bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-Assembled Ultra-thin Silica Layers for On-Chip Chromatography
Authors: Choi Sun , Park Inkyu , Pisano Albert P
Published: September 2009

We propose a novel method for self-assembled packing of silica microsphere in micro-channel which can be potentially used for on-chip chromatography. Chromatography has been one of the most widely used techniques for the analysis and separation of the mixtures of biochemical compounds in research laboratories and industrial factories. Numerous chromatography techniques such as High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) use absorbents (ex: silica, alumina, cellulose) as stationary phase material [1]. Effective loading of absorbents in those techniques has been a huge challenge since it requires additional implementation of high-pressure pump system (for HPLC) or limits selective coating of absorbents on supporting plate (for TLC). In order for chromatography to be efficiently integrated with micro-fluidic Lab-on-a-chip devices, novel techniques for easy and simple packing of absorbents within micro channels should be developed.

Solvent-evaporation based 2-D crystallization technique [2] can enable mono-dispersed micro-particles to be self-assembled by capillary attractive forces. We apply this technique to assemble dense packing of silica microsphere and form ultra thin layers (2˜3 layers) within open microchannel. Open micro-channel has been constructed by conventional photolithography of SU8 photoresist. A small droplet (Volume: 0.1μL) of silica suspension (Diameter: 3μm, Solvent: DI Water, Concentration: 1.25wt%) has been placed in the defined inlet of micro channel. Capillary force within the open SU8 microchannel induces the flow of silica suspension in the channel. The packing of microsphere starts from the outlet side of the channel, where the thickness of solvent drastically decreases due to sudden increase of cross-sectional area of channel, and this packing propagates to the inlet side of the channel until solvent evaporates completely. As a result, a dense packing of silica microspheres are successfully assembled and a thin layer of silica microspheres are formed within open micro-channel.

We will present the characterization of silica packing with regard to various process parameters and also will include theoretical interpretation of this packing technique in more detail. We will also present our future approach to integrate our technique on-chip chromatography applications.
Inkjet Printing of Enzymes for Glucose Sensors
Authors: Cook Christopher , Wang TianMing , Derby Brian
Published: September 2009

Drop on demand inkjet printing is a potential method for depositing enzymes onto electrodes for sensor applications. This technology offers drop sizes in the region of picolitres and allows a production rate up to 200 mm/s. This enables not only a more rapid method of device prototyping but also a method for possible miniaturization of the sensors themselves. However, previous work [1] has indicated that inkjet printing may cause a drop in the retained activity of the enzyme.

Here we assess the criticality of this drop in activity and how it may have been influenced by changes to the protein structure during printing. The enzyme used is glucose oxidase and the test methods include; protein analysis, in the form of analytical ultra-centrifugation and circular dichroism, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and phase contrast microscopy, to analyse the surface topology of the electrodes and contact angle analysis, to assess the degree of spreading and the interactions between the drops and the electrode surface.

With glucose oxidase there is no change in the conformation, structure or hydrodynamic radius of the protein after printing. The analysis of the electrode surface shows a relatively smooth surface that is made up of individual graphite flakes laid down by a screen printing method. When contact angle and spreading analysis is carried out it demonstrates reliability in the printing process as well as a drop in the sessile volume of the drop in conjunction with a growth in the base diameter of the drop as expected. It also demonstrates a fairly quick rate of evaporation of the drop. Upon the addition of surfactants to the solution the spreading is seen to be more extensive in relation to the surfactant concentration, although some initial reduction in experienced at low concentrations which may be due to the absorption into the carbon surface.
Study of Biosensors Based on Fe Nanowires
Authors: hao Yang , Yuquan Chen
Published: September 2009

Anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template was prepared by using anodizing voltage step-decreasing method after two-step oxide method. Based on AAO template, Fe nanowires arrays were electrochemically deposited. Fe nanowires were coated by chitosan. Fe nanowires/chitosan was synthesized by glutaraldehyde as cross-linking reagent. By crosslinking α-human chorionic gonadotropin (α-HCG), biological probes with Fe nanowires/chitosan/antibody were prepared. An easy operating, easy taking and rapid reacting magnetic detecting system was developed after optimizing the geometry parameters of detect coil. Different concentration samples with 1, 2 and 5 g(Fe)/L were detected. The results show that the sensitivity of system is 0.2 g(Fe)/L and can be improve better.
Complications and Solutions in Presurgical Nasoalveolar Molding Therapy
Authors: Levy-Bercowski Daniel , Abreu Amara , DeLeon Eladio , Looney Stephen , Stockstill John , Weiler Michael , Santiago Pedro E.
Published: September 2009

Objective:

To outline three main categories of nasoalveolar molding complications, describe their etiologies and manifestations, and prescribe preventive and palliative therapy for their proper management. Estimates of the incidence of each complication also are provided.

Materials and Methods:

Data were collected retrospectively from the charts of 27 patients with complete unilateral cleft lip and palate treated by the first author (D.L.-B.) at the University of Puerto Rico (n  =  12) and the Medical College of Georgia (n  =  15). Confidence intervals for the true incidence of each complication were calculated using exact methods based on the binomial distribution. A significance level of .05 was used for all statistical tests.

Results:

Of the soft and hard tissue complications considered, only one (tissue irritation) had an estimated incidence greater than 10%. Compliance issues were of greater concern, with an estimated incidence of 30% for broken appointments and an estimated incidence of 26% for removal of the nasoalveolar molding appliance by the tongue.

Conclusions:

Although benefits outnumber the complications, it is important to address all complications in order to prevent any deleterious outcomes.
Searching for Genes for Cleft Lip and/or Palate Based on Breakpoint Analysis of a Balanced Translocation t(9;17)(q32;q12)
Authors: Machida Junichiro , Félix Têmis M. , Murray Jeffrey C. , Yoshiura Koh-ichiro , Tanemura Mitsuyo , Kamamoto Munefumi , Shimozato Kazuo , Sonta Shin-ichi , Ono Takao
Published: September 2009

Objective:

Identification of the breakpoints of disease-associated chromosome rearrangements can provide informative clues to a positional cloning approach for genes responsible for inherited diseases. Recently, we found a three-generation Japanese family segregating balanced chromosome translocation t(9;17)(q32;q12). One of the subjects had cleft lip and palate. We examined whether regions near the breakpoint could be associated with cleft lip and/or palate.

Methods:

We determined the breakpoints involved in the translocation by fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis and subsequent long-range polymerase chain reaction. In order to study the role of these disrupted regions in nonsyndromic cleft lip and/or palate, we performed mutation analysis and a haplotype-based transmission disequilibrium test using tagging single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the flanking regions of the breakpoints in white and Filipino nonsyndromic cleft lip and/or palate populations.

Results:

Sequence analysis demonstrated that two genes, SLC31A1 (solute carrier family 31 member 1) on chromosome 9 and CCL2 (chemokine ligand 2) on chromosome 17, were rearranged with the breaks occurring within their introns. It is interesting that SLC31A1 lies closed to BSPRY (B-box and SPRY domain), which is a candidate for involvement with cleft lip and/or palate. Some of the variants in BSPRY and CCL2 showed significant p values in the cleft lip and/or palate population compared with the control population. There was also statistically significant evidence of transmission distortion for haplotypes on both chromosomes 9 and 17.

Conclusions:

The data support previous reports that genes on chromosomal regions of 9q and 17q play an important role in facial development.
Lobar Holoprosencephaly with a Median Cleft: Case Report
Authors: Gawrych Elżbieta , Janiszewska-Olszowska Joanna , Walecka Anna , Syryńska Maria , Chojnacka Hanna
Published: September 2009

Holoprosencephaly is a congenital abnormality of the prosencephalon associated with median facial defects. Its frequency is 1 in 250 pregnancies and 1 in 16,000 live births. The degree of facial deformity usually correlates with the severity of brain malformation. Early mortality is prevalent in severe forms. This report presents a child with lobar holoprosencephaly accompanied by median cleft lip and palate. The treatment and 9 months’ follow-up are presented. This unique case shows that holoprosencephaly may present different manifestations of craniofacial malformations, which are not always parallel to the severity of brain abnormalities. Patients with mild to moderate brain abnormalities may survive into childhood and beyond.
Volumetric Assessment of Secondary Alveolar Bone Grafting Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Oberoi Snehlata , Chigurupati Radhika , Gill Pawandeep , Hoffman William Y. , Vargervik Karin
Published: September 2009

Objective:

To assess the radiographic outcome of secondary alveolar bone grafting in individuals with nonsyndromic unilateral or bilateral cleft lip and palate using cone beam computed tomography.

Methods:

This prospective study was conducted at the University of California at San Francisco Center for Craniofacial Anomalies on 21 consecutive nonsyndromic complete cleft lip and palate individuals between 8 and 12 years of age who required alveolar bone grafting. Seventeen unilateral and four bilateral cleft lip and palate individuals had preoperative and postoperative cone beam computed tomography scans that were analyzed using Amira 3.1.1 software.

Results:

The average volume of the preoperative alveolar cleft defect in unilateral cleft lip and palate was 0.61 cm3, and the combined average volume of the right and left alveolar cleft defects in bilateral cleft lip and palate was 0.82 cm3. The average percentage bone fill in both unilateral cleft lip and palate and bilateral cleft lip and palate was 84%. The outcome of alveolar bone grafting was assessed in relation to (1) type of cleft, (2) size of preoperative cleft defect, (3) presence or absence of lateral incisor, (4) root development stage of the maxillary canine on the cleft side, (5) timing, and (6) surgeon. None of these parameters significantly influenced the radiographic outcome of alveolar bone grafting.

Conclusions:

Secondary alveolar bone grafting of the cleft defect in our center was successful, based on radiographic outcome using cone beam computed tomography scans. Volume rendering using cone beam computed tomography and Amira software is a reproducible and practical method to assess the preoperative alveolar cleft volume and the adequacy of bone fill postoperatively.
Humoral Immune Deficiency and Hemifacial Microsomia Seen in One Family
Authors: Mikhak Zamaneh , Mulliken John B. , Lee John , Bonilla Francisco A. , Kimonis Virginia E.
Published: September 2009

We present a patient with hemifacial microsomia and immune deficiency. The patient is a 5-year-old with grade III microtia and Pruzansky type I right mandibular hypoplasia. She developed 25 pulmonary infections in 3 years, required hospitalization every 6 weeks to receive antibiotics, and experienced recurrent herpes stomatitis and esophagitis, staphylococcal bacteremia, urinary tract, sinus, and ear infections. She had low total IgG, IgG1, IgG2, IgA, and anti-pneumococcal antibody levels. She was unable to maintain protective pneumococcal titers following vaccination. The patient's 7-year-old sister also suffered from recurrent infections, had a left facial skin tag, and a left arachnoid cyst. We conclude that immune deficiency can occur in association with hemifacial microsomia.
Strategic tradeoffs for wildlife‐friendly eco‐labels
Authors: Treves Adrian , Jones Stephanie Michelle
Published: September 2009

Labels on products are meant to influence consumer behavior. Consumers buying products labeled as eco‐friendly may hope to help conserve the environment, but eco‐labels vary in their claims and credibility. We define three types of wildlife‐friendly eco‐labels, according to their potential to conserve wildlife, and describe barriers to convincing consumers of their claims. Eco‐labels we term “Supportive” donate revenues to conservation organizations and are, at best, indirect interventions, opaque to consumer scrutiny. “Persuasive” eco‐labels certify manufacturing/collection practices, under the assumption that wildlife will benefit as a result. “Protective” eco‐labels certify wildlife conservation, which can gain the highest level of credibility, but require the greatest verification effort. Proving that producers conserved wildlife is costly, time‐consuming, and technically challenging, because wild animals ignore property boundaries and experience mortality and dispersal irrespective of people, but their population dynamics often obscure the role of human activities and economic practices. Nevertheless, wild animals are among the most inspiring and marketable components of the environment.
Bacterial Penetration Through Antibiotic‐Loaded Guided Tissue Regeneration Membranes
Authors: Cheng Chi‐Fang , Lee Ya‐Yun , Chi Lin‐Yang , Chen Yen‐Ting , Hung Shan‐Ling , Ling Li‐Jane
Published: September 2009

Background: This study compared bacterial penetration through guided tissue regeneration (GTR) membranes impregnated with antibiotics.

Methods: Three barrier membranes, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) membrane, collagen membrane, and glycolide fiber composite membrane, were loaded with amoxicillin or tetracycline. The penetration of Streptococcus mutans and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (previously Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans) through the GTR membranes was achieved using a device consisting of an inner tube and an outer bottle filled with culture media.

Results: The penetration of S. mutans or A. actinomycetemcomitans into the inner tubes significantly decreased with all of the antibiotic‐loaded membranes compared to membranes without antibiotics. However, differences were found in the behavior of the three membranes. The antibiotic‐loaded ePTFE membranes showed the best barrier effect. Moreover, the inhibitory effect of tetracycline on S. mutans was greater than that of amoxicillin for all GTR membranes. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of tetracycline on A. actinomycetemcomitans was lower than that of amoxicillin with the glycolide fiber membrane.

Conclusions: The results showed that penetration of S. mutans and A. actinomycetemcomitans through amoxicillin‐ or tetracycline‐loaded ePTFE membrane, glycolide fiber membrane, and collagen membrane was delayed and/or reduced. Thus, incorporation of an antibiotic into the membrane may be of value when controlling membrane‐associated infection during GTR therapy.
Correlation of Gingival Crevicular Fluid Interleukin‐18 and Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein‐1 Levels in Periodontal Health and Disease
Authors: Pradeep A.R. , Daisy Happy , Hadge Parag , Garg Garima , Thorat Manojkumar
Published: September 2009

Background: Interleukin (IL)‐18 is a proinflammatory cytokine of the IL‐1 superfamily and is unique, with the capacity to induce T‐helper (Th)1 or Th2 differentiation depending on the immunologic context. Monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)‐1 is a CC chemokine responsible for chemotaxis of monocytes. A previous study showed the induction of MCP‐1 by IL‐18 in mice macrophages. The present study was carried out to examine the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) levels of IL‐18 and MCP‐1 in periodontal health and disease and to evaluate any correlation between IL‐18 and MCP‐1 GCF levels.

Methods: Sixty subjects (30 males and 30 females; age range: 26 to 49 years) participated in the study. The subjects were initially divided into three groups, consisting of 20 subjects in each group, based on the gingival index, probing depth (PD), clinical attachment loss (AL), and radiologic parameters (bone loss): healthy (group 1), gingivitis (group 2), and periodontitis (group 3), whereas patients in group 3 after treatment constituted group 4. GCF samples were collected from all of the groups to estimate the levels of IL‐18 and MCP‐1 using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: The mean IL‐18 and MCP‐1 concentrations in GCF were highest in group 3 (330.61 pg/μl and 73.3 pg/μl, respectively). The results suggest that IL‐18 and MCP‐1 levels increased in GCF from periodontal health to disease and decreased after periodontal therapy. Levels of IL‐18 and MCP‐1 positively correlated with PD and clinical AL in group 3. In addition, IL‐18 and MCP‐1 levels significantly correlated with each other in groups 2, 3, and 4.

Conclusions: GCF IL‐18 and MCP‐1 concentrations increased in periodontal disease compared to health and correlated positively with the severity of disease. Further, based on the positive correlation of IL‐18 and MCP‐1 found in this study, it can be proposed that IL‐18 may promote an inflammatory response by the induction of MCP‐1 production and the subsequent recruitment and activation of circulating leukocytes at the inflammatory site.
How did they get here? The biogeography of the marine molluscs of the Azores
Authors: Ávila Sérgio P. , Marques Da Silva Carlos , Schiebel Ralf , Cecca Fabbrizzio , Backeljau Thierry , De Frias Martins António M.
Published: September 2009

The geographical location of the Azores, midway between Europe and America, poses problems relative to their colonization and the biogeographic affinity of the biota presently living there. In the way of the Gulf Stream, originating off American shores, the Azorean biota, marine and terrestrial alike is predominantly European. To explain this distributional paradigm the present study investigates the Neogene fossil record of Santa Maria, Azores in order to establish the biogeographical relationships of the Pleistocene to Recent littoral molluscan fauna of this archipelago. The bulk of the Azorean malacofauna, both in the Pleistocene (71.3%) and in Recent times (75.6%) is biogeographically related with the eastern Atlantic, and that the Pleistocene (Eemian) fossil fauna is basically the same as the Recent fauna, with a few losses of tropical species and of shallow water bivalves associated to fine sand substrates.

It is hypothesized that during Pleistocene glacial-interglacial cycles, short-duration events have occurred during which short-lived oceanic currents must have been established, especially during or shortly after glacial terminations. During these short-term events, the arrival of species to the Azores may have been increased and facilitated by temporary sea-surface currents that no longer exist now. Probable routes of dispersal to the archipelago of the Azores are also discussed, as well as the possible influence of the Pleistocene glaciations in the shallow water marine molluscs of these islands.
Late Silurian and Early Devonian Beyrichioidea from Gondwana and Perigondwanan terranes and their palaeobiogeographical implications
Authors: Dojen Claudia
Published: September 2009

The Late Silurian to Early Devonian palaeogeography and the question whether there has been a large and deep Rheic Ocean between Laurussia and Gondwana is still a matter of discussion. It has been assumed in many papers that the Rheic Ocean formed a palaeogeographical barrier and, therefore, Gondwana had no common beyrichioidean ostracode faunas with Laurussia before the Emsian. The appearance of ostracodes (particularly the beyrichioideans) in Gondwana at this time should testify the closure of the Rheic Ocean. Although some palaeogeographic reconstructions consider common ostracodes in Laurussia and the Perigondwanan areas Armorica and Perunica in the Lochkovian, they do not refer to occurrences in Gondwana. However, several publications describe late Silurian to Pragian beyrichioideans from Gondwana and adjoined Terranes (Perigondwana), thus questioning the existence of the Rheic Ocean at this time. This paper aims to summarize the occurrences of common beyrichioidean ostracodes from (Peri-)Gondwana and Laurussia in an attempt to provide a reliable data source for future work. The occurrences of beyrichioideans from North Africa, South America, southeastern Turkey, Ibero-Armorica, and the Ossa Morena Zone (Spain) are reviewed and their ages are partially re-dated through correlation with other faunas. The presented results indicate that shallow marine migration paths must have existed, thus strengthening the arguments against the Rheic Ocean.
Pacific elements in the Caribbean Neogene gastropod fauna: the source-sink model, larval development, disappearance, and faunal units
Authors: Landau Bernard , Marques Da Silva Carlos , Vermeij Geerat
Published: September 2009

A key fact in the history of Neogene Caribbean marine molluscs is the disappearance of the “paciphile” taxa that occurred throughout Tropical America during the Miocene and the Pliocene, but subsequently suffered a range contraction, and became largely or entirely restricted to the eastern Pacific portion of their original distribution. What forces led to the disappearance of these paciphile taxa in the Atlantic portion of their original distribution is at present unclear, as there seem to be no obvious common environmental factor or ecological requirements uniting this paciphilic assemblage of taxa. It is suggested that for paciphile species the emergence of the isthmus during the Late Pliocene cut off the source populations of the planktonically-dispersing molluscs dependent on Pacific source populations. The sink populations thus became stranded on the Atlantic coast of South America and elsewhere in the Caribbean, where they became unsustainable and eventually disappeared. A reappraisal of all known paciphile species indicates an inferred planktotrophic larval development, which supports this hypothesis.

Paciphiles did not disappear simultaneously, but seem to have suffered a steep decline during the Late Pliocene. A revision of all known gastropod paciphile generic, subgeneric and specific taxa allowed us to recognise three Gatunian Neogene Paciphile Molluscan Units (GNPMU). GNPMU 1 is characterized by the highest number of paciphile taxa. This unit is already in place in the Early Miocene and ends at the beginning of the Late Pliocene. GNPMU 2 is characterized by an impoverished number of paciphilic elements, devoid of the two largest paciphilic groups; the cancellarids and the muricids. This unit straddled the Pliocene-Pleistocene boundary and ends during the Early Pleistocene. GNPMU 3 is characterized by the absence of any paciphilic elements in their assemblages, and runs into Recent times.

Based on these paciphile generic, subgeneric and specific taxa, for the Gatunian Province, two pulses of local disappearance from the Atlantic portion of their original distribution can be identified. The first marked by the overall decrease in Atlantic paciphile diversity and the total disappearance of all the paciphilic cancellarids and muricids, roughly corresponding with the timing given for the closure of the CAS. The second marked by the complete disappearance of all paciphiles from the Atlantic roughly coincides with the total closure of all connections between the Atlantic and Pacific.
Plant Growth Regulator Effects on Balancing Vegetative and Reproductive Phases in Alfalfa Seed Yield
Authors: Zhang Tiejun , Wang Xianguo , Wang Yunwen , Han Jianguo , Mao Peisheng , Majerus Mark
Published: September 2009

The use of plant growth regulators (PGRs) has opened new prospects for increased seed production in grasses and legumes, but little information is available on the effects of PGRs on alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) seed production. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of applying chlormequat chloride (CCC) (2‐chloroethyl‐trimethyl‐ammonium chloride) in combination with five PGRs {naphthylacetic acid [1‐naphthylacetic acid], sodium nitrophenolate, gibberellic acid 3 [2,4a,7‐trihydroxy‐1‐methyl‐8‐methylenegibb‐3‐ene‐1,10‐carboxylic acid‐1, 4a‐lactone], triacontanol [1‐triacontanol], and brassinolide [(22R,23R,24R)‐2α,3α,22,23‐tetrahydroxy‐ β‐homo‐7‐oxa‐5α‐ergostan‐6‐one]} on seed yield, aboveground biomass, harvest index, plant height, basal stem diameter, lodging, yield components, and seed quality. Chlormequat chloride was applied annually at the stooling stage while five PGRs were applied twice each year at the stages of flower bud formation and peak flowering. We hypothesized that CCC would decrease plant height, while the five PGRs would increase flowering and seed set. In theory the combined application of CCC with a PGR would be more efficient in improving seed yield. All the PGRs increased the mean 3‐yr seed yield and harvest index by 10%, but did not affect aboveground biomass. Chlormequat chloride reduced plant height and lodging, but reduced mean seed yield. The effects of CCC on seed yield depended on climatic conditions. No interactions between CCC and PGR on seed yield were noted. Neither the PGRs nor the CCC affected seed quality. Our results suggest that these PGRs could be used in alfalfa breeding to increase seed yield while maintaining high seed quality.
Preplant Herbicides Don't Increase Forage Production of Cereal Rye Interseeded into Bermudagrass
Authors: Bruce Brandon , Kallenbach Robert L. , Bradley Kevin , Fuqua Ben
Published: September 2009

Interseeding cereal rye (Secale cereale L.) into a bermudagrass sod [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] can increase season‐long forage production and land use efficiency. However, previous research has shown that competition from the bermudagrass sod can significantly reduce autumn forage production from cereal rye. Our objective was to determine if the application of a preplant herbicide to a bermudagrass sod before interseeding cereal rye influenced seasonal or total annual forage dry matter (DM) yields in the southern temperate‐humid zone. In mid‐September, cereal rye was interseeded into bermudagrass after treating with (i) no herbicide, (ii) 1.37 kg a.i. ha−1 of paraquat dichloride (Gramoxone), or (iii) 0.56 kg a.i. ha−1 of clethodim (Select). The control treatment was bermudagrass sod that was neither treated with herbicide nor interseeded with cereal rye. Treating with Select reduced forage DM yield in the subsequent summer by as much as 35% compared with unseeded bermudagrass. Treating with Gramoxone did not improve forage DM yield in autumn. Forage DM yield was approximately 3300 to 4500 kg ha−1 greater in autumn and spring when cereal rye was interseeded into bermudagrass, but the net increase in forage DM yield for the cereal rye–bermudagrass system was only 1100 to 3300 kg ha−1 yr−1 greater than the unseeded control, which yielded 10,000 kg ha−1. Producers who stock growing or lactating animals in autumn or spring would benefit most from this practice because the cereal rye would be available for grazing at a time when many forage–livestock systems must use more expensive stored feedstuffs.
Tocopherols Concentration and Stability in Early Maturing Soybean Genotypes
Authors: Seguin Philippe , Turcotte Pierre , Tremblay Gilles , Pageau Denis , Liu Wucheng
Published: September 2009

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] is an important source of tocopherols which have health‐beneficial properties. A study was conducted to determine tocopherols concentration and stability in early maturing soybean genotypes and to determine their relationships to other important seed characteristics. Twenty soybean genotypes were grown in replicated trials in six environments of eastern Canada, and their total‐, α‐, γ‐, and δ‐tocopherol concentrations were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography. Seed yield, 100‐seed weight, and crude protein and oil concentrations were concurrently determined. Genotype and environment main effects and G × E interactions were observed for all tocopherols. Variations in the ranking of genotypes were, however, limited. Across environments and genotypes, relative proportions of α‐, δ‐, and γ‐tocopherol were 6, 34, and 60%, respectively. Variation in α‐tocopherol among genotypes was significant, with concentrations ranging between 8.7 and 33.2 μg g−1 across environments. Differences between environments were significant, albeit minimal, for all tocopherols; there was a 42% average variation in α‐tocopherol concentration across environments. Stability of genotypes for α‐tocopherol was not linked to mean concentration; however, some genotypes with high stability and mean concentration were identified, including the cultivar Heron. No correlations were observed between α‐tocopherol and any of the other seed characteristics investigated. However, negative correlations were observed between the other tocopherols and seed yield, 100‐seed weight, and crude protein. Tocopherols were positively correlated with each other, except for a negative correlation between α‐ and δ‐tocopherol. The large variation observed among genotypes for α‐tocopherol, the relatively high stability of genotypes performance across environments, and the lack of negative correlation with other important seed characteristics suggest that selection for high α‐tocopherol could be possible.
Nonsyndromic Deafness - Molecular Update
Authors: V.B Piatto , L.V. Secches , M.A.S. Arroyo , A.C.P. Lopes , J.V. Maniglia
Published: September 2009

In most cases, hearing loss is a disorder caused by both genetic and environmental factors. The molecular
description of deafness has experienced remarkable progress in the last decade, and it is emerging from the use of
contemporary methods of cell and molecular biology. Currently, through the application of clinical and molecular genetics
it is possible to identify genes associated with inherited, nonsyndromic deafness, and balance dysfunctions of the human
cochlea. This brief review provides insights into nonsyndromic hearing loss, since the identification of the molecular basis
for the inner ear function provides the basis for developing rational new approaches to diagnosis, management and
treatment of auditory and vestibular disorders.
Theoretical Basis for the Measurement of Small Differences in the Length of the Cell Cycle between Two Cell Populations
Authors: Sebastian Yakisich Juan
Published: September 2009

The length of the cell cycle (TC) is a tight regulated process and is important for proper development and
homeostasis. Although several methods are available for estimating the duration of the cell cycle, it is difficult to
determinate small differences of TC between two different cell populations due to biological and/or experimental
variability. A novel strategy based in co-cultivation of two cell strains followed by a series of dilution and propagation of
the culture will allow the quantification of very small differences in the length of two cell populations at resolution levels
not possible at present with current methods. This is achieved by a separation of the endpoint variable measured to
compare between two cell populations. The theoretical basis of this approach is discussed in the context of published
experimental data and simulation of idealized experiments using virtual strains of different cell cycle length.
Early Weight Bearing of Calcaneal Fractures Treated by Intraoperative 3D-Fluoroscopy and Locked-Screw Plate Fixation
Authors: Kienast B , Gille J , Queitsch C , Kaiser M.M , Thietje R , Juergens C , Schulz A.P
Published: September 2009

Operative therapy of intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus is an established surgical standard. The aim is an accurate reduction of the fracture with reconstruction of Boehler’s angle, length, axis and subtalar joint surface. Intraoperative 3D-fluoroscopy with the Siremobil Iso-C 3D® mobile C-arm system is a valuable assistant for accurate reconstruction of these anatomical structures. Remaining incongruities can be recognized and corrected intraoperatively. The achieved reduction can be fixed by the advantages of an internal fixator (locked-screw plate interface). In the period of October 2002 until April 2007 we operated 136 patients with intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus by means of anatomical reduction, and internal plate fixator under intraoperative control of 3D-fluoroscopy. All patients were supplied with an orthesis after the operation which allowed weight bearing of 10 kg for 12 weeks for the patients operated between October 2002 and October 2004 (Group A). Transient local osteoporosis was observed in all X-Rays at follow-up after an average of 8,6 months. Therefore we changed our postoperative treatment plan for the patients operated between November 2004 and April 2007 (Group B). Weight bearing started with 20 KG after 6 weeks, was increased to 40 KG after 8 weeks and full weight bearing was allowed after 10 weeks for these patients. In no case a secondary dislocation of the fracture was seen. No bone graft was used. At follow up the average American Foot and Ankle Society Score (AOFAS) were 81 for Group_A, compared to 84 for Group B, treated with earlier weight bearing. Autologous bone graft was not necessary even if weight bearing was started after a period of six weeks postoperatively. The combination of 3D-fluoroscopy with locked internal fixation showed promising results. If the rate of patients developing subtalar arthrosis will decrease by this management will have to be shown in long term follow up.
Subcutaneous vs Submuscular Ulnar Nerve Transposition in Moderate Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Jaddue Dhia A.K , Saloo Salwan A , Sayed-Noor Arkan S
Published: September 2009

Background:

The surgical treatment of Cubital tunnel syndrome (CubTS) is still a matter of debate. No consensus exists about the necessity of anterior transposition of the ulnar nerve after decompression. However, this technique is fairly common in clinical practice.

Material and Methodology:

In the present study we compared the operative technique (incision length, operative time), postoperative care (postoperative pain and complications) and the outcome between subcutaneous transposition and submuscular transposition of the ulnar nerve as two surgical modalities in treating moderate CubTS.

Between March 2004 and March 2007, twenty six patients with moderate CubTS (according to Dellon’s grading system) were stratified according to age and gender into these two surgical techniques. The two groups were prospectively followed up 2 weeks, 6 months and 12 months postoperatively by the same observer and the operation outcome was assessed using the Bishop rating system.

Results:

We found that the subcutaneous transposition of the ulnar nerve was associated with shorter incision, shorter operative time, less postoperative pain, less postoperative complication and better outcome compared with the submuscular transposition.

Conclusion:

The authors recommend the subcutaneous technique when considering anterior transposition of the ulnar nerve in treating moderate CubTS.
High-Risk Patients' Readiness to Undergo BMD Testing for Osteoporosis Diagnosis in Pennsylvania
Authors: Polinski Jennifer M. , Cadarette Suzanne M. , Arnold Marilyn , Katz Jeffrey N. , Finkelstein Joel S. , Brookhart M. Alan , Canning Claire , Avorn Jerry , Solomon Daniel H.
Published: September 2009

The objective of this study was to better understand high-risk patients' readiness to engage in bone mineral density (BMD) testing to diagnose osteoporosis. Six hundred thirty-six participants in a randomized control trial for patients at high-risk for osteoporosis were surveyed. BMD screening readiness was measured by a three-item summative index. Multivariable linear regression examined the relationship between patients' scores on the index and constructs of osteoporosis and BMD testing knowledge, concern for developing osteoporosis and self-efficacy to engage in fall prevention behaviors. Participants had a mean age of 79 years, 96% were female and 80% were white. Greater concern for developing osteoporosis and better knowledge about BMD testing were significant predictors of a higher score on the index. Improving high-risk patients' knowledge about osteoporosis and the importance of BMD testing may enhance patients' readiness to undergo BMD testing. We found several correlates of readiness to undergo BMD screening that may be used to design effective interventions.
The Influence of “Stock out” on Health-Seeking Behavior of Low Income Women in Uyo Urban, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Authors: Ikoh M. U. , Udo A. U. , Charles A. O. , Charles J. O.
Published: September 2009

The “Health for All Project” (HFAP) policy in Nigeria was complemented by the National Drug Policy to ensure constant availability of high quality drugs and medical consumables at affordable prices to citizens in public hospitals. Apart from strengthening the utilization of health services, the project also sought to improve health care delivery for the poor who could not afford the high cost of drugs in private clinics and pharmaceutical stores. Employing a survey method with stratified and systematic random techniques, the study found failed expectations in the promises of HFAP policy among the 1250 low-income women in Uyo urban. In the face of “stock out” where most drugs, pharmaceuticals, and medical supplies are consistently not available for dispensing in public hospitals and health centers poor urban women resorted to alternative health care in prayer houses, herbal homes, patent medicine vendors, health workers homes, and traditional birth attendants. The study reported that stock out in government health facilities resulted in health hazards and the relapse of illnesses as a result of non-adherence to treatment regime and exposure to fake, expired, and adulterated drugs. A renewed commitment in health care delivery in Nigeria is called for if poor women are to be really empowered.
Vertical Integration and Sabotage with a Regulated Bottleneck Monopoly
Authors: Bustos Alvaro E , Galetovic Alexander
Published: September 2009

We study the vertical integration and sabotage decisions of a regulated bottleneck monopoly that sells "access" to independent firms and may own a subsidiary downstream. We extend the literature in four directions by: (i) endogenizing vertical integration and linking it with the intensity of vertical economies or diseconomies à la Kaserman and Mayo (1991); (ii) systematically studying how vertical economies and diseconomies affect the intensity of sabotage; (iii) showing that the intensity of sabotage is determined by either a standard Lerner condition augmented by the direct cost of sabotage or a relation between the market share of the subsidiary and the elasticity of the derived demand for access; and (iv) systematically examining the welfare effect of vertical integration.
Consumer risk perception and addictive consumption behavior
Authors: Chen Hsiu-Li
Published: September 2009

The aim was to establish a causal structural model to examine consumers' addictive consumption decisions about tobacco. It was found that a consumer forms his/her risk perception based on three information sources. Moreover, a consumer's risk perception can directly influence his/her
attitude toward cigarette smoking and also indirectly influence his/her intention to start smoking. From this study, managerial implications for public health professionals and for tobacco manufacturers can be drawn. For the former, it was found that: (i) antismoking advertising should intensively
focus on escalating consumer risk perception and should be targeted toward males, the elderly, or persons with less education; and (ii) antismoking advertising and campaigns should be directed towards encouraging less addicted smokers to cease smoking. For the latter, tobacco manufacturers
should employ social marketing techniques encouraging people not to smoke in public areas and discouraging young people from smoking.
Capital Gains Taxes, Pricing Spreads, and Arbitrage: Evidence from Cross-Listed Firms in the U.S.
Authors: Blouin Jennifer , Hail Luzi , Yetman Michelle H.
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT: We examine how shareholder-level taxes affect the contemporaneous pricing of foreign firms' U.S. cross-listed and underlying home-country securities surrounding the 1997 reduction in U.S. capital gains tax rates. Consistent with tax capitalization, we find that the performance of cross-listed shares is negatively related to dividend yield, suggesting an abnormal price increase for shares with greater anticipated taxable capital gains. Due to barriers to cross-border arbitrage, underlying home-country securities, on average, do not react during the event, creating a temporary tax-induced pricing spread. When costs of arbitrage are low, the pricing disparity quickly dissipates and home-country shares closely mirror the pricing of their cross-listed counterparts. In further tests, we are unable to document lock-in behavior, which predicates a decrease in prices attributable to a surge in volume for shares with greater accrued taxable capital gains. Overall, our findings suggest that an exogenous shock to the U.S. tax regime reverberates in international asset prices, thereby affecting foreign firms' costs of capital.
Rules Rather than Discretion in Audit Standards: Going-Concern Opinions in Belgium
Authors: Carcello Joseph V. , Vanstraelen Ann , Willenborg Michael
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT: We study going-concern (GC) reporting in Belgium to examine the effects associated with a shift toward rules-based audit standards. Beginning in 2000, a major revision in Belgian GC audit standards took effect. Among its changes, auditors must ascertain whether their clients are in compliance with two “financial-juridical criteria” for board of directors' GC disclosures. In a study of a sample of private Belgian companies, we report two major findings. First, there is a decrease in auditor Type II errors, particularly by non-Big 6/5 auditors for their clients that fail both criteria. Second, there is an increase in Type I errors, again particularly for companies that fail both criteria. We also conduct an ex post analysis of the decrease in Type II errors and the increase in Type I errors. Our findings suggest the standard engenders both favorable and unfavorable effects, the net of which depends on the priorities assigned to the affected parties (creditors, auditors, companies, and employees).
Reciprocity and the Effectiveness of Optimal Agency Contracts
Authors: Kuang Xi (Jason) , Moser Donald V.
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT: Optimal agency contracts pay the lowest wage necessary to induce profit-maximizing effort. Employees could view such contracts as violating reciprocity because, relative to more reciprocal contracts, they offer a lower wage in exchange for higher effort. Consequently, the profit-maximizing effectiveness of optimal contracts could be impaired if employees reject them or reduce their effort. We use experimental labor markets to examine (1) how employees respond to an optimal versus a suboptimal reciprocity-based contract when each contract is the only contract available, (2) how employees respond to these contracts when firms choose which one to offer, (3) whether the firms' contract offers depend on employees' reactions to those offers, and (4) how employees and firms react to a hybrid contract that incorporates features of both contracts. We find that the optimal contract is less effective than agency analysis predicts, the reciprocity-based contract can be equally effective, and the hybrid contract dominates a market in which all three contracts are available. Implications of these results are discussed.
Advanced Glycation End Products in Extracellular Matrix Proteins Contribute to the Failure of Sensory Nerve Regeneration in Diabetes
Authors: Duran-Jimenez Beatriz , Dobler Darin , Moffatt Sarah , Rabbani Naila , Streuli Charles H. , Thornalley Paul J. , Tomlinson David R. , Gardiner Natalie J.
Published: September 2009

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to characterize glycation adducts formed in both in vivo extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins of endoneurium from streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats and in vitro by glycation of laminin and fibronectin with methylglyoxal and glucose. We also investigated the impact of advanced glycation end product (AGE) residue content of ECM on neurite outgrowth from sensory neurons.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Glycation, oxidation, and nitration adducts of ECM proteins extracted from the endoneurium of control and STZ-induced diabetic rat sciatic nerve (3–24 weeks post-STZ) and of laminin and fibronectin that had been glycated using glucose or methylglyoxal were examined by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Methylglyoxal-glycated or unmodified ECM proteins were used as substrata for dissociated rat sensory neurons as in vitro models of regeneration.

RESULTS

STZ-induced diabetes produced a significant increase in early glycation Nε-fructosyl-lysine and AGE residue contents of endoneurial ECM. Glycation of laminin and fibronectin by methylglyoxal and glucose increased glycation adduct residue contents with methylglyoxal-derived hydroimidazolone and Nε-fructosyl-lysine, respectively, of greatest quantitative importance. Glycation of laminin caused a significant decrease in both neurotrophin-stimulated and preconditioned sensory neurite outgrowth. This decrease was prevented by aminoguanidine. Glycation of fibronectin also decreased preconditioned neurite outgrowth, which was prevented by aminoguanidine and nerve growth factor.

CONCLUSIONS

Early glycation and AGE residue content of endoneurial ECM proteins increase markedly in STZ-induced diabetes. Glycation of laminin and fibronectin causes a reduction in neurotrophin-stimulated neurite outgrowth and preconditioned neurite outgrowth. This may provide a mechanism for the failure of collateral sprouting and axonal regeneration in diabetic neuropathy.