bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of hepatitis B virus precore/basal core promoter gene in HBeAg‐positive chronic hepatitis B patients receiving lamivudine therapy
Authors: Lin Chih‐Lin , Liao Li‐Ying , Wang Chaur‐Shine , Chen Pei‐Jer , Lai Ming‐Yang , Chen Ding‐Shinn , Kao Jia‐Horng
Published: February 2004

Aim: Lamivudine is effective in hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)‐positive chronic hepatitis B, but the relapse rate after cessation of treatment is high. The evolution of viral genome may contribute to the viral replication under antiviral pressure of lamivudine. We therefore determined the evolution of hepatitis B virus (HBV) precore/basal core promoter and polymerase genes in HBeAg‐positive chronic hepatitis B patient during lamivudine therapy.

Method: Thirteen patients with HBeAg‐positive chronic hepatitis who had received short‐term lamivudine therapy (mean, 30 weeks) during 1999–2001 were enrolled. The precore/basal core promoter region and polymerase gene were amplified and directly sequenced before, during and post lamivudine treatment.

Result: HBeAg loss or seroconversion occurred in 11, but eight relapsed after stopping therapy and five had reversion of HBeAg. Before treatment, basal core promoter mutation was found in 1. In the first 3 months of therapy, a rapid decline of serum HBV DNA level accompanied with basal core promoter mutation appeared in 11 of 13 patients (vs. before therapy; P=0.003). However, this mutant was replaced by wild‐type virus in four of eight patients who relapsed after treatment. There was no significant change of precore sequences before and during therapy.

Conclusions: Lamivudine therapy may result in the rapid development of basal core promoter mutation of HBV, but this mutation may revert to wild type gradually after cessation of therapy.
Coordinated Capacitated Lot‐Sizing Problem with Dynamic Demand: A Lagrangian Heuristic
Authors: Robinson E. Powell , Lawrence F. Barry
Published: February 2004

Coordinated replenishment problems are common in manufacturing and distribution when a family of items shares a common production line, supplier, or a mode of transportation. In these situations the coordination of shared, and often limited, resources across items is economically attractive. This paper describes a mixed‐integer programming formulation and Lagrangian relaxation solution procedure for the single‐family coordinated capacitated lot‐sizing problem with dynamic demand. The problem extends both the multi‐item capacitated dynamic demand lot‐sizing problem and the uncapacitated coordinated dynamic demand lot‐sizing problem. We provide the results of computational experiments investigating the mathematical properties of the formulation and the performance of the Lagrangian procedures. The results indicate the superiority of the dual‐based heuristic over linear programming‐based approaches to the problem. The quality of the Lagrangian heuristic solution improved in most instances with increases in problem size. Heuristic solutions averaged 2.52% above optimal. The procedures were applied to an industry test problem yielding a 22.5% reduction in total costs.
The Impact of Process Variation on Customer Dissatisfaction: Evidence from the U.S. Domestic Airline Industry
Authors: Tsikriktsis Nikos , Heineke Janelle
Published: February 2004

This paper investigates how process variation reduction affects customer dissatisfaction in the context of the U.S. domestic airline industry. We use quarterly data on all major carriers, available since the introduction of required reporting of service indicators to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). Specifically, we investigate how both average performance and variation performance (consistency) of certain processes affect customer dissatisfaction. Our empirical results show that the relationship between process variation and customer dissatisfaction is contingent upon a company's average performance with regard to each process. Consistency is at least as important as average performance for high performers, while it has limited impact for low performers.
The Ordered Cutting Stock Problem
Authors: Ragsdale Cliff T. , Zobel Christopher W.
Published: February 2004

The one‐dimensional cutting stock problem (CSP) is a classic combinatorial optimization problem in which a number of parts of various lengths must be cut from an inventory of standard‐size material. The classic CSP ensures that the total demand for a given part size is met but ignores the fact that parts produced by a given cutting pattern may be destined for different jobs. As a result, applying the classic CSP in a dynamic production environment may result in many jobs being open (or partially complete) at any point in time—requiring significant material handling or sorting operations. This paper identifies and discusses a new type of one‐dimensional CSP, called the ordered CSP, which explicitly restricts to one the number of jobs in a production process that can be open, or in process, at any given point in time. Given the growing emphasis on mass customization in the manufacturing industry, this restriction can help lead to a reduction in both in‐process inventory levels and material handling activities. A formal mathematical formulation is provided for the new CSP model, and its applicability is discussed with respect to a production problem in the custom door and window manufacturing industry. A genetic algorithm (GA) solution approach is then presented, which incorporates a customized heuristic for reducing scrap levels. Several different production scenarios are considered, and computational results are provided that illustrate the ability of the GA‐based approach to significantly decrease the amount of scrap generated in the production process.
Feuding Families: When Conflict Does a Family Firm Good
Authors: Kellermanns Franz W. , Eddleston Kimberly A.
Published: February 2004

Using the conflict theory lens and insights from the family business literature, we develop a theoretical model concerning the effects of task, process, and relationship conflict in family firms. Family firms are characterized by different control structures and generational involvement. Accordingly, we discuss the expected effect control concentration has on task, process, and relationship conflict, and propose that generational involvement affects the importance of task and process conflict to a family firm's performance. Furthermore, our model suggests that relationship conflict moderates the outcomes of task and process conflict. The degree of relationship conflict in family firms is in turn influenced by altruism, which characterizes interactions among family members.
The Emergence of “Family Integrity” in Later Life
Authors: King Deborah A. , Wynne Lyman C.
Published: February 2004

In contrast to the rich and abundant literature on the early stages of the family life cycle, there are relatively few theoretical accounts of family developmental processes in the second half of life. In an effort to address this imbalance, we introduce the concept of “family integrity” to refer to the ultimate, positive outcome of an older adult's developmental striving toward meaning, connection, and continuity within his or her multigenerational family. Subjectively, for the older adult, family integrity may be experienced as a deep and abiding sense of peace and/or satisfaction with his or her multigenerational family relationships, past, present, and future. It is the result of a growing concern for relational closure that typically begins to emerge in mid‐life and gains ascendance in later‐life. Objectively, at the level of observable relational processes, it is manifest in three interrelated competencies of the family as a system: (a) the transformation of relationships over time in a manner that is dynamic and responsive to the changing life cycle needs of individual family members, (b) the resolution or acceptance of past losses or family conflicts, with the dead as well as the living, and (c) the shared creation of meaning by passing on individual and family legacies within and across generations. As a construct, family integrity involves processes at multiple levels of social organization. At the individual level, it refers to an older adult's inner experience of satisfaction or “completeness” in the context of his or her family relationships. At the family level, it refers to observable relational competencies and transactions that contribute directly to an elder's sense of meaning, purpose, and connection with others. Simultaneously, at the level of culture and society, there are values and rituals that influence whether individuals experience meaning and purpose within the multigenerational family.
The Importance of Parents and Other Caregivers to the Resilience of High‐risk Adolescents
Authors: Ungar Michael
Published: February 2004

Relationships between 43 high‐risk adolescents and their caregivers were examined qualitatively. Parents and other formal and informal caregivers such as youth workers and foster parents were found to exert a large influence on the behaviors that bolster mental health among high‐risk youth marginalized by poverty, social stigma, personal and physical characteristics, ethnicity, and poor social or academic performance. Participants' accounts of their intergenerational relationships with caregivers showed that teenagers seek close relationships with adults in order to negotiate for powerful self‐constructions as resilient. High‐risk teens say they want the adults in their lives to serve as an audience in front of whom they can perform the identities they construct both inside and outside their homes. This pattern was evident even among youth who presented as being more peer‐than family‐oriented. The implications of these findings to interventions with caregivers and teens is discussed.
Same‐Sex Couple Perceptions of Family Support: A Consensual Qualitative Study
Authors: Rostosky Sharon Scales , Korfhage Bethe A. , Duhigg Julie M. , Stern Amanda J. , Bennett Laura , Riggle Ellen D.B.
Published: February 2004

Few studies have examined the family context in which same‐sex couples negotiate their lives and relationships. Consensual qualitative research methods (Hill, Thompson, & Williams, 1997) were used to analyze 14 same‐sex couples' conversations about family support. Couples perceived that their families are positively supportive, non‐supportive, or ambivalent in their support. These perceptions led to positive or negative emotional reactions in the couple members and to specific coping. The majority of couples perceived that family support (or lack of support) had an effect on the quality of their couple relationship. No general or typical response strategies to lack of family of origin support emerged, suggesting a lack of models or norms for same‐sex couples. The implications for psychotherapeutic interventions with same‐sex couples are discussed.
The Practice of Community Family Therapy
Authors: Rojano Ramón
Published: February 2004

Special Section: Family Centered Community Building Section Editors' Note: We are pleased to bring to Family Process the work of a pioneering family therapist who is doing important and sophisticated work with families and communities. Ramon Rojano's Community Family Therapy breaks new ground by seeing families in poor communities not only as resilient but also as change agents, not only as clients but as citizens.—William J. Doherty and Jason S. Carroll.

This paper presents a summary of the basic theories and methods of Community Family Therapy (CFT), a relatively new therapeutic approach developed in response to the need for effective intervention in treating low‐income, urban families. CFT operates outside of the traditional therapeutic box, successfully combining family therapy techniques with developmental and motivational theories, community mental health, social work, economic development, and community mobilization strategies. CFT utilizes a dualistic approach in which both client and therapist become involved with the same three levels of engagement. Specifically, the client strives for: (a) personal and family change and growth—level 1, (b) accessing community resources—level 2, and (c) leadership development and civic action—level 3. Also, CFT calls upon therapists to strive for: (a) personal growth and maturation—level 1, (b) collaboration with community resources for professional support—level 2, and (c) operation as a “citizen therapist,” through civic action and volunteer services—level 3.
Family‐Level Impact of the CHAMP Family Program: A Community Collaborative Effort to Support Urban Families and Reduce Youth HIV Risk Exposure
Authors: McKay Mary McKernan , Chasse Kelly Taber , Paikoff Roberta , McKinney La Dora , Baptiste Donna , Coleman Doris , Madison Sybil , Bell Carl C.
Published: February 2004

This article presents family‐level results from an ongoing study examining the impact of the CHAMP (Chicago HIV prevention and Adolescent Mental health Project) Family Program, a family‐based HIV preventative intervention meant to reduce the amount of time spent in situations of sexual possibility and delay initiation of sexual activity for urban youth in the 4th and 5th grades living in neighborhoods with high rates of HIV infection. The CHAMP Family Program has been developed, delivered, and overseen by a collaborative partnership, consisting of community parents, school staff, community‐based agency representatives, and university‐based researchers. Design of the program was informed by input from this collaborative partnership, child developmental theory of sexual risk, and empirical data gathered from the targeted community. This article presents findings that suggest CHAMP Family Program impact on family communication, family decision‐making, and family‐level influences hypothesized to be related to later adolescent HIV risk. Implications for future family‐based HIV prevention research are discussed here.
A Pilot Study of an Intervention for Breast Cancer Survivors and Their Spouses
Authors: Shields Cleveland G. , Rousseau Sally J.
Published: February 2004

Recent studies have shown that interventions that increase breast cancer patients' communication with family members lead to reduced patient distress. In this article, we report on a treatment development and pilot study of an intervention for couples coping with breast cancer. In phase 1 of this study, 10 couples participated in two focus groups that generated ideas and themes for the intervention. In phase 2, we developed and pilot tested our intervention with 48 couples: 12 in a 2‐session format, 21 in a 1‐session format, and 15 in a non‐experimental control group. Our response rate shows that breast cancer patients and spouses were willing to participate and that treatment providers were willing to refer patients and their spouses. The 2‐session format showed the most promise for producing positive change in mental health functioning and cancer‐related stress.
Ontogenesis in Narrative Therapy: A Linguistic‐Semiotic Examination of Client Change
Authors: Muntigl Peter
Published: February 2004

In this article I investigate how the narrative therapy process facilitates client change. The kind of change that I focus on is linguistic‐semiotic; that is, how clients develop their meaning potential through language. What I will demonstrate is how an examination of the linguistic‐semiotic level provides new insights into narrative therapy's role in endowing clients with the semiotic materials to make new meanings. An examination of six conjoint sessions involving a narrative therapist with one couple revealed that client change or ontogenesis is composed of three semiotic phases. In the first phase of ontogenesis clients display a beginning semiotic repertoire by formulating “extreme case” descriptions of self and other's behaviors. In the second phase clients are scaffolded by therapist's questions and reformulations into construing events as problems and problems as the agents of negative behaviors. In the final phase clients display a development in their semiotic potential. Clients are able to eliminate problems and construe themselves as agents without prior therapist scaffolding. Therefore, in the latter stages of the narrative process clients are able to deploy meanings that have been generated throughout therapy, in order to produce narratives of self agency and self control.
Factor Structure of the FACES‐III in Japanese University Students
Authors: Hasui Chieko , Kishida Yasuko , Kitamura Toshinori
Published: February 2004

We performed a confirmatory factor analysis for the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale (FACES‐III) using 3865 university students in Japan. We confirmed two factors as in the original version, but there were slight differences with the original one. Some items were deleted in order to obtain sufficient goodness‐of‐fit indexes in a series of confirmatory factor analyses. Moreover, items 11 “Our family, changes its way of handling tasks,” 20 “Parents and children discuss in our family,” and 15 “We shift household responsibilities,” which were originally categorized as “adaptability” items, were loaded on the “cohesion” factor.
In situ detection of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) in gingival epithelium in human periodontal disease
Authors: Smith Patricio C. , Muñoz Valeria C. , Collados Lucía , Oyarzún Alejandro D.
Published: February 2004

Background and objective:  As the periodontal lesion develops, the junctional epithelium migrates apically in conjunction with the dissolution of the most coronal Sharpey's fibers. Because matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) has been identified in migrating epithelial cells and invading tumors, we propose that this enzyme is produced by gingival keratinocytes in advanced periodontal lesions.

Methods:  To test this idea, biopsies of inflamed gingival tissues were obtained from patients with advanced periodontitis. Healthy gingival tissue samples were utilized as controls. The presence and activity of MMP‐9 was evaluated by combining indirect immunofluorescence of gingival tissue samples and gelatin zymography of gingival epithelium separated from connective tissue.

Results and conclusions:  The staining pattern showed the presence of MMP‐9 in junctional and pocket gingival epithelial cells, polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) and as a scattered deposit along connective tissues of periodontitis‐affected gingival tissues. Gelatin zymography permitted the identification of pro‐MMP‐9 in surcular/pocket epithelium derived from inflamed gingival tissues. Lower levels of MMP‐9 were detected in epithelium not exposed to inflammation. These observations suggest a role for MMP‐9 in gingival epithelial response to periodontal infection.
Real‐time PCR quantification of cytomegalovirus in aggressive periodontitis lesions using TaqMan technology
Authors: Kubar Ayhan , Saygun Iþýl , Yapar Mehmet , Özdemir Atilla , Slots Jørgen
Published: February 2004

Background:  Herpesviruses are implicated in the pathogenesis of human periodontitis. However, the quantity of herpesviruses in periodontal sites remains unknown.

Objective:  The aim of this study was to compare levels of subgingival human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) in aggressive periodontitis patients and in periodontally healthy subjects.

Methods:  A total of 16 consecutive subjects with aggressive periodontitis and 15 healthy control subjects were included in the study. Subgingival specimens were collected by a periodontal curette. TaqMan real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was used to quantify HCMV.

Results:  HCMV was detected in 68.8% of aggressive periodontitis lesions but not in any of the periodontally healthy study sites. HCMV viral load in positive subgingival specimens ranged from 5 × 102 to 7.4 × 103 copies/ml.

Conclusions:  The TaqMan real‐time PCR technology seems to provide a rapid and sensitive method for quantifying HCMV in periodontal pockets. The present findings confirm the frequent presence of HCMV in aggressive periodontitis lesions. Determining HCMV levels in different types of periodontitis may help elucidate the periodontopathic role of the virus and advance our understanding of the disease pathogenesis.
Decreased expressions of thrombospondin 2 in cyclosporin A‐induced gingival overgrowth
Authors: Koh Jeong Tae , Kim Ok Joon , Park Young Seob , Kim Sun Hun , Kim Won Jae , Chung Hyun Ju , Lee Shee Eun , Jeong Byung Chul , Jung Ji Yeon , Kim Kyung Keun
Published: February 2004

Objectives:  Cyclosporin A (CsA) is known to elicit fibrous gingival overgrowth with changes of blood vessel profiles. In this study, we examined the expression of several angiogenic and angiostatic genes during the development of CsA‐induced gingival overgrowth.

Methods:  For the development of gingival overgrowth, Sprague‐Dawley rats received subcutaneous injections of CsA in daily doses of 5, 10, 15 mg/kg body weight for 6 weeks, and another group received 10 mg/kg of CsA for 3, 6, and 12 weeks. Human gingival tissues were obtained from three CsA‐treated patients following the gingivectomy procedure and from three healthy patients following the crown‐lengthening procedure as a control. Gingival fibroblasts were isolated from the healthy gingival tissues of the rat or the human, and cultured with 250–1000 ng/ml of CsA.

Results:  Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) analyses showed that expressions of some angiogenic genes such as angiopoietin 1, basic fibroblast growth factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor, and angiostatic genes such as angiopoietin 2, brain‐specific angiogenesis inhibitor 1 and 2, and thrombospondin 1 were not changed significantly in both gingival tissues and cultured fibroblast cells under the CsA treatments. However, expression of thrombospondin 2 (TSP2) decreased dose‐ and time‐dependently in rat and human gingival tissues. Western blot analyses showed that the expression of TSP2 protein was dose‐dependently reduced by the CsA treatments in human cultured gingival fibroblasts.

Conclusions:  These results indicate that the decrease in angiostatic TSP2 expression may be attributed to the CsA‐induced gingival vascularization rather than to the increased expression of angiogenic genes. It suggests that TSP2 is involved in the development of CsA‐induced gingival overgrowth with the gingival vascularization.
Observations on experimental marginal periodontitis in rats
Authors: Kuhr A. , Popa‐Wagner A. , Schmoll H. , Schwahn C. , Kocher T.
Published: February 2004

Objective:  The purpose of this study was to assess periodontal destruction following experimentally induced marginal periodontitis in rats by ligatures over a 60‐day observation period. The extent to which the physiological movement of teeth influenced the effect of the ligatures was also examined. In addition, two methods for measuring bone loss in the defleshed jaw were compared.

Methods:  Thirty‐five male Sprague‐Dawley rats (SD) were divided into five groups. Marginal periodontitis was induced by ligatures on the second maxillary molars. Rats were killed after 15, 30, and 60 days. Rats in the control group were killed on day 1 and day 60. Bone loss was determined with two different methods on the buccal and palatinal surfaces of the defleshed jaw. In the first method, the distance of the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) from the alveolar bone crest (ABC) was measured at different sites; in the second method, the area of the exposed root surface of the molars was measured.

Results:  Comparison of the control groups from day 1 and day 60 using both measuring methods showed significant differences in bone loss. In the area where the ligature was located, test rats exhibited significantly greater bone loss than control rats. Comparison of control rats from day 1 with test rats from day 15 showed that the increase in bone loss between the groups within the area of the ligature was significantly greater than outside it. The age‐dependent bone loss increases over the entire observation period of 60 days. The ligature‐induced bone loss increased most from day 1 to day 15; on days 30 and 60, slighter increases in bone loss were observed.

Conclusions:  The application of this model can only be recommended for short (≤15 days) observation periods. The distance method should be preferred to the area method.
Effect of an estrogen‐deficient state and its therapy on bone loss resulting from an experimental periodontitis in rats
Authors: Duarte Poliana Mendes , Gonçalves Patricia Furtado , Sallum Antonio Wilson , Sallum Enilson Antonio , Casati Marcio Zaffalon , Humberto Nociti Francisco
Published: February 2004

Objective:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of an estrogen‐deficient state and its therapies (estrogen and calcitonin administration) upon bone loss resulting from an experimental periodontitis.

Methods:  Fifty‐eight Wistar rats were divided into four groups: group 1 (n = 15): sham operated; group 2 (n = 15): ovariectomized; group 3 (n = 14): ovariectomized plus calcitonin administration; group 4 (n = 14): ovariectomized plus estrogen administration. Twenty‐one days after ovariectomy or sham surgeries, the ligature was randomly placed. Sixty days later, the animals were killed and the specimens routinely processed. In addition, serum levels of alkaline phosphatase and calcium were assessed.

Results:  Intergroup analysis revealed that an estrogen‐deficient state significantly increased bone loss resulting from periodontitis and that such an effect could not be prevented either by estrogen or calcitonin administration (0.34 ± 0.13, 0.65 ± 0.06, 0.63 ± 0.19, 0.67 ± 0.28 for groups 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively). Furthermore, an estrogen‐deficient state presented a direct effect on the alveolar bone regardless of plaque accumulation and this effect may be significantly reduced by estrogen administration (p < 0.05). Serum analysis demonstrated a higher bone turnover for the animals with estrogen deficiency, and estrogen therapy restored bone metabolism.

Conclusion:  Estrogen administration may prevent the direct effect of an estrogen‐deficient state on alveolar bone; however, neither estrogen nor calcitonin administration could prevent this effect when associated with a response to a plaque‐related inflammatory process.
Effects of a new ultrasonic scaler on fibroblast attachment to root surfaces: a scanning electron microscopy analysis
Authors: Kishida Mamoru , Sato Shuichi , Ito Koichi
Published: February 2004

Objective:  A study was conducted to examine the effectiveness of scaling and root planing using a new ultrasonic scaler (VectorTM).

Methods:  Eighty extracted teeth affected by periodontal disease were sorted into four groups of 20, each of which was subjected to one the following procedures: use of the VectorTM, VectorTM with polish, Enac® and a Gracey scaler. The time spent on cleaning was measured. Half of the sample teeth were examined at random for surface roughness, and the surface texture was evaluated by means of the Remaining Calculus Index (RCI) and the Roughness and Loss of Tooth Substance Index (RLTSI). The remaining samples were incubated in dishes with a suspension of fibroblasts. After measuring the number of attached cells, the attachment of fibroblasts was observed by scanning electron microscopy.

Results:  The RLTSI values in the VectorTM and VectorTM with polish groups were significantly lower than those in the Enac® and Gracey groups, whereas the number of attached cells in the VectorTM with polish group was larger than in the Enac® group. Cell attachment in the VectorTM and VectorTM with polish groups proved to be better than in the Enac® and Gracey groups.

Conclusion:  Since use of the VectorTM with polish was able to provide scaling and root planing with minimal damage and tight attachment of fibroblasts, it is suggested that this may be a useful instrument for scaling and root planing.
Subcutaneous and continuous administration of lipopolysaccharide increases serum levels of triglyceride and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 in rats
Authors: Uchiumi D. , Kobayashi M. , Tachikawa T. , Hasegawa K.
Published: February 2004

Objectives:  Previous studies have suggested an association between chronic infection and cardiovascular disease, and combined infection/inflammation is frequently related with hypertriglyceridemia, which may be a risk factor of cardiovascular disease. In fact, experimental transient or intermittent administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is known to cause hypertriglyceridemia. We investigated the effects of subcutaneous and continuous administration of LPS in rats, which was considered to mimic chronic infection such as periodontal disease, on the serum levels of lipids [triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC) and free fatty acid (FFA)] and cytokines [tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1)], all of which are thought to be etiological factors of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

Methods:  Ten fasted Wistar rats were subcutaneously injected with LPS (500 µg/100 g of body weight) (LPS‐injected rats; n = 5) or saline (saline‐injected rats; n = 5) as a model of transient infection. Further, mini‐osmotic pumps containing the same concentration of LPS (LPS‐implanted rats; n = 5) or saline (saline‐implanted rats; n = 5) were subcutaneously implanted into an additional 10 rats as a model of chronic infection. After the injection or implantation, time‐dependent changes in serum levels of TG, TC, FFA, TNF‐α, MCP‐1 and LPS were determined.

Results:  LPS was detected in serum until 24 h in LPS‐injected rats and until day 5 in LPS‐implanted rats. Serum TG levels significantly increased from 6 to 24 h in LPS‐injected rats and from day 5 to 14 in LPS‐implanted rats. In both LPS‐injected and LPS‐implanted rats, serum FFA levels increased only slightly, whereas serum TC levels did not appreciably change. Both types of LPS administration increased serum TNF‐α levels transiently and MCP‐1 levels continuously.

Conclusions:  These findings suggest that chronic infection such as periodontal disease induces hypertriglyceridemia and increases serum MCP‐1 levels in a manner that increases the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Effect of low dose Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans lipopolysaccharide pretreatment on cytokine production by human whole blood
Authors: Nakamura Tsutomu , Nitta Hiroshi , Ishikawa Isao
Published: February 2004

Background and objective:  Periodontal disease is known to influence the systemic condition in various ways, and the bacteria and their products, such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS), may spread from periodontal lesions via the systemic circulation to affect distant organs. The level of LPS in plasma from such patients is reported to be very low, and this low level of LPS is suspected to have priming or desensitizing effect. Thus, we investigated the effects of low dose LPS pretreatment on LPS‐dependent cytokine production by whole blood cells ex vivo.

Methods:  Blood samples obtained from seven systemically and periodontally healthy individuals were pretreated with or without 5 pg/ml Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans LPS, followed by further stimulation with 1 ng/ml A. actinomycetemcomitans LPS. The concentrations of interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β), IL‐6, IL‐10 and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) in the culture supernatants were then determined using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In addition, intracytoplasmic cytokine staining of whole blood cells was performed for flow cytometry.

Results:  Pretreatment with 5 pg/ml A. actinomycetemcomitans LPS significantly enhanced the production of IL‐1β and IL‐6 from whole blood when further induced by 1 ng/ml LPS (1.72 times higher for IL‐1β, 2.18 times higher for IL‐6 than without pretreatment). The pretreatment did not enhance the production of either TNF‐α or IL‐10. Intracytoplasmic staining showed that the monocyte fraction was primarily involved in producing IL‐1β and IL‐6. Flow cytometric analysis revealed that pretreatment increased the number of IL‐1β and IL‐6 producing cells as well as mean fluorescence intensity of the stained cells.

Conclusion:  A low dose of bloodstream LPS found in periodontitis patients appears to be sufficient to prime monocytes, and may be capable of affecting the systemic responses of immune and inflammatory cells.
Variations of Porphyromonas gingivalis fimbriae in relation to microbial pathogenesis
Authors: Amano Atsuo , Nakagawa Ichiro , Okahashi Nobuo , Hamada Nobushiro
Published: February 2004

Objectives:  Periodontal disease is an infectious disorder caused by a small subset of periodontal pathogens including Porphyromonas gingivalis. Accumulated evidences show that the expression of P. gingivalis heterogenic virulence properties is dependent on its clonal diversity. P. gingivalis expresses two distinct fimbria molecules, major and minor fimbriae, on its cell surfaces, both of which seem to be involved in the development of periodontitis. In this short review, variations of fimbriae in relation to microbial pathogenesis are discussed.

Materials and Methods:  Our recent findings are summarized to elucidate the relationship between clonal variation of fimbriae and bacterial pathogenicity of various strains.

Results:  Major fimbriae were classified into six types (I to V and Ib) based on the diversity of fimA genes encoding FimA (a subunit of major fimbriae). A majority of periodontitis patients were found to carry type II fimA organisms, followed by type IV, and type II fimA organisms were significantly occurred with more severe forms of periodontitis. Studies of clones with type II fimA have revealed significantly greater adhesive and invasive capabilities to epithelial cells than other fimA type clones. Minor fimbriae induced interleukin‐1α (IL‐1α), IL‐1β, IL‐6, and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) cytokine expression in macrophages and were suggested to be a causative factor of alveolar bone resorption in animal models. The clonal diversity of minor fimbriae is unclear, however, distinct minor fimbria molecules were found in different strains.

Conclusion:  The fimbria variations may have an influence on the development of periodontal disease.
Family Resiliency in Childhood Cancer*
Authors: McCubbin Marilyn , Balling Karla , Possin Peggy , Frierdich Sharon , Bryne Barbara
Published: February 2004

Based on in‐depth interviews with 42 parents (25 mothers, 17 fathers) in 26 families who had had a child treated for cancer within the previous 3 years, resiliency factors that helped the family recover were identified. The resiliency factors included internal family rapid mobilization and reorganization; social support from the health care team, extended family, the community, and the workplace; and changes in appraisal to make the situation more comprehensible, manageable, and meaningful.
Linking Employment Status, Maternal Psychological Well‐Being, Parenting, and Children's Attributions About Poverty in Families Receiving Government Assistance*
Authors: Murry Velma McBride , Brody Gene H. , Brown Anita , Wisenbaker Joseph , Cutrona Carolyn E. , Simons Ronald L.
Published: February 2004

Functional changes in rural African American single‐mother‐headed families after the implementation of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families were explored from an ecological risk–protection perspective. The sample included 96 single mothers who received government assistance and their 10‐ or 11‐year‐old children. Links among maternal employment status, mothers' physical health and psychological functioning, parenting, and children's attributions about the causes of poverty were examined. Maternal psychological distress was linked with children's attributions about the causes of poverty, both directly and indirectly through its association with parenting. Children who did not attribute poverty to social causes had higher academic goals than did those who attributed poverty to social, economic, or political barriers. Further research is needed on barriers to employment and the influence of maternal psychological functioning on parenting.
Predictors of Children's Intervention‐Induced Resilience in a Parenting Program for Divorced Mothers*
Authors: Hipke Kathleen N. , Wolchik Sharlene A. , Sandler Irwin N. , Braver Sanford L.
Published: February 2004

This study examined predictors of intervention‐induced resilience in children of divorce whose mothers participated in a preventive parenting program. Contextual, maternal, and child factors were examined as predictors of improved child adjustment using two strategies: (a) within‐group analyses conducted with program participants and (b) between‐group analyses, in which relations in the parenting intervention were compared with those in a control condition. Between‐group analyses showed that children were less likely to maintain program gains in externalizing when maternal demoralization was high or when children's self‐regulatory skills were low. Implications for program modification and methodology for studying predictors of program benefit are discussed.
A Family Resilience Framework: Innovative Practice Applications
Authors: Walsh Froma
Published: February 2004

An overview of a research‐informed family resilience framework, developed as a conceptual map to guide clinical intervention and prevention efforts with vulnerable families is presented. Building on studies of individual and family resilience and developments in strength‐based approaches to family therapy, this practice approach is distinguished by its focus on strengthening family functioning in the context of adversity. Key processes that foster resilience are outlined, as are several innovative family systems training and service applications.
Development of a Web‐Based Evaluation System: A Tool for Measuring Life Skills in Youth and Family Programs*
Authors: Bailey Sandra J. , Deen Mary Y.
Published: February 2004

The need for evaluation of youth and family programming has never been more acute, yet practitioners often do not have the tools to conduct effective evaluations. We present the development and piloting of a web‐based evaluation system as a tool for evaluating participant outcomes in Cooperative Extension programming. Results of a peer review of the system and pilot test of the instrument are presented. Implications for implementing evaluations for youth and family programs are discussed.
Low‐Income Fathers and “Responsible Fatherhood” Programs: A Qualitative Investigation of Participants' Experiences*
Authors: Anderson Elaine A. , Kohler Julie K. , Letiecq Bethany L.
Published: February 2004

The authors present the voices of 20 low‐income fathers, all participants in a Responsible Fatherhood (RF) program in a large urban area. A hermeneutic phenomenological methodology was used to document participants' memories of becoming fathers, explain participants' perceptions of the benefits and the barriers to remaining involved with the program, and share participants' suggestions for program improvement. The results provide a preliminary evaluation of the program's services, and we discuss how these findings are helpful to future programmatic and policy initiatives.
Mothers and Fathers of Adults With Mental Retardation: Feelings of Intergenerational Closeness*
Authors: Essex Elizabeth Lehr
Published: February 2004

On the basis of a sample of 96 married mothers and fathers, this study investigated older parents' feelings of closeness with a coresident son or daughter with mental retardation. Mothers felt closer to the adult child than fathers did. For mothers, feelings of closeness to the adult child were related to their level of education and the adult child's functional skills. For fathers, feelings of closeness were associated with their own personality characteristics, marital satisfaction, and the behavior problems and functional skills of the adult child. Implications for practice are discussed in relation to the unique experiences of these older parents.
Attitudes About Covenant Marriage and Divorce: Policy Implications From a Three‐State Comparison*
Authors: Hawkins Alan J. , Nock Steven L. , Wilson Julia C. , Sanchez Laura , Wright James D.
Published: February 2004

We report research on public opinions about covenant marriage and divorce to inform policy analysts of the social climate in which these legal initiatives are taking place. We collected data via telephone surveys from a sample of 1,324 adults in Louisiana, Arizona, and Minnesota. From these data, we draw four implications for policy: policy efforts designed to strengthen marriage and reduce divorce, such as covenant marriage, may be popular in states with people who generally have more conservative gender‐role ideologies and who are religiously active; individuals who hold conservative gender‐role ideologies and who are religiously active are more likely to choose covenant marriage for themselves; legislation dealing with specific components of covenant marriage is likely to be more popular in many states than legislation offering the full set of measures; and these legislative efforts generally will not be divisive along sociodemographic lines.
The Role of Maternal Beliefs in Predicting Home Learning Activities in Head Start Families*
Authors: Machida Sandra , Taylor Angela R. , Kim Juhu
Published: February 2004

A conceptual model specifying that maternal beliefs (maternal self‐efficacy, perceived control) mediate the relation between child–family characteristics (child's difficult temperament, mother's education, stressful life events) and the extent of involvement in home learning activities in Head Start families was tested. The sample was 306 mothers (51% Mexican American, 36% Anglo American, 13% other minorities). Results provided partial support for the model (i.e., parental self‐efficacy mediated the effects of the child's difficult temperament on mothers' reports of family involvement in home learning activities). Maternal education and family stress were not directly related to home learning, although family stress influenced home learning indirectly through parental self‐efficacy. Separate analyses yielded comparable results for Anglo Americans and Mexican Americans. Ways to facilitate parent self‐efficacy are discussed.
An Experimental Study of an Empowerment‐Based Intervention for African American Head Start Fathers
Authors: Fagan Jay , Stevenson Howard C.
Published: February 2004

This study examined the effects of an empowerment intervention, Men as Teachers, on African American Head Start fathers. Fathers were randomly assigned to the empowerment program or to a control group in which participants viewed a five‐part videotape series on parenting. The results revealed a significant improvement in fathers' attitudes about their ability to teach their preschool‐age children for the experimental group only. There was no significant improvement in these fathers' attitudes about racial oppression socialization practices. Resident fathers in the experimental group showed significant gains in self‐esteem and parenting satisfaction.
Placing Feminist Education Within the Three Paradigms of Knowledge and Action*
Authors: Humble Áine M. , Morgaine Carol. A.
Published: February 2004

Use of the three paradigms of knowledge and action (instrumental‐technical, interpretive, and critical‐emancipatory) to achieve the goals of feminist family education is explored. Each paradigm is described, including its underlying assumptions and when it is useful to use. Feminist methods in selected Family Relations articles between 1988–1999 are examined for their illustration of the three paradigms. Various challenges in using the interpretive and critical‐emancipatory paradigms also are discussed.
Factors Associated With Distress Among Support‐Seeking Adoptive Parents
Authors: Bird Gloria W. , Peterson Rick , Miller Stephanie Hotta
Published: February 2004

This study examined the collective effects of background factors, adoptive strains, and coping resources on emotional distress among 99 adoptive parents who responded to a mailed questionnaire. Multiple regression analysis revealed that parents reporting higher levels of emotional distress were more likely to indicate a pileup of chronic stressors related to their status as adoptive parents. More highly distressed parents also were more likely to indicate that they had adopted an older child, had experienced multiple adoptions, made greater use of emotion‐focused coping strategies, had a lower sense of mastery, and received less support from family members.
Family‐Oriented Program Models and Professional Helpgiving Practices*
Authors: Dunst Carl J. , Boyd Kimberly , Trivette Carol M. , Hamby Deborah W.
Published: February 2004

The relationship between different models of family level interventions and two components of practitioner helpgiving (relational practices and participatory practices) was examined in two studies of parents of young children involved in different kinds of family oriented helpgiving programs. Relational and participatory aspects of helpgiving were found to be practiced less often in professionally centered programs compared to other kinds of family oriented programs. Participatory helpgiving practices that provided parents with (a) choices and options and (b) opportunities to be involved in both solutions to problems and acquisition of knowledge and skills that strengthen functioning were more likely to be found in programs that were family centered. Findings are discussed in terms of the importance of the models used to structure social and human services program practices.
The Role of Father Participation in the Treatment of Childhood Mood Disorders*
Authors: Schock Angie M. , Gavazzi Stephen M. , Fristad Mary A. , Goldberg‐Arnold Jill S.
Published: February 2004

This article focuses on the role of fathers in family interventions designed to deal with mental illness (with particular emphasis given to childhood mood disorders) and the implications for future research, program development, and public policy issues. Pertinent research on childhood mood disorders that concentrates on family system and parental subsystem characteristics is reviewed, as are studies that contribute to an understanding of the impact fathers have on the onset and course of childhood mood disorders. Additionally, preliminary information generated from one family based intervention targeting childhood mood disorders is discussed briefly in order to illustrate additional issues to be considered in the design and implementation of family based programming.
The Influence of Sexual Risk Communication Between Parents and Daughters on Sexual Risk Behaviors*
Authors: Hutchinson M. Katherine
Published: February 2004

Two hundred thirty‐four 19‐ to 21‐year‐old women completed interviews that assessed parent‐adolescent relations, sexual communication, and selected sexual risk behaviors and outcomes. Overall, Hispanic–Latina respondents reported less parent‐adolescent sexual communication than others. Early parent‐adolescent sexual communication was associated with later age of sexual initiation, consistent condom use and, indirectly, less likelihood of sexually transmitted diseases. Mother‐daughter communication about condoms was associated with consistent condom use. Recommendations for family‐based HIV–STD prevention are presented.
Temperament and the Quality of Best Friendships: Effect of Same‐Sex Sibling Relationships*
Authors: McCoy J. Kelly , Brody Gene H. , Stoneman Zolinda
Published: February 2004

The authors examined whether early adolescents' sibling relationships ameliorate the effects of a difficult temperament on best friendships, exploring whether qualities of early adolescents' sibling relationships would moderate the link between temperamental difficulties and best friendship quality. Data were collected at two points. At first collection, parents provided temperament ratings for 73 later‐born siblings (M= 7 years). Five years later, adolescents provided information about support and discord present in their best friendships and older siblings provided information about the warmth and conflict in their same‐sex sibling dyads. The hypothesized moderating effect of the sibling relationship was found only for early adolescent girls. Support and discord in girls' best friendships was negatively and positively predicted, respectively, by level of temperamental difficulty only when relationships with their older sisters were lower in warmth or higher in conflict. Implications for understanding and improving early adolescents' closest friendships are discussed.