bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bridging Practice and Theory: A Design Science Approach
Authors: Holmström Jan , Ketokivi Mikko , Hameri Ari‐Pekka
Published: March 2009

Despite ambitious efforts in various fields of research over multiple decades, the goal of making academic research relevant to the practitioner remains elusive: theoretical and academic research interests do not seem to coincide with the interests of managerial practice. This challenge is more fundamental than knowledgetransfer, it is one of diverging knowledgeinterestsand means of knowledgeproduction. In this article, we look at this fundamental challenge through the lens of design science, which is an approach aimed primarily at discovery and problem solving as opposed to accumulation of theoretical knowledge. We explore in particular the ways in which problem‐solving research and theory‐oriented academic research can complement one another. In operations management (OM) research, recognizing and building on this complementarity is especially crucial, because problem‐solving–oriented research produces the very artifacts (e.g., technologies) that empirical OM research subsequently evaluates in an attempt to build explanatory theory. It is indeed the practitioner—not the academic scientist—who engages in basic research in OM. This idiosyncrasy prompts the question: how can we enhance the cross‐fertilization between academic research and research practice to make novel theoretical insights and practical relevance complementary? This article proposes a design science approach to bridge practice to theory rather than theory to practice.
Customization Strategies in Electronic Retailing: Implications of Customer Purchase Behavior*
Authors: Thirumalai Sriram , Sinha Kingshuk K.
Published: March 2009

In this article, we assess the implications of customer purchase behavior on customization in electronic retailing. We develop a classification scheme for customization strategies in electronic retailing. The classification scheme comprises three customization strategies: (i) transaction customization, (ii) decision customization, and (iii) product customization. We develop scales to measure each of the three customization strategies using a systematic four‐stage scale development process. Building on the extant literature on customer purchase behavior, we design an experiment to examine the alignment of the customization strategies with three well‐established product types: (i) convenience goods, (ii) shopping goods, and (iii) specialty goods, and its implications for customer value. The findings of the experiment indicate that there are significant differences in the customer value for the three customization strategies across the three product types. The contributions of the study, the managerial implications of the study findings, limitations, and directions for future research are discussed.
Shrinkage‐based Diagonal Discriminant Analysis and Its Applications in High‐Dimensional Data
Authors: Pang Herbert , Tong Tiejun , Zhao Hongyu
Published: March 2009

Summary High‐dimensional data such as microarrays have brought us new statistical challenges. For example, using a large number of genes to classify samples based on a small number of microarrays remains a difficult problem. Diagonal discriminant analysis, support vector machines, and k‐nearest neighbor have been suggested as among the best methods for small sample size situations, but none was found to be superior to others. In this article, we propose an improved diagonal discriminant approach through shrinkage and regularization of the variances. The performance of our new approach along with the existing methods is studied through simulations and applications to real data. These studies show that the proposed shrinkage‐based and regularization diagonal discriminant methods have lower misclassification rates than existing methods in many cases.
Sexual and Asexual Processes in Protoperidinium steidingerae Balech (Dinophyceae), with Observations on Life‐History Stages of Protoperidinium depressum (Bailey) Balech (Dinophyceae)
Authors: GRIBBLE KRISTIN E. , ANDERSON DONALD M. , WAYNE COATS D.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT. A suite of morphological, histological, and molecular techniques was used to reveal for the first time division, sexuality, mandatory dormancy period of hypnozygotes, and identity of life‐history stages of any Protoperidinium spp. In both Protoperidinium steidingerae and Protoperidinium depressum, asexual division occurred by eleutheroschisis within a temporary cyst, yielding two daughter cells. Daughter cells were initially round and one‐half to two‐thirds the size of parent cells then rapidly increased in size, forming horns before separating. Gamete production and fusion was constitutive in clonal and non‐clonal cultures, indicating that both species may be homothallic. Gametes were isogamous, approximately half the size and lacking the pink pigmentation of the vegetative cells, and were never observed to feed. Gamete fusion resulted in a planozygote with two longitudinal flagella. Planozygotes of P. steidingerae formed hypnozygotes. The fate of planozygotes of P. depressum is unknown. Hypnozygotes of P. steidingerae had a mandatory dormancy period of ca. 70 days. Germination resulted in planomeiocytes with two longitudinal flagella. Nuclear cyclosis occurred in the planozygotes of P. depressum, but in the planomeiocytes of P. steidingerae. The plate tabulation and gross morphology of gametes of P. steidingerae and P. depressum differed markedly from those of vegetative cells. Thus, misidentification of morphologically distinct life‐history stages and incomplete examination of thecal plate morphology in field specimens has likely led to taxonomic confusion of Protoperidinium spp. in previous studies.
Untangling the Phylogeny of Amoeboid Protists1
Authors: PAWLOWSKI JAN , BURKI FABIEN
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT. The amoebae and amoeboid protists form a large and diverse assemblage of eukaryotes characterized by various types of pseudopodia. For convenience, the traditional morphology‐based classification grouped them together in a macrotaxon named Sarcodina. Molecular phylogenies contributed to the dismantlement of this assemblage, placing the majority of sarcodinids into two new supergroups: Amoebozoa and Rhizaria. In this review, we describe the taxonomic composition of both supergroups and present their small subunit rDNA‐based phylogeny. We comment on the advantages and weaknesses of these phylogenies and emphasize the necessity of taxon‐rich multigene datasets to resolve phylogenetic relationships within Amoebozoa and Rhizaria. We show the importance of environmental sequencing as a way of increasing taxon sampling in these supergroups. Finally, we highlight the interest of Amoebozoa and Rhizaria for understanding eukaryotic evolution and suggest that resolving their phylogenies will be among the main challenges for future phylogenomic analyses.
First Records and Microhabitat Assessment of Protostelids in the Aberdare Region, Central Kenya
Authors: NDIRITU GEORGE G. , STEPHENSON STEVEN L. , SPIEGEL FREDERICK W.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT. A rapid assessment survey on the occurrence and distribution of protosteloid amoebae was carried out in central Kenya. Samples of dead plant materials were collected from 46 study sites (each 20 × 20 m) situated along an elevation gradient (1,785–3,396 m) that encompassed five major land use/cover types. Twenty‐four species and subspecific taxa were recovered and included 23 protostelids and one minute myxomycete, often included in surveys for protostelids. All of these were the first records for Kenya, and six were new for Africa. Numbers of taxa were highest in ground litter and aerial litter microhabitats (20 taxa each) and lowest on aerial bark (10) and ground bark (7). Relative species abundance was greatest in aerial litter, moderate in ground litter, and low on aerial and ground bark microhabitats. The most frequently occurring species on ground litter were Schizoplasmodiopsis pseudoendospora, Schizoplasmodiopsis amoeboidea, and Protostelium mycophaga var. mycophaga, whereas the most common species on aerial litter were P. mycophaga var. mycophaga and Soliformovum irregularis. Species richness and abundance decreased with increasing elevation.
Expression of Nucleus‐Encoded Genes for Chloroplast Proteins in the Flagellate Euglena gracilis
Authors: VESTEG MATEJ , VACULA ROSTISLAV , BUREY SUZANNE , LÖFFELHARDT WOLFGANG , DRAHOVSKÁ HANA , MARTIN WILLIAM , KRAJČOVIČ JURAJ
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT. Reverse transcription PCRs (RT‐PCRs), real‐time RT‐PCRs and microarrays containing 50‐mer oligonucleotides representing nucleus‐encoded genes for chloroplast proteins from Euglena gracilis were used to compare light‐ and dark‐grown wild‐type mRNA levels to those of light‐ and dark‐grown E. gracilis stable white mutant strains WgmZOflL, W3BUL and W10BSmL. The analyses revealed no light‐dependent regulation of mRNA levels. Moreover, the mRNA levels of most genes were unchanged in all white mutants in comparison with wild‐type. These results suggest that mRNA levels of nucleus‐encoded genes for chloroplast proteins in E. gracilis do not depend on either light or plastid function.
Decomposition Suppression of Silicon Nitride by Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanocoatings
Authors: Zhang Guo‐Jun
Published: March 2009

We report a stabilized Si3N4 simply with nanocoatings of h‐BN. Very thin BN coatings are enough for suppressing the decomposition of Si3N4 particles. This approach should open up a new potential way to prepare stabilized Si3N4. Reduced nitridation of H3BO3‐coated Si3N4 powder at 1050°C in a flowing mixed 40% N2+60% H2 atmosphere, and then following heat‐treatment at 1500°C in a flowing N2 atmosphere can realize the nanocoating of BN on Si3N4 particles. Compared with the Si3N4 powder without nanocoatings of h‐BN, TG and XRD analysis showed that the obtained h‐BN nanocoated Si3N4 powder demonstrated obviously improved stability in argon atmosphere.
Preparation and Characterization of a Large‐Scale YBa2Cu3O7−x Superconductor Prepared by Plastic Forming without a High‐Pressure Molding: Effect of Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) Addition on the Superconducting Properties
Authors: Takahashi Makoto , Miyauchi Toshiyuki , Sawada Kengo , Ishikawa Hiroyuki , Sato Shoji , Tahashi Masahiro , Wakita Koichi , Ohkido Sadao , Honda Motohisa , Murai Asami , Kamiya Masato , Matubara Masanori
Published: March 2009

The preparation of large‐scale YBa2Cu3O7−x superconductor samples was investigated. This method is based on plastic forming using a slurry consisting of YBa2Cu3O7−x particles and a sol solution made up of multimetallic hydroxide particles (YBa2Cu3(OH)x colloidal particles) and poly(vinyl) alcohol (PVA). The effects of adding PVA on the product, the crystallinity, and the superconducting properties of the sample were investigated. It was found that PVA acted as a protective colloid in the sol solution and stabilized YBa2Cu3(OH)x colloidal particles, and that the role of PVA changed from a thickener to a flocculant during drying so that the formability/workability of the green sheet sample was improved and large samples (about 80 mm × 80 mm × 3 mm) without large cracks were obtained after firing. The samples became superconducting at 91.5±0.5 K (Tcon) and the full transition temperature (Tcoff) was 88.5±1.5 K. The critical current density (Jc) of the sample prepared from the slurry containing 1 wt% PVA was 713±150 A/cm2 at 77 K. This Jc value was improved to 2300 A/cm2 by heat treatment at 773 K under an oxygen atmosphere.
Corrosion Behaviors of Zirconia Refractory by CaO–SiO2–MgO–CaF2 Slag
Authors: Suk Min Oh , Park Joo Hyun
Published: March 2009

In this work the corrosion behaviors of zirconia refractory (partially MgO‐stabilized zirconia) was investigated in CaO–SiO2–MgO–CaF2 slag with varying CaF2 content at 1873 K. To figure out the corrosion mechanism, the characteristics of present slag at high temperature were examined in terms of melting temperature and vaporization behaviors. Corrosion experiment and melting temperature measurement were carried out by heating microscope (HM) and the vaporization phenomenon was investigated by thermo gravimetry–differential scanning calorimetry. After experiment, the corroded interfaces of zirconia refractory by slag were analyzed by scanning electron microscope‐energy dispersive spectroscopy and electron probe microanalysis. With an addition of CaF2, three different layers were formed at the interface of slag and zirconia refractory. Furthermore, the corrosion behaviors of zirconia refractory were found to be continuously accelerated with an increase of CaF2 which facilitated the dissolution of intermediate compound. On the other hand, melting temperature of CaO–SiO2–MgO–CaF2 slag showed no continuous decrease with an increase of CaF2. Also, considerable vaporization of fluoride gas was occurred in high CaF2 containing slag during HM experiment which might cause a gradual change of slag composition and also environmental pollution. From the results, present study suggested that a proper amount of CaF2 should be added when it is used for enhancing refining capacity of slag in order not to cause any severe damage of zirconia‐based refractory by slag.
Experiments and Model Simulations of the Viscosity and Dilatation of Glass Coatings with Temperature Dependence
Authors: Azzou Adila , Denoirjean Paule , Kameyama Tetsuya , Sugiyama Toyohiko , Blanchart Philippe
Published: March 2009

Glass coatings on ceramics or metals are microcomposite materials, consisting of granular oxide phases as pigments and small bubbles that are distributed in glass. Knowledge of dilatation and viscosity versus temperature is essential for applications and simulation methods are necessary. However, the significance of the models depends on the specificity of the compositions and microstructure of glass‐containing pigments.

In this study, the viscosity and dilatation of glass coatings were characterized by dilatometry and the sessile drop method. The results show how the physical properties vary with the quantity of zircon grains and bubbles. Simulations with calculation methods for bulk glasses show discrepancies with the experiments, which are caused by the presence of zircon grains and bubbles. We provide evidence that improved models can be obtained by adding equations describing the behavior of glasses containing rigid inclusions and bubbles. The resulting methods provide the opportunity to discover new composition areas of glass coatings having predefined combinations of properties.
Combustion Synthesis of Si3N4 by Selective Reaction of Silicon with Nitrogen in Air
Authors: Li Jiang‐Tao , Mei Lin , Yang Yun , Lin Zhi‐Ming
Published: March 2009

Silicon nitride (Si3N4) was synthesized by a selective combustion reaction of silicon powder with nitrogen in air. The α/β‐Si3N4 ratio of the interior product could be tailored by adjusting the Si3N4‐diluent content in the reactant mixtures. The synthetic β‐Si3N4 showed a well‐crystallized rod‐like morphology. Mechanical activation greatly enhanced the reactivity of silicon powder, and the slow oxidation of silicon at the sample surface promoted the combustion reaction in air. The formation mechanism of Si3N4 was analyzed based on a proposed N2/O2 diffusion kinetic model, and the calculated result is in good agreement with the experimental phenomenon.
Nanopowders of Na0.5K0.5NbO3 Prepared by the Pechini Method
Authors: Chowdhury Anirban , O'Callaghan Samantha , Skidmore Thomas A. , James Craig , Milne Steven J.
Published: March 2009

A Pechini‐based chemical synthesis route was used to produce powders of Na0.5K0.5NbO3 (NKN). The thermochemistry of the gel was investigated using thermogravimetric analysis‐fourier transform infrared (TGA‐FTIR) evolved gas analysis; in addition, powder FTIR was used to analyze the gel residues after different heat treatments. The final decomposition of the organic components occurred at ∼650°C. However, hydrated–carbonated secondary phase(s) were detected by FTIR in powders that had been heated at 700°C, indicating that the NKN nanopowders are susceptible to a reaction with atmospheric moisture and carbon dioxide. The NKN particle sizes were in the range 50–150 nm after decomposition at 700°C.
Vicious Dogs: The Antisocial Behaviors and Psychological Characteristics of Owners
Authors: Ragatz Laurie , Fremouw William , Thomas Tracy , McCoy Katrina
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Each year, 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs. Of those bitten each year, 386,000 are seriously injured and some killed. Consequently, many insurance companies refuse to issue homeowners insurance to owners of specific breeds of dogs considered “vicious” or high risk of causing injury. This study examined whether vicious dog owners were different on antisocial behaviors and personality dimensions. A total of 869 college students completed an anonymous online questionnaire assessing type of dog owned, criminal behaviors, attitudes towards animal abuse, psychopathy, and personality. The sample was divided into four groups: vicious dog owners, large dog owners, small dog owners, and controls. Findings revealed vicious dog owners reported significantly more criminal behaviors than other dog owners. Vicious dog owners were higher in sensation seeking and primary psychopathy. Study results suggest that vicious dog ownership may be a simple marker of broader social deviance.
Validation of the Direct Analysis in Real Time Source for Use in Forensic Drug Screening
Authors: Steiner Robert R. , Larson Robyn L.
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  The Direct Analysis in Real Time (DART) ion source is a relatively new mass spectrometry technique that is seeing widespread use in chemical analyses world‐wide. DART studies include such diverse topics as analysis of flavors and fragrances, melamine in contaminated dog food, differentiation of writing inks, characterization of solid counterfeit drugs, and as a detector for planar chromatography. Validation of this new technique for the rapid screening of forensic evidence for drugs of abuse, utilizing the DART source coupled to an accurate mass time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer, was conducted. The study consisted of the determination of the lower limit of detection for the method, determination of selectivity and a comparison of this technique to established analytical protocols. Examples of DART spectra are included. The results of this study have allowed the Virginia Department of Forensic Science to incorporate this new technique into their analysis scheme for the screening of solid dosage forms of drugs of abuse.
Pulse Pressure and the Metabolic Syndrome in Patients With Hypertension
Authors: Barrios Vivencio , Escobar Carlos , Echarri Rocio , Matalí Arantxa
Published: March 2009

The authors examined the clinical profile of the hypertensive population with the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and elevated pulse pressure (PP) in a sample of 5866 patients (3291 women and 2575 men) included in a large hypertension survey performed in primary care setting. Elevated PP was defined as ≥80 mm Hg in women and ≥75 mm Hg in men; 92.7% of women and 87.6% of men had normal PP values. Patients with higher PP levels were older, were more commonly diabetic, and exhibited more frequently target organ damage and associated clinical conditions. Blood pressure was less well controlled in the subgroup of patients with elevated PP: control rates were 4.1% vs 19.2%, P<.001; men, 3.9% vs 19.0%, P<.001; P=NS between sexes. Low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol was similarly controlled regardless of PP: control rates were, 17.0% vs 17.8%; in women with high PP vs normal PP and 25.2% vs 25.1% in men with high PP vs normal PP, both P=NS; P<.001 between sexes with high PP. In the patients with high PP, the female subgroup was older, was more obese, and had more left ventricular hypertrophy and fewer associated clinical conditions than did men. The odds ratio of having high PP in women with MetS vs no MetS was 3.13 and in men was 1.9 (both P<.01).
Left Ventricular Structural and Functional Changes in the Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Mahmud Azra , Almuntaser Ibrahim , Brown Angie , King Gerard , Crean Peter , Feely John
Published: March 2009

To test the hypothesis that the cardiac structural and functional abnormalities of the metabolic syndrome (MS) are independent of body mass index (BMI), 160 untreated patients (aged 47±1 years [mean ± SEM], 53% male) underwent 2‐dimensional echocardiography and tissue Doppler imaging and evaluation for MS. Participants with MS and controls were similar in age, BMI, and ejection fraction, but those with MS had greater left ventricular relative wall thickness (RWT) (0.43±0.008 vs 0.39±0.005, P<.001), reduced midwall fractional shortening (MFS) (13%±0.3% vs 14.2%±0.3%, P<.05), and reduced peak mitral annular velocity (Em) (9.9±0.5 vs 12.3±0.5 cm/sec, P<.01) than controls. There was a linear relationship between the number of features of MS and Em velocity (P<.001), RWT (P<.001), and MFS (P<.05). In a stepwise multiple regression analysis adjusting for likely determinants, MS was an independent predictor of Em in addition to age and nonindexed left ventricular mass. MS is associated with left ventricular concentric remodeling and reduced systolic and diastolic function independent of BMI.
Instant provisionalization of immediate single‐tooth implants is essential to optimize esthetic treatment outcome
Authors: De Rouck Tim , Collys Kristiaan , Wyn Iris , Cosyn Jan
Published: March 2009

Objective: The immediate single‐tooth implant has become a viable treatment option. However, the impact of the restorative procedure on esthetics is currently unclear. The goal of this study was to compare the soft tissue outline at immediate implants following two restorative protocols: immediate connection of a temporary crown or submerged healing during which a removable partial denture is used.

Material and methods: A 1‐year single‐blind randomized clinical study was performed in 49 patients. Twenty‐four patients were assigned to the immediate restoration group and 25 to the delayed restoration group. Clinical and radiographic evaluations of soft and hard tissues were carried out after 3, 6 and 12 months.

Results: Implant survival, bone remodeling, probing depth and bleeding tendency were not influenced by the restorative protocol. Delayed restoration resulted in initial papilla loss taking up to 1 year to attain comparable height as for immediate restoration. Midfacial recession was systematically 2.5–3 times higher following delayed restoration pointing to a 0.75 mm additional loss in comparison with immediate restoration after 1 year.

Conclusions: If the primary implant stability permits it, immediate single‐tooth implants should be instantly provisionalized in the interest of optimal midfacial esthetics.
Degradation of collagen‐guided tissue regeneration membranes by proteolytic enzymes of Porphyromonas gingivalis and its inhibition by antibacterial agents
Authors: Sela Michael N. , Babitski Eleonora , Steinberg Doron , Kohavi David , Rosen Graciela
Published: March 2009

Previous studies have shown that whole cells of several periodontal pathogenic bacteria including Porphyromonas gingivalis may degrade the clinically used regeneration membranes Biomend Extend™ and Bio‐Gide®. Fractionation of P. gingivalis cells revealed that cell membrane‐associated proteases are responsible for the in vitro degradation of the collagen membranes. In the present study, the specific role of extracellular vesicles and the purified Arg‐gingipain enzyme of P. gingivalis in the degradation of three differently cross‐linked collagen membranes (Ossix™; Bio‐Gide® and Biomend Extend™) was examined. In addition, the inhibitory effect of antibacterial agents and antibiotics used in local periodontal therapy on the enzymatic degradation was evaluated. The data presented show that while all tested collagen membranes, are prone to lysis by oral bacterial proteases, cross‐linked membranes are more resistant to proteolysis. Furthermore, therapeutical concentrations of the antibacterial and antibiotic agents chlorhexidine, cetylpyridiniumchloride, minocycline and doxycycline were found to partially inhibit the enzymatic breakdown of the membranes, while metronidazole had no such effect. These results suggest that the presence of P. gingivalis cells, extracellular vesicles and enzymes in the vicinity of regeneration membranes in the periodontium, may change their physical structure and therefore alter their biological properties. Furthermore, the use of cross‐linked collagen membranes and antibacterial agents may significantly inhibit this proteolytic process.
Plant ontogeny and chemical defence: older seedlings are better defended
Authors: Elger Arnaud , Lemoine Damien G. , Fenner Michael , Hanley Mick E.
Published: March 2009

Although patterns of seedling selection by herbivores are strongly influenced by plant age and the expression of anti‐herbivore defence, it is unclear how these characteristics interact to influence seedling susceptibility to herbivory. We tracked ontogenetic changes in a range of secondary metabolites (total phenolics, alkaloids and cyanogenic glycosides) commonly associated with seedling defence for nine sympatric British grassland species. Although there was marked variation in concentrations of secondary metabolites between different species, we found a consistent increase in the deployment of phenolics, alkaloids and cyanogenics with seedling age for six of the seven dicotyledonous species examined. The two grass species by contrast exhibited low levels of secondary metabolites across all developmental stages, possibly due to an investment in structural (silica phytoliths) defence. Our results corroborate species‐specific patterns of seedling herbivory observed in field studies, and offer some explanation for the relatively high sensitivity to herbivore attack frequently observed for relatively young seedlings compared with their older conspecifics. Our results also support predictions made by the growth–differentiation balance hypothesis regarding ontogenetic changes in resource allocation to anti‐herbivore defence for a range of potential chemical defences and across a range of sympatric plant species presumably subject to broadly similar selective pressures at the regeneration stage.
Vertical distribution of Chlamydomonas changes in response to grazer and predator kairomones
Authors: Latta IV Leigh C. , O'Donnell Ryan P. , Pfrender Michael E.
Published: March 2009

Individuals in aquatic communities frequently assess their biotic environment through infochemicals. In particular, kairomones are commonly involved in interactions between predator and prey. However, the relationship between individuals and chemicals produced by other organisms that are not direct predators, but may indicate the presence of a predator, is not well characterized. We used experimental microcosms to test whether the unicellular green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii alters vertical migration patterns in response to kairomones produced by zooplankton (Daphnia) and planktivores (fish). Our results suggested that phototaxis in C. reinhardtii was strongly affected by the type of kairomone present, the concentration of the kairomone, and the duration of exposure to the kairomone. Kairomones generally increased phototaxis in C. reinhardtii. The adaptive significance of such behavioral changes in natural settings would depend largely on local community composition. The similarity in phototactic responses of C. reinhardtii to Daphnia and fish kairomone suggest that, in at least this species of phytoplankton, the underlying genetic elements responsible for kairomone detection may be responsive to a broad range of chemical stimuli, allowing this species to adjust its phototaxis in response to not only the presence of its grazers, but also to predators of its grazers.
Nonlinearity of effects of invasive ecosystem engineers on abiotic soil properties and soil biota
Authors: Straube Daniela , Johnson Edward A. , Parkinson Dennis , Scheu Stefan , Eisenhauer Nico
Published: March 2009

Invasions of non‐indigenous species into natural communities are currently rated as one of the most important threats to biodiversity. Particularly exotic ecosystem engineers such as earthworms potentially have profound impacts on community assembly and functioning. We investigated the impact of invasion by the lumbricid earthworms into an aspen forest of the Canadian Rocky Mountains on soil organic matter, microorganisms and microarthropod communities. Building on the results of previous studies in this forest, we expected positive effects ofLumbricus terrestrismiddens and negative effects ofOctolasion tyrtaeumon soil biota (increase and decrease in soil nutrient concentrations, microbial parameters and soil microarthropod density and diversity, respectively). Further, we expected that earthworm effects change with time.

Combined results of previous and the present study suggest a wavelike colonization pattern forDendrobaena octaedraandO. tyrtaeumand that indeed the impact of earthworms on soil biota changed with time, likely due to changes in earthworm density. Unexpectedly,L. terrestrismiddens neither affected soil abiotic nor soil biotic properties. By contrast and in contrast to our hypothesis, carbon and nitrogen concentration and C‐to‐N ratio in deeper soil layers increased in presence ofO. tyrtaeum, thereby likely enhancing nutrient availability for soil microorganisms and microarthropods. Even though the density of this endogeic species was rather low, presence ofO. tyrtaeumresulted in increased densities of a number of microarthropod taxa and increased microarthropod diversity.

The results suggest that at low density, invasive ecosystem engineers, such asO. tyrtaeum,cause disturbances of intermediate strength thereby beneficially affecting soil microorganisms and most microarthropods. This contrasts earlier effects during the wavelike invasion ofO. tyrtaeuminto the aspen forest when densities ofO. tyrtaeumwere high resulting in generally detrimental effects on soil biota. The results emphasize the nonlinearity of earthworm effects on abiotic and biotic soil properties and call for further long‐term investigations.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: TNFα Gene Silencing Reduced Lipopolysaccharide‐Promoted Proliferation of Endometriotic Stromal Cells
Authors: Miyamoto Ayako , Taniguchi Fuminori , Tagashira Yukiko , Watanabe Ayako , Harada Tasuku , Terakawa Naoki
Published: March 2009

Problem  We previously reported that lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐promoted endometriotic stromal cell (ESC) proliferation by inducing TNFα production. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of TNFα gene silencing on LPS‐treated ESCs.

Method of study  Endometriotic stromal cells (ESCs) and endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) (EMSCs) were obtained from ovarian chocolate cysts and uterine myoma, respectively. Using PCR array, LPS‐induced gene expression profiling after transfection of TNFα siRNA into ESCs was performed. Down‐regulated genes by TNFα silencing were examined using real‐time RT‐PCR. Effect of TNFα silencing was examined using ELISA and BrdU incorporation, respectively.

Results  In PCR array, TNFα silencing in ESCs repressed LPS‐induced expression of cIAP2 and IL‐8, NFκB pathway responsive genes. After adding LPS, the levels of cIAP2 and IL‐8 expression in ESCs were higher compared with those in EMSCs. TNFα silencing attenuated the LPS‐induced ESC proliferation.

Conclusion  Tumor necrosis factor α may be involved in cell proliferation of endometriotic tissues.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: The Characterization of the Subpopulation of Suppressive B7H4+ Macrophages and the Subpopulation of CD25+ CD4+ and FOXP3+ Regulatory T‐cells in Decidua during the Secretory Cycle Phase, Arias Stella Reaction, and Spontaneous Abortion – A Preliminary Report
Authors: Wicherek Lukasz , Basta Pawel , Pitynski Kazimierz , Marianowski Piotr , Kijowski Jacek , Wiatr Joanna , Majka Marcin
Published: March 2009

Problem  The presence of immunosuppressive cells within the endometrium and decidua is crucial for establishing maternal immune tolerance against fetal antigens. We decided to evaluate the subpopulations of Treg cells and B7H4 macrophages in eutopic endometrium typified by Arias Stella reaction during the development of Fallopian tube pregnancy as well as in decidua at the time of spontaneous abortion (SA), and to compare these findings to those observed in the endometrium during the secretory cycle phase of healthy women.

Method of study  The decidual tissue samples evaluated in our study were obtained from 26 women who underwent curettage as a result of the following circumstances: five of the women because of a laparoscopic procedure necessitated by Fallopian tube pregnancy, and 11 of them because of SA. The control group consisted of 10 patients on whom curettage was preformed as an additional procedure during laparoscopic myomectomy. The presence of regulatory T‐cells and B7H4‐positive macrophages in the samples was analysed by fluorescence‐activated cell sorter (FACScan).

Results  Both the percentages of FOXP3+ cells in the subpopulation of CD25+ CD4+ T lymphocytes and the percentage of B7H4‐positive cells in the macrophage subpopulation found in the deciduae of patients suffering SA were higher than those found in eutopic endometrium with Arias Stella reaction. No such differences in the percentages of these cells were observed when the tissue samples from patients with SA were compared with those from the control group. The percentage of B7H4‐positive macrophages, however, was found to be significantly lower in endometrium with Arias Stella reaction in comparison to that observed in secretory endometrium.

Conclusion  The alterations in both the Treg cell and suppressive B7H4+ macrophage subpopulations would seem to be related to the suppression of maternal immune cells in the endometrium at the beginning of decidualization.
Dento‐alveolar and maxillofacial injuries among different ethnic groups in Israel
Authors: Lin Shaul , Sela Galit , Haik Josef , Bigman Galya , Peleg Kobi
Published: March 2009

Abstract –  An evaluation of dental and maxillofacial trauma in a level 1 trauma center in Israel was carried out to assess the causes of trauma and the relationship between the injuries to the patient’s age, gender and ethnicity. Analysis was based on data from the Israel Trauma Registry. Patients hospitalized in a level 1 trauma center from January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2005 were analyzed according to age, gender, time, place, ethnicity and cause of injury. Files of 22 558 trauma patients were reviewed. Maxillofacial and tooth injuries were separated and further analyzed according to the above parameters. Maxillofacial or dental injuries were observed in 1668 (7.4%) of the trauma patients, caused by motor vehicle accidents (39.2%), falls (30.9%), and intentional injuries (21.2%). Most occurred on the street/road (46.5%), at home (18.8%), and in public buildings (12.4%). Arab patients suffered more from vehicle accidents while Jewish patients presented more intentional injuries. Men were hospitalized three times more than women, and young people were at greater risk. The most frequent age of trauma was 19–28 years (27.6%). Ethnic differences were particularly noticeable for intentional injuries and vehicle accidents. This emphasizes that a larger percentage of the Arab population suffered from dental and maxillofacial injuries. Further dental health education and training for primary caregivers are warranted.
Traumatic tooth injuries to primary teeth of children aged 0–3 years
Authors: Avşar Aysun , Topaloglu Bengi
Published: March 2009

Abstract –  The purpose of this study was to analyze data according to gender, age, cause, number of traumatized teeth, type of tooth and trauma, from the records of traumatized children (0–3 years) referred to the Ondokuz Mayıs University, Dental Faculty, Department of Pedodontics in middle Black Sea region of Turkey. A total of 563 boys and girls participated in the study. Traumatic dental injuries were recorded using the classification of the World Health Organization modified slightly by Andreasen & Andreasen. Traumatic dental injuries were identified in 17.4% of the children. The largest percentage of injuries were in the 13–18 months old children with no significant gender differences (P > 0.05). Periodontal tissue injuries were the most common (84.7%) with no statistical difference between different ages or gender (P > 0.05). The main etiological factor of traumatic dental injury was falls (73.5%) and it was not different between age and gender (P > 0.05). The maxillary central incisors were involved in a higher percentage of traumatic injuries (98%), with no differences between the right and the left sides (P > 0.05). Treatment was sought for 37.4% of children within 1–7 days. It is suggested that parents should be informed about prevention of traumatic injuries and to contact a dentist immediately.
Prevalence and causes of fractured permanent incisors in 12‐year‐old suburban Nigerian schoolchildren
Authors: Adekoya‐Sofowora Comfort A. , Adesina Olufemi A. , Nasir Wakeel Olabamiji , Oginni Adeleke Oke , Ugboko Vincent I.
Published: March 2009

Abstract –  The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence and causes of traumatic dental injuries to the permanent dentition of 12‐year‐old school children in lle‐Ife, a suburban population in the south west of Nigeria. A dental trauma cross‐sectional survey was carried out through clinical examination of upper and lower permanent incisors and interviews with 415 (212 boys, 203 girls) 12‐year‐old children attending private and public secondary schools in lle‐Ife, in 2004/2005 by one calibrated examiner. Garcia‐Godoy’s classification was used. The prevalence of traumatic dental injuries was 12.8%. There was no statistical difference in the prevalence between boys and girls P > 0.05. The most common cause of injuries was falls (49.1%), followed by traffic accidents (13.2%), collision against objects or people (11.3%) and misuse of teeth 9.4%. The commonest type of injury was enamel fracture alone (9.9%), followed by enamel‐dentine fracture (4.8%). Majority of the accidents occurred at home (60.4%), followed by school (26.4%). The prevalence of traumatic dental injuries was on the increase among suburban Nigerian children in Ile‐Ife and it has a potential to be considered an emerging public health problem.
Effect of a single dental health education on the management of permanent avulsed teeth by different groups of professionals
Authors: De Lourdes Vieira Frujeri Maria , Costa Jr Edson Dias
Published: March 2009

Abstract –  Introduction:  Tooth avulsion is the complete displacement of a tooth from its socket due to intentional or non‐intentional injuries. Treatment in these cases comprises tooth replantation. This accident is very critical as the success of tooth replantation is directly dependent on several factors, such as extra‐alveolar period, storage of the tooth until replantation, type of retention employed, time of endodontic intervention, type of drug prescribed, oral hygiene status as well as general health. This trauma commonly occurs during sports practice, school, and leisure activities. The first measures are critical for the prognosis of the avulsed tooth. Several studies report lack of knowledge of the population, educators, sports professionals, and health professionals in the management of tooth avulsion. This study evaluated the influence of education on different groups of professionals, addressing the knowledge and prevention and emergency management of the avulsed tooth.

Method:  The study was conducted on five different groups of professionals (elementary school teachers, physical education professionals, bank employees, dental doctors, and pediatricians) from the city of Brasília, DF, Brazil. The professionals attended a lecture and were evaluated by a questionnaire applied twice, before and after the lecture.

Results:  The results of the 479 returned questionnaires were analyzed. The difference between questionnaires before and after the lecture was statistically analyzed by the Wilcoxon test. There was statistically significant change in the performance of professional groups after information was provided (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion:  Education is extremely important to favor the knowledge on prevention and emergency management of an avulsed tooth, and may enhance the prognosis of tooth avulsion.
Prevalence of sequelae in the permanent anterior teeth after trauma in their predecessors: a longitudinal study of 8 years
Authors: Do Espírito Santo Jácomo Diana Ribeiro , Campos Vera
Published: March 2009

Abstract –  The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of sequelae in the permanent anterior teeth following trauma in their predecessors, and also to verify the existence of association between the sequelae in the permanent teeth and the type of injury in their predecessors according to the age group at the time of injury. This study was performed based on data from the records of 169 boys and 138 girls who received assistance at the dental clinic of the State University of Rio de Janeiro from March 1996 to December 2004. The sample was collected from 753 traumatized deciduous teeth of children aged 0–10 years. The number of boys and girls with dental trauma corresponded to 55.0% and 45.0%, respectively. The more affected age period was between 1 and 4 years (75.3%). The most common type of traumatic injury was the intrusion (29.3%), followed by avulsion (14.1%). Concerning permanent dentition, the most common developmental disturbances were discoloration of enamel and/or enamel hypoplasia (46.08%) and eruption disturbances (17.97%) due to the traumatic injury in their predecessors. It was not possible to find an association between the type of injury in primary teeth and sequelae in their successors in the studied age groups (P ≤ 1.00). The study concluded that discolorations of enamel and/or enamel hypoplasia (46.08%) were the most prevalent sequelae on the permanent dentition and that there was no significant statistical association between the occurrence of sequelae in the permanent teeth and the type of traumatic injury in their predecessors in the studied age groups.
The option of compassionate use in metastatic melanoma – way out of a therapeutic dilemma?
Authors: Tsianakas Athanasios , Schiller Meinhard , Luger Thomas A. , Sunderkötter Cord
Published: March 2009

Metastasized melanoma has an unfavorable prognosis. Therefore there is strong need for new innovative therapies. In cases in which standard therapies have failed and inclusion in clinical studies is not possible due to diverse causes, the option of compassionate use now opens new therapeutic windows. Compassionate use describes the use of not (yet) approved drugs for humanitarian reasons. It was legally established in Germany through drug laws issued in 2006. We describe legal aspects of compassionate use are discussed, taking two of our cases as examples. Finally, examples for necessary documents to apply for compassionate use are provided.
Planting the Nation's ‘Waste Lands’: Walter Scott, Forestry and the Cultivation of Scotland's Wilderness
Authors: Oliver Susan
Published: March 2009

In October 1827 the Quarterly Review included a review of the second edition of Robert Monteath's The Planter's Guide and Profitable Planter. The review was published anonymously according to custom, but the author was Sir Walter Scott. A keen amateur plantsman who would later be involved in producing official reports on tree husbandry in Scotland, Scott's interest in ecology, forestry and the cultural value of landscape was of long standing. He had spent a small fortune on trees for his Abbotsford estate, and the cost had contributed to his insolvency in 1826. The present article looks at Scott's review as a work of Romantic ecocriticism concerned with the relationships between nationhood, economics and natural sustainability. Definitions of ‘waste land’ are considered, and the use of literary references to emphasize the need for sustainable planting is explored along with debates over imported Canadian species of pine. The cultural exchange of trees for people is shown to raise interesting questions, as is the advent of the railways that Scott ignores in his essay despite his interest in that new form of transport.
A New Global Poetics?
Authors: Huk Romana
Published: March 2009

The review article considers the last dozen years’ worth of arguments for de‐emphasizing national boundaries in the writing/reading of new poetries. It considers the ways in which such arguments illuminate and are illuminated by debates about the future of comparative literature in general, as well as by trends in literary theory (from Hardt and Negri's Empire to Slavoj Žižek's In Defense of Lost Causes). The piece moves in anecdotal fashion, charting my own recent invitation to consider whether there is such a thing as a ‘new global poetics’ (ACLA Conference 2007, Puebla, Mexico) and my subsequent, mixed and changing responses to issues that should, by implication, change the way we both teach and write about literature.
Cell biology, regulation and inhibition of β‐secretase (BACE‐1)
Authors: Hunt Clare E. , Turner Anthony J.
Published: March 2009

Since the discovery of the β‐secretase responsible for initiating the Alzheimer’s amyloid cascade as a novel membrane‐bound aspartic proteinase, termed ‘β‐site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme’, ‘aspartyl protease‐2’ or ‘membrane‐anchored aspartic proteinase of the pepsin family‐2’, huge efforts have been devoted to an understanding of its biology and structure in the subsequent decade. This has paid off in many respects, as it has been cloned, its structure solved, novel physiological substrates of the enzyme discovered, and numerous inhibitors of its activity developed in a relatively short space of time. The inhibition of β‐secretase activity in vivo remains one of the most viable strategies for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, although progress in getting inhibitors to the clinic has been slow, partly as a consequence of its aspartic proteinase character, which poses considerable problems for the production of potent, selective and brain‐accessible compounds. This review reflects on the development of β‐secretase biology and chemistry to date, highlighting the diverse and innovative strategies applied to the modulation of its activity at the molecular and cellular levels.
X‐ray structure of glucose/galactose receptor from Salmonella typhimurium in complex with the physiological ligand, (2R)‐glyceryl‐β‐d‐galactopyranoside
Authors: Sooriyaarachchi Sanjeewani , Ubhayasekera Wimal , Boos Winfried , Mowbray Sherry L.
Published: March 2009

Periplasmic binding proteins are abundant in bacteria by virtue of their essential roles as high‐affinity receptors in ABC transport systems and chemotaxis. One of the best studied of these receptors is the so‐called glucose/galactose‐binding protein. Here, we report the X‐ray structure of the Salmonella typhimurium protein bound to the physiologically relevant ligand, (2R)‐glyceryl‐β‐d‐galactopyranoside, solved by molecular replacement, and refined to 1.87 Å resolution with R and R‐free values of 17% and 22%. The structure identifies three amino acid residues that are diagnostic of (2R)‐glyceryl‐β‐d‐galactopyranoside binding (Thr110, Asp154 and Gln261), as opposed to binding to the monosaccharides glucose and galactose. These three residues are conserved in essentially all available glucose/galactose‐binding protein sequences, indicating that the binding of (2R)‐glyceryl‐β‐d‐galactopyranoside is the rule rather than the exception for receptors of this type. The role of (2R)‐glyceryl‐β‐d‐galactopyranoside in bacterial biology is discussed. Further, comparison of the available structures provides the most complete description of the conformational changes of glucose/galactose‐binding protein to date. The structures follow a smooth and continuous path from the most closed structure [that bound to (2R)‐glyceryl‐β‐d‐galactopyranoside] to the most open (an apo structure).