bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SPECTRAL DENSITY ESTIMATION AND ROBUST HYPOTHESIS TESTING USING STEEP ORIGIN KERNELS WITHOUT TRUNCATION*
Authors: Phillips Peter C. B. , Sun Yixiao , Jin Sainan
Published: July 2006

A new class of kernels for long‐run variance and spectral density estimation is developed by exponentiating traditional quadratic kernels. Depending on whether the exponent parameter is allowed to grow with the sample size, we establish different asymptotic approximations to the sampling distribution of the proposed estimators. When the exponent is passed to infinity with the sample size, the new estimator is consistent and shown to be asymptotically normal. When the exponent is fixed, the new estimator is inconsistent and has a nonstandard limiting distribution. It is shown via Monte Carlo experiments that, when the chosen exponent is small in practical applications, the nonstandard limit theory provides better approximations to the finite sample distributions of the spectral density estimator and the associated test statistic in regression settings.
COUNSELING AND MONITORING OF UNEMPLOYED WORKERS: THEORY AND EVIDENCE FROM A CONTROLLED SOCIAL EXPERIMENT*
Authors: Van Den Berg Gerard J. , Van Der Klaauw Bas
Published: July 2006

We investigate the effect of counseling and monitoring on the individual transition rate to employment. We theoretically analyze these policies in a job search model with two search channels and endogenous search effort. In the empirical analysis we use unique administrative and survey data concerning a social experiment with full randomization and compliance. The results do not provide evidence that counseling and monitoring affect the exit rate to work. Monitoring causes a shift from informal to formal job search. We combine our empirical results with the results from our theoretical analysis and the existing empirical literature, to establish a comprehensive analysis of the effectiveness of these policies.
SLOW DEVELOPMENT AND SPECIAL INTERESTS*
Authors: Parente Stephen L. , Zhao Rui
Published: July 2006

This article argues that a natural implication of an innovation‐based theory of growth is that slow development facilitates the formation of special interest groups. We demonstrate this in a growth model where innovations take the form of new goods and new production processes, and where factor suppliers in individual industries can organize to form rent‐extracting special interest groups. We then examine the effect these groups have on an economy's subsequent development. We find that these groups can retard an economy's development for extended periods, but not permanently. Their long‐run effect is to increase the volatility of the development process.
INCENTIVE CONTRACTS AND TOTAL FACTOR PRODUCTIVITY*
Authors: Bental Benjamin , Demougin Dominique
Published: July 2006

We propose a transactions cost theory of total factor productivity (TFP). In a world with asymmetric information and transactions costs, productivity must be induced by incentive schemes. Labor contracts trade off marginal benefits and costs of effort. The latter include, in addition to the workers' marginal disutility of effort, organizational costs and rents. As the economy grows, contracts change endogenously, inducing higher effort and productivity. Transactions costs are also affected by societal characteristics that determine the power of incentives. Differences in these characteristics may explain cross‐economy productivity differences. Numerical experiments demonstrate the model's consistency with time‐series and cross‐country observations.
EVIDENCE ON THE COMPENSATION OF PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Authors: Farnsworth Heber , Taylor Jonathan
Published: July 2006

We surveyed 396 portfolio managers about the structure of their compensation. Overall, more compensation packages are subjective/discretionary than objective/formula based. Firm success factors such as firm profitability have more effect on bonuses than do client success factors such as investment performance. Differences in the structure of compensation across firms, clients, job types, and manager characteristics reflect likely differences in the underlying contracting environments, especially differences in the difficulty of monitoring performance and exerting control.
A SPECIALIST'S QUOTED DEPTH AS A STRATEGIC CHOICE VARIABLE: AN APPLICATION TO SPREAD DECOMPOSITION MODELS
Authors: Caglio Cecilia , Kavajecz Kenneth A.
Published: July 2006

Although there is a sizable literature demonstrating that liquidity and transaction costs are multidimensional, researchers continue to estimate adverse‐selection costs using only prices. We present a model of a profit‐maximizing specialist who posts prices and depths. The model is simulated to measure changes in the adverse‐selection component of the spread that result under different levels of informed trading. We find that spread decompositions fail to capture the full extent of adverse‐selection risk when specialists choose depth. We recommend that researchers use adverse‐selection measures that account for depth as well as spread to mitigate this problem.
THE DYNAMICS OF BOND YIELD SPREADS AROUND RATING REVISION DATES
Authors: Batchelor Roy , Manzoni Katiuscia
Published: July 2006

We examine the effect of rating revisions on sterling Eurobond yields using a panel model with conditional heteroskedasticity that controls for event‐induced changes in the variance of spreads. Positive rating revisions are fully anticipated by the time the upgrade occurs. Negative revisions are only partially anticipated, and spreads on downgraded bonds rise for some time after the downgrade has been announced. This asymmetry is not apparent in a conventional event study model. All ratings announcements are accompanied by a temporary fall in yield volatility. We attribute this to the resolution of uncertainty about the true rating of the bond.
Scaffold‐Free, Engineered Porcine Cartilage Construct for Cartilage Defect Repair—In Vitro and In Vivo Study
Authors: Park Kwideok , Huang Jinsong , Azar Frederick , Jin Ri L. , Min Byoung‐Hyun , Han Dong K. , Hasty Karen
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  This study introduces an implantable scaffold‐free (SF) cartilage tissue construct that is composed of chondrocytes and their self‐produced extracellular matrix (ECM). Chondrocytes were isolated from the articular cartilages from knees of domestic pigs (2‐week old) and monolayer‐cultured for 3–4 days in Dulbecco’s modified Eagle’s medium supplemented with 10% fetal calf serum and 50 µg/mL of ascorbic acid. Briefly treated with 0.25% trypsin–ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), an intact chondrocytes/ECM membrane, as a cell sheet was released from the plate bottom and subsequently centrifuged into a pellet‐type construct. Each was grown in vitro for up to 5 weeks and subjected to various assays at different time points (1, 7, 14, 21, and 35 days). For in vivo implantation, full‐thickness defects (n = 4) were manually created on the femoro‐patellar groove of the left porcine knee and 1‐week‐cultured SF construct was implanted as an allograft for a month. One defect (♯1) was an empty control and the remaining three received different recipes; construct only (♯2) or 0.25% trypsin/EDTA‐treated first and then construct and collagen gel (♯3) or construct and collagen gel (♯4). While the total cell numbers significantly increased by 2 weeks and then remained stable, cell viability stayed in the mid‐70% range through the entire culture period. Biochemical assay found continuous glycosaminoglycan (GAG) accumulation. Histology exhibited that cell distribution was even in the construct and GAG intensity became stronger and uniform with time. Real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) results showed that phenotypic stability peaked at 2 weeks, which was arable to that of freshly isolated chondrocytes. Upon analysis of the retrieved implants, some promising results were witnessed in the defects (♯3) retaining not only their intact mass but also chondrocytic morphology with lacuna formation.
Long‐term Effects of a Multimodal Approach Including Immunoadsorption for the Treatment of Myasthenic Crisis
Authors: Zeitler Heike , Ulrich‐Merzenich Gudrun , Hoffmann Lars , Kornblum Cornelia , Schmidt Stephan , Vetter Hans , Walger Peter
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  A multimodal treatment protocol with immunoadsorption (IA) as the central element was used in the treatment of myasthenic crisis (MC). Fifteen patients with MC were treated in repeated, uninterrupted 7‐day cycles until mobilization with: (i) large‐volume IA using an antihuman‐IgG adsorber, days 1–5; (ii) intravenous immunoglobulin substitution (0.3–0.5 g/kg body weight [BW]/day), days 5–7; and (iii) immunosuppression with cyclophosphamide (1–2 mg/kg BW/day) and prednisolone (0.5–1 mg/kg BW/day), until remission. Patients required a median of 8 days of mechanical ventilation, 12 days in the intensive care unit, and 35 days of hospitalization. Functional improvement compared to their precrisis condition was attained by 14 of 15 patients. MG severity score improved by a mean of 10 points, quality of life score by 9.8 points, and Karnofsky index by 29 points in 14 of 15 patients. Improvements remained stable and no further crises occurred during long‐term follow‐up, which averaged 4.4 years. No fatalities due to MC occurred. The results demonstrate that our protocol is a potent therapeutic approach in the treatment of MC.
In Vitro Evaluation of Biospecific and Pseudobiospecific Ligands Aimed at Extracorporeal Treatment for Immunoglobulin E Removal
Authors: Duarte Isa S. , Zollner Ricardo L. , Bueno Sonia M.A.
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  This work investigated the potential use of an alternative adsorbent to anti‐immunoglobulin E (IgE)‐agarose for IgE selective adsorption therapy. A screening of several commercially available adsorbents (Concanavalin A, Lens culinaris[Lc], d‐tryptophan, poly‐l‐lysine, and aminohexyl immobilized on agarose) was done through batch system assays, considering some criteria, such as adsorption capacity, selectivity, and biocompatibility. In the Lc‐agarose adsorbent, total IgE, and specific IgE—for the airborne allergens Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and Blomia tropicalis—were significantly better removed (63, 58, and 59%, respectively) than immunoglobulin G (19%), immunoglobulin A (33%), immunoglobulin M (9%), and albumin (18%). This adsorbent was packed into a column and the effect of superficial velocity, ratio of plasma volume to bed volume, number of perfusions, and temperature on IgE adsorption were evaluated. In vitro simulation of therapeutic adsorption (single perfusion) indicated that about 50% of total IgE could be eliminated.
Organ Donation: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Odusanya Olumuyiwa O. , Ladipo Christopher O.
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  A cross‐sectional study was conducted to determine knowledge and attitudes toward organ donation and transplant in Lagos, Nigeria. The study sample was selected through a multistaged sampling technique. The survey instrument was a standardized self‐administered questionnaire. Four hundred and twenty‐eight subjects participated in the study. The mean age was 31.1 ± 2.1 years. Two hundred and fifty‐six (60%) were aware of organ donation. Renal failure was the most commonly identified indication for transplant. One hundred and twenty‐seven (30%) subjects were willing to donate an organ. Knowledge about organ donation was significantly higher among those with tertiary level of education (P = 0.000). Willingness to donate an organ showed a significant relationship with younger age (P = 0.002), but not with gender (P = 0.47) or educational status (P = 0.09). There is a need to increase awareness about organ donation in Lagos, Nigeria.
Plasma Exchange‐based Plasma Recycling Dialysis System as a Potential Platform for Artificial Liver Support
Authors: Nishimura Akimasa , Umehara Yutaka , Umehara Minoru , Hakamada Kenichi , Narumi Shunji , Toyoki Yoshikazu , Yoshihara Shuichi , Sasaki Mutsuo
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  We developed a plasma recycling dialysis (PRD) system based on plasma exchange (PE). In this system, rapid reduction of toxic substances and restitution of deficient essential substances are performed by PE, and subsequent blood purification is performed by dialysis between separated plasma recycled over a purification device and the patient’s blood across the membrane of the plasma separator. This study was performed to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of this system. Hyperbilirubinemia was induced by ligating the bile duct in pigs, and 7 days later, only PE for 2 h (group PE) or PE for 2 h followed by PRD for 6 h (group PE + PRD) was performed. The separated plasma was recycled over anion‐exchange resin through the extra fiber space of the plasma separator. The safety and efficacy of this system were evaluated based on the values of hemodynamic and laboratory parameters. Transfer from PE to PRD was completed in a few minutes. The hemodynamic status and blood cells counts were stable and hemolysis was not observed during the procedure. In the PE + PRD group, the concentrations of total bile acids continuously decreased (pretreatment, 155.5 ± 40.6 µM; 2 h [end of PE], 76.1 ± 14.4 µM; 8 h [end of PRD], 25.8 ± 9.1 µM) and the value was significantly lower than in the PE group after 6 h. The total bilirubin also continuously decreased during PRD (pretreatment, 55.3 ± 11.5 µM; 2 h [end of PE], 33.8 ± 8.4 µM; 8 h [end of PRD], 18.6 ± 7.7 µM) and was significantly lower than in the PE group after 4 h. No significant change was observed in other laboratory values. This PE‐based PRD system allowed a swift transfer from PE to sorbent‐based blood purification. The safety of this system was demonstrated and the removal of toxic substances was significant. This study confirmed the clinical utility of this system as a platform for artificial liver support.
In Vivo Assessment of a Rotary Left Ventricular Assist Device‐induced Artificial Pulse in the Proximal and Distal Aorta
Authors: Bourque Kevin , Dague Charles , Farrar David , Harms Kelly , Tamez Dan , Cohn William , Tuzun Egemeun , Poirier Victor , Frazier O. Howard
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  The increasing clinical use of rotary left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) suggests that chronic attenuation of arterial pulse pressure has no clinically significant detrimental effects. However, it remains possible that modulating LVAD rotor speed to produce an artificial pulse may be of temporary or occasional benefit. We sought to evaluate a pulse produced by a continuous‐flow, centrifugal pump in an ovine thoracic and abdominal aorta. Both ventricles of an adult sheep were resected to eliminate all native cardiac contributions to pulsatility, each replaced by a continuous‐flow Thoratec HeartMate III blood pump (Burlington, MA, U.S.A.). An LVAD‐induced pulsatile flow was achieved by sharply alternating the speed of the magnetically levitated rotor of the left pump between 1500 rpm (artificial diastole) and 5500 rpm (artificial systole) at a rate of 60 bpm at a “systolic” interval of 30%. A catheter was advanced from the ascending aorta to the iliac bifurcation via the ventricular assist device outflow graft for pressure measurement and data acquisition. The mean LVAD‐induced pulse pressures were 34, 29, 27, and 26 mm Hg in the ascending, thoracic, and abdominal aorta, and the iliac bifurcation, respectively. The maximum rate of pressure rise (δp/δt) was between 189 and 238 mm Hg/s, approaching that of the native pulse, although the energy equivalent pressure did not exceed the mean arterial pressure. The HeartMate III’s relatively stiff speed control, low rotor mass, and robust magnetic rotor suspension result in a responsive system, enabling very rapid speed changes that can be used to simulate physiologic pulse pressure and δp/δt.
Characterization of an Artificial Valve Flow Using the Numerical Dye Washout Visualization Technique: Application to the Monoleaflet Valve With Purged Flow
Authors: Goubergrits Leonid , Timmel Tobias , Affeld Klaus , Petz Christoph , Stalling Detlev , Hege Hans Christian
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  Until today, no ideal heart valve prosthesis for the replacement of a diseased natural valve or for use in ventricular assist devices exists. Valves still cause thromboembolic complications originating from thrombus formations in the valve’s stagnant zones. Optimization of valve design involves avoiding stagnation zones and zones of high shear stresses. This requires detailed flow field investigations. Usually, the regions which are more prone to thrombus formation can be estimated using a dye washout experiment. The method allows an assessment of regions with a high or low residence time that may in turn predict regions with a corresponding thrombus risk. This successful experimental method was simulated using numerical methods with a combination of the computational fluid dynamics program FLUENT (Fluent Inc., Lebanon, NH, U.S.A.) and of the visualization tool AMIRA (TGS Inc., San Diego, CA, U.S.A.). The numerical dye washout visualization was applied to four monoleaflet valves with varying valve housing geometries. The results show a significant difference in the washout processes of the examined valves. The dye washout was characterized by a time course of the gray value averaged over a defined region of interest. Finally, these curves were quantified by a half dye time. The half dye time in the best optimized valve was only 0.2753 s. The same time in the original valve was 0.6834 s. This study shows that the proposed numerical method of dye washout visualization can be used as an additional tool of the flow characterization in artificial organs.
Paradoxical Undersensing During Atrial Flutter: What Is the Mechanism?
Authors: KALAHASTY GAUTHAM , KENIGSBERG DAVID N. , WOOD MARK A. , ELLENBOGEN KENNETH A.
Published: July 2006

A patient with congenital complete heart block underwent implantation of a dual‐chamber pacemaker. He presented to the emergency room with fatigue and was found to be in atrial flutter. Device interrogation revealed undersensing of 5 mV flutter waves at a programmed sensitivity of 0.5 mV. Due to undersensing, mode switch did not occur. This case illustrates apparently paradoxical undersensing of atrial flutter waves by a dual‐chamber pacemaker and can be explained by a phenomenon known as “quiet timer blanking.”
Interactions Between Paced Wavefronts and Monomorphic Ventricular Tachycardia: Implications for Antitachycardia Pacing
Authors: BYRD ISRAEL A. , KAY MATTHEW W. , POLLARD ANDREW E.
Published: July 2006

Objectives: Interactions between paced wavefronts and monomorphic ventricular tachycardia (VT) dictate antitachycardia pacing outcomes. We used optical mapping to assess those interactions during single and dual site pacing of rabbit ventricular epicardium.

Methods and Results: Monomorphic VTs were initiated in six isolated rabbit hearts that were endocardially cryoablated to limit viable tissue to visible epicardium and establish apical tissue as the anatomic anchor. Preparations were optically mapped during single (n = 39) and dual (n = 43) site pacing at 50%–90% of VT cycle length (CL) with eight pulses per trial. Overall, we found six pulses that abruptly terminated VT. This occurred because the VT wavefront collided with the antidromic portion of the paced wavefront and the orthodromic portion of paced wavefront blocked in the VT's refractory region. When effective, dual site pacing that captured tissue at both leads simultaneously terminated the VT immediately, while single site pacing or dual site pacing that captured tissue at only one lead terminated the VT after resetting advanced the orthodromic wavefront. We found 12 pulses that induced polymorphic VT, with 11 of those pulses occurring during capture at only one lead. Expansion of the combined antidromic‐VT wavefront around one or both ends of the arc of conduction block formed by the interaction of the orthodromic wavefront with the VT's refractory region initiated functional reentry. Six of these polymorphic VTs were nonsustained because the underlying wavefronts self‐terminated. The wavefronts did persist for 4.2 ± 3.5 cycles before self‐terminating in these trials, and the post‐pacing cycles presented a 146% increase in CL variability, compared with the variability prior to pacing. These temporal characteristics are similar to those of delayed termination in patients with ICDs.

Conclusions: The main difference between pulses that terminated abruptly and pulses that induced polymorphic VT was the effective separation of the antidromic and orthodromic portions of the paced wavefront from one another.
Prognostic factor analysis and proposed prognostic model for conventional treatment of high‐grade primary gastric lymphoma
Authors: Park Yeon H. , Kim Won S. , Bang Soo M. , Lee Soon I. , Uhm Ji E. , Kang Hye J. , Na Im I. , Yang Sung H. , Lee Seung‐Sook , Kim Kihyun , Jung Chul W. , Park Keunchil , Ko Young H. , Ryoo Baek‐Yeol
Published: July 2006

Objectives: We conducted a clinical risk factors analysis to define a prognostic model for high‐grade primary gastric lymphoma (HG‐PGL). Methods and Results: The median event‐free survival and overall survival of 214 HG‐PGL patients were 54 and 104.5 months, respectively, after a median follow‐up duration of 60 months. According to the prognostic factor analysis, survival, advanced age, male gender, higher LDH levels and the presence of ascites were identified as independent prognostic factors for HG‐PGL. We identified four groups at different risk: group 1, no adverse effect; group 2, one factor; group 3, two factors; group 4, three or four factors. The new prognostic model showed excellent prognostic capacity to differentiate subgroups according to their risk stratification. Conclusions: The proposed new prognostic model for HG‐PGL demonstrated a balanced distribution of patients into four groups with good prognostic capacity.
A biphenotypic transformation of 8p11 myeloproliferative syndrome with CEP1/FGFR1 fusion gene
Authors: Yamamoto Katsuya , Kawano Hiroki , Nishikawa Shinichiro , Yakushijin Kimikazu , Okamura Atsuo , Matsui Toshimitsu
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  We describe here the first case of 8p11 myeloproliferative syndrome (EMS) with t(8;9)(p11;q33), who unusually demonstrated B‐lymphoblastic/monoblastic biphenotypic transformation. A 57‐year‐old woman was admitted because of leukocytosis and diagnosed as EMS. Bone marrow was infiltrated with myeloperoxidase (MPO)‐, CD10+, CD19+, CD20+, CD34+, HLA‐DR+ small lymphoblasts and MPO+, CD2+, CD4+, CD13+, CD14+, CD33+, HLA‐DR+ large monoblasts. The karyotype was 46,XX,t(8;9)(p11;q33)[20] and the CEP1/FGFR1 fusion transcript between CEP1 exon 38 and FGFR1 exon 9 was detected. This case clearly indicates that the blastic transformation in EMS with t(8;9) could arise in the stem cells, which differentiate into not only myelomonocytic but also B‐lymphocytic lineages.
Improved treatment outcome in Chinese children and adolescents with Burkitt's lymphoma and large cell lymphoma by using the modified B‐non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma‐Berlin‐Frankfurt‐Münster‐90 protocol
Authors: Sun Xiao‐Fei , Zhen Zi‐Jun , Lui Dong‐Gen , Xia Yi , He You‐Jian , Wang Zhi‐Hui , Lin Jia‐yu , Guan Zhong‐Zhen
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  Objectives: This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of the modified B‐Non‐Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL)‐Berlin‐Frankfurt‐Münster (BFM)‐90‐based protocol in Chinese children and adolescents with Burkitt's lymphoma and large cell lymphoma.

Methods: From September 1997 to August 2005, 55 untreated patients (age less than 20 yr) from a single institution were enrolled. The patients were stratified by risk factors (stage, LDH level and chemotherapy response). All patients were treated with a modified B‐NHL‐BFM 90 protocol.

Results: The median age of the patients was 8 yr (range 1.5–20 yr). Of these patients, 22 (40%) had Burkitt's lymphoma (BKL), 22 (40%) had diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBL) and 11 (20%) had anaplastic large T‐cell lymphoma (ALCL). Complete remission (CR) occurred in 45 patients (83%), partial remission (PR) in eight patients (14.5%), and progressive disease (PD) in one patient (1.8%). At a median follow up of 24 months, the event free survival (EFS) for all patients was 85% ± 5% with 100% for group R1, 84% ± 7% for group R2 and 72% ± 13% for group R3, and most notably, 80% ± 6% for stage III/IV at diagnosis. There was no statistically significant difference (P = 0.96) in EFS among BKL and DLBL and ALCL. The major toxicity complications were myelosuppression and mucositis, but these conditions were tolerated and manageable.

Conclusions: This modified NHL‐BFM‐90 protocol is very effective for Chinese children and adolescents with BKL and large cell lymphomas, and represented an increase in the cure rates in childhood NHL in China.
T‐Cell Antigen Receptor‐Induced Signaling Complexes: Internalization Via a Cholesterol‐Dependent Endocytic Pathway
Authors: Barr Valarie A. , Balagopalan Lakshmi , Barda‐Saad Mira , Polishchuk Roman , Boukari Hacène , Bunnell Stephen C. , Bernot Kelsie M. , Toda Yoko , Nossal Ralph , Samelson Lawrence E.
Published: July 2006

T‐cell antigen receptor engagement causes the rapid assembly of signaling complexes. The adapter protein SLP‐76, detected as SLP‐yellow fluorescent protein, initially clustered with the TCR and other proteins, then translocated medially on microtubules. As shown by total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy and the inhibition of SLP‐76 movement at 16°C, this movement required endocytosis. Immunoelectron microscopy showed SLP‐76 staining of smooth pits and tubules. Cholesterol depletion decreased the movement of SLP‐76 clusters, as did coexpression of the ubiquitin‐interacting motif domain from eps15. These data are consistent with the internalization of SLP‐76 via a lipid raft‐dependent pathway that requires interaction of the endocytic machinery with ubiquitinylated proteins. The endocytosed SLP‐76 clusters contained phosphorylated SLP‐76 and phosphorylated LAT. The raft‐associated, transmembrane protein LAT likely targets SLP‐76 to endocytic vesicles. The endocytosis of active SLP‐76 and LAT complexes suggests a possible mechanism for downregulation of signaling complexes induced by TCR activation.
Vehicle influence on calcium hydroxide pastes diffusion in human and bovine teeth
Authors: Camargo Carlos Henrique Ribeiro , Bernardineli Norberti , Valera Marcia Carneiro , De Carvalho Cláudio Antônio Talge , De Oliveira Luciane Dias , Menezes Marcia Maciel , Afonso Samira Esteves , Mancini Maria Nadir Gasparoto
Published: July 2006

Abstract –  The purpose of this study was to compare the pH and calcium ion liberation after use of calcium hydroxide pastes with different paste vehicles in human or bovine teeth. Ninety‐two single‐rooted human and bovine roots were used. The roots were instrumented and an external cavity preparation was performed. The roots were divided in to human and bovine groups. Each group was subdivided into four subgroups (SB) according to the vehicle:SB1, detergent; SB2, saline; SB3, polyethylenoglycol + camphorated paramonochlorophenol (Calen PMCC) and SB4, polyethylenoglycol + furacyn paramonochlorophenol (FPMC). Specimens were immersed into saline solution at 37°C and after 7 and 14 days pH and calcium ion measurements were made. The results were analyzed by anova and Tukey tests (P < 0.05). There was no statistical difference between bovine and human teeth in the pH analysis (P < 0.05), but bovine teeth provided larger calcium ion liberation than human teeth. Calen PMCC was statistically more effective for pH increase and calcium ion liberation in all analyses, followed by FPMC and saline. Detergent showed the lowest pH alterations and calcium ion liberation. The period of 14 days showed more calcium ionic liberation than the 7‐day period.
Use of glass fiber post and composite resin in restoration of a vertical fractured tooth
Authors: Fidel Sandra Rivera , Sassone Luciana , Álvares Gustavo Ribeiro , Guimarães Rodrigo Prada Sant'anna , Fidel Rivail Antônio Sérgio
Published: July 2006

Abstract –  Combined coronal and vertical root fractures are difficult to treat and extraction of the affected tooth is quite often indicated. In anterior teeth, esthetics and function must be reestablished immediately. This case describes the restoration of a fractured upper right central incisor using a glass fiber post and adhesive composite. At the follow‐up appointment, 13 months later, clinical and radiographical examinations revealed the glass fiber post and restoration in place, suggesting the efficacy of the treatment in maintaining fractured tooth.
Immediate surgical repositioning following intrusive luxation: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Güngör H. Cem , Cengiz S. Burcak , Altay Nil
Published: July 2006

Abstract –  This report presents a case of severe intrusive luxation of mature maxillary lateral incisor in a 10‐year‐old boy. The intruded tooth was immediately repositioned (surgical extrusion) and splinted within 2 h following injury. Tetracycline therapy was initiated at the time of repositioning and maintained for 10 days. Pulp removal and calcium hydroxide treatment of the root canal was carried out after repositioning. Splint was removed 1 month later. Definitive root canal treatment with gutta percha was accomplished at the second month recall. Clinical and radiographic examination 28 months after the surgical extrusion revealed satisfactory apical and periodontal healing.
Oral lichen planus: a retrospective study of 690 British patients
Authors: Ingafou M , Leao JC , Porter SR , Scully C
Published: July 2006

Objective:  This is the largest UK patient group with oral lichen planus (OLP) to be studied in terms of the demographic and clinical characteristics.

Material and methods:  Data were taken from the medical records of 690 consecutive patients referred to Oral Medicine subsequently found to have clinical, and usually histopathological confirmatory features of OLP. Over two‐thirds (68.7%) of the patients were Caucasians.

Results:  Eighty‐two per cent of the patients had been referred to a specialist Oral Medicine service by general dental practitioners, 62% of the patients being referred as a consequence of oral mucosal and/or gingival pain. Reticular OLP was the most common intra‐oral presentation, but 60% of such lesions were accompanied by other clinical types of OLP. 95% of lesions were bilateral. About 13% of patients reported symptoms or signs, or had a known history of lichen planus or possible lichen planus affecting non‐oral epithelia. In only 13% of patients did all signs and symptoms of OLP resolve within 12–246 months (median 35 months). A malignant transformation rate of 1.9% was observed in the present group.

Conclusion:  Oral lichen planus in UK persons almost always gives rise to bilateral reticular OLP, rarely resolves spontaneously, and has a low rate of malignant transformation.
Genetic selection on a behavioural fear trait is associated with changes in heart rate variability in quail
Authors: Valance D. , Desprès G. , Boissy A. , Mignon‐Grasteau S. , Constantin P. , Leterrier C.
Published: July 2006

This study investigated whether genetic selection on a divergent behavioural trait of fearfulness (tonic immobility duration) was related to changes in the nervous control of the heart. Quail selected for either long or short tonic immobility (LTI or STI, respectively) duration was compared with an unselected control line (CTI). The autonomic control of the heart was assessed by heart rate variability analysis and pharmacological blockades. Quail were surgically fitted with a telemetric device. Heart rate before injection did not differ between the three lines. The vagal–sympathetic effect (VSE) at rest differed significantly from 1 in CTI and STI quail, suggesting that parasympathetic activity was dominant. In LTI quail, VSE did not differ from 1, suggesting a balance between parasympathetic and sympathetic activities. The intrinsic heart rate reached after the successive injections of propranolol and atropine did not differ between lines and was higher than the heart rate at rest in STI, which was in line with results of VSE at rest. After atropine injection, the sympathetic activity indicated by the low‐frequency power was lower in CTI than in the two selected quail. After propranolol injection, the parasympathetic activity indicated by the root of the mean squares of successive differences and the high‐frequency power was higher in STI than in CTI and LTI quail. Selection on tonic immobility duration thus appears to be associated with changes in the sympathovagal control of the heart, which may influence behavioural responses to stressful situations.
SENSORY PROFILES OF THE MOST COMMON SALMON PRODUCTS ON THE DANISH MARKET
Authors: GREEN‐PETERSEN DITTE MARIE BENEDIKTE , NIELSEN JETTE , HYLDIG GRETHE
Published: July 2006

The sensory profiles of the most common chilled and frozen salmon products available to consumers on the Danish market were studied. A sensory profiling was made on 12 salmon products varying in salmon species, origin, storage method and time. Samples stored in ice between 7 and 16 days, frozen for 1 month or stored in modified atmosphere for 5 days all had sensory profiles dominated by sea/seaweed odor, juicy and oily texture, fresh fish oil, and sweet and mushroom flavor. Marked differences in the sensory profiles of the frozen samples were found to correlate to differences in storage time. Frozen storage for 6 months resulted in firm texture, discolored appearance and rancid flavor. The samples stored in modified atmosphere for 7 days had a sensory profile with marked rancid and sour odor.
IMPACT OF MICROWAVE BLANCHING ON THE FLAVOR OF ROASTED PEANUTS
Authors: SCHIRACK ANDRIANA V. , DRAKE MARYANNE , SANDERS TIMOTHY H. , SANDEEP K.P.
Published: July 2006

Microwave blanching of peanuts was proposed as an attractive alternative to traditional techniques of blanching, because of energy and time savings. However, the occurrence of a processing‐related off‐flavor has been reported. This study examined the effect of processing factors during microwave blanching on the MC and sensory characteristics of the peanuts. The peanuts reached a range of internal temperatures during microwave blanching treatments between 4 and 11 min. A total offnote attribute was introduced to the peanut lexicon and was used successfully to differentiate the effects of microwave treatments. The microwave‐associated off‐flavor was related (but not identical) to cardboardy/stale flavor, and was related inversely to the positive flavor attributes roasted peanutty, sweet aromatic and sweet taste. Peanuts reaching the highest internal temperatures and greatest moisture losses during blanching exhibited the most total offnote flavor; however, temperatures as high as 113C did not produce significantly increased total offnote intensity.
Lomustine for the treatment of gastrointestinal mast cell tumour in a dog
Authors: Baldi A. , Colloca E. , Spugnini E. P.
Published: July 2006

An eight‐year‐old, male boxer dog was referred for the treatment of a large (5·5×5 cm), unresectable visceral mast cell tumour. The dog had a surgical resection performed one month before referral, and it had widespread metastases to the abdominal lymph nodes. The patient was treated with lomustine and prednisone and showed a rapid improvement and increased level of activity, weight gain and consistent tumour reduction. The patient remained in partial remission (defined as a greater than 50 per cent reduction in tumour volume) for seven months. Toxicity was acceptable and was limited to moderate anaemia and two episodes of neutropenia. At the completion of the seven months of therapy, the dog experienced a chemotherapy‐induced sepsis, and the owners elected for euthanasia due to financial concerns. At that time, the tumour was still in partial remission. This case report suggests that a combination of lomustine and prednisone is an effective protocol for the palliation of aggressive visceral mast cell tumours.
Primary uterine inertia in 27 bitches: aetiology and treatment
Authors: Bergström A. , Fransson B. , Lagerstedt A.‐S. , Olsson K.
Published: July 2006

Objectives: To evaluate two treatment methods in bitches with primary uterine inertia in relation to blood concentrations of oxytocin, calcium and glucose.

Methods: A prospective study where 27 bitches with primary inertia were randomly allocated to treatment groups I and II. Blood samples were collected before and after treatment. Group I was treated with a combination of intravenous calcium solutions and oxytocin and group II with oxytocin only. If unsuccessful, caesarean sections or additional medical treatment was pursued.

Results: Plasma oxytocin concentrations were 35±15 pmol/l in group I and 30±15 pmol/l in group II. Before treatment, the total serum calcium concentrations were 2·1±0·2 mmol/l in both the groups, and blood glucose values were 7·0±0·5 mmol/l (group I) and 7·3±1·4 mmol/l (group II). The number of bitches subjected to caesarean sections and the number of puppies born did not differ between the two groups.

Clinical Significance: This study indicates that low plasma oxytocin levels is a cause of primary inertia in bitches with normal serum calcium concentrations and aggravates the condition in bitches with low calcium levels. Hypoglycaemia was not observed. The outcome of labour did not differ between groups I and II.
Prospective open pilot study on the use of ciclosporin for feline allergic skin disease
Authors: Noli C. , Scarampella F.
Published: July 2006

Objectives:To evaluate the efficacy of ciclosporin in cats with allergic skin disease.

Methods:Ten cats with signs of allergic skin disease were administered ciclosporin daily at a dose of 3·6 to 8·3 mg/kg for one month. None of these cats had previously responded to a hypoallergenic diet trial, and all animals had previously been treated with endectoparasiticidal drugs, with no improvement two weeks before entering the trial. On days 0 and 30, owners assessed pruritus with a visual analogue scale, and veterinarians evaluated cutaneous lesions.

Results:All the cats had pruritus and erythema, five had alopecia, two had an eosinophilic plaque, one had miliary dermatitis and two had both alopecia and an eosinophilic plaque. Good or excellent improvement was observed in 40 per cent of cats for pruritus, 57 per cent of cats for alopecia and 60 per cent of cats for erythema. A significant decrease in mean scores was observed for pruritus only, while for erythema and alopecia, it was close to being significant (P<0·052).

ClinicalSignificance:Ciclosporin may be helpful in symptomatically treating signs of feline allergic skin disease. However, it is important to remember that ciclosporin is not licensed for use in cats.
Congestive heart failure caused by intracardiac tumours in two dogs
Authors: Warman S. M. , McGregor R. , Fews D. , Ferasin L.
Published: July 2006

Congestive heart failure is a common presentation in small animal practice. Cardiac tumours are an unusual cause of congestive heart failure and, when they occur, usually cause clinical signs associated with pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade. This case report outlines the clinical and histological findings in two dogs presented with clinical signs of congestive heart failure caused by obstruction of blood flow by intracavitary cardiac tumours. Case 1 showed signs of left‐sided heart failure caused by osteosarcoma within the left atrial lumen, and case 2 presented with clinical signs of right‐sided heart failure due to haemangiosarcoma occupying the right atrial and ventricular lumens. This case report provides further evidence for the inclusion of intracardiac neoplasia in the differential diagnosis for dogs with clinical signs of congestive heart failure.
Dynamic tracheal collapse associated with disseminated histiocytic sarcoma in a cat
Authors: Bell R. , Philbey A. W. , Martineau H. , Nielsen L. , Pawson P. , Dukes‐McEwan J.
Published: July 2006

This case report describes an unusual presentation of histiocytic sarcoma in a domestic shorthair cat. Initial investigation revealed a haemodynamically insignificant hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, bronchitis and a mild irregularity of the cervical trachea. The cat’s disease progressed over a two‐week period. Repeat radiography and tracheoscopy revealed a marked dynamic tracheal collapse associated with a raised plaque‐like lesion within the cervical trachea. Subsequent post‐mortem examination and histopathology revealed disseminated histiocytic sarcoma involving the trachea and kidneys. This is the first reported case of a histiocytic sarcoma involving the trachea in either dogs or cats.
Influence of Gamma Irradiation on Enzyme, Microorganism, and Flavor of Cantaloupe (Cucumis melo L.) Juice
Authors: Wang Zhengfu , Ma Yongkun , Zhao Guanghua , Liao Xiaojun , Chen Fang , Wu Jihong , Chen Jiluan , Hu Xiaosong
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT:  The production of freshly squashed juice is a best way to raise the merchandise rate of cantaloupe and to prolong its industrial chain, and as a low acid and heating sensitive juice how to ensure its safety and quality is a key point. In this study, enzyme activity and microorganism survival in Golden Empress cantaloupe juice after 60Co irradiation were measured and analyzed, and the irradiation off‐odor intensity was evaluated with the Kramer sensory evaluation method. Sensory evaluation indicated that the juice had a slight irradiation off‐odor after treatment at 1 kGy, and had strong off‐odor at 2 kGy and above; therefore the dosage should be less than 1kGy in order to keep the off‐odor in acceptable scope. Enzyme activity determination indicated that lipoxygenase was the easiest one to be inactivated by irradiation, followed by polyphenoloxidase and peroxidase, but the 3 enzymes still remained activities even at 5 kGy. Microorganism survival determination indicated that Escherichia coli was sensitive to irradiation, and can be reduced by 7 log‐cycles at 1 kGy, whereas total colony and target spore bacteria in the juice had stronger endurance to the irradiation, suggested by D10 values of 0.9908 and 1.1923 kGy, respectively, indicating both total colony and target spore bacteria were difficult to inactivate as compared to E. coli. The study indicated that gamma irradiation can not completely inactivate the enzymes, total colony, and target spore bacteria in cantaloupe juice on the premise of acceptable off‐odor.
Kinetics of Ochratoxin A Production and Accumulation by Aspergillus carbonarius on Synthetic Grape Medium at Different Temperature Levels
Authors: Marín S. , Bellí N. , Lasram S. , Chebil S. , Ramos A.J. , Ghorbel A. , Sanchis V.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT:  The effects of incubation time (up to 10 d) and temperature (7, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 42 °C) on mean ochratoxin A (OTA)‐producing capacity and OTA accumulation by 4 Aspergillus carbonarius strains isolated from Spanish and Tunisian grapes were studied on grape‐like medium. The limits of growth and OTA production have been identified. OTA production was significantly higher at 20 °C, followed by 25, 15, 30, 35 °C. No growth was observed at 7 °C and 42 °C after 10 d of incubation and, consequently, no OTA was detected at these temperature levels. In general, maximum mean OTA‐producing capacity was found earlier with increasing incubation temperatures. However, at 35 °C, OTA was rarely detected although growth was maximum at this temperature. OTA accumulation was maximum after 10 d of incubation for all the temperatures except at 30 °C, were the maximum was detected at earlier incubation time (6 to 8 d) and then remained stable. Colony diameters and OTA accumulation along time were modeled by the Gompertz sigmoidal model and an estimation of maximum OTA accumulation rate and the delay until OTA production could be established. At high temperatures OTA accumulation starts earlier but increases slowly and becomes constant in a few days.
Acid Resistance of Twelve Strains of Enterobacter sakazakii, and the Impact of Habituating the Cells to an Acidic Environment
Authors: Edelson‐Mammel S. , Porteous M.K. , Buchanan R.L.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT:  The association of powdered infant formula with cases of severe Enterobacter sakazakii infections in immunocompromised and premature neonates has led to a need to learn about the basic behavior of this emerging pathogen in food systems and the environment. The current study examines the microorganism's stationary‐phase acid resistance using 12 strains that had been previously used to characterize its thermal resistance. Acid resistance was determined by initially culturing the isolates for 18 h in brain heart infusion broth (BHI) at 36 °C, transferring the cells to tryptic soy broth (TSB) adjusted to pH 3.0 and 3.5, and determining E. sakazakii survival over the course of 5 h incubation at 36 °C. At pH 3.5, 10 of the 12 strains showed less than a 1 log cycle decline over the 5‐h incubation period, with the most acid sensitive strain showing an approximate 3.5 log cycle decline. At pH 3.0, the decline over the 5‐h incubation period ranged from 4.9 to >6.3 log cycles; however, substantial diversity was evident when the 1‐h/pH 3.0 results were compared. The effect of habituating the cells to a moderately acidic environment was determined by growing the strains in TSB with 0% (nonacidogenic) and 1% glucose (acidogenic), transferring the cells to acidified (pH 3.0) BHI, and determining E. sakazakii survival over the course of 5 h of incubation at 36 °C. While there was diversity observed among the strains, in general the stationary‐phase acid resistances of several of the strains were enhanced, at least transitorily, by growth in the acidogenic medium. No apparent correlation between the stationary‐phase relative acid resistances of the strains based on the 1‐h/pH 3.0 acid inactivation values and the previously reported thermal D‐values was observed.
Aggregation, intraguild interactions and the coexistence of competitors on small ephemeral patches
Authors: Reader Tom , Cornell Stephen J. , Rohani Pejman
Published: July 2006

It is well established that intraspecific aggregation has the potential to promote coexistence in communities of species competing for patchy ephemeral resources. We developed a simulation model to explore the influence of aggregation on coexistence in such communities when an important assumption of previous studies – that interspecific interactions have only negative effects on the species involved – is relaxed. The model describes a community of competing insect larvae in which an interaction that is equivalent to intraguild predation (IGP) can occur, and is unusual in that it considers species exploiting very small resource patches (carrying capacity=1). Model simulations show that, in the absence of any intraspecific aggregation, variation between species in the way that resource heterogeneity affects survival increases the likelihood of species coexistence. Simulations also show that intraspecific aggregation of the dominant competitor's eggs across resource patches can promote coexistence by reducing the importance of interspecific competition relative to that of intraspecific competition. Crucially, however, this effect is altered if one competitor indulges in IGP. In general, coexistence is only possible when the species that is capable of IGP is less effective at exploiting the shared resource than its competitor. Because it reduces the relative importance of interspecific interactions, intraspecific aggregation of the eggs of a species that is the victim of IGP actually reduces the likelihood of coexistence in parts of parameter space in which the persistence of the other species is dependent on its ability to exploit its competitor. Since resource heterogeneity, intraspecific aggregation and IGP are all common phenomena, these findings shed light on mechanisms that are likely to influence diversity in communities exploiting patchy resources.