bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The local introduction of strongly interacting species and the loss of geographic variation in species and species interactions
Authors: BENKMAN CRAIG W. , SIEPIELSKI ADAM M. , PARCHMAN THOMAS L.
Published: July 2007

Species introductions into nearby communities may seem innocuous, however, these introductions, like long‐distance introductions (e.g. trans‐ and intercontinental), can cause extinctions and alter the evolutionary trajectories of remaining community members. These ‘local introductions’ can also more cryptically homogenize formerly distinct populations within a species. We focus on several characteristics and the potential consequences of local introductions. First, local introductions are commonly successful because the species being introduced is compatible with existing abiotic and biotic conditions; many nearby communities differ because of historical factors and the absence of certain species is simply the result of barriers to dispersal. Moreover, the species with which they interact most strongly (e.g. prey) may have, for example, lost defences making the establishment even more likely. The loss or absence of defences is especially likely when the absent species is a strongly interacting species, which we argue often includes mammals in terrestrial communities. Second, the effects of the introduction may be difficult to detect because the community is likely to converge onto nearby communities that naturally have the introduced species (hence the perceived innocuousness). This homogenization of formerly distinct populations eliminates the geographic diversity of species interactions and the geographic potential for speciation, and reduces regional species diversity. We illustrate these ideas by focusing on the introduction of tree squirrels into formerly squirrel‐less forest patches. Such introductions have eliminated incipient species of crossbills (Loxiaspp.) co‐evolving in arms races with conifers and will likely have considerable impacts on community structure and ecosystem processes.
A regulatory protein–protein interaction governs glutamate biosynthesis in Bacillus subtilis: the glutamate dehydrogenase RocG moonlights in controlling the transcription factor GltC
Authors: Commichau Fabian M. , Herzberg Christina , Tripal Philipp , Valerius Oliver , Stülke Jörg
Published: July 2007

Glutamate synthesis is the link between carbon and nitrogen metabolism. In Bacillus subtilis, glutamate is exclusively synthesized by the glutamate synthase encoded by the gltAB operon. The glutamate dehydrogenase RocG from B. subtilis is exclusively devoted to glutamate degradation rather than to its synthesis. The expression of the gltAB operon is induced by glucose and ammonium and strongly repressed by arginine. Regulation by glucose and arginine depends on the transcriptional activator protein GltC. The gltAB operon is constitutively expressed in a rocG mutant strain, but the molecular mechanism of negative control of gltAB expression by RocG has so far remained unknown. We studied the role of RocG in the intracellular accumulation of GltC. Furthermore, we considered the possibility that RocG might act as a transcription factor and be able to inhibit the expression of gltAB either by binding to the mRNA or to the promoter region of the gltAB operon. Finally, we asked whether a direct binding of RocG to GltC could be responsible for the inhibition of GltC. The genetic and biochemical data presented here show that the glutamate dehydrogenase RocG is able to bind to and concomitantly inactivate the activator protein GltC. This regulatory mechanism by the bifunctional enzyme RocG allows the tight control of glutamate metabolism by the availability of carbon and nitrogen sources.
Two Japanese cases of lichen planus pigmentosus‐inversus
Authors: Kashima Aki , Tajiri Akihiko , Yamashita Atsushi , Asada Yujiro , Setoyama Mitsuru
Published: July 2007

Case 1 was a 51‐year‐old Japanese woman. She presented with an asymptomatic brown macule located on the right axilla of 2 months’ duration. The smooth macule was 2 cm in diameter with a sharp demarcation (Fig. 1A).

Photographs of skin lesions in two patients. (A) Case 1. Well‐circumscribed brown macule without an active red border in the central portion of the right axilla. (B) Case 2. Symmetric distribution of brown macules without an active red border in the popliteal fossae

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Case 2 was a 62‐year‐old Japanese man. He presented with asymptomatic, symmetric, gray–brown macules located on the groin, axillae, and popliteal region of 6 months’ duration. The smooth macules were several millimeters to centimeters in diameter and sharply demarcated (Fig. 1B).

Oral or nail lesions, previous inflammatory processes in affected areas, and internal malignancies were absent. A causal relationship with drugs, recent sun exposure, or trauma could not be identified. Findings for work‐up, including blood cell count, fasting blood sugar levels, liver function, serum electrolyte levels, serum electrophoresis, urinalysis, antinuclear antibodies, and serological examinations for human hepatitis viruses and syphilis, were within normal limits or negative. The lesions gradually disappeared without medication within 6 months.

Biopsy specimens showed a lymphocytic infiltrate with basal vacuolar changes and prominent melanin incontinence in the upper dermis (Fig. 2A). The band‐like lymphocytic infiltrate was moderate in Case 1 and mild in Case 2. Immunohistochemistry showed infiltrative CD8+ T lymphocytes with keratinocytic damage, indicating cytotoxic injury of the keratinocytes (Fig. 2B). Both the epidermis and the upper dermis contained CD1a+ cells (Fig. 2C). The keratinocytes focally and weakly expressed HLA‐DR (Fig. 2D). These findings were identical in samples from both patients.

Light and immunohistochemical microphotographs. (A) Mild, band‐like, lymphocytic infiltrate with basal vacuolar change and prominent melanin incontinence in the upper dermis with apoptosis or necrosis of keratinocytes. (B) Epidermal infiltrate of CD8+ T lymphocytes with keratinocytic damage.

(C) CD1a+ cells in the upper dermis. (D) Keratinocytes focally and weakly express HLA‐DR (original magnifications: A, ×200; B–D, ×400)

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Distribution of clinical‐pathological types of cutaneous melanomas and mortality rate in the region of Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
Authors: Borges Saionara Zago , Bakos Lucio , Cartell André , Wagner Mario , Agostini Aventino , Lersch Elder
Published: July 2007

Objective  To describe the characteristics of all cases of primary cutaneous melanoma during the period 1995–2001, registered at pathology departments in the region of Passo Fundo.

Methods  The sample studied consisted of 229 primary cutaneous melanoma lesions, identified by anatomopathological reports, in 218 patients. The variables evaluated were: sex, age, anatomical site, histological type, level of invasion and tumor thickness. The rate of incidence, mortality and survival curve were calculated.

Results  The most frequent tumor site was in the back of men (49.5%) and in the lower limbs of women (33.1%). The most frequent clinical‐pathological type for both sexes was the superficial expansive type (superficial spreading) at 61.6%. The level of invasion was higher in men, using Clark level III (30.3%), than in women. In women the most frequent level of invasion was Clark level II (33.1%). Of the total number of lesions, 198 (47.2%) were ≤ 1 mm thick, and 23.2% of the men had thicker lesions (> 4 mm) than the women. The incidence was 5.67 per 100,000 patients‐year during this period and the mortality rate was 2.16 per 100,000 patients‐year.

Conclusions  In the sample studied the most common sites were in the back of men and in the legs of women. The predominant type clinical‐pathological was superficial spreading.
Severity of coronary artery disease and symptoms of erectile dysfunction in males with a positive exercise treadmill test
Authors: Akilli Hakan , Gok Hasan , Soylu Ahmet , Kayrak Mehmet
Published: July 2007

Aim:  The objective of this study is to investigate the significance of erectile dysfunction in males with a positive exercise treadmill test (ETT) to predict the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD).

Materials and Method:  With no previous marked CAD, and applying to our clinic with chest pain, 105 male patients (mean age: 56 ± 8 years) underwent coronary angiography after the ETT. These patients met our criteria and were included in our study. All patients were requested to complete a brief, 5‐item form by the International Index of Erectile Function, and the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM), and were classified into four groups according to coronary angiography results as follows: normal coronary artery (NCA), single‐vessel CAD (1 V), two‐vessel CAD (2 V) and three‐vessel CAD (3 V). The relation between SHIM scores and the number of arteries with significant lesions was evaluated.

Results:  The median SHIM score was found to be significantly lower in both the 2 V, 15 (IQR: 12–20) and 3 V, 13 (IQR: 11–16) groups compared to the NCA, 22 (IQR: 17–23) and the 1 V, 22 (IQR: 17–23) groups (P < 0.05).

Grouped as group I (NCA + 1 V) and group II (2 V + 3 V), the patients were recompared. The SHIM score is an independent parameter to define the presence of significant lesions in two or more coronary arteries (odds ratio, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.73–0.97; P = 0.019).

Conclusion:  The fact that the SHIM score is <18 in ETT positive males may suggest that the probability of multivessel CAD should be high.
Environment enrichment rescues the neurodegenerative phenotypes in presenilins‐deficient mice
Authors: Dong Suzhen , Li Chunxia , Wu Pu , Tsien Joe Z. , Hu Yinghe
Published: July 2007

Presenilin (PS) 1 and 2 conditional double knockout (cDKO) mice show progressive memory dysfunction and forebrain degeneration. Gene expression profiling results revealed a strong activation of immunity and inflammation responses in the brains of 10‐month‐old cDKO mice. As environmental enrichment (EE) has been shown to be able to improve memory and induce neurogenesis of the brain, we assessed the effects of EE on the memory performance and the neurodegeneration in cDKO mice. We found that EE effectively enhanced memory and partially rescued the forebrain atrophy of the cDKO mice. Our results suggest that immunity and inflammation could play important roles in the neurodegeneration of cDKO mice. Furthermore, the beneficial effects of EE may be associated with the inhibition of the expression of immunity and inflammation‐related genes in the brain.
Laparoscopic resection of diverticular fistulae: a 10‐year experience
Authors: Engledow A. H. , Pakzad F. , Ward N. J. , Arulampalam T. , Motson R. W.
Published: July 2007

Objective  Until recently the laparoscopic approach was reserved for uncomplicated diverticular disease. We show that fistulating diverticular disease can be resected safely, with good clinical outcome via a laparoscopic approach.

Method  Between April 1994 and May 2005, 31 consecutive patients [17 male, median age of 63 years (range 40–85)], underwent attempted laparoscopic resection for diverticular fistulae. Patient data were prospectively recorded.

Results  There were 22 colovesical and nine colovaginal fistulae. The median operative time was 150 min (range 60–310) and the median postoperative stay was 7 days (range 3–21). Conversion to an open procedure was required in nine of 31 patients (29%). This rate fell to 10% in cases performed after April 2000. There were two nonsurgically related postoperative deaths. Both occurred in the converted group. At 3 months follow‐up, two patients complained of frequency of stools, which settled by 6 months. To date there has been no recurrence of symptomatic diverticulosis or fistulation.

Conclusion  Totally laparoscopic resection for diverticular fistulae is safe and feasible. Fistulae should not be considered as a contraindication to laparoscopic resection for an experienced laparoscopic surgeon.
Species invasions and the changing biogeography of Australian freshwater fishes
Authors: Olden Julian D. , Kennard Mark J. , Pusey Bradley J.
Published: July 2007

Aim  By dissolving natural physical barriers to movement, human‐mediated species introductions have dramatically reshuffled the present‐day biogeography of freshwater fishes. The present study investigates whether the antiquity of Australia's freshwater ichthyofauna has been altered by the widespread invasion of non‐indigenous fish species.

Location  Australia.

Methods  Using fish presence–absence data for historical and present‐day species pools, we quantified changes in faunal similarity among major Australian drainage divisions and among river basins of north‐eastern Australia according to the Sørensen index, and related these changes to major factors of catchment disturbance that significantly alter river processes.

Results  Human‐mediated fish introductions have increased faunal similarity among primary drainages by an average of 3.0% (from 17.1% to 20.1% similarity). Over three‐quarters of the pairwise changes in drainage similarity were positive, indicating a strong tendency for taxonomic homogenization caused primarily by the widespread introduction of Carassius auratus, Gambusia holbrooki, Oncorhynchus mykiss and Poecilia reticulata. Faunal homogenization was highest in drainages subjected to the greatest degree of disturbance associated with human settlement, infrastructure and change in land use. Scenarios of future species invasions and extinctions indicate the continued homogenization of Australian drainages. In contrast, highly idiosyncratic introductions of species in river basins of north‐eastern Australia have decreased fish faunal similarity by an average of 1.4%.

Main conclusions  We found that invasive species have significantly changed the present‐day biogeography of fish by homogenizing Australian drainages and differentiating north‐eastern river basins. Decreased faunal similarity at smaller spatial scales is a result of high historical similarity in this region and reflects the dynamic nature of the homogenization process whereby sporadic introductions of new species initially decrease faunal similarity across basins. Our study points to the importance of understanding the role of invasive species in defining patterns of present‐day biogeography and preserving the antiquity of Australia's freshwater biodiversity.
The geography of body size – challenges of the interspecific approach
Authors: Meiri Shai , Thomas Gavin H.
Published: July 2007

Recent compilations of large‐scale data bases on the geographical distributions and body sizes of animals, coupled with developments in spatial statistics, have led to renewed interest in the geographical distribution of animal body sizes and the interspecific version of Bergmann's rule. Standard practice seems to be an examination of mean body sizes within higher taxa on gridded maps, with little regard to species richness or phylogeny. However, because the frequency distribution of body sizes is typically highly skewed, average size within grid cells may differ significantly between species‐rich and species‐poor cells even when the median and modal sizes remain constant. Species richness influences body size patterns because species are not added to communities at random in relation to their size: areas of low diversity are characterized by a higher range of body sizes than is expected by chance. Finally, a consideration of phylogenetic structure within taxa is necessary to elucidate whether patterns in the geography of size result from turnover between or within intermediate taxonomic levels. We suggest that the highest and lowest quantiles of body size distribution be mapped in order to expose possible physiological or ecological limitations on body size.
ON CONVERGENCE RATES FOR NONPARAMETRIC POSTERIOR DISTRIBUTIONS
Authors: Lijoi Antonio , Prünster Igor , Walker Stephen G.
Published: July 2007

Rates of convergence of Bayesian nonparametric procedures are expressed as the maximum between two rates: one is determined via suitable measures of concentration of the prior around the “true” densityf0, and the other is related to the way the mass is spread outside a neighborhood off0. Here we provide a lower bound for the former in terms of the usual notion of prior concentration and in terms of an alternative definition of prior concentration. Moreover, we determine the latter for two important classes of priors: the infinite–dimensional exponential family, and the Pólya trees.
ELICITING A DIRECTED ACYCLIC GRAPH FOR A MULTIVARIATE TIME SERIES OF VEHICLE COUNTS IN A TRAFFIC NETWORK
Authors: Queen Catriona M. , Wright Ben J. , Albers Casper J.
Published: July 2007

The problem of modelling multivariate time series of vehicle counts in traffic networks is considered. It is proposed to use a model called the linear multiregression dynamic model (LMDM). The LMDM is a multivariate Bayesian dynamic model which uses any conditional independence and causal structure across the time series to break down the complex multivariate model into simpler univariate dynamic linear models.

The conditional independence and causal structure in the time series can be represented by a directed acyclic graph (DAG). The DAG not only gives a useful pictorial representation of the multivariate structure, but it is also used to build the LMDM. Therefore, eliciting a DAG which gives a realistic representation of the series is a crucial part of the modelling process.

A DAG is elicited for the multivariate time series of hourly vehicle counts at the junction of three major roads in the UK. A flow diagram is introduced to give a pictorial representation of the possible vehicle routes through the network. It is shown how this flow diagram, together with a map of the network, can suggest a DAG for the time series suitable for use with an LMDM.
The ethics of alterity and the teaching of otherness
Authors: Lim Ming
Published: July 2007

This paper proposes that Levinas's philosophy of alterity and infinitude – based upon the ethical relation between Self and Other – is both profound and limited in its ability to account for social practice. Instead of simply accepting the common criticism of Levinas, however, that he places an intolerable ethical burden of infinitude upon human relations, this paper aims to move beyond this impasse by placing Levinas's metaphysics within a frame that privileges the dynamic between the Self and the Other as a socially oriented, participative practice of teaching and learning. It is suggested that Etienne Wenger's work on the emergence of identity as a constant negotiation between the Others and the Self provides a conceptual framework for how business ethics may be owned, negotiated and learned within organizational communities without sacrificing the horizon of infinitude bestowed upon us by Levinas's ethical philosophy. Finally, the practical implications of such a comparative approach for the teaching of alterity in business ethics are discussed.
On faces and defacement: the case of Kate Moss
Authors: Kaulingfreks Ruud , Ten Bos René
Published: July 2007

This paper takes issue with what seem to be standard practices of at least some organizations that use models in their ad campaigns. These organizations know that many of their models have had drug problems but refuse either to tolerate this or to help them. Some organizations have, allegedly in the name of a responsibility for the health of their customers, rather opted for a firm condemnation of the practices in which models such as Kate Moss apparently engage. This raises questions about hypocrisy. The paper uses Levinas's concept of the face critically to describe what might be going on in the conflict between Moss and some of the companies she worked for. Moss is arguably understood by these companies as a role model who should not engage with drugs or street life. Against these more or less patronizing tendencies, the paper claims that it is not so much the face but processes of defacement that should trouble us from a moral perspective. The face, it is maintained, is not only ethical but also has a materiality. In opposition to what is maintained by at least some scholars of Levinas, art, literature and history have alerted us over and over again that the face is anything but indelible. Some examples from art show us the versatility and vulnerability of the face. The gossip and hype about what came to be known as the Kate Moss affair stands, it is argued, in a long misogynic tradition of defacement.
Nationality and Gender Diversity on Swiss Corporate Boards
Authors: Ruigrok Winfried , Peck Simon , Tacheva Sabina
Published: July 2007

For a sample of 210 Swiss publicly listed firms we analyse the characteristics of all 1678 directors in the year 2003 in order to investigate how board members' nationality and gender interact with directors' level of independence, number of other directorships and demographic characteristics. Our results suggest that whereas foreign directors tend to be more independent, women directors are more likely to be affiliated to firm management through family ties and that foreign directors hold significantly lower numbers of directorships at other Swiss boards. Female and foreign directors also differ in terms of educational background, educational level, age and board tenure. Some of our gender diversity findings are different from previous research. We conclude that in order to manage diversity on corporate boards it is imperative to understand the characteristics, qualifications and affiliations that these directors bring to the boardroom and that it is important to take national circumstances into account rather than relying on research results from other countries.
Investigating the Relationship Between Board Characteristics and Board Information
Authors: Rutherford Matthew A. , Buchholtz Ann K.
Published: July 2007

While corporate governance research has had some success tying boards' demographic characteristics to relatively distant outcomes such as CEO pay and succession, numerous studies have indicated that a major weakness of this research is that it has largely ignored the intervening behaviours associated with board vigilance. This study begins to answer this call by examining the relationship between boards' demographic characteristics and boards' information‐gathering behaviour. Using primary and secondary data from 149 firms, this study finds that an increase in the proportion of outside directors on a board is associated with an increase in boards' information quality and proactive information‐seeking. In addition, an increase in outside director tenure is associated with boards exchanging information more frequently. Consistent with agency theory predictions, these findings suggest that vigilant boards are likely to take actions aimed at reducing the level of information asymmetry between them and their CEOs.
The export intensity of foreign affiliates in transition economies The importance of the organization of production1
Authors: Ulff‐Møller Nielsen Jørgen , Pawlik Konrad
Published: July 2007

Using a unique database containing trade and industry variables of foreign‐owned companies in the Polish manufacturing industry for the years 1993–2002, we investigate the relationship between the organizational structure of multinational enterprises (MNEs) in Poland and the export structure of their affiliates. We find that labour intensity and foreign control are the main explanatory variables for the export intensity of the affiliates. Given the overall rise in export intensity over the period of investigation, our findings suggest that export‐platform FDI has become a more important mode of organization for multinational enterprises as Poland has evolved into a relatively stable economic environment where MNEs feel comfortable basing their regional operations.
Phasic heart rate changes during word translation of different difficulties
Authors: Pfurtscheller Gert , Grabner Roland H. , Brunner Clemens , Neuper Christa
Published: July 2007

The heart rate (HR) can be modulated by diverse mental activities ranging from stimulus anticipation to higher order cognitive information processing. In the present study we report on HR changes during word translation and examine how the HR is influenced by the difficulty of the translation task. Twelve students of translation and interpreting were presented English high‐ and low‐frequency words as well as familiar and unfamiliar technical terms that had to be translated into German. Analyses revealed that words of higher translation difficulty were accompanied by a more pronounced HR deceleration than words that were easier to translate. We additionally show that anticipatory HR deceleration and HR changes induced by motor preparation and activity due to typing the translation do not depend on task difficulty. These results provide first evidence of a link between task difficulty in language translation and event‐related HR changes.
Novel microsatellite markers for the saltmarsh sharp‐tailed sparrow, Ammodramus caudacutus (Aves: Passeriformes)
Authors: HILL CHRISTOPHER E. , TOMKO SCOTT , HAGEN CRIS , SCHABLE NANCY A. , GLENN TRAVIS C.
Published: July 2007

We have developed eight high‐quality microsatellite DNA loci for the saltmarsh sharp‐tailed sparrow and one additional locus with evidence of null alleles. In a sample of 250–350 individuals, the average number of alleles per locus was 14.7 and average observed heterozygosity was 0.80. These loci were tested in three additional species of emberizid sparrows, indicating that more than half of the loci could be useful in other sparrows.
Between workfare and enablement – The different paths to transformation of the welfare state: A comparative analysis of activating labour market policies
Authors: DINGELDEY IRENE
Published: July 2007

Abstract.  The concepts that address different paths to transformation of the welfare state as a ‘workfare’, an ‘enabling’ or an ‘activating’ state share the idea that traditional welfare policies, mostly aiming at decommodification, are more and more replaced by social policies emphasising (re‐)commodification. Activating labour market policy therefore is supposed to play a central role within the paradigm shift of welfare state policies. It is understood to involve a mix of the enforcement of labour market participation, the conditioning of rights and growing obligations of the individual at one side, and an increase of services in order to promote employability and restore social equity at the other. In this article, the different perceptions of the workfare and the enabling state perspectives on the positive and negative aspects of activating policies are reconstructed as ‘pure forms’ in order to obtain theoretical standards against which the empirical cases of activating labour market policies in Denmark, the United Kingdom and Germany are characterised and compared. The actual reform path is described by a combination of two indicators: the strength of the workfare and the strength of the enabling elements of the activating labour market policies. The evidence on activating labour market reforms confirms that in both dimensions a move in the same direction is taking place, but without producing growing convergence. Different welfare state types keep on producing different mixes of workfare and enabling policies, leading to very different levels of decommodification and (re‐)commodification. Thus, an ongoing divergence of policies also exists within the new paradigm of an activating labour market policy, although single countries seem to change their alignment to a particular welfare state type.
Vertebral Stabilization Using Positively Threaded Profile Pins and Polymethylmethacrylate, with or Without Laminectomy, for Spinal Canal Stenosis and Vertebral Instability Caused by Congenital Thoracic Vertebral Anomalies
Authors: AIKAWA TAKESHI , KANAZONO SHINICHI , YOSHIGAE YUKI , SHARP NICHOLAS J. H. , MUÑANA KAREN R.
Published: July 2007

Objective— To describe diagnostic findings, surgical technique, and outcome in dogs with thoracic spinal canal stenosis and vertebral instability secondary to congenital vertebral anomalies.

Study Design— Retrospective clinical study.

Animals— Dogs (n=9) with thoracic spinal canal stenosis.

Methods— Medical records (1995–1996; 2000–2006) of 9 dogs with a myelographic diagnosis of spinal canal stenosis and/or vertebral instability secondary to congenital vertebral anomaly that were surgically managed by vertebral stabilization with or without laminectomy were reviewed. Data on pre‐ and postoperative neurologic status, diagnostic findings, surgical techniques, and outcomes were retrieved. Follow‐up evaluations were performed at 1, 2, and 6 months. Long‐term outcome was assessed by means of clinical examination or owner telephone interviews.

Results— Spinal cord compression was confirmed by myelography, and in 2 dogs, dynamic compression by stress myelography. Eight dogs regained the ability to ambulate postoperatively. One dog with a partial recovery regained voluntary movement but did not become ambulatory.

Conclusions— Spinal cord injury secondary to congenital vertebral anomaly may have a good outcome when treated by vertebral stabilization with or without laminectomy. Adequate stabilization of the vertebrae and improved neurologic outcome were achieved in most dogs.

Clinical Relevance— Vertebral stabilization using positively threaded profile pins and polymethylmethacrylate with or without laminectomy is an effective treatment for spinal canal stenosis and vertebral instability secondary to congenital thoracic vertebral anomalies.
Kinematic Study of Back Movement in Clinically Sound Malinois Dogs with Consideration of the Effect of Radiographic Changes in the Lumbosacral Junction
Authors: GRADNER GABRIELE , BOCKSTAHLER BARBARA , PEHAM CHRISTIAN , HENNINGER WOLFGANG , PODBREGAR IZTOK
Published: July 2007

Objective—To determine thoracolumbar spinal movement in dogs and the influence of subclinical radiographic changes involving the lumbosacral junction.

Study Design—Experimental study.

Animals—Clinically sound Malinois dogs (n=22).

Methods—Kinematic analysis of markers on the spinal processes of C7, T6, T13, L3, L7, and S3 was performed while dogs were walking on a treadmill. Range of motion (ROM) in the transverse and vertical direction and the time of occurrence (TOO) of the maximal marker position were calculated. ROM and TOO of angulations formed by the corresponding markers were calculated. Initial kinematic analysis was performed without knowledge of the radiographic changes, and then data were reanalyzed to determine whether vertebral changes influenced back motion. Based on the results of radiographic analysis of the lumbosacral junction, dogs were divided into 3 groups: 1=no radiographic changes; 2=shortened L7 vertebra; and 3=transitional vertebrae, spondylosis, subluxations, and spondylarthrosis of the lumbosacral junction. ROM and TOO were compared using ANOVA for repeated measures and a Bonferroni's post hoc test;P<.05 was considered significant.

Results—The highest transverse ROM was achieved by markers T6, T13, and L3, and in the vertical direction by S3; however, there were no significant differences in ROM in horizontal angulations. In the sagittal plane, T13–L3–L7 had a lower angulation than L3–L7–S3. In Group 3, transverse ROM for C7 was significantly higher than in Group 1; the horizontal angular maximum of T13–L3–L7 occurred significantly earlier.

Conclusions—Significant kinematic changes were detected between clinically sound dogs with radiographic lumbosacral changes and dogs with no radiographic abnormalities.

Clinical Relevance—Kinematic data from clinically sound dogs can be used for comparison with data from dogs with gait disturbances associated with orthopedic or neurologic disease or changes associated with therapy.
Shape Evolution of Pb (Zr,Ti)O3 Nanocrystals Under Hydrothermal Conditions
Authors: Ren Zhaohui , Xu Gang , Wei Xiao , Liu Yong , Shen Ge , Han Gaorong
Published: July 2007

Pb (Zr,Ti)O3 nanocrystals with different morphologies have been prepared hydrothermally with poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) as surfactants. The morphology of Pb (Zr,Ti)O3 nanocrystals develops from a particle to a rod and then a wire by adjusting the ratio of PVA/PAA and reaction time in a hydrothermal system. The mixed surfactant system has been shown to promote anisotropic growth effectively and thus the formation of nanorods and single crystalline nanowires of Pb (Zr,Ti)O3. A possible mechanism for such a shape evolution of nanocrystals is simply discussed.
Development of an Adhesive System for Bonding to Hard Tooth Tissues
Authors: Bowen R. L. , Marjenhoff W. A.
Published: July 2007

The development of an adhesion system for bonding dental composites to dentin and enamel is reviewed. Building on findings concerning adhesion to enamel, a field pioneered by Dr. Michael Buonocore and others, Dr. R.L. Bowen and his colleagues at the Paffenbarger Research Center, National Institute of Standards and Technology, began addressing and solving problems associated with (1) silicate cements and unfilled resins, (2) bonding in an aqueous environment, and (3) the development of an adhesion system for both dentin and enamel that could withstand various stresses. Although commercial products based on this adhesion system are currently available in the dental materials marketplace, experimentation continues, focusing on the synthesis of potentially better component analogs, the optimization of the individual components, and on improved storage stability and ease of synthesis.
Shear Bond Strength of Dicor Using Resin Adhesive Systems and Light Activated Cement
Authors: Barkmeier Wayne W. , Latta Mark A.
Published: July 2007

A laboratory study was conducted to determine the shear bond strength to dentin of etched and silane‐treated Dicor castable ceramic glass using a resin cement and newer generation adhesive systems. scanning electron microscopy (SEW examinations were also completed to evaluate the failure sites. The mean shear bond strength of the control (resin cement only, no adhesive system) was 2.1 ± 1.2 MPa. The shear bond strength values determjned for the adhesive systems and resin cement are as follows: Prisma Universal Bond 2, 18.7 ± 2.9; XR Primer/XR Bond, 16.9 ± 6.4: Scotchbond 2, 15.8 ± 6.2; Tenure Solution. 15.4 ± 4.5; and Gluma, 14.8 ± 5.5 MPa. SEM examinations of the debonded specimens attached with prisms Universal Bond 2 and Tenure Solution showed a complex failure pattern with cohesive failure in the glass ceramic material and adhesive failure between the resin cement and the etched and silane‐treated glass surface. The debonding pattern of specimens attached with XR Primer/XR Bond. Scotchbond 2 and Gluma were primarily adhesive between the dentin and resin materials. The results of thfs study support the use of an adhesive system in conjunction with a resin cement for placement of Dim castable ceramic restorations.
Bond Strength of Composite Resin to Enamel Bleached with Carbamide Peroxide
Authors: Cvitko Elizabeth , Denehy Gerald E. , Swift Edward J. , Pires Jose Antonio F.
Published: July 2007

Bleaching with 35 percent hydrogen peroxide causes enamel surface changes, which result in lower bond strengths of composite resin. Although a previous SEM study showed that home bleaching with 10 percent carbamide peroxide does not cause such surface changes, the results of our study indicate that carbamide peroxide bleaching reduces the shear bond strength of composite to etched enamel. Removal of surface enamel, however, restores bond strengths to normal levels.
In Vitro Tensile Bond Strengths of Amalgam to Treated Dentin
Authors: DeSchepper Edward J. , Cailleteau J. G. , Roeder Leslie , Powers John M.
Published: July 2007

Since amalgam traditionally relies on undercuts in the tooth preparation for retention, extensive tooth structure must be removed for amalgam core build‐ups. In contrast, the ideal build‐up material would achieve its retention by directly bonding to tooth structure. This study compared tensile bond strengths of amalgam to dentin using All‐Bond Liner‐FX with three different dentin pretreatment conditions and Amalgambond according to the manufacturer's directions. One hundred and twenty dentin samples were tested. Groups 1‐3 used All‐Bond Liner‐FX as a bonding agent. Group 1 received a 15‐second application of 10 percent phosphoric acid on the dentin; Group 2 received the recommended dentin conditioner; and Group 3 received no dentin pretreatment. Group 4 used Amalgambond as the bonding agent after a 10‐second application of 10 percent citric acid/3 percent ferric chloride. Analysis of the data was conducted using both ANOVA and the Welbull statistic. Results of the analysis of variance Indicate that there were no statistical differences among mean tensile bond strengths for the three dentin pretreatment conditions using All‐Bond. All (30) of the Amalgambond specimens debonded prior to testing. The All‐Bond fracture data was well described by the Welbull function as evidenced by the high coefficient of determination (R2= 0.98 −0.99). Fracture analysis indicated that all of the Amalgambond failures were adhesive at the Amalgambond‐amalgam interface. All‐Bond fractures were mixed cohesive/adhesive failures indicating similar bonding to amalgam and dentin.
Rembrandt Whitening System and Quik Start Versatile Tooth Bleaching Systems
Authors: Ibsen Robert , Ouellet David
Published: July 2007

Both the Rembrandt Whitening System and Quik Start offer a conservative treatment of discolored teeth, with no adverse reactions to hard or soft tissues reported. As well, patient satisfaction has been high.
Clinical Observations of Porcelain Veneers: A Three‐Year Report
Authors: Christensen Gordon J. , Christensen Rella P.
Published: July 2007

One hundred and sixty‐five Cerinate porcelain veneers were placed by 11 private practice clinicians from diverse locations throughout the USA. The veneers were evaluated over a 3‐year service period using Kodachrome photographs and grading of clinical characteristics by evaluators. The following factors were evaluated: (1) esthetics; (2) margin fit; (3) margin discoloration; (4) breakage; (5) gingival irritation; (6) patient acceptance; and (7) caries. Specific characteristics and their evaluations over three years were: (1) Esthetics started out excellent and remained that way; (2) Margin fit was acceptable at the beginning of the study and was actually perceived to improve, perhaps related to cement at the margins wearing and smoothing; (3) Margin discoloration started very low and became slightly worse; (4) Breakage was present during each of the 3 years, and 13 percent of veneers had some breakage after 3 years. Changes in clinical procedures are suggested in this paper to diminish this problem; (5) Gingival irritation was minimal throughout the study; (6) Patient acceptance was excellent at the beginning of the study and improved; and (7) Dental caries involvement was minimal, with only one veneered tooth showing caries involvement. Over the 3‐year period, the veneers provided excellent service overall.
Staphylococcal enterotoxin C1‐induced pyrogenic cytokine production in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells is mediated by NADPH oxidase and nuclear factor‐kappa B
Authors: Su Chun‐Li , Cheng Chun‐Chun , Lin Mao‐Tsun , Yeh Hsiao‐Chun , Lee Meng‐Chou , Lee Jenq‐Chang , Won Shen‐Jeu
Published: July 2007

The staphylococcal enterotoxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus are associated with pyrogenic response in humans and primates. This study investigates the role of NADPH oxidase and nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) on enterotoxin staphylococcal enterotoxin C1 (SEC1)‐induced pyrogenic cytokine production in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). The results indicate that the febrile response to the supernatant fluids of SEC1‐stimulated PBMC in rabbits was in parallel with the levels of interleukin‐1β and interleukin‐6 in the supernatants. The release of interleukin‐1β and interleukin‐6, nuclear translocation of NF‐κB and its DNA binding activity in the SEC1‐stimulated PBMC were time‐dependent and were completely eliminated by pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate or SN‐50 (NF‐κB inhibitors). The release of reactive oxygen species in the supernatants and translocation of the NADPH oxidase p47phox subunit to the plasma membrane of SEC1‐stimulated PBMC were time‐dependent. Administration of apocynin (NADPH oxidase inhibitor) attenuated the febrile response to the supernatants in rabbits and decreased the translocation of NADPH oxidase p47phox subunit and NF‐κB activity in the SEC1‐stimulated PBMC, and suppressed reactive oxygen species and pyrogenic cytokine production in the supernatants. Taken together, SEC1 may act through an NADPH oxidase mechanism to release reactive oxygen species, which activate NF‐κB in PBMC to stimulate the synthesis of pyrogenic cytokines that trigger a fever response in rabbits.
Searching for the reionization sources
Authors: Choudhury T. Roy , Ferrara A.
Published: July 2007

Using a reionization model simultaneously accounting for a number of experimental data sets, we investigate the nature and properties of reionization sources. Such a model predicts that hydrogen reionization starts at z≈ 15, is initially driven by metal-free (Population III) stars, and is 90 per cent complete by z≈ 8. We find that a fraction fγ > 80 per cent of the ionizing power at z≥ 7 comes from haloes of mass M < 109 M⊙ predominantly harbouring Population III stars; a turnover to a Population II dominated phase occurs shortly after, with this population, residing in M > 109 M⊙ haloes, yielding fγ≈ 60 per cent at z= 6. Using Lyman-break broad-band dropout techniques, J-band detection of sources contributing to 50 per cent (90 per cent) of the ionizing power at z∼ 7.5 requires reaching a magnitude J110,AB= 31.2 (31.7), where ∼ 15 (30) (Population III) sources arcmin−2 are predicted. We conclude that z > 7 sources tentatively identified in broad-band surveys are relatively massive (M≈ 109 M⊙) and rare objects which are only marginally (≈1 per cent) adding to the reionization photon budget.
Levels of comfort and ease among patients suffering from urinary incontinence
Authors: Rassin Michal , Dubches Liora , Libshitz Ana , Adar Eira , Duvish Tamara
Published: July 2007

Urinary incontinence is a common phenomenon among women, which harms social ties and is perceived as embarrassing and incurable. Despite its prevalence, there are few studies that have examined how those affected by this syndrome feel. The goal of this study was to examine the personal characteristics and levels of comfort among women suffering from urinary incontinence. The study included 50 women who had been diagnosed as suffering from urinary incontinence. The participants answered the Urinary Incontinence and Frequency Comfort Questionnaire, which examines levels of physical, mental, social and environmental comfort. α reliability has been found to be high in previous studies (α= 0·82). Our findings indicated that urinary incontinence occurred among the patients from several times a day to several times a week caused by sneezing, coughing and laughing. Most participants delayed treatment for up to 3 years. The general level of comfort was identified as medium low (SD = 0·04, M= 2·95) from a possible range of 1–6. Particularly low levels of comfort were recorded on items such as ‘I feel clean and fresh,’‘finding a toilet in close proximity is a worrisome issue when I exit the house’ and ‘I fear having sex due to the urinary incontinence problem’. Identifying patients’ needs and understanding their emotions are a useful basis for nursing intervention in promoting quality of life.
Constructionist Perspectives on the Life Course
Authors: Holstein James A. , Gubrium Jaber F.
Published: July 2007

This article reviews recent developments in constructionist approaches to life course studies. It outlines the general tenets of social constructionism and compares and contrasts two contemporary constructionist perspectives on the life course.
Mechanical Behavior of Alloy AA6111 Processed by Severe Plastic Deformation: Modeling and Experiment
Authors: Estrin Yuri , Rhee KiHo , Lapovok Rimma , Thomson Peter F.
Published: July 2007

An established dislocation density related, one-internal variable model was used, with some modifications, as a basis for modeling the mechanical response of aluminum alloy AA6111. In addition to conventional rolling, equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) was used to produce a wide range of grain sizes, down to the submicrometer scale. The samples were heat treated before and after both processes to optimize tensile ductility. Implementation of the model to uniaxial tensile response of the conventionally rolled and the ECAP processed materials confirmed its good predictive capability. The model was further used to formulate simple relations between true uniform strain and the constitutive parameters that allow reliable prediction of the uniform elongation.
Evaluation of Flow Stresses of Tubular Materials Considering Anisotropic Effects by Hydraulic Bulge Tests
Authors: Hwang Yeong-Maw , Lin Yi-Kai
Published: July 2007

This paper aims to evaluate the stress-strain characteristics of tubular materials considering their anisotropic effects by hydraulic bulge tests and a proposed analytical model. In this analytical model, Hill’s orthogonal anisotropic theory was adopted for deriving the effective stresses and effective strains under a biaxial stress state. Annealed AA6011 aluminum tubes and SUS409 stainless-steel tubes were used for the bulge test. The tube thickness at the pole, bulge height, and the internal forming pressure were measured simultaneously during the bulge test. The effective stress-effective strain relations could be determined by those measured values and this proposed analytical model. The flow stress curves of the tubular materials obtained by this approach were compared with those obtained by the tensile test with consideration of the anisotropic effect. The finite element method was also adopted to conduct the simulations of hydraulic bulge forming with the flow stress curves obtained by the bulge tests and tensile tests. The analytical forming pressures versus bulge heights were compared with the experimental results to validate the approach proposed in this paper.
In Vitro Activity of Telavancin against Gram-Positive Clinical Isolates Recently Obtained in Europe
Authors: Jansen W. T. M. , Verel A. , Verhoef J. , Milatovic D.
Published: July 2007

The in vitro activity of telavancin was tested against 620 gram-positive isolates. For staphylococci, MICs at which 50 and 90% of isolates were inhibited (MIC
50
and MIC
90
) were both 0.25 μg/ml, irrespective of methicillin resistance. MIC
50
and MIC
90
were 0.25 and 0.5 μg/ml for vancomycin-susceptible enterococci and 1 and 2 μg/ml for vancomycin-resistant enterococci, respectively.
Streptococcus pneumoniae
, group A and B beta-hemolytic streptococci, and viridans streptococci were inhibited by ≤0.12 μg/ml.