven cases, a biopsy was harvested for histomorphometric analysis. Recall appointments were scheduled every 6 months, and panoramic and periapical x‐rays were required every year for 3 years.

Results: Among 1,025 implants, 19 were lost (survival rate: 98.1%). The difference in survival rates for implants placed in native bone ≤3 mm (98.1%), >3 to ≤5 mm (98.6%), and >5 to ≤7 mm (97.0%) was not statistically significant (P = 0.3408). The survival rates for implants with rough and machined surfaces (98.6% and 97.0%, respectively) were not statistically significant (P = 0.0840). The histomorphometric analysis showed new bone formation (39.0% ± 12%), marrow space (52.9% ± 9.3%), and residual ABB (8% ± 2.7%).

Conclusion: Our results indicated that 1,025 implants placed in sinuses grafted exclusively with ABB combined with CM led to an excellent and predictable survival rate of 98.1%.
Gene Clustering Analysis in Human Osseous Remodeling
Authors: Sbordone Ludovico , Sbordone Carolina , Filice Natalia , Menchini‐Fabris GiovanBattista , Baldoni Marco , Toti Paolo
Published: December 2009

Background: Tentative bioinformatic predictions were performed to comprehend the complexity of the gene interaction networks of the T lymphocyte cell cycle and of human periodontitis. This study aims to identify and rank genes involved in osseous augmentation or bone remodeling to obtain groups with more numerous predicted associations called the leader gene clusters.

Methods: An iterative search (consisting of a consecutive expansion‐filtering loop) was performed for which only genes involved in a specific process were identified. For each gene, predicted associations with all other involved genes were obtained from a Web‐available database (Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins) and the weighted number of links (WNL), given by the sum of only high‐confidence predicted associations (results with a score ≥0.9), allowing gene ranking. Genes belonging to higher clustering classes were identified.

Results: A total of 161 genes potentially involved in bone‐volume augmentation and 128 genes connected with the bone‐remodeling phenomenon were identified. For the bone‐volume augmentation process, only one gene belonged to the leader gene group, whereas six other genes were classified as cluster B genes; for the bone‐remodeling phenomenon, three leader genes were identified, whereas six other genes formed the cluster B group. No one gene belonged to leader gene clusters of both processes, whereas one gene of each higher cluster group belonged to the immediately lower cluster of the opposite process. Only three genes of the higher clusters were experimentally involved in both analyses.

Conclusions: A de novo identification was performed based on the data mining of leader genes involved in bone‐volume augmentation or bone remodeling to acquire primeval information about their molecular basis and to plan future ad hoc targeted experiments. For several genes of the upper clusters, an active role in the bone processes was already known, but the present analysis suggested that they play a major role in the analyzed phenomena. The role of the transcription factors as leader genes and the numerous orphan genes (genes with WNL = 0) recovered probably attest to a lack of information regarding these processes, which could be further clarified through specific DNA microarray experiments.
Mercury Exposure and Periodontitis Among a Korean Population: The Shiwha‐Banwol Environmental Health Study
Authors: Han Dong‐Hun , Lim Sin‐Ye , Sun Bo‐Cheng , Janket Sok‐Ja , Kim Jin‐Bom , Paik Dai‐Il , Paek Domyung , Kim Hyun‐Duck
Published: December 2009

Background: The oral effect of chronic low‐level mercury exposure is not completely understood. This study examined whether mercury exposure is associated with periodontitis.

Methods: This study cross‐sectionally surveyed 1,328 residents (598 males and 730 females) from the prospective Shiwha and Banwol cohort in Korea from July 2005 to August 2006 at baseline. Two dentists assessed periodontitis, an outcome, using the Community Periodontal Index (CPI): CPI 3 or 4 and CPI 0 to 2 were classified as periodontitis and non‐periodontitis, respectively. The hair mercury level, the predictor, was analyzed. The mercury level was categorized according to the reference dose of the Environmental Protection Agency of the United States: normal = <1 ppm and high = ≥1 ppm. Age, gender, economic status, smoking, frequency of daily toothbrushing, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and obesity were assessed as confounders. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the adjusted association. Subgroup analyses for gender were also performed.

Results: Mercury exposure was independently associated with periodontitis (odds ratio = 3.17). Males with high mercury levels had a 50.0% higher probability of having periodontitis than females with normal mercury levels. Of them, the interaction effect between the body burden of mercury and gender was 39.0%. The odds ratio between periodontitis and high mercury levels was higher for males than females (95% confidence interval: 0.99 to 2.23 versus 0.59 to 1.26, respectively).

Conclusions: These results suggest that mercury exposure had an independent association with periodontitis. High body‐burden mercury in males might be a contributory factor linked with periodontitis.
Income Distribution, Market Structure, and Individual Welfare
Authors: Tarasov Alexander
Published: December 2009

This paper explores how income distribution affects market structure, prices, and economic well-being of different consumer groups. I consider a general equilibrium model of monopolistic competition with free entry, heterogenous firms and consumers that share identical but non-homothetic preferences. The results in the paper suggest that poverty reduction might be of a greater importance than lowering income inequality, as lower income inequality does not necessarily lead to welfare gains of the poor. In particular, I show that higher income inequality may benefit the poor via a trickle-down effect operating through the entry of firms into the market.
Juvenile Xanthogranuloma Presenting as a Testicular Mass in Infancy: A Clinical and Pathologic Study of Three Cases
Authors: Suson Kristina , Mathews Ranjiv , Goldstein Jeffrey D. , Dehner Louis P.
Published: December 2009

Juvenile xanthogranulomas (JXG) is a histiocytic disorder whose most common clinical presentation is a solitary cutaneous nodule in a child under 5 years of age, but it has come to be recognized that solitary extracutaneous lesions may present in a number of sites, including the soft tissues and various organs. Involvement of the genitourinary tract has been documented in children with multifocal or systemic JXG. The current report describes our experience with 3 cases of JXG presenting as a solitary mass in the testicle of infants between 2.5 and 13 months without manifestations of JXG elsewhere. The masses were intratesticular and had an infiltrative pattern of interstitial growth by mononuclear, histiocyte-like cells with replacement of seminiferous tubules and involvement of the epididymis whose pattern resembled leukemic and lymphomatous involvement of the testis. Because extracutaneous lesions of JXG may have few or no Touton giant cells, immunohistochemistry is an important adjunct to the histopathologic diagnosis. One of the previous 2 cases in the literature of JXG of the testis recurred after partial resection without an orchiectomy. Neither of the 2 youngest patients has experienced a local recurrence of JXG elsewhere in excess of 1 year since the original orchiectomy. The oldest patient, who was treated with partial orchiectomy, remains free of recurrence after 3 months of follow-up. Though uncommon, JXG joins several other distinctive neoplasms presenting in the infantile testis.
Fetal Akinesia Deformation Sequence with Delayed Skeletal Muscle Maturation and Polymicrogyria: Evidence for a Hypoxic/Ischemic Pathogenesis
Authors: Rudzinski Erin R. , Kapur Raj P. , Hevner Robert F.
Published: December 2009

Multiple congenital contractures, also known as fetal akinesia deformation sequence (FADS) and related terms, result from decreased fetal movement. The underlying etiologies are diverse and include central nervous system (CNS) dysgeneses and primary myopathies. Persistent central nuclei or the presence of myotubes is often regarded as evidence of a primary myopathic etiology; however, these findings are also associated with impaired fetal innervation. We report 7 fetuses, estimated gestational age 20 to 23 weeks, with persistent myorubular morphology, a change that could be (mis)interpreted as a primary myopathy. In 4 of the patients, CNS histology showed hypoxic/ischemic injury, polymicrogyria, mineralized neurons, and microinfarcts with or without loss of anterior horn neurons. FADS cases with polymicrogyria have frequently been interpreted as a consequence of a primary brain malformation. Only a few descriptions of FADS associate polymicrogyria with CNS hypoxic/ ischemic injury, however, and do not describe skeletal muscle maturation delay. We hypothesize that this combination of neural and muscular pathology is an under-recognized pattern in FADS, which results from diffuse hypoxic/ischemic injury involving the brain and spinal cord during early to middle gestation.
Approximate analytical solutions of the effective mass Dirac equation for the generalized Hulthén potential with any κ-value
Authors: Arda Altuğ , Sever Ramazan , Tezcan Cevdet
Published: December 2009

The Dirac equation, with position-dependent mass, is solved approximately for the generalized Hulthén potential with any spin-orbit quantum number κ. Solutions are obtained by using an appropriate coordinate transformation, reducing the effective mass Dirac equation to a Schrödinger-like differential equation. The Nikiforov-Uvarov method is used in the calculations to obtain energy eigenvalues and the corresponding wave functions. Numerical results are compared with those given in the literature. Analytical results are also obtained for the case of constant mass and the results are in good agreement with the literature.
Diagnostic significance of anti-annexin-A5 antibody determination
Authors: Baleva Marta , Hristova Maria , Nikolov Krasimir
Published: December 2009

Anti-annexin A5 antibodies are directed against annexin A5 — a phospholipid-binding protein that belongs to the ubiquitous annexin family. These antibodies were first discovered in 1994 by Matsuda et al. in women with recurrent fetal loss or preeclampsia and in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and positive lupus anticoagulant and/or anticardiolipin antibodies. Since then anti-annexin A5 antibodies have been the focus of research. In addition to their well known prothrombotic and procoagulant activities the authors discuss the involvement of these antibodies in the pathogenesis of antiphospholipid syndrome, recurrent pregnancy loss, systemic lupus erythematosus and other immune and non-immune disorders. Controversial reports are presented and a possible interpretation of the results is given. The authors suggest the significance of anti-annexin A5 antibodies as an additional diagnostic marker and discuss the necessity of more extensive research on their clinical significance.
Late Miocene volcanic activity in the České středohoří Mountains (Ohře/Eger Graben, northern Bohemia)
Authors: Cajz Vladimír , Rapprich Vladislav , Erban Vojtěch , Pécskay Zoltan , Radoň Miroslav
Published: December 2009

Late Miocene volcanic activity in the České středohoří Mountains (Ohře/Eger Graben, northern Bohemia)

First occurrences of superficial bodies of Late Miocene volcanic activity were found in the western part of the České středohoří Volcanic Complex (CSVC) and extended our knowledge of its volcanostratigraphy. Their K-Ar ages (9.59, 9.61 and 11.36 Ma) correspond to the age of alkaline basaltic rocks of the youngest known Intrusive Suite of this area. Unlike the previously known subvolcanic bodies of this system, the newly observed bodies are represented by superficial products: two scoria cones with remnants of lava flows and one exclusive lava flow produced from a lava cone. The magmas forming all three occurrences are basanitic. Their primitive chemical composition Sr (0.70347-0.70361) and Nd (0.51279-0.51284) isotope ratios are similar to the products of the first and third volcanic formation of the CSVC. The proved existence of superficial products of the youngest volcanic formation, together with clear superposition relations to sedimentary formations and the chemical character of the youngest magmas in the central part of the Ohře (Eger) Graben support the stratigraphic scheme of volcanic activity in the České středohoří Mts. The eruptive style of the youngest formation volcanoes was purely magmatic (Strombolian) with no phreatic influence.
Correlation between selected elements of wood macrostructure and maturity of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) growing on post-agricultural land
Authors: Tomczak Arkadiusz , Pazdrowski Witold , Jelonek Tomasz
Published: December 2009

Wybrane elementy budowy makrostrukturalnej drewna a dojrzałść sosny zwyczajnej (Pinus sylvestrisL.) wyrosłej w warunkach gruntów porolnych
Evaluation of biochemical activity in soils of different mountain forest site types
Authors: Olszowska Grażyna
Published: December 2009

Ocena aktywności biochemicznej gleb leśnych w różnych typach siedliskowych terenów górskich
Selected parameters of forest management in Poland against the background of European forests
Authors: Zając Stanisław , Lotz Danuta , Młynarski Wojciech
Published: December 2009

Wybrane cechy gospodarki leśnej w Polsce na tle krajów europejskich
Oak lichens and their use in bioindication studies
Authors: Zarabska Daria
Published: December 2009

Lichenobiota dębów w aspekcie możliwości ich wykorzystania w bioindykacji
Ergonomics, Software and Geophysical Interpretation
Authors: Wood S. Bart , Peres S. Camille , Akladios Magdy , Kortum Philip , Muddimer Andrew W.
Published: December 2009

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) negatively impacts the health and productivity of individuals and corporations. In 2006 the Bureau of Labor and Statistics reported that Repetitive Strain Injuries accounted for 30% of total workplace injuries and illnesses in America. RSI burdens American employers with annual costs as high as twenty billion dollars [2]. Many companies operate internal programs that attempt to mitigate the risk of RSI to improve the health and well being of their employees. Existing corporate programs typically focus on physical workstation set up and mechanisms that assist workers to take breaks at regular intervals. These strategies can be successful but they require active participation from workers to be effective and they do not examine one of the fundamental activities users perform while sitting at a computer, which is interacting with computer software.

ExxonMobil1, Schlumberger, University of Houston-Clear Lake and Rice University have joined efforts to develop tools that can be used to measure and understand computer software's impact on the incidents of RSI. One of our primary goals is to create a short survey that measures software's potential impact on RSI. When companies are considering purchasing software, decision makers can use the survey measurements as part of their efforts to manage and mitigate the risk of RSI more effectively. Companies that design software for internal or external distribution can also make use of this information to design software that is more ergonomic.

Introduction:

Cumulative Trauma Disorder (CTD) and/or Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) result from micro-traumas, that, if taken one by one, would not result in a noticeable injury, but when these micro-traumas occur repeatedly over short periods of time, their cumulative effect can result in an injury [1]. A micro-trauma could be someone having direct contact with a hard surface. This hard surface can put pressure on a variety of body parts including nerves, tendons, muscles, and may also interfere with blood flow. Another example is when someone holds his or her hand in an awkward position for an extended period of time. This static posture puts strain on the nerves, muscles, and tendons. The likelihood of injury increases significantly if the micro-traumas go untreated or people do not rest between the micro-traumas. Other factors that may lead to injuries may also include environmental factors, repetition, and forceful muscle exertion.