bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Case Report of Double Filtration Plasmapheresis in an Acute Episode of Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Ramunni Alfonso , De Robertis Francesca , Brescia Paola , Saliani Maria Teresa , Amoruso Michele , Prontera Maria , Dimonte Elena , Trojano Maria , Coratelli Pasquale
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Plasma exchange has been proposed as support therapy in both acute and chronic forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). For the first time, we aimed to assess whether double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) could be clinically efficacious. We describe the case of a patient affected by MS who developed a severe crisis refractory to conventional steroids, and immunosuppressive and immunomodulating therapy. The patient underwent 12 sessions of DFPP. In each session 3000 mL of plasma was treated. Before and immediately after each session the routine laboratory parameters were assessed. Before the apheresis cycle and one month after the end of treatment, encephalic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed. A neurological examination and assessment of the extended disability status scale (EDSS) were made once each week from the beginning of treatment until one month after the end of the cycle. No therapy was administered during the course of the apheresis cycle, with the exception of a scaled dose of steroids, that was completely withdrawn half‐way through the cycle. The immunoglobulin (Ig) G, IgA and IgM values declined from 465 ± 104 mg/dL, 69 ± 18 mg/dL, 34 ± 16 mg/dL, respectively, pre‐apheresis to 331 ± 76 mg/dL, 42 ± 5 mg/dL, 15 ± 6 mg/dL, respectively, post‐apheresis; C3 and C4 decreased from 105 ± 27 mg/dL and 21 ± 5 mg/dL to 75 ± 9 mg/dL and 15 ± 4 mg/dL, respectively; fibrinogen went from 228 ± 72 mg/dL to 128 ± 28 mg/dL. The EDSS dropped from a value of 6 before the cycle to 5.5 one month after the end of the treatment. As compared with the pretreatment conditions, post‐apheresis MRI showed stabilization of the lesions already present, the reduction of one lesion and a complete absence of enhancement of all lesions. DFPP, adopted for the first time in MS, seems to foster a short‐term improvement in both the clinical and magnetic resonance images during an acute MS episode.
Preparation of Cu2+‐loaded Porous Chitosan Particles for Immunoglobulin G Adsorption
Authors: Yue Rong‐Zheng , Liu Ting , Su Bai‐Hai , Fu Ping , Zhao Fan , Zhao Chang‐Sheng
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Chitosan porous particles were prepared using a precipitation technique. The porous particles could bind Cu2+, from which Cu2+‐loaded porous particles were prepared. The Cu2+‐loaded porous chitosan particles could remove immunoglobulin (Ig) G more selectively than albumin, IgA and IgM from aqueous solutions and human plasma. The effect of the volume ratio of plasma to particles on protein adsorption was studied, with the results indicating that a volume ratio of 3:1 might be a good choice for clinical use. The particles could be easily incorporated into a column. When human plasma was applied to the particle column, higher removal efficiency was obtained. These results suggested that Cu2+‐loaded porous particles may be a potentially good sorbent for IgG removal from plasma.
Buffering Effects of Calcium Carbonate as Clarified by Sevelamer Hydrochloride Monotherapy
Authors: Akatsuka Toshio , Mochizuki Toshio , Koike Takao
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  This study was undertaken to examine the necessity of taking into account the acid–base balance to ensure safe switching from calcium carbonate to sevelamer hydrochloride in hemodialysis patients. Forty‐two hemodialysis patients were divided into two groups: the sevelamer hydrochloride therapy group (n = 18; “monotherapy group”) and the combined calcium carbonate plus sevelamer hydrochloride therapy group (n = 24; “combined therapy group”). Observation was continued for six months. Subsequently, treatment with calcium carbonate was resumed in the monotherapy group at a dose level equal to that used before the start of study, and the combined therapy group continued to receive combined calcium carbonate + sevelamer hydrochloride therapy for another six months. The monotherapy group showed marked metabolic acidosis (HCO3‐ level from 20.2 ± 2.4 mmol/L to 17.7 ± 0.5 mmol/L). While the acidosis also became worse in the combined therapy group, the decrease in serum HCO3‐ level was smaller in this group than in the monotherapy group. The monotherapy group showed rapid recovery from acidosis following resumption of calcium carbonate administration (HCO3‐ level from 17.7 ± 0.5 mmol/L to 20.6 ± 0.7 mmol/L). We analyzed the cause of acidosis by the Stewart–Figge approach, and it was found to be attributable to the elevation of the serum Cl– level. The results suggest that treatment with calcium carbonate shows some buffering effects. Calcium carbonate acts as a potent alkalizing agent. We therefore consider it advisable to use sevelamer hydrochloride in combination with calcium carbonate in hemodialysis patients.
Effects of Icodextrin on Insulin Resistance and Adipocytokine Profiles in Patients on Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Takeguchi Fumihiro , Nakayama Masaaki , Nakao Toshiyuki
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Icodextrin peritoneal dialysis solution reportedly benefits patients suffering from metabolic derangement due to glucose load from dialysate. However, the effects of icodextrin on insulin resistance and adipocytokine profile remain unclear. Subjects comprised 14 stable patients on peritoneal dialysis for >6 months. Their mean age was 57 ± 11 years and the mean duration of peritoneal dialysis was 49 ± 30 months. Patients were classified into groups according to the index of insulin resistance (index of homeostasis model assessment: HOMA‐IR): Group A, HOMA‐IR < 2.0 (n = 7); and Group B, HOMA‐IR ≥ 2.0 (n = 7). Glucose peritoneal dialysis solution was subsequently switched to icodextrin once daily during the night. Changes in HOMA‐IR and adipocytokine profiles were examined after three months. The glucose absorption dose tended to decrease in both groups after icodextrin introduction, with significant reductions in Group B. No changes were seen in body mass index, fluid status, peritoneal dialysis dose, residual renal function or fasting plasma glucose levels in either group. Plasma insulin levels were unchanged in Group A, but decreased significantly in Group B. The index of insulin resistance was thus unchanged in Group A (from 1.4 ± 0.4 to 1.5 ± 0.8) and significantly decreased in Group B (from 5.9 ± 2.2 to 3.2 ± 0.6; P < 0.01). Regarding plasma adipocytokine profiles, no changes were found in plasma leptin, tissue necrosis factor‐α or total plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 levels in either group. Plasma adiponectin levels were unchanged in Group A, but significantly increased in Group B. Icodextrin solution could ameliorate insulin resistance by decreasing insulin levels due to a reduction in the glucose load and an increase in plasma adiponectin levels.
A Case Report of the Modified Malmö Protocol: An Alternative Therapeutic Approach to Refractory Chronic Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura
Authors: Yazman Dilek , Konuk Nahide , Özcan Muhit , Arat Mutlu , Soydan Ender , Arslan Onder , Ilhan Osman
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Therapy in refractory chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is usually a difficult and expensive procedure, with little benefit to the patient, and the results are typically only short‐term improvements. In this case report, we study a patient with refractory chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura who was initially treated with a first line therapy with only partial and temporary benefit, and in whom none of the experimental therapies tried later on resulted in any long lasting effect. In the case study conducted, among all the second‐line experimental treatment modalities, only the proposed new protocol (the Modified Malmö Protocol) resulted in a major response. Our results suggest that, the Modified Malmö Protocol may be a promising second‐line treatment option for severely refractory idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura cases.
Discovery of a massive variable star with Z = Z⊙/36 in the galaxy DDO 68
Authors: Pustilnik S. A. , Tepliakova A. L. , Kniazev A. Y. , Burenkov A. N.
Published: May 2008

The Local Volume dwarf galaxy DDO 68, from the spectroscopy of its two brightest H ii regions (Knots 1 and 2), was designated as the second most metal-poor star-forming galaxy [12 + log (O/H) = 7.14]. In the repeated spectral observations in 2008 January with the 6-m telescope (BTA) of the H ii region Knot 3 [having 12 + log (O/H) = 7.10 ± 0.06], we find a strong evidence of a transient event related to a massive star evolution. From the follow-up observation with the higher spectral resolution in 2008 February, we confirm this phenomenon, and give parameters of its emission-line spectrum comprising of Balmer H i and He i lines. The luminosities of the strongest transient lines (Hα, Hβ) are of a few 1036 erg s-1. We also detected an additional continuum component in the new spectrum of Knot 3, which displays the spectral energy distribution raising to ultraviolet. The estimate of the flux of this continuum leads us to its absolute V-band magnitude of ∼-7.1. Based on the spectral properties of this transient component, we suggest that it is related to an evolved massive star of luminous blue variable type with Z=Z⊙/36. We briefly discuss observational constraints on parameters of this unique (in the aspect of the record low metallicity of the progenitor massive star) event and propose several lines of its study.
RHEOLOGICAL AND TEXTURAL CHARACTERISTICS OF RAW AND PAR‐COOKED TAEWA (MAORI POTATOES) OF NEW ZEALAND
Authors: SINGH J. , KAUR L. , McCARTHY O.J. , MOUGHAN P.J. , SINGH H.
Published: May 2008

The quality characteristics of raw and par‐cooked (partially cooked) tubers from four different Taewa cultivars were evaluated and compared with a modern potato cultivar (Nadine). Significant differences in dry matter, starch content, color and specific gravity were observed among the raw tubers from the different cultivars. Moemoe and Tutaekuri Taewa cultivars showed higher dry matter content (21.97 and 21.57%, respectively) whereas the lowest specific gravity of 1.057 was observed for Nadine. Par‐cooked chef‐ready tubers were prepared from each cultivar and evaluated for quality during 21 days of storage at 4C. Tutaekuri raw as well as par‐cooked tubers had higher fracturability and hardness whereas Nadine par‐cooked tubers had higher adhesiveness than other cultivars. Rheological parameters such as storage modulus (G′), loss modulus and loss tangent (tan δ) were dependent on the dry matter and starch contents of the tubers. The highest peak G′ values of 24,930 Pa and 19,700 Pa were observed for Tutaekuri and Moemoe potato cultivars, respectively.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Ready‐to‐microwave par‐cooked tubers with a refrigerated shelf life of 21 days were developed without using any chemical preservatives. The rheology of the tuber tissue was studied using a dynamic rheometer for the first time. The technique allows the continuous monitoring of the changes occurring in the potato tissue during the heating and cooling cycles. Significant correlations between the textural characteristics of raw and cooked tubers and the dynamic rheological characteristics of fresh tubers were observed. The technique may be helpful in predicting the viscoelastic characteristics of raw potatoes and the changes in the texture of cooked tubers during refrigerated storage.
COMPARISON STUDY OF EGG YOLKS AND EGG ALTERNATIVES IN FRENCH VANILLA ICE CREAM
Authors: HERALD THOMAS J. , ARAMOUNI FADI M. , ABU‐GHOUSH MAHMOUD H.
Published: May 2008

Egg alternatives may replace egg as a functional ingredient in French vanilla ice cream due to their functional and dietary benefits. These egg alternative ingredients include modified corn starch (MCS), whey protein concentrate (WPC) and soy protein isolate (SPI). The objective of this study was to compare the physical and sensory properties of several commercially available egg alternatives in a vanilla ice cream formulation. The SPI exhibited a significantly lower L value compared with the other egg alternatives, whereas the control exhibited a significantly higher b value compared with the other treatments. The apparent viscosity value of MCS was approximately 10‐fold greater than the other egg alternatives. There were no significant differences in appearance and mouth‐feel among the control, MCS or WPC treatments, whereas SPI exhibited a significantly lower mouth‐feel score compared with the other treatments. The control exhibited significantly higher flavor and acceptability scores compared with the other egg alternatives, whereas SPI treatment exhibited least desirable flavor and acceptability. Consumer panelists would purchase the control with the egg alternative formulations.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The egg alternatives were used to replace egg as a functional ingredient in French vanilla ice cream production. These alternatives can deliver functionality at a lower cost and can be incorporated to produce a suitable ice cream.
Public Management and the Public Good: The Case of Oklahoma's 2002 Secondhand Tobacco Smoke Rules
Authors: Givel Michael S. , Spivak Andrew L.
Published: May 2008

New Public Management and classical public administration theory posit that internal administrative practices based on market principles, including economy and efficiency, will increase the public good through more effective delivery of public services. However, classical public administration theory views bureaucrats as neutral functionaries in a top‐down hierarchy while New Public Management calls for empowered agency entrepreneurs implementing economy and efficiency measures. Research from 1987 to 2003 on Oklahoma secondhand tobacco smoke regulation indicates that real administrative progress in secondhand tobacco smoke restrictions that enhance public health did not occur until 2002 when an Oklahoma health commissioner's aggressive political campaign, initiated through rationalistic internal agency emergency rules, resulted in smoke‐free public and workplaces. This action—which resulted in more effective regulation of secondhand tobacco smoke—was not principally because of an internal New Public Management or classical public administration approach but mainly through a highly public outsider political and administrative process.
Poverty Dynamics among Recent Immigrants to Canada
Authors: Picot Garnett , Hou Feng , Coulombe Simon
Published: May 2008

This paper examines two issues: (1) poverty dynamics among successive cohorts of entering immigrants to Canada, and (2) whether rising educational attainment and increasing share in the “skilled” class since the early 1990s has resulted in improvements in poverty entry, exit, and chronic poverty. The entry to poverty is very high during the first year in Canada, but low in subsequent years. The dramatic move toward more labor-market friendly characteristics of entering immigrants had only a very small effect on poverty outcomes, in part because the relative advantage of holding a degree diminished, and “skilled economic” class immigrants were more likely to enter poverty than their “family” class counterparts.
Immigrants and Social Networks in a Job-Scarce Environment: The Case of Germany
Authors: Drever Anita I. , Hoffmeister Onno
Published: May 2008

Though information about jobs passed through personal networks has been central to the labor market integration of immigrants in the United States, its role in the economic absorption of immigrants in Germany, where jobs are scarcer and employers more likely to demand formal qualifications, is less clear. Through analysis of German Socio-Economic Panel data, we discovered that nearly half of all immigrant-origin job changers found their positions through networks and that the most vulnerable to unemployment – the young and the less educated – were especially likely to rely on them. Also, jobs found through networks were as likely to lead to improved working conditions as jobs acquired through more formal means. These findings have implications both for debates about assimilation and for social policy.
Migration to European Countries: A Structural Explanation of Patterns, 1980–2004
Authors: Hooghe Marc , Trappers Ann , Meuleman Bart , Reeskens Tim
Published: May 2008

Various theoretical approaches have provided us with insights to explain the pattern of migration flows. Economic theory considers migration to be a reaction to labor market and economic incentives. Cultural theories predict that migration flows will occur according to a center-periphery pattern, while social network analysis assumes that migrants follow already established migration networks. We test these three approaches simultaneously using OECD and Eurostat data on the migrant inflow into the European countries between 1980 and 2004. The analysis demonstrates that migration flows react to economic incentives, mainly with regard to the labor market, but also to cultural and colonial linkages. There is no indication that the importance of the colonial past is declining over time. The response of migration patterns to shortages in the labor market is shown to be highly efficient, while the analysis shows that immigrants are not attracted by high levels of social expenditure.
Beyond the Totalitarian: Ethics and the Philosophy of Religion in Recent Hegel Scholarship
Authors: Lewis Thomas A.
Published: May 2008

Recent developments in Hegel scholarship have been dominated by two waves. Focusing on his complex conception of freedom, the first has transformed the dominant view of his ethical and political thought. The second, which has dramatic consequences for the interpretation of his philosophy of religion, reads Hegel as extending rather than repudiating Kant's critical project. These ‘post‐Kantian’ interpretations have rejected the view of Hegel's logic as principally metaphysical in favor of a reading that focuses on the spontaneous and social character of thought.
The Specialized Religions of Ancient Mediterranean Seafarers
Authors: Brody Aaron J.
Published: May 2008

Ancient seafarers faced dangers and fears posed by the sea and sailing. Specialized religious beliefs and practices developed accordingly. Sailors honored deities whose attributes could benefit or devastate a voyage. Divine patrons were worshipped in harbor and at promontory shrines. Ships were considered imbued with a protective spirit and contained sacred spaces. Mariners performed religious ceremonies on land and at sea to protect their voyages. Specialized features are found in funerary practices and mortuary rituals of seafarers. Maritime religions were subsets of ancient religions, generated by unique uncertainties and perils at sea.
Labrang Monastery: Tibetan Buddhism on the Sino‐Tibetan Frontier
Authors: Nietupski Paul K.
Published: May 2008

Labrang Monastery was formally founded in 1709 in Amdo, today located in Xiahe County, Gansu Province. It was founded and occupied by the lineage of the Jamyang Zhepas on the central Tibetan Gelukpa model, and grew to be one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries ever built. Labrang supported the full range of Tibetan Buddhist studies, and in addition allowed other Tibetan and non‐Tibetan religious practices in the community at large. The monastery was located on an ethnic borderland, near its Mongol co‐sponsors, Manchu, Chinese, Muslim, and other neighbors. Its location resulted in both assertions of Tibetan identity and dynamic social, political, and economic interaction. The monastic authorities owned an enormous nomadic and agricultural estate that extended over much of southern Gansu Province and into northern Sichuan and eastern Qinghai. Though politically and economically much reduced, Labrang Monastery's influence is still important in present‐day Amdo.
Forensic Phonetics
Authors: Jessen Michael
Published: May 2008

An overview of forensic phonetics is presented, focusing on speaker identification as its core task. Speaker profiling/speaker classification is applied when the offender has been recorded, but no suspect has been found. Auditory speaker identification by victims and witnesses becomes relevant when no speech recording of the offender is available. It can take the form of familiar‐speaker identification or unfamiliar‐speaker identification, and in the latter case a voice line‐up/voice parade can be carried out. When recordings of both the offender and a suspect are available, a voice comparison is done by an expert in forensic speech analysis. Current issues and domains in voice comparison analysis include the Bayesian approach to forensic reasoning and the Likelihood Ratio, the use of formant frequency measurements, non‐analytic perception and Exemplar Theory, forensic automatic speaker identification, and the interaction between different methods.
Gesture Gives a Hand to Language and Learning: Perspectives from Cognitive Neuroscience, Developmental Psychology and Education
Authors: Kelly Spencer D. , Manning Sarah M. , Rodak Sabrina
Published: May 2008

People of all ages, cultures and backgrounds gesture when they speak. These hand movements are so natural and pervasive that researchers across many fields – from linguistics to psychology to neuroscience – have claimed that the two modalities form an integrated system of meaning during language production and comprehension. This special relationship has implications for a variety of research and applied domains. Gestures may provide unique insights into language and cognitive development, and also help clinicians identify, understand and even treat developmental disorders in childhood. In addition, research in education suggests that teachers can use gesture to become even more effective in several fundamental aspects of their profession, including communication, assessment of student knowledge, and the ability to instill a profound understanding of abstract concepts in traditionally difficult domains such as language and mathematics. This work converging from multiple perspectives will push researchers and practitioners alike to view hand gestures in a new and constructive way.
Gated Communities
Authors: Le Goix Renaud , Webster Chris J.
Published: May 2008

This article examines the notion of gated communities and, more generally, privately governed urban neighbourhoods. We do this by reviewing the idea that they are an innovative built‐environment genre that has spread globally from a diverse set of roots and influences. These include the mass growth of private urban government in the USA over the past 30 years; rising income inequalities and fear in big cities; the French condominium law of 1804; and many other locally and culturally specific features of urban history. We contrast the popular notion that gated communities are simply an American export with the idea that they have emerged in various forms for different reasons in different places. We contrast supply‐side and demand‐side explanations, focusing on the idea that much of their appeal comes from the club‐economy dynamics that underpin them. We examine the social and systemic costs – territorial outcomes – of cities made up of residential clubs, considering, in particular, the issue of segregation. We conclude with a reflection on the importance of local variations in the conditions that foster or inhibit the growth of a gated community market in particular countries.
Use of postpartum vaginoscopic (visual vaginal) examination of dairy cows for the diagnosis of endometritis and the association of endrometritis with reduced reproductive performance
Authors: RUNCIMAN DJ , ANDERSON GA , MALMO J , DAVIS GM
Published: May 2008

Objective To assess the association between the findings from vaginoscopic examination of postpartum dairy cows with peripartum reproductive disease and their subsequent reproductive performance, and to determine the factors that might be associated with a positive vaginoscopic examination (VV).

Methods Cows (n = 1325) from 17 seasonal calving dairy herds were enrolled if they had been calved at least 7 days and had at least one of the following conditions that placed them at risk of endometritis: retained fetal membranes (RFM), dystocia, a dead calf, hypocalcaemia, twin birth, calving induction or an observed vulval discharge (VD). Examination was undertaken 28–37 days before mating start date (MSD) within each herd. All cows were body condition scored (BCS) and were VV scored on a scale of 0 (clear) to 3 (purulent). The uterus and ovaries were assessed by rectal palpation.

Results Cows with a positive VV score (1–3) were less likely to conceive to first service and had a lower pregnancy proportion than cows that had a negative VV score (score 0). Mean MSD to conception interval was longer in VV‐positive cows. A positive VV score was associated with a low BCS, primiparity, intrapelvic uterus, poor uterine tone, large uterus, RFM, VD, dystocia, dead calf and twins.

Conclusion In the present study a positive VV score was associated with reduced reproductive performance and was more common in primiparous and low BCS cows. Of the at‐risk cows, those with RFM, VD, dystocia, dead calf or twins were more likely to have a positive VV score.
AIDS‐Related Stigma in Individuals With Other Stigmatized Identities in the USA: A Review of Layered Stigmas
Authors: Henkel Kristin E. , Brown Krysten , Kalichman Seth C.
Published: May 2008

AIDS‐related stigmas have profound negative impacts on people living with and those affected by HIV/AIDS. While a considerable body of work examines AIDS‐related stigma, it is less clear how AIDS stigmas affect individuals in relation to other stigmatized identities, particularly ethnic minorities. This review examines the literature on AIDS‐related stigma among these groups. The limited available research indicates that AIDS stigmas can seriously interfere with HIV testing, treatment, and care. In addition, prevention studies conducted with incarcerated adolescents, a group characterized by stigmatized identities and high risks for HIV, indicate that interventions for this population do not address stigmatized identities and demonstrate limited effects on risk reduction outcomes. Research is needed to examine stigma in primary prevention of HIV with an at‐risk stigmatized group.
The Emergence of Narrative Identity
Authors: McLean Kate C.
Published: May 2008

This paper reviews the current research on narrative identity. Narrative identity is quickly becoming accepted as a promising process approach to self‐development in a variety of fields, including developmental, clinical, cultural, personality, and social psychology. This paper reviews factors surrounding the emergence of narrative identity in adolescence, relations between narrative patterns and age and personality, as well as factors that are important to developing a coherent narrative identity, such as the emotional valence of experience, storytelling, and culture. Finally, new and emerging issues are raised for those interested in the study of narrative identity, with a particular focus on narratives that are difficult to tell and may violate cultural norms.
Surface modifications of dental implants
Authors: Stanford CM
Published: May 2008

Dental implant surface technologies have been evolving rapidly to enhance a more rapid bone formation on their surface and hold a potential to increase the predictability of expedited implant therapy. While implant outcomes have become highly predictable, there are sites and conditions that result in elevated implant loss. This paper reviews the impact of macro‐retentive features which includes approaches to surface oxide modification, thread design, press‐fit and sintered‐bead technologies to increase predictability of outcomes. Implant designs that lead to controlled lateral compression of the bone can improve primary stability as long as the stress does not exceed the localized yield strength of the cortical bone. Some implant designs have reduced crestal bone loss by use of multiple cutting threads that are closely spaced, smoothed on the tip but designed to create a hoop‐stress stability of the implant as it is completely seated in the osteotomy. Following the placement of the implant, there is a predictable sequence of bone turnover and replacement at the interface that allows the newly formed bone to adapt to microscopic roughness on the implant surface, and on some surfaces, a nanotopography (<10−9m scale) that has been shown to preferably influence the formation of bone. Newly emerging studies show that bone cells are exquisitely sensitive to these topographical features and will upregulate the expression of bone related genes for new bone formation when grown on these surfaces. We live in an exciting time of rapid changes in the modalities we can offer patients for tooth replacement therapy. Given this, it is our responsibility to be critical when claims are made, incorporate into our practice what is proven and worthwhile, and to continue to support and provide the best patient care possible.
Hard tissue implant interface
Authors: Albrektsson T
Published: May 2008

The osseointegrated interface demonstrates, on an average, some 60–70 per cent bone bordering the implant at the light microscopical level of resolution whereas ultrastructural studies have revealed that only partly calcified proteoglycan layers build up the actual interface. Interfacial bone reactions are dependent on the precise nature of the implant material, its design and surface characteristics supposing that clinical factors such as host reactions and surgical and prosthodontic techniques are being controlled. The most commonly used, although not the only useful, material in oral implantology is cp titanium, a most biocompatible material. The most commonly used oral implant design is the threaded screw whereas cylindrical implants without retention elements have been largely abandoned. The nature of the implant surface is of clear relevance for interfacial reactions; micron‐sized irregularities are necessary for osseointegration or biomechanical bonding. Currently, there is evidence of bone ingrowth dependent on nanometer sized irregularities, even if the clinical relevance of this finding remains uncertain. The discussion about an alternative type of implant anchorage (biochemical bonding), started decades ago, however so far without any undisputable evidence of its importance for the oral implant anchorage. Lately, the long‐term stability of the oral implant interface has been questioned by some investigators, allegedly it would be threatened by an increasing occurrence of peri‐implantitis, however in reality demonstrated for only about 2 per cent of implants over a 10–20 year follow‐up.
Prosthetic considerations
Authors: Mericske‐Stern R
Published: May 2008

Implants have changed prosthodontics more than any other innovation in dentistry. Replacement of lost teeth by a fixed or removable prosthesis is considered to be a restitutio ad similem, while implants may provide a feeling of restitutio ad integrum. Implant prosthodontics means restoring function, aesthetics, and providing technology; biology and technology are combined. Placement of implants is a reconstructive, preprosthetic surgical intervention and is therefore different from most goals in oral surgery that consist of tooth extraction, treating infection and removing pathology from soft or hard tissues. Thus, implants are part of the final prosthetic treatment which encompasses functional, aesthetic and social rehabilitation. The patient's needs and functional status determine the goal of prosthetic treatment. Treatment outcomes in implant prosthodontics are survival of implants and prostheses, impact on physiological and psychological status, oral health‐related impact on quality of life, and initial and maintenance costs. A variety of prosthetic solutions are available to restore the partially and completely edentulous jaw and more recently specific methods have been developed such as computer guided planning and CAD‐CAM technologies. These should allow more uniform quality and passive fit of prostheses, and simultaneously enables processing of biologically well‐accepted materials.
Oral implants – the future
Authors: Jokstad A
Published: May 2008

The current and future application of implants to support intra‐ and extra‐oral prostheses is a function not primarily of a current or eventual future, e.g., implant surface configuration, treatment procedure or loading protocol. In contrast, it must be understood by a more complex conceptualization of the practical application of the osseointegration phenomenon. This review will attempt to address the future use of oral implants based on current cutting edge research within the fundamentals that constitute the practical applications of the osseointegration concept.
Tonic and phasic phenomena underlying eye movements during sleep in the cat
Authors: Márquez‐Ruiz Javier , Escudero Miguel
Published: May 2008

Mammalian sleep is not a homogenous state, and different variables have traditionally been used to distinguish different periods during sleep. Of these variables, eye movement is one of the most paradigmatic, and has been used to differentiate between the so‐called rapid eye movement (REM) and non‐REM (NREM) sleep periods. Despite this, eye movements during sleep are poorly understood, and the behaviour of the oculomotor system remains almost unknown. In the present work, we recorded binocular eye movements during the sleep–wake cycle of adult cats by the scleral search‐coil technique. During alertness, eye movements consisted of conjugated saccades and eye fixations. During NREM sleep, eye movements were slow and mostly unconjugated. The two eyes moved upwardly and in the abducting direction, producing a tonic divergence and elevation of the visual axis. During the transition period between NREM and REM sleep, rapid monocular eye movements of low amplitude in the abducting direction occurred in coincidence with ponto‐geniculo‐occipital waves. Along REM sleep, the eyes tended to maintain a tonic convergence and depression, broken by high‐frequency bursts of complex rapid eye movements. In the horizontal plane, each eye movement in the burst comprised two consecutive movements in opposite directions, which were more evident in the eye that performed the abducting movements. In the vertical plane, rapid eye movements were always upward. Comparisons of the characteristics of eye movements during the sleep–wake cycle reveal the uniqueness of eye movements during sleep, and the noteworthy existence of tonic and phasic phenomena in the oculomotor system, not observed until now.
Intracortical modulation of cortical‐bulbar responses for the masseter muscle
Authors: Ortu Enzo , Deriu Franca , Suppa Antonio , Giaconi Elena , Tolu Eusebio , Rothwell John C.
Published: May 2008

Short interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) and intracortical facilitation (ICF) were evaluated in the masseter muscles of 12 subjects and the cortical silent period (SP) in nine subjects. Motor evoked potentials (MEPs) were recorded from contralateral (cMM) and ipsilateral (iMM) masseters, activated at 10% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). Interstimulus intervals (ISIs) were 2 and 3 ms for SICI, 10 and 15 ms for ICF. TMS of the left masseteric cortex induced MEPs that were larger in the cMM than the iMM; stimulation of right masseteric cortex produced a similar asymmetry in response amplitude. SICI was only observed using a CS intensity of 70% AMT and was equal in both cMM and iMM. SICI was stronger at higher TS intensities, was abolished by muscle activation greater than 10% MVC, and was unaffected by coil orientation changes. Control experiments confirmed that SICI was not contaminated by any inhibitory peripheral reflexes. However, ICF could not be obtained because it was masked by bilateral reflex depression of masseter EMG caused by auditory input from the coil discharge. The SP was bilateral and symmetric; its duration ranged from 35 to 70 ms depending on TS intensity and coil orientation. We conclude that SICI is present in the cortical representation of masseter muscles. The similarity of SICI in cMM and iMM suggests either that a single pool of inhibitory interneurons controls ipsi‐ and contralateral corticotrigeminal projections or that inhibition is directed to bilaterally projecting corticotrigeminal fibres. Finally, the corticotrigeminal projection seems to be weakly influenced by inhibitory interneurons mediating the cortical SP.
Unresolved issues and controversies in purinergic signalling
Authors: Burnstock Geoffrey
Published: May 2008

Some areas of current interest in the rapidly expanding purinergic signalling field that are controversial or are unresolved are highlighted in this review. These include the mechanisms underlying: ATP transport across cell and vesicle membranes; the interaction of multiple receptors for purines and pyrimidines on single cells; the blocking effect of antagonists to P2X4and P2X7receptors expressed by microglial cells in neuropathic and inflammatory pain; and the complex actions mediated by P2X7receptors. Some desirable areas for further research are also discussed including: comparative studies of the evolution of purinergic signalling; studies of purinergic signalling in development and regeneration, including the involvement of stem cells; behavioural studies; and therapeutic strategies.
The effect of exercise on innate mucosal immunity
Authors: West N P , Pyne D B , Kyd J M , Renshaw G M , Fricker P A , Cripps A W
Published: May 2008

Methods

The authors conducted a prospective observational study comparing salivary lactoferrin and lysozyme concentration over 5 months (chronic changes) in elite rowers (n=17, mean age 24.3±4.0 years) with sedentary individuals (controls) (n=18, mean age=27.2±7.1 years) and a graded exercise test to exhaustion (acute changes) with a cohort of elite rowers (n=11, mean age 24.7±4.1).

Results

Magnitudes of differences and changes were interpreted as a standardised (Cohen's) effect size (ES). Lactoferrin concentration in the observational study was approximately 60% lower in rowers than control subjects at baseline (7.9±1.2 µg/ml mean±SEM, 19.4±5.6 µg/ml, p=0.05, ES=0.68, ‘moderate’) and at the midpoint of the season (6.4±1.4 µg/ml mean ± SEM, 21.5±4.2 µg/ml, p=0.001, ES=0.89, ‘moderate’). The concentration of lactoferrin at the end of the study was not statistically significant (p=0.1) between the groups. There was no significant difference between rowers and control subjects in lysozyme concentration during the study. There was a 50% increase in the concentration of lactoferrin (p=0.05, ES=1.04, ‘moderate’) and a 55% increase in lysozyme (p=0.01, ES=3.0, ‘very large’) from pre-exercise to exhaustion in the graded exercise session.

Conclusion

Lower concentrations of these proteins may be indicative of an impairment of innate protection of the upper respiratory tract. Increased salivary lactoferrin and lysozyme concentration following exhaustive exercise may be due to a transient activation response that increases protection in the immediate postexercise period.
Density Dependence of Larval Growth of a Marine Fish, the Southern Bluefin Tuna, Thunnus maccoyii
Authors: Jenkins Greg P. , Young Jock W. , Davis Tim L. O.
Published: May 2008

Competition for food among larvae and subsequent reduction in growth rates has been proposed as a mechanism to explain the apparent density-dependent control of some exploited marine fish populations, but has received little support from field data. Growth of larvae of southern bluefin tuna, Thunnus maccoyii, in the East Indian Ocean was significantly different among stations sampled randomly within a 20-km radius. Growth rate was positively correlated with feeding rate but not with temperature, indicating that larvae were food limited to a varying degree. A negative correlation between growth rate and abundance suggested that food limitation was density dependent. Regression analysis indicated that in areas of highest larval densities there was an approximate 25% reduction in growth rate. We suggest that in areas of high abundance, larvae were competing for food, leading to a density-dependent reduction of growth rate. Because the larval stage of high mortality is prolonged, cumulative mortality of slow-growing larvae over this period may be greater, even if the mortality rate is constant.
Need for Replicated Electrophoretic Analyses in Multiagency Genetic Stock Identification (GSI) Programs: Examples from a Pink Salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) GSI Fisheries Study
Authors: White Bruce A. , Shaklee James B.
Published: May 2008

Genetic stock identification (GSI) studies usually assume that electrophoretic data from different laboratories are accurate, precise, and comparable. We compared the genetic scores from replicate (identical) collections of pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) tissues that were analyzed in a "blind" manner by three different laboratories; scores at 15 genetic systems (18 loci) were compared for 1248 fish. The scores from laboratories A and B consistently agreed. Their average discrepancy rate across all loci was 0.21%, which was approximately 18 times lower than the discrepancy rate of laboratory C (3.86%). Laboratory C also reported data with higher numbers of discrepancies (P < 0.01) in their scores of variant genotypes (non-*100/100) than the other two laboratories. Stock composition estimates using maximum likelihood analysis of the data from laboratories A and B differed by approximately 1% by stock group, while those of laboratory C differed by an average of 8% by stock group from the estimates of the other two laboratories. Our findings demonstrate that different laboratories can, but do not always, produce results that are consistent. Because many GSI programs in North America rely on data contributed by several laboratories, we recommend that testing of replicate samples be incorporated into all multiagency GSI studies.
Acute and Final Temperature Preferenda as Predictors of Lake St. Clair Fish Catchability
Authors: Danzmann Roy G. , MacLennan Don S. , Hector Don G. , Hebert Paul D. N. , Kolasa Jurek
Published: May 2008

Geographic distributions of major fish species resident in Lake St. Clair, field assessments of their seasonal thermal distributions, and laboratory determinations of their median and maximum final temperature preferenda were compared with their catchability at different temperatures. Fish catchability at various temperatures was estimated (regression analysis) during the fall pound net set survey (1977–88) using number of fish caught per 24-h net set as the dependent variable. Swimming activity was expected to be higher at temperatures closest to the species' preferred temperature, thereby increasing catchability. Maximum final temperature preferendum was the best predictor of observed fish temperature preferences. Geographic distributions and median final temperature preferenda were better predictors than summer or fall seasonal thermal distributions. Acute temperature preferenda were also good predictors of fish catchability at different temperatures. Of the 22 species examined, the catchability of Centrarchidae (five of six species), Catostomidae (two of five species), Clupeidae (one species), Ictaluridae (two species), and Percichthyidae (two species) was greater in warmer water, while the catchability of Amiidae (one species), Cyprinidae (one species), Catostomidae (three of five species), Esocidae (one species), Percidae (two species), and Sciaenidae (one species) increased in colder water. Temperature significantly accounted for differences in catchability among most species (14 of 22).
Comparison of Methods Used to Estimate Age and Length of Fishes at Sexual Maturity Using Populations of White Sucker (Catostomus commersoni)
Authors: Trippel Edward A. , Harvey Harold H.
Published: May 2008

We compared six methods of estimating age and length at sexual maturity of iteroparous fishes: probit analysis, maximum likelihood methodology, linear regression on arcsine - square root transformed data, Lysack's formula, visual observation of distributions for the first occurrence of [Formula: see text] maturity, and computation of lt of the von Bertalanffy equation using age at maturity for t. To aid comparisons, we subdivided 32 white sucker (Catostomus commersoni) maturity distributions into four types: abrupt transition to maturity (type I), successive increases in proportion mature with increase in age or length (type II), nonsuccessive increases in proportion mature with increase in age or length (type III), and absence of 100% maturity at any age (type IV). Type I distributions were best represented by reporting the first occurrence of [Formula: see text] maturity, types II and III by probit analysis and the maximum likelihood method, and type IV distributions were not adequately represented by any method. Lysack's formula tended to produce high estimates for types II and III and negative values for some type IV distributions. Both the number and position of missing year classes influenced estimates of age at maturity. We recommend documenting maturity distributions with all estimates of age and size at maturity.
Status and Trends of the Lake Ontario Macrobenthos
Authors: Nalepa Thomas F.
Published: May 2008

The benthic macroinvertebrate community of Lake Ontario was examined relative to communities found in the other Great Lakes and also relative to trends over time. In the nearshore, populations are heavily influenced by municipal and industrial inputs. For example, oligochaete abundances in the nearshore are higher than in any of the other Great Lakes (excluding shallow Lake Erie), communities have been altered even to relatively deep depths near the major river mouths, and the pollution-sensitive Pontoporeia hoyi is scarce along the southern shoreline east of the Niagara River mouth. In the profundal, benthic composition is similar to that found in the other Great Lakes, but biomass is less than might be expected given the amount of organic material settling to the bottom. Benthic standing stocks in this region have apparently declined almost threefold since the 1960s. Reasons for this decline do not appear to be related to trends in water column productivity or to predation pressure, but may be related to the accumulation of contaminants. Research needs include studies to assess benthic trends over a much broader area of the lake and studies to examine the impact of sublethal levels of contaminants.
Lake Ontario's Sport Fisheries: Socioeconomic Research Progress and Needs
Authors: Brown Tommy L. , Knuth Barbara A. , Menz Fredric C.
Published: May 2008

The management process of an aquatic system such as Lake Ontario depends on a dynamic information base and occurs within an environment comprising ecological, social, cultural, political, and economic factors. It is critical that this information base include socioeconomic components pertaining to resource user values and behaviors as well as the traditional ecological components. This paper reviews socioeconomic information pertaining to the utilization and valuation of Lake Ontario's sport fisheries. It also examines the socioeconomic components of assessing the risks to humans posed by contaminants present in sport fish, communicating this information to fish consumers, and monitoring and understanding human responses to these communications. Several studies have examined the economic impacts of sport fishing on coastal communities of Lake Ontario. Few studies have examined the net economic value of sportfishing to anglers, or how contaminants have reduced such values. Similarly, few studies have examined how the public responds to information about contaminants in sport fish. Some research in these areas is currently underway.