bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Gender Wage Gap in the Turkish Labor Market
Authors: Ilkkaracan Ipek , Selim Raziye
Published: September 2007

Abstract.  This paper examines the sources of the gender wage gap in the Turkish labor market by using matched employer–employee data and the standard wage regression estimations as well as the Oaxaca decomposition method. The extensive number of variables in the data set enables a thorough quantitative analysis of the role of various individual‐ as well as firm‐related factors leading to wage differentials between men and women, namely human capital endowments including job tenure, occupational and industrial segregation, private/public sector location, coverage of the workplace under collective labor bargaining, and firm size. It also examines the extent of gender‐based industry and occupational segregation within the confines of data set and computes the Duncan & Duncan segregation index. We find that a large portion of the gender wage gap is attributable to women's considerably lower levels of work experience and job tenure. Other important variables that lead to pay differentials are women's lower concentration in jobs covered by collective labor bargaining and a substantial degree of occupational and industrial segregation. The differential rates of return to many of the wage determinant variables are also found to be significant in the formation of the gender wage gap.
A Stock–Flow Matching Approach to Evaluation of Public Training Programme in a High Unemployment Environment
Authors: Dmitrijeva Jekaterina , Hazans Mihails
Published: September 2007

Abstract.  Monthly panel (1998–2003) data from regional labour offices in Latvia are used to analyse the matching process in a high unemployment–low labour demand environment and to evaluate the impact of active labour market policy programmes on outflows from unemployment. Results suggest that the hiring process is driven by a stock–flow rather than by a traditional matching function: the stock of unemployed at the beginning of the month and flow of vacancies arriving during the month are the key determinants of outflows from unemployment to employment, whereas stock of vacancies and inflow of unemployed do not play any significant role. We find positive and significant effect of training programmes on outflows from unemployment to employment, thus providing strong evidence against cuts in training expenditures.
Reorganization of Firms and Job Stability: A Theoretical Approach
Authors: Moreno‐Galbis Eva
Published: September 2007

Abstract.  This paper seeks to provide a theoretical explanation to the contradictory results found by the empirical literature concerning the effects of recent workplace organizational changes on job stability. We develop an endogenous job destruction model à la Mortensen‐Pissarides (1994) where a modernizing firm may offer to the worker a tayloristic job (traditional organization) or a holistic job (modern organization). We then study the evolution of job stability during the transition from a tayloristic to a holistic organization. Our results point towards the importance of the restructuring costs supported by firms during the modernizing trajectory as the main factor responsible for the variations in job stability.
From Welfare to Work: Evaluating a Tax and Benefit Reform Targeted at Single Mothers in Sweden
Authors: Flood Lennart , Wahlberg Roger , Pylkkänen Elina
Published: September 2007

Abstract.  In this paper we evaluate a hypothetical tax and benefit reform to increase the working hours and to decrease welfare participation of single mothers in Sweden. We formulate and estimate simultaneously a structural static model of labor supply and welfare participation. The results suggest that labor supply among single mother households in Sweden is quite elastic, and that there is self‐selection into welfare. We also find that the proposed reform would generate welfare gains for virtually everyone in the sample, benefit low‐income households, and would at the same time generate a small revenue surplus.
The Vestibulo-Collic Reflex is Abnormal in Migraine
Authors: Allena M , Magis D , Pasqua V De , Schoenen J
Published: September 2007

Interictal evoked central nervous system responses are characterized in migraineurs by a deficit of habituation, at both cortical and subcortical levels. The click-evoked vestibulo-collic reflex (VCR) allows the assessment of otolith function and an oligosynaptic pathway linking receptors in the saccular macula to motoneurons of neck muscles. Three blocks of 75 averaged responses to monaural 95-dB normal hearing level 3-Hz clicks were recorded over the contracted ipsilateral sternocleidomastoid muscle in 25 migraineurs between attacks and 20 healthy subjects, without vestibular symptoms. Amplitudes, raw and corrected for baseline electromyography, were significantly smaller in migraine patients. Whereas in healthy volunteers the VCR habituated during stimulus repetition (-4.96% ± 14.3), potentiation was found in migraineurs (4.34% ± 15.3; P = 0.04). The combination with a reduced mean amplitude does not favour vestibular hyperexcitability as an explanation for the habituation deficit in migraine, but rather an abnormal processing of repeated stimuli in the reflex circuit.
Phil Shackell
Authors: Holman Andrew
Published: September 2007

MPs and others are worried about the large numbers of people with learning difficulties in prison.

Most prisons do not meet the needs of people with learning difficulties.

If you cannot read you cannot read the rules or other instructions that are given to you.

Phil Shackell is doing a lot to change things in his area and around the country.
Post‐maritime transnationalization: Malay seafarers in Liverpool
Authors: BUNNELL TIM
Published: September 2007

The lives of seafarers may provide examples of transnational connections prior to the globally interconnected era in which ‘transnationalism’ has risen to prominence. In this article, I examine the long‐distance connections of seafarers from Southeast Asia who settled in Liverpool, UK. Drawing on oral history/life story interviews with Malay pakcik‐pakcik (elders) in Liverpool, I examine the ways in which connections with Southeast Asia have changed over the course of their lives. Much of this concerns political geography, which is often overlooked in the literature on transnationalism. During the period of Liverpool's pre‐eminence as a seaport, irrespective of the depth or intensity of maritime linkages with Southeast Asia, connections did not involve the crossing of ‘national’ borders. Ironically, transnational connections are being forged in the post‐maritime stages of the lives of pakcik‐pakcik in Liverpool. I also show how Malay ‘transnationalization’ has resulted from expanded technological possibilities for long‐distance travel and communications. Post‐maritime transnationalization takes place in a ‘community’ clubhouse in Toxteth where the lives, emotional attachments and memories of pakcik‐pakcik are intertwined with those of people with diverse connections to contemporary Malaysia and Singapore.
PERMANENT GENETIC RESOURCES: PCR primers for 100 microsatellites in red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus)
Authors: KARLSSON STEN , RENSHAW MARK A. , REXROAD III CAIRD E. , GOLD JOHN R.
Published: September 2007

One hundred nuclear‐encoded microsatellites from a genomic library of red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus) were isolated and characterized. Eight microsatellites had tetranucleotide motifs; 92 had dinucleotide motifs. The average number of alleles per microsatellite (sample of 22–24 fish) was 17.7 (range = 2–30); gene diversity averaged 0.796 (range = 0.227–1.000). Following Bonferroni correction, genotype frequencies at 90 microsatellites did not deviate significantly from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium expectations. Occurrence of null alleles was inferred at 15 microsatellites; alleles differing by only a single base were observed at 11 microsatellites. The microsatellites developed should prove useful for population‐genetic studies of ‘wild’ red drum and in construction of a genetic map.
Transfusion‐induced autoantibodies and differential immunogenicity of blood group antigens: a novel hypothesis
Authors: Zimring James C. , Spitalnik Steven L. , Roback John D. , Hillyer Christopher D.
Published: September 2007

Blood bank serology has identified hundreds of red blood cell (RBC) antigens contained within numerous blood group systems. Although most blood group antigens are defined by amino acid polymorphisms in the extracellular domain of membrane proteins, it is also possible that additional nonexofacial polymorphisms (NEPs) may exist within cytoplasmic or transmembrane domains. To assess this possibility, we analyzed several blood group molecules by searching the SNPper database for nonsynonymous single‐nucleotide polymorphisms. We report the identification of a number of NEPs in the Kell, Kidd, and Duffy molecules. Because the identified NEPs are not exposed on the surface of intact RBCs and are, thus, not accessible to recipient antibodies, they would neither be detected by blood bank serology in vitro, nor would they be recognized targets in hemolytic transfusion reactions in vivo. The presentation of peptides containing NEPs by recipient MHC Class II molecules, however, would nevertheless produce helper T‐cell epitopes. In addition to identifying NEPs in human blood group molecules, we explore a novel hypothesis that the presence of NEPs contributes to the immunogenicity of blood group antigens. We further hypothesize that NEPs provide a mechanism by which transfusion can lead to anti‐RBC autoantibodies, which are known to occur in humans after transfusion. The scientific basis, existing evidence, approaches to testing, and predicted biology of this hypothesis are presented.
Automated CD14+ monocyte collection with the autoMNC program of the COM.TEC cell separator
Authors: Strasser Erwin F. , Schremmer Melanie , Hendelmeier Martin , Weiss Dominik , Ringwald Jürgen , Zimmermann Robert , Weisbach Volker , Zingsem Jürgen , Eckstein Reinhold
Published: September 2007

BACKGROUND: The standard mononuclear cell (MNC) program of the COM.TEC device (Fresenius HemoCare GmbH) showed excellent collection efficiency of CD14+ monocytes. A major disadvantage was high content of residual cells in MNC harvests, which could influence dendritic cell (DC) culture.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The autoMNC program (COM.TEC) was compared with the standard MNC program (n = 12). Additionally, two cycle volumes (300 mL vs. 450 mL, n = 19) were compared (standard MNC program). Samples were assayed for white blood cells (WBCs), red blood cells (RBCs), granulocytes (PMNs), hematocrit, and platelets (PLTs) on an automated blood cell counter (Sysmex K 4500, TAO Medical). CD14+ cells were analyzed by flow cytometry (FACSCalibur, BD).

RESULTS: The autoMNC program produced 1.33 × 109 ± 0.36 × 109 CD14+ cells, 5.60 × 1011 ± 0.97 × 1011 PLTs, and 1.43 × 1011 ± 0.37 × 1011 RBCs. Compared to the standard MNC program, significantly higher PLT yields but lower RBC yields and product volume were harvested. Increasing the CV from 300 to 450 mL dropped the product volume, residual PLTs, and RBCs significantly, whereas WBC and monocyte yields did not change. The WBC predonation counts of donors correlated significantly with monocyte yields.

CONCLUSIONS: The autoMNC program reduced the buffy coat (BC) volume and RBC yields in products compared to the standard MNC program. Increasing the CV (standard MNC program) reduced residual PLTs, RBCs, and the BC volume of MNC harvests. The donor WBC predonation count was a good predictor for the monocyte yield of products.
Detection of Hpdel among Thais, a deleted allele of the haptoglobin gene that causes congenital haptoglobin deficiency
Authors: Shimada Eiko , Odagiri Miki , Chaiwong Kriangsak , Watanabe Yoshihisa , Anazawa Masako , Mazda Toshio , Okazaki Hitoshi , Juji Takeo , O'Charoen Rachanee , Tadokoro Kenji
Published: September 2007

BACKGROUND: Congenital haptoglobin deficiency is a risk factor for anaphylactic nonhemolytic transfusion reactions in Japan. The deleted allele of the haptoglobin gene, Hpdel, which causes congenital haptoglobin deficiency, has also been observed in other Northeast Asian populations, such as Korean and Chinese persons. It has not been reported in several African and European‐African populations, however, or investigated in other countries.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: To investigate the distribution of congenital haptoglobin deficiency in Southeast Asian countries, blood samples collected from 200 randomly selected healthy Thai volunteers were analyzed for serum haptoglobin and the haptoglobin gene. Plasma haptoglobin concentration was measured to identify haptoglobin deficiency. Haptoglobin phenotyping was performed with sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis followed by Western blotting. The presence of the Hpdel allele was determined with genomic DNA by an Hpdel‐specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method.

RESULTS: There were no haptoglobin‐deficient subjects detected among the 200 Thais. Their haptoglobin phenotypes were as follows: Hp 1‐1 in 10, Hp 2‐1 in 81, and Hp 2‐2 in 109. Six individuals heterozygous for Hpdel were detected. The frequency of the Hpdel allele was calculated to be 0.015. The prevalence of haptoglobin deficiency caused by Hpdel homozygosity was estimated to be approximately 1 in 4000.

CONCLUSION: Congenital haptoglobin deficiency caused by Hpdel homozygosity is presumed to be present in Thailand as a risk factor for anaphylactic transfusion reactions with a frequency similar to that in Japan. The causative deleted allele of the haptoglobin gene, Hpdel, is distributed among Southeast Asian populations as well as among Northeast Asian populations.
Biatrial Substrate Properties in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: CHANG SHIH‐LIN , TAI CHING‐TAI , LIN YENN‐JIANG , WONGCHAROEN WANWARANG , LO LI‐WEI , TUAN TA‐CHUAN , UDYAVAR AMEYA R. , CHANG SHENG‐HSIUNG , TSAO HSUAN‐MING , HSIEH MING‐HSIUNG , HU YU‐FENG , CHEN YI‐JEN , CHEN SHIH‐ANN
Published: September 2007

Introduction: The atrial substrate plays an important role in the maintenance of atrial fibrillation (AF). Further investigation of the biatrial substrate may be helpful for understanding the mechanism of AF. The aim of this study was to investigate the properties of right and left atrial (RA and LA) substrate in AF patients and their impact on the catheter ablation.

Methods: Biatrial electroanatomic mapping using a three‐dimensional mapping system (NavX) was performed in 117 consecutive patients with paroxysmal (n = 99) and persistent (n = 18) AF. The biatrial voltage and total activation time (TAT) were obtained during sinus rhythm.

Results: The LA had a lower voltage (1.6 ± 0.5 vs 2.0 ± 0.6 mV, P < 0.001) than the RA. The TAT correlated with the voltage (r =–0.65, P< 0.001). The patients with persistent AF had a lower atrial voltage, higher coefficient of variance for the LA voltage, longer LA TAT, and more extensive scar than those with paroxysmal. The patients with recurrent AF after catheter ablation had a lower LA voltage and higher incidence of LA scarring than those without recurrence. A scar located in the low anteroseptal or low posterior wall of LA was related to recurrence of AF. LA scarring was the independent predictor of AF recurrence after catheter ablation.

Conclusion: The LA voltage was lower than the RA, and the atrial voltage correlated with the TAT. Electroanatomical remodeling of the atria could be crucial to the maintenance of AF. The LA substrate properties may play an important role in the recurrence of AF after catheter ablation of AF.
Significance of Appropriate Defibrillator Shock 3 Hours and 20 Minutes Following Implantation in a Patient with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: ALMQUIST ADRIAN K. , HANNA CONSTANCE A. , HAAS TAMMY S. , MARON BARRY J.
Published: September 2007

Introduction: Implantable defibrillators have proved effective in terminating potentially life‐threatening ventricular tachyarrhythmias in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), although the timing of appropriate shocks may be exceedingly variable.

Methods and Results: We report an unusual occurrence in a 48‐year‐old woman with nonobstructive HCM who experienced an appropriate shock for ventricular fibrillation only 3 hours and 20 minutes after implantation. Careful review of the clinical circumstances failed to define a specific mechanism related to the implant procedure that could have triggered the potentially lethal arrhythmia.

Conclusion: Early device interventions are not uncommon in HCM, but (as in this case) appear unrelated to mechanisms other than the unpredictable and underlying arrhythmogenic substrate in this disease.
Nonparametric Bayes Testing of Changes in a Response Distribution with an Ordinal Predictor
Authors: Pennell Michael L. , Dunson David B.
Published: September 2007

SummaryIn certain biomedical studies, one may anticipate changes in the shape of a response distribution across the levels of an ordinal predictor. For instance, in toxicology studies, skewness and modality might change as dose increases. To address this issue, we propose a Bayesian nonparametric method for testing for distribution changes across an ordinal predictor. Using a dynamic mixture of Dirichlet processes, we allow the response distribution to change flexibly at each level of the predictor. In addition, by assigning mixture priors to the hyperparameters, we can obtain posterior probabilities of no effect of the predictor and identify the lowest dose level for which there is an appreciable change in distribution. The method also provides a natural framework for performing tests across multiple outcomes. We apply our method to data from a genotoxicity experiment.
Modeling Longitudinal Biomarker Data from Multiple Assays that Have Different Known Detection Limits
Authors: Albert Paul S.
Published: September 2007

Summary Assays to measure biomarkers are commonly subject to large amounts of measurement error and known detection limits. Studies with longitudinal biomarker measurements may use multiple assays in assessing outcome. I propose an approach for jointly modeling repeated measures of multiple assays when these assays are subject to measurement error and known lower detection limits. A commonly used approach is to perform an initial assay with a larger lower detection limit on all repeated samples, followed by only performing a second more expensive assay with a lower minimum level of detection when the initial assay value is below its lower limit of detection. I show how simply replacing the initial assay measurement with the second assay measurement may be a biased approach and investigate the performance of the proposed joint model in this situation. Additionally, I compare the performance of the joint model with an approach that only uses the initial assay measurements in analysis. Further, I consider alternative designs to only performing the second assay when the initial assay measurement is below its lower detection limit. Specifically, I show that one only needs to perform the second assay on a fraction of assays that are above the lower detection limit on the first assay to substantially increase the efficiency. Further, I show the efficiency advantages of performing the second assay at random without regard to the initial assay measurement over a design in which the second assay is only performed when the initial assay is below its lower limit of detection. The methodology is illustrated with a recent study examining the use of a vaccine in treating macaques with simian immunodeficiency virus.
Contact Damage of Silicon Carbide/Boron Nitride Nanocomposites
Authors: Kusunose Takafumi , Sekino Tohru , Niihara Koichi
Published: September 2007

To investigate the deformation mechanism of silicon carbide (SiC)/boron nitride (BN) nanocomposites, Hertzian contact tests were performed on monolithic SiC, and nanocomposite and microcomposite SiC/BN. Monolithic SiC had the typical microstructure of hot‐pressed SiC with Y2O3and Al2O3additives, composed of slightly large grains in small matrix grains. The microcomposite comprised large BN grains dispersed along the grain boundaries of elongated SiC grains, while the nanocomposite showed a finer microstructure with fine BN particles and small matrix grains. These microstructural differences led to differences in the mechanism of contact damage. The damage of the monolithic SiC and the SiC/BN microcomposite exhibited classical Hertzian cone fracture and many large cracks, whereas the damage observed in the nanocomposites appeared to be quasi‐plastic deformation.
Roles of Oxygen and Hydrogen in the Amorphization of Cristobalite
Authors: Xu Changming , Wang Shiwei , Nogami Masayuki , Zhou Guohong , Zhu Heping
Published: September 2007

The amorphization of cristobalite in a partially crystallized silica fiber (CSF) in the temperature range of 1050°–1350°C in a vacuum was reported previously, in which hydrogen was suggested to accelerate the amorphization process by reacting with the interstitial oxygen, which originated from the heat treatment of vitreous silica fiber in air and then diffused outward in the state of water. In this study, the mass releasing effect and composition change of the CSF heat treated in a vacuum were experimentally identified using thermal gravimetry, differential scanning calorimetry, and quadrupole mass spectrometry. In order to clarify the role of oxygen and hydrogen in the amorphization of cristobalite, the influences of the heat‐treatment time, diffusion cross section, temperature, and ambient reductive 5% H2–95% Ar atmosphere on the amorphization behavior of cristobalite in a silica fiber and silica powder with different initial cristobalite contents and hydrogen concentration were investigated. The phase composition and structure change were characterized by X‐ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectrum, respectively. The results confirmed the previous assumption and showed that the amorphization of cristobalite in a moderate temperature range is a reaction‐ and diffusion‐controlled dynamic process.
Serum Uric Acid Is Significantly Related to the Components of the Metabolic Syndrome in Japanese Workingmen
Authors: Kawada Tomoyuki , Otsuka Toshiaki , Katsumata Masao , Suzuki Hiroko
Published: September 2007

The aim of this study was to examine whether serum uric acid (SUA) concentration was related to the metabolic syndrome (MS). A total of 981 Japanese workingmen were studied. MS was diagnosed based on the modified criteria of the International Diabetes Federation. MS was present in 8.0% of the target participants. Logistic regression analysis using a cutoff value of the SUA of 7.0 mg/dL showed that some components of MS and the logarithmic value of the serum C‐reactive protein were associated with a significant odds ratio for predicting elevated SUA. The odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of a high logarithmic value of the serum C‐reactive protein, large waist girth, elevated blood pressure, and dyslipidemia for elevated SUA were 1.76 (CI, 1.21–2.55), 1.72 (CI, 1.21–2.45), 1.42 (CI, 1.01–2.00), and 1.87 (CI, 1.30–2.69), respectively. Most of the components of MS were significant determinants of SUA.
The Cardiometabolic Syndrome and Calcium Channel Blocker Combination Drugs
Authors: Sowers James R. , Bakris George L. , Black Henry R. , Giles Thomas D.
Published: September 2007

On April 18, 2007, a panel was convened to discuss the metabolic syndrome and its relationship to the renin‐angiotensin system. James R. Sowers, MD, Professor of Medicine and Physiology and Director of the Diabetes Research Center, University of Missouri‐Columbia, Columbia, moderated the panel. George L. Bakris, MD, Professor of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL; Henry R. Black, MD, Clinical Professor of Internal Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY; and Thomas D. Giles, MD, Professor of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, participated in the discussion. This expert panel discussion was supported by Novartis and each author received an honorarium from Novartis for time and effort spent participating in the discussion and reviewing the transcript for important intellectual content prior to publication. The authors maintained full control of the discussion and the resulting content of this article.
The Cardiometabolic Syndrome and Sarcopenic Obesity in Older Persons
Authors: Dominguez Ligia J. , Barbagallo Mario
Published: September 2007

The aging of the world's population is a major contributor to the growing prevalence of the cardiometabolic syndrome (CMS) because older persons are more affected by the constellation of cardiovascular risk factors that constitute the syndrome. The prevalence of CMS has been related to the increasing prevalence of obesity, which is growing progressively even among older age groups. Indeed, obesity and aging are 2 overlapping mounting public health problems. It is currently accepted that CMS predicts cardiovascular mortality and/or the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and this is also true in studies including older persons. CMS is further complicated by modifications in body composition and fat redistribution during aging; older adults are at higher risk for developing central obesity and sarcopenia or sarcopenic obesity, a condition characterized by an important reduction in lean body mass associated with obesity, linked to an increased production of inflammatory adipokines that may alter insulin sensitivity and muscle mass and strength. A better understanding of the pathophysiologic mechanisms of sarcopenic obesity may help to elucidate the complex relationship between CMS and mortality/morbidity in older adults.
Atorvastatin Does Not Induce Glomerular or Tubular Dysfunction Even at High Doses
Authors: Epstein Murray , Leary Elizabeth , Laskey Rachel , Zuckerman Andrea , Reed David , Lowe Wing
Published: September 2007

The current analyses evaluated the effect of atorvastatin on biomarkers of renal function. Serum creatinine level and markers of tubular and glomerular function, including cystatin C, urine N‐acetyl‐β‐D‐glucosaminidase, urine and serum β2‐microglobulin, and urine albumin, were assessed in osteopenic postmenopausal women with mild dyslipidemia who received atorvastatin 20 mg, atorvastatin 80 mg, or placebo for 1 year. During the study, changes in serum creatinine levels were the same in all 3 treatment groups. Cystatin C levels remained unchanged in all groups at all time points. For the additional markers of renal function, median values at baseline and weeks 26 and 52 in both of the atorvastatin and the placebo groups were similar. Neither moderate‐ nor high‐dose atorvastatin treatment for 1 year altered markers of glomerular and renal tubular function compared with placebo. These data indicate that in this patient population, atorvastatin, even at a high dose, does not interfere with renal tubular reabsorption of protein, induce renal tubular dysfunction, or alter glomerular filtration rate in humans.
Metabolic Syndrome: An Evolving Threat in the Genesis of Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Jain Piyush , Lahiri Avijit
Published: September 2007

Cardiovascular disease is an escalating worldwide health problem. Effective tools to predict and prevent its development and progression are needed. Correctly diagnosing the metabolic syndrome, which identifies people at higher risk for developing diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease, may be valuable in guiding treatment and prevention of these major disorders. Several important definitions of the metabolic syndrome have been proposed. The authors discuss these definitions and how they vary in terms of their relationship to incident cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and surrogate markers of atherosclerosis. Establishing clarity on what is meant by the metabolic syndrome and agreement as to its underlying basis is needed to reach consensus between the many different definitions that have been proposed. This is particularly the case if it is to become a useful adjunct in clinical practice to identify those who may benefit from more intensive lifestyle interventions and more detailed short‐term risk assessments.
Measuring tooth mobility with a no‐contact vibration device
Authors: Yamane M. , Yamaoka M. , Hayashi M. , Furutoyo I. , Komori N. , Ogiso B.
Published: September 2007

Background and Objective:  Mechanical parameters obtained from the frequency response at tooth vibration informs of various periodontal tissue conditions. An electromagnetic vibration device was investigated for measuring tooth mobility using mechanical parameters obtained from the frequency response characteristics of an experimental tooth model. This electromagnetic vibration device was able to assess the overall condition of periodontal tissue associated with the alteration of each parameter. In this study, reliability and effects of bottom thicknesses of simulated periodontal ligament relative to mechanical parameters were analysed.

Material and Methods:  Measurement of tooth vibration was performed by an electromagnetic vibration device on experimental tooth models with different bottom thicknesses of simulated periodontal ligament. Using an electromagnetic vibration device, the mechanical parameters resonant frequency, elastic modulus and coefficient of viscosity were calculated from the frequency response characteristics derived from tooth vibration by an electromagnetic force. Variation of those parameters was investigated under four different experimental conditions and the implications of the results were discussed.

Results:  An electromagnetic vibration device clearly detected three mechanical parameters in all experimental conditions. The resonant frequency and the elastic modulus decreased with increasing bottom thickness. However, no significant difference in the coefficient of viscosity was observed among the experimental conditions.

Conclusion:  Assessment of tooth mobility using mechanical parameters of an electromagnetic vibration device reproduced fine details of various simulated periodontal ligament conditions. Variation in the parameters resonant frequency, elastic modulus and coefficient of viscosity might be useful in evaluating changes of components in periodontal tissues.
Comparison of toluidine blue‐mediated photodynamic therapy and conventional scaling treatment for periodontitis in rats
Authors: Qin Y. L. , Luan X. L. , Bi L. J. , Sheng Y. Q. , Zhou C. N. , Zhang Z. G.
Published: September 2007

Background and Objective:  Periodontitis is a disease caused by bacterial infection accompanied with the inflammation of connected tissues and resorption of alveolar bone. The aim of this study was to investigate the in vivo photosensitization of periodontal bacteria in rats and to compare its efficacy with that of routine scaling and root planing.

Material and Methods:  Periodontitis was developed by submerging ligatures at the subgingival region of maxillary molars in 16 rats. Six weeks later, the infection sites were treated either with 1 mg/mL of toluidine blue plus 12 J/cm2 red laser irradiation, or by routine scaling and root planing. The therapeutic efficacy was assessed by evaluating the reduction of total bacterial flora and histological changes of periodontal tissues.

Results:  Significant reduction of total bacterial flora was achieved by both photodynamic therapy and conventional therapy. The signs of inflammation that accompanied periodontitis, such as redness, increased plaque index and gingival index values, bleeding on probing and inflammatory cell infiltration, were greatly reduced without any obvious detectable injury to host tissues. Both photodynamic therapy and conventional therapy showed similar therapeutic results.

Conclusion:  Toluidine blue‐mediated photodynamic therapy could effectively treat periodontitis in vivo and has high potential in clinical application.
Specific‐wavelength visible light irradiation inhibits bacterial growth of Porphyromonas gingivalis
Authors: Fukui M. , Yoshioka M. , Satomura K. , Nakanishi H. , Nagayama M.
Published: September 2007

Background and Objective:  The effects of laser irradiation on Porphyromonas gingivalis have been reported, but the results are still controversial regarding the efficiency because of the differences of the light sources and irradiation conditions. The aim of this study was to determine the wavelength and irradiation conditions under which the most effective inhibitory effect on P. gingivalis growth was seen without any photosensitizers.

Material and Methods:  Using an Okazaki large spectrograph, monochromatic light spectra ranging from 400 to 700 nm were evaluated to determine which spectra effectively inhibited bacterial growth. Moreover, using a monochromatic 405‐nm irradiating device, the effects of various irradiating conditions on P. gingivalis growth were examined.

Results:  Growth of bacteria irradiated at 400 nm and 410 nm was significantly suppressed compared with a nonirradiated control, whereas wavelengths of 430 nm and longer produced no significant inhibition. A constant energy density of 15 J/cm2 was found to be enough to show an inhibitory effect. Significant inhibition of bacterial growth was found after only 1 min at 50 mW/cm2 irradiation.

Conclusion:  These results indicate that P. gingivalis growth is specifically suppressed by 405‐nm light irradiation, suggesting that visible blue light irradiation is a promising means for eradicating periodontopathogenic bacteria from periodontal lesions.
UVB therapy increases 25(OH) vitamin D syntheses in postmenopausal women with psoriasis
Authors: Osmancevic Amra , Landin‐Wilhelmsen Kerstin , Larkö Olle , Mellström Dan , Wennberg Ann‐Marie , Hulthén Lena , Krogstad Anne‐Lene
Published: September 2007

Background: Vitamin D3 is produced in the epidermis by ultraviolet (UV) radiation (290–315 nm) of 7‐dehydrocholesterol. A similar range of 290–320 nm (broadband UVB) has been successfully used for years to treat psoriasis. The aim of this study was to investigate whether UVB therapy was able to influence vitamin D synthesis in psoriasis patients.

Methods: Twenty‐four postmenopausal, white Caucasian women, aged 69±5.9 (mean±SD), with active plaque psoriasis, were treated with broadband UVB two to three times per week for 8–12 weeks. The serum concentrations of calcidiol (25(OH)D3), calcitriol (1,25(OH)2D3), intact parathyroid hormone (PTH), thyroid hormones, osteocalcin, calcium and creatinine were measured before the first and after the last dose of radiation. Bone density was measured using Dual‐Energy X‐ray Absorptiometry (Hologic Delphi A) at the hip and lumbar spine.

Results: Serum levels of 25(OH)D3 increased from 36.8±17 ng/ml (mean±SD) to 59.6±18.7 ng/ml (P<0.001) after the UVB treatment period. Serum PTH decreased from 62.8±25.7 ng/l to 48.2±17.4 ng/l (P<0.001). Secondary hyperparathyroidism (PTH>65 ng/l) was revealed in seven patients (29%) in whom PTH values were suppressed by the UVB therapy. The serum levels of calcitriol, calcium, osteocalcin, thyroid hormones and creatinine were unaltered.

Conclusion: UVB therapy in elderly psoriatic women improved psoriasis, increased serum 25(OH)D3 synthesis and reduced serum PTH concentrations.
Treatment of vitamin D deficiency with UV light in patients with malabsorption syndromes: a case series
Authors: Chandra Prakash , Wolfenden Linda L. , Ziegler Thomas R. , Tian Junqiang , Luo Menghua , Stecenko Arlene A. , Chen Tai C. , Holick Michael F. , Tangpricha Vin
Published: September 2007

Background: Cystic fibrosis (CF) and short bowel syndrome (SBS) patients are unable to absorb vitamin D from the diet and thus are frequently found to be severely vitamin D deficient. We evaluated whether a commercial portable ultraviolet (UV) indoor tanning lamp that has a spectral output that mimics natural sunlight could raise circulating 25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels in subjects with CF and SBS.

Methods: In initial pilot studies, two SBS subjects came to the outpatient clinic twice weekly for 8 weeks for UV light sessions of 6 min each. In a follow‐up study, five CF subjects exposed their lower backs in a seated position to the sunlamp at a distance of 14 cm for 5–10 min depending on the skin type five times a week for 8 weeks. Blood samples for 25(OH)D and parathyroid hormone (PTH) measurements were performed at baseline and at the end of the study.

Results: In our study, with two SBS subjects, the indoor lamp increased or maintained circulating 25(OH)D levels during the winter months. We increased the UV lamp frequency and found an improved response in the CF patients. Serum 25(OH)D levels in CF subjects at baseline were 21±3 ng/ml, which increased to 27±4 ng/ml at the end of 8 weeks (P=0.05). PTH concentration remained largely unchanged in both population groups.

Conclusion: A UV lamp that emits ultraviolet radiation similar to sunlight and thus produces vitamin D3 in the skin is an excellent alternative for CF, and SBS patients who suffer from vitamin D deficiency due to fat malabsorption, especially during the winter months when natural sunlight is unable to produce vitamin D3 in the skin. This UV lamp is widely available for commercial home use and could potentially be prescribed to patients with CF or SBS.
On the relationship between fabric processing and ultraviolet radiation transmission
Authors: Sarkar Ajoy K.
Published: September 2007

Background:The relationship between a fabric's physical characteristics and ultraviolet radiation transmission has been widely discussed in the literature. However, very few studies have taken into account the ‘fiber‐fabric construction‐processing’ history of fabrics into consideration to fully elucidate the ultraviolet (UV) protection abilities of fabrics. This study reports the effect of fabric processing treatments, both chemical and bio‐chemical, on the transmission of UV radiation (UVR) through selected white and undyed fabrics.

Methods:Eight woven fabrics were selected to illustrate the effect of chemical processing on UVR transmission. Fabrics were characterized with respect to fiber chemistry, fabric construction, weight, thickness, and chemical processing history. Influence of fabric characteristics and processing on Ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) were studied. Furthermore, a knit bleached cotton T‐shirt fabric was treated bio‐chemically and the effect of bio‐chemical processing on UPF was investigated.

Results:Physical characteristics of fabrics such as thickness, weight and cloth cover were shown to be only partly useful in explaining the UV protective abilities of fabrics in that the data show anomalies when only physical features of fabrics are considered without considering processing history. However, by taking into account the processing history of fabrics, the UPF values obtained can be fully explained.

Conclusion:Chemical processing methods such as desizing and bleaching have a deleterious effect on UV transmission through fabrics. Bio‐chemical processing such as the use of enzymes is comparatively benign and does not adversely impact the UV protective ability of cotton fabric.
Evaluation of promotional gadgets integrating UV patches for public awareness on ultraviolet radiation
Authors: Pettazzi A.
Published: September 2007

Background: Ultraviolet (UV) patches are included in promotional gadgets advertising the most diverse products. These items are freely distributed to the public as a suggestive instrument of information. This study intends to evaluate the accuracy of these gadgets in providing information about UV exposure as defined by the INTERSUN programme.

Methods: The design of five gadgets, the instructions and advices included, were analysed. The response of the patches has been compared with UV index measurements and related to the guidelines provided by the INTERSUN programme. The objectivity of the response and its interpretation have also been evaluated, comparing the readings by different operators.

Results: The gadgets provide non‐standard and ambiguous information, they lack rigorous recommendations on solar protection and have a poor design. Although the patches underestimated UV radiation only a few times, overestimation occurred frequently. Observations pointed out the difficulty in establishing objective readings.

Conclusions: The analysis highlighted the inadequacy of these items. This fact is serious because the gadgets are freely distributed to the public and some of the advertisers are well‐known companies. Instead of using these gadgets, the public should pay attention to the information and advice provided by health and weather services.
Fishy Food Facts: How Much Fish Should We Eat?
Authors: Mortimer David
Published: September 2007

Food safety scares make headlines. Fish in particular causes worry: should we eat it for our health, or avoid it for the pollutants that it accumulates? David Mortimer explains how the Food Standards Agency decides how much fish it is safe for us to eat.
How to Fit into your Clothes
Authors: Treleaven Philip
Published: September 2007

Thinner and ever more bizarrely shaped models strut the catwalks; outside the fashion shows real women get bigger as dress sizes get smaller, and in high-street shops size 18 customers squeeze themselves into dresses that claim to be size 12. What shape are we in as a nation—and what size are we really? Philip Treleaven explains how the UK National Sizing Survey can restore a sense of proportion—and may even be able to answer the question every woman asks in a dress shop: “Does my bum look big in this?”
Elephants and Ivory
Authors: Burn Bob
Published: September 2007

Counting elephants ought to be easy. It is not. Counting elephants lost to poaching is even harder. But, without knowledge of both, how can we know whether banning the sale of ivory is helping to save elephants? Bob Burn explains the problems.
Evaluation of an Infiltration Best Management Practice Utilizing Pervious Concrete1
Authors: Kwiatkowski Michael , Welker Andrea L. , Traver Robert G. , Vanacore Megan , Ladd Tyler
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  A pervious concrete infiltration basin was installed on the campus of Villanova University in August 2002. A study was undertaken to determine what contaminants, if any, were introduced to the soils underlying the site as a result of this best management practice (BMP). The average infiltration rate at the site is approximately 10−4 cm/s. The drainage area (5,208 m2) consists of grassy surfaces (36%), standard concrete/asphalt (30%), and roof surfaces (30%) that directly connect to the infiltration beds via downspouts and storm sewers. Composite samples of infiltrated stormwater were collected from the vadose zone using soil moisture suction devices. Discrete samples were collected from a port within an infiltration bed and a downspout from a roof surface. Samples from 17 storms were analyzed for pH, conductivity, and concentrations of suspended solids, dissolved solids, chloride, copper, and total nitrogen. Copper and chloride were the two constituents of concern at this site. Copper was introduced to the system from the roof, while chloride was introduced from deicing practices. Copper was not found in porewater beneath 0.3 m and the chloride was not significant enough to impact the ground water. This research indicates that with proper siting, an infiltration BMP will not adversely impact the ground water.
Field‐Scale Application of Three Types of Neural Networks to Predict Ground‐Water Levels1
Authors: Asefa Tirusew , Wanakule Nisai , Adams Alison
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  In this paper, a field‐scale applicability of three forms of artificial neural network algorithms in forecasting short‐term ground‐water levels at specific control points is presented. These algorithms are the feed‐forward back propagation (FFBP), radial basis networks (RBN), and generalized regression networks (GRN). Ground‐water level predictions from these algorithms are in turn to be used in an Optimized Regional Operations Plan that prescribes scheduled wellfield production for the coming four weeks. These models are up against each other for their accuracy of ground‐water level predictions on lead times ranging from a week to four weeks, ease of implementation, and execution times (mainly training time). In total, 208 networks of each of the three algorithms were developed for the study. It is shown that although learning algorithms have emerged as a viable solution at field scale much larger than previously studied, no single algorithm performs consistently better than others on all the criteria. On average, FFBP networks are 20 and 26%, respectively, more accurate than RBN and GRN in forecasting one week ahead water levels and this advantage drops to 5 and 9% accuracy in forecasting four weeks ahead water levels, whereas GRN posted a training time that is only 5% of the training time taken by that of FFBP networks. This may suggest that in field‐scale applications one may have to trade between the type of algorithm to be used and the degree to which a given objective is honored.
64 slice MDCT generally underestimates coronary calcium scores as compared to EBT: A phantom study
Authors: Greuter M. J. W. , Dijkstra H. , Groen J. M. , Vliegenthart R. , de Lange F. , Renema W. K. J. , de Bock G. H. , Oudkerk M.
Published: September 2007

The objective of our study was the determination of the influence of the sequential and spiral acquisition modes on the concordance and deviation of the calcium score on 64‐slice multi‐detector computed tomography (MDCT) scanners in comparison to electron beam tomography (EBT) as the gold standard. Our methods and materials were an anthropomorphic cardio CT phantom with different calcium inserts scanned in sequential and spiral acquisition modes on three identical 64‐slice MDCT scanners of manufacturer and on three identical 64‐slice MDCT scanners of manufacturer and on an EBT system. Every scan was repeated 30 times with and 15 times without a small random variation in the phantom position for both sequential and spiral modes. Significant differences were observed between EBT and 64‐slice MDCT data for all inserts, both acquisition modes, and both manufacturers of MDCT systems. High regression coefficients (0.90–0.98) were found between the EBT and 64‐slice MDCT data for both scoring methods and both systems with high correlation coefficients . System showed more significant differences between spiral and sequential mode than system . Almost no differences were observed in scanners of the same manufacturer for the Agatston score and no differences for the Volume score. The deviations of the Agatston and Volume scores showed regression dependencies approximately equal to the square root of the absolute score. The Agatston and Volume scores obtained with 64‐slice MDCT imaging are highly correlated with EBT‐obtained scores but are significantly underestimated ( to ) for both sequential and spiral acquisition modes. System is more independent of acquisition mode to calcium score than system . The Volume score shows no intramanufacturer dependency and its use is advocated versus the Agatston score. Using the same cut points for MDCT‐based calcium scores as for EBT‐based calcium scores can result in classifying individuals into a too low risk category. System information and scanprotocol is therefore needed for every calcium score procedure to ensure a correct clinical interpretation of the obtained calcium score results.
Technical note: Dosimetric study of a new Co‐60 source used in brachytherapy
Authors: Granero D. , Pérez‐Calatayud J. , Ballester F.
Published: September 2007

The purpose of this study is to obtain the dosimetric parameters of a new Co‐60 source used in high dose rate brachytherapy and manufactured by BEBIG (Eckert & Ziegler BEBIG GmbH, Germany). The Monte Carlo method has been used to obtain the dose rate distribution in the updated TG‐43U1 formalism of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine. In addition, to aid the quality control process on treatment planning systems (TPS), a two‐dimensional rectangular dose rate table, coherent with the TG‐43U1 dose calculation formalism, is given. These dosimetric data sets can be used as input data of the TPS calculations and to validate them.