bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of water-reducing chemical admixtures on early hydration of cement
Authors: Pan L.-S. , Qiu X.-Q. , Pang Y.-X. , Yang D.-J.
Published: June 2008

Four water-reducing chemical admixtures: calcium lignosulfonate, amino-sulfonic-based superplasticiser, sulfonated naphthalene formaldehyde and sulfonated melamine urea formaldehyde resin were added to Portland cement paste in amounts ranging from 0 to 0·6%, at a constant water/cement ratio of 0·4 and their early hydration was investigated for up to 72 h. The results show that the rate of hydration during the hydration staring period was accelerated and the hydration induction period was extended by the four water-reducing chemical admixtures. Sulfonated naphthalene formaldehyde has the most encouraging effect on hydration and made the hydration peak rate increase to 60 kJ/kg per h in a dosage of 0·6% during the hydration starting period. By increasing the induction period and reducing the second hydration peak rate of cement paste strongly, calcium lignosulfonate was found to be the most effective retarder among the four water-reducing chemical admixtures. When the dosage of calcium lignosulfonate was 0·6%, the hydration induction period of the cement paste was extended from 10 to 40 h. The use of a 0.6% dosage of amino-sulfonic-based superplasticiser extended the induction period from 6 to 29 h. With the addition of sulfonated naphthalene formaldehyde and sulfonated melamine urea formaldehyde resin, the induction period was only slightly affected. It is interesting that the second hydration peak rate of cement paste increased with the dosage of sulfonated melamine urea formaldehyde resin, which differed from other three water-reducing chemical admixtures.
Géotechnique 1948–2008: more than just a journal
Authors: Brown S. F.
Published: June 2008

The establishment of Géotechnique in 1948 as the first specialist soil mechanics journal and its development over 60 years is described, building on an earlier paper that dealt with the initial 30 volumes. The work and inspiration of the pioneers whose efforts created and nursed the journal through its early years are illustrated by reference to both published and private recollections. The role of the Geotechnical Society, both in the foundation of Géotechnique and in linking the members of its Advisory Panel, is described with reference to some of its traditions. The expansion of Géotechnique and its evolution to become and remain the leading international journal in its field are discussed, based on a study of the Advisory Panel's minutes and recollections of past chairmen. Interactions with the British Geotechnical Association (formerly Society), the Institution of Civil Engineers and the publishers, Thomas Telford Ltd, are recorded. Details are given of the significant number of awards and prizes that have been attracted by Géotechnique papers over the years.
The founders of Géotechnique
Authors: Burland J. B.
Published: June 2008

The first issue of Géotechnique was published in June 1948, and the story of its origins is well known. Publication followed the wide circulation of a letter in July 1947 from ‘The Geotechnical Society’ to every western European country in which the proposal for such a publication was made. Listed at the bottom of the letter were eleven ‘Founders’, four from the UK and the remainder from elsewhere in Europe. The function of the ‘Founders’ was to contribute to the early issues of the journal and to assist with identifying other contributors. This paper gives brief vignettes of all these 11 eminent geotechnical engineers, together with two others who contributed significantly to the early success of the journal. It is hoped that these vignettes will serve to inspire present and future generations of geotechnical engineers, not only in their professions, but also in their enjoyment of working with fellow enthusiasts.
Contributions to Géotechnique 1948–2008: Constitutive and numerical modelling
Authors: Zdravkovic L. , Carter J.
Published: June 2008

A review of the first 60 years of Géotechnique publications shows clearly how the subject of soil mechanics has evolved. In terms of constitutive and numerical modelling of soil, early forms of numerical analysis involved hand calculations of ultimate states applying classical methods of analysis: limit equilibrium, limit analysis or stress field solutions. Consequently, the soil was considered to behave as a rigid plastic material, and to follow one of the two basic failure laws of classical soil mechanics, namely the Tresca or Mohr–Coulomb failure criteria. For assessing the deformation of structures, soil was normally considered to be linear elastic. The foundations of modern numerical analysis and constitutive modelling were laid in the early to mid 1960s, with the development of the finite element method and the postulation of the critical state framework of soil behaviour respectively. Clearly, the continuous advancement of computer power has been essential in applying new developments to modern geo-technical analysis. This paper reviews some of the main milestones in the evolution of geotechnical analysis in the past 60 years, commenting, where appropriate, on what problems still lie ahead.
Collagen Fibrils of Human Acellular Extrinsic Fiber Cementum
Authors: Catros Sylvain , Pothuaud Laurent , Dard Michel , Fricain Jean‐Christophe
Published: June 2008

Background: Tissue‐engineering techniques require the accurate description of biologic tissues to recreate these structures using a biomimetic approach. The purpose of this study was to quantify the mean diameter and the distribution of collagen fibrils in acellular extrinsic fiber cementum (AEFC) in human premolars. In human teeth, Sharpey fibers link AEFC to the surrounding alveolar bone. These fibers are composed of type I collagen, and their role is to attach teeth to the surrounding alveolar bone. Although the collagen fibril diameter in periodontal ligament has been studied, the mean diameter of collagen type I fibrils and their size distribution in human AEFC have been poorly described.

Methods: Nine human premolars extracted for orthodontic reasons were used for this study, and they were prepared for electron transmission microscopy after decalcification. Specific selection and orientation of the samples allowed us to obtain transverse sections of collagen fibrils of AEFC from four sides of the teeth (i.e., buccal, lingual, mesial, and distal) and from two levels of the roots (i.e., coronal and mid‐part). An image analysis process was developed for this study to quantify the mean diameter of collagen fibrils.

Results: This semicomputerized technique allowed the quantification of the diameter of almost 251,000 fibrils. The average diameter varied from 50 to 60 nm, and it was not significantly different based on the surface observed.

Conclusions: Data obtained were compared with literature data on periodontal ligament and other connective tissues. These results could be used to modify the dental‐implant surface with synthetic collagen fibrils with similar diameters and distributions rather than the AEFC surface implanted on titanium.
Association Among Rheumatoid Arthritis, Oral Hygiene, and Periodontitis
Authors: Pischon N. , Pischon T. , Kröger J. , Gülmez E. , Kleber B.‐M. , Bernimoulin J.‐P. , Landau H. , Brinkmann P.‐G. , Schlattmann P. , Zernicke J. , Buttgereit F. , Detert J.
Published: June 2008

Background: A limited number of studies suggest a higher prevalence of periodontal disease among individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA); however, results have been inconsistent. Further, it is unclear to what extent poor oral hygiene among patients with RA may account for this association.

Methods: The association between RA and periodontitis was examined in 57 subjects with RA and 52 healthy controls, matched by age and gender. Oral examination included plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD), and clinical attachment loss (CAL). Potential risk factors for periodontal disease, such as smoking, education, alcohol consumption, and body mass index (BMI), as well as chronic diseases associated with RA and periodontal disease were assessed through questionnaires.

Results: In a stepwise logistic regression, including RA status, age, gender, education, smoking, alcohol consumption, and BMI, only RA status and age remained significant predictors of periodontal disease. Subjects with RA had a significant 8.05‐fold increased odds (95% confidence interval: 2.93 to 22.09) of periodontitis compared to controls. The strength of the association was attenuated but remained statistically significant after further adjustment for PI, GI, or both. PI alone accounted for 12.4%, GI alone accounted for 11.1%, and PI and GI combined accounted for 13.4% of the association between RA and periodontitis.

Conclusions: Subjects with RA have significantly increased periodontal attachment loss compared to controls. Oral hygiene may only partially account for this association.
Periosteal Expansion Osteogenesis Using Highly Purified Beta‐Tricalcium Phosphate Blocks: A Pilot Study in Dogs
Authors: Yamauchi Kensuke , Takahashi Tetsu , Funaki Katsuyuki , Yamashita Yoshihiro
Published: June 2008

Background: In highly atrophic edentulous jaws, the augmentation of the alveolar process is standard treatment for dental implantation because of the lack of alveolar bone height and width. Our aim was to examine periosteal expansion osteogenesis in a dog model, based on the concept of distraction osteogenesis, using a highly purified beta‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) block instead of an original bone segment.

Methods: Three beagle dogs weighing 10 to 12 kg were used. The β‐TCP block was placed at the lateral surface of the mandibular bone. Two titanium screws were inserted from the lingual aspect to push the block to the buccal side. After a latency period of 8 days, during which primary wound healing occurred, the lingual screws were advanced by ∼0.5 mm/day for 8 days. Specimens were taken 8 weeks after lingual screw adjustments ceased and were analyzed by hematoxylin and eosin, tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), and Villanueva bone staining.

Results: The alveolar form at the experimental region was changed dramatically following lateral expansion with the β‐TCP block. Newly formed bone was observed in the gap between the bone and the β‐TCP block, as well as on the lateral surface of the block. Moreover, the replacement of large parts of β‐TCP with newly formed bone was observed in the β‐TCP block area. However, newly formed bone was not observed over the upper parts of the block, and multinucleated TRAP‐positive cells were attached to the β‐TCP in the periphery of this area.

Conclusion: The highly purified β‐TCP block worked as an activator for the soft tissue, including the periosteum, as well as a space maker to induce an osteoblastic response in the periosteum.
Oral Health Care–Specific Self‐Efficacy Assessment Predicts Patient Completion of Periodontal Treatment: A Pilot Cohort Study
Authors: Kakudate Naoki , Morita Manabu , Kawanami Masamitsu
Published: June 2008

Background: Whether patients complete periodontal treatment is an important matter of concern. Self‐efficacy is the confidence of an individual that determines “how well he/she can take the actions necessary for producing certain results” and is a variable that forecasts behavior. This study examined whether oral health care–specific self‐efficacy can predict patient completion of periodontal treatment.

Methods: A total of 140 subjects with mild to moderate chronic periodontitis (64 females and 76 males; 19 to 86 years of age; mean age: 51.7 ± 15.7 years) participated in this study. Their self‐efficacy was assessed using the self‐efficacy scale for self‐care (SESS) and the general self‐efficacy scale (GSES) scores at the initial visit. SESS consists of three subscales: self‐efficacy for dentist consultations, brushing of the teeth, and dietary habits. The subjects were classified into three groups: group 1 = 87 subjects who stayed in periodontal treatment and fulfilled maintenance criteria; group 2 = 17 subjects who stayed in periodontal treatment but did not fulfill criteria; and group 3 = 36 subjects who dropped out of periodontal treatment. Clinical and demographic characteristics and scores of GSES, SESS, and their subscales were compared among the three groups using the χ2 and non‐parametric multiple comparison tests.

Results: The mean age of the subjects in groups 1 and 2 was significantly greater than the mean age of the subjects in group 3. Groups 1 and 2 exhibited significantly deeper probing depths and higher scores for SESS and its subscale, self‐efficacy for dentist consultations, than did group 3.

Conclusion: Assessment of oral health care–specific self‐efficacy is effective for the prediction of patient completion of periodontal treatment.
Review of Anoplocephaloides species from African rodents, with the proposal of Afrobaeria n. g. (Cestoda: Anoplocephalidae)
Authors: Haukisalmi V.
Published: June 2008

The anoplocephalid cestodes from African rodents previously assigned to Anoplocephaloides Baer, 1924 sensu Rausch (1976) represent a new genus. Afrobaeria n. g. differs from related genera in the morphology of the anterior strobila and scolex (neck absent), distribution of testes (dorsal), structure and position of the early uterus (tubular with lateral protuberances, positioned in the middle of the medulla, antero-posteriorly and dorso-ventrally) and alternation of the genital pores (irregularly and very frequently alternating). Two species of Afrobaeria are recognized, i.e. Af. acanthocirrosa (Baer, 1924) n. comb. (type species) and Af. isomydis (Setti, 1892) n. comb. It is shown that they can be differentiated from one another primarily by the structure of the cirrus sac and seminal receptacle. Afrobaeria acanthocirrosa parasitizes rodents of the genus Otomys (type host O. irroratus), and Af. isomydis has been found from Arvicanthis abyssinicus (type host), Oenomys hypoxanthus and, possibly, from Otomys spp. The systematic characters used for the classification of Anoplocephaloides sensu Rausch (1976) are discussed, and a redescription of Af. acanthocirrosa is provided.
The effect of chronic lead acetate trihydrate intoxication in Wistar rats on experimental Ascaris suum infestation and immunity
Authors: Pistl J. , Krupicer I. , Kovalkovičová N. , Legáth J. , Falis M. , Polláková J. , Beňová K. , Sabo R.
Published: June 2008

SPF male Wistar rats were exposed for four months to lead acetate trihydrate present in drinking water (100 mg/l) and subsequently infested with 1000 ± 100 infective A. suum eggs. Metabolic activity of phagocytes and proliferative activity of T-lymphocytes were investigated on Day 4 and 8 after A. suum eggs infestation (Day 130 and 134 of lead acetate trihydrate exposition). The results demonstrated that treatment with lead acetate trihydrate led to increased susceptibility to infestation, manifested by increased average number of A. suum larvae in the lungs of exposed rats compared to unexposed ones. Moreover, migration of A. suum larvae on Day 8 was associated with significant increase in index of metabolic activity of phagocytes in unexposed rats in comparison with controls. In contrast, in rats exposed to the lead and infested by A. suum eggs a non-significant increase in the studied immunological parameters was recorded. Significant differences in immunological parameters were observed between unexposed, infested and infested and exposed groups of rats. In the unexposed group of animals Ascaris suum infestation caused a significant increase in the index of metabolic activity of phagocytes and stimulation index of lymphocytes in comparison with lead exposed rats.
New data on an exotic Nippotaenia mogurndae (Cestoda), newly introduced to Europe
Authors: Košuthová L. , Koščo J. , Miklisová D. , Letková V. , Košuth P. , Manko P.
Published: June 2008

Data on prevalence and current distribution of the cestode Nippotaenia mogurndae Yamaguti and Miyata, 1940 (Nippotaeniidea) in Slovakia, are provided. A total of 163 fish from 8 localities of different types in the Tisa River basin were infected with N. mogurndae. The mean intensity of infection was 1.8 with a maximum of 5 tapeworms. The expansion of the distribution of the cestode corresponds well with the spreading of its host, the invasive fish Amur sleeper Perccottus glenii Dybowski, 1877. The Spearmann correlation coefficient was used to test the relationship between the intensity of infection and standard length of the fish (r = 0.36; n = 163; P < 0.05), condition coefficient of the fish (r = 0.22; n = 115; P < 0.05) and season (r = −0.37; n = 355; P < 0.05). A significant correlation was confirmed for each pair of variables. There is a statistically significant difference between the prevalence of the cestode in two functional size groups (t = 3.28; n = 163; P < 0.05). The prevalence of the cestode increased with the standard length of fish. The potential risk of further expansion of N. mogurndae to other countries is discussed.
Bursaphelenchus Fuchs, 1937 (Nematoda: Parasitaphelenchidae) species associated with Pinus species in northern Turkey
Authors: Akbulut S. , Vieira P. , Ryss A. , Valadas V. , Keten A. , Mota M.
Published: June 2008

A survey for Bursaphelenchus nematodes, associated with different conifer trees, was conducted in several forest areas in the northern regions of Turkey. Only pine trees (Pinus nigra, P. pinaster and P. sylvestris) yielded Bursaphelenchus specimens. Nematodes were identified using several morphological diagnostic characters of the genus (male spicule structure, number of lateral incisures, number and distribution of the male papillae, presence of female vulval flap), and confirmed by using RFLP analysis of the internal transcriber spacer (ITS) regions of ribosomal DNA. Three different species were identified from several sampled areas, namely B. mucronatus, B. pinophilus and B. sexdentati, representing a first report of the last two species for Turkey. The association of B. pinophilus with black pine (P. nigra) is herein reported for the first time.
Assessment of tissue viability by polarization spectroscopy
Authors: Nilsson G. , Anderson C. , Henricson J. , Leahy M. , O’Doherty J. , Sjöberg F.
Published: June 2008

A new and versatile method for tissue viability imaging based on polarization spectroscopy of blood in superficial tissue structures such as the skin is presented in this paper. Linearly polarized light in the visible wavelength region is partly reflected directly by the skin surface and partly diffusely backscattered from the dermal tissue matrix. Most of the directly reflected light preserves its polarization state while the light returning from the deeper tissue layers is depolarized. By the use of a polarization filter positioned in front of a sensitive CCD-array, the light directly reflected from the tissue surface is blocked, while the depolarized light returning from the deeper tissue layers reaches the detector array. By separating the colour planes of the detected image, spectroscopic information about the amount of red blood cells (RBCs) in the microvascular network of the tissue under investigation can be derived. A theory that utilizes the differences in light absorption of RBCs and bloodless tissue in the red and green wavelength region forms the basis of an algorithm for displaying a colour coded map of the RBC distribution in a tissue. Using a fluid model, a linear relationship (cc. = 0.99) between RBC concentration and the output signal was demonstrated within the physiological range 0–4%. In-vivo evaluation using transepidermal application of acetylcholine by the way of iontophoresis displayed the heterogeneity pattern of the vasodilatation produced by the vasoactive agent. Applications of this novel technology are likely to be found in drug and skin care product development as well as in the assessment of skin irritation and tissue repair processes and even ultimately in a clinic case situation.
Metabolic syndrome and incidence of type 2 diabetes in patients with manifest vascular disease
Authors: Wassink Annemarie Mj , Van Der Graaf Yolanda , Soedamah-Muthu Sabita S , Spiering Wilko , Visseren Frank Lj
Published: June 2008

Risk reduction in patients with clinically manifest vascular disease focuses on preventing new vascular events and not on prevention of type 2 diabetes. However, given the common pathophysiological pathways involved in the development of atherosclerosis and type 2 diabetes, it is probable that people with atherosclerotic vascular disease have an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes. The present prospective cohort study investigated the incidence of type 2 diabetes and the effect of the presence of metabolic syndrome on the incidence of type 2 diabetes in 4,022 patients with clinically manifest atherosclerosis, included in the study from September 1996 to June 2006. Patients who died (n=456), who were lost to follow-up (n=84) and those with diabetes at baseline (n=558) were excluded, leaving 2,924 patients for analysis. The incidence of diabetes was assessed by questionnaire (self-reported diabetes).

During 13,726 person-years of follow-up (median follow-up 4.3 years, range 2.4–7.0 years), there were 152 type 2 diabetes cases (5.2%), corresponding to an incidence rate of 11.1 (95% CI 9.4–13.0) per 1,000 person-years. Patients with metabolic syndrome were at increased risk of incident type 2 diabetes compared to those without metabolic syndrome, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 5.7 (95% CI 3.7–8.9) for Revised National Cholesterol Education Program, 6.0 (4.1–9.0) for National Cholesterol Education Program and 4.0 (2.7–6.1) for International Diabetes Federation definitions of metabolic syndrome. Of all metabolic syndrome components, abdominal obesity was most strongly associated with incident type 2 diabetes (94% higher risk of type 2 diabetes for 1 standard deviation (11.3 cm) increase in waist circumference).

In conclusion, patients with manifest atherosclerosis are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Metabolic syndrome identifies those at the highest risk and is an easy to use clinical tool. Abdominal obesity is a strong individual predictor of type 2 diabetes. Patients with manifest atherosclerosis and metabolic syndrome may derive particular benefit from lifestyle interventions focusing on weight reduction.
Genetic analysis of the soluble epoxide hydrolase gene, EPHX2, in subclinical cardiovascular disease in the Diabetes Heart Study
Authors: Burdon Kathryn P , Lehtinen Allison B , Langefeld Carl D , Carr J. Jeffrey , Rich Stephen S , Freedman Barry I , Herrington David , Bowden Donald W
Published: June 2008

Epoxide hydrolase is involved in metabolism of vasoactive and anti-inflammatory epoxyeicosatrienoic acids to their corresponding diols. Consequently, epoxide hydrolase 2 ( EPHX2) is a candidate cardiovascular disease (CVD) gene. We investigated EPHX2 for association with subclinical CVD in European American (EA) and African American (AA) families from the Diabetes Heart Study. The R287Q polymorphism was associated with carotid artery calcified plaque (CarCP) in EAs. Other EPHX2 polymorphisms were associated with coronary artery calcified plaque (CorCP), CarCP or carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT). Polymorphism rs7837347 was associated with all traits in the AAs (p=0.003, 0.001 and 0.017, respectively). Polymorphism rs7003694 displayed association with IMT (p=0.017) and, along with rs747276, a trend towards association with CorCP in diabetic EAs (p=0.057 and 0.080, respectively). These results provide additional evidence that EPHX2 contributes to the risk of subclinical CVD, although the true trait defining polymorphisms may not be identified and the effect size could be small.
REID ON SINGLE AND DOUBLE VISION: MECHANICS AND MORALS
Authors: VAN CLEVE JAMES
Published: June 2008

When we look at a tree, two images of it are formed, one on each of our retinas. Why, then, asks the child or the philosopher, do we not see two trees? 1 Thomas Reid offers an answer to this question in the section of his Inquiry into the Human Mind entitled ‘Of seeing objects single with two eyes’. The principles he invokes in his answer serve at the same time to explain why we do occasionally see objects double. In Part I of this essay, I examine the principles Reid uses to explain single and double vision. This part is mostly an exercise in the history of cognitive science, but it raises questions of interest to philosophers along the way. In Part II, I turn to a hard-core philosophical problem raised by double vision, namely, whether double vision constitutes an objection to the direct realist theory of perception, which was one of Reid's main philosophical purposes to promote.
Does adaptive training work?
Authors: Metzler‐Baddeley Claudia , Baddeley Roland J.
Published: May 2008

People intuitively alter the allocation of study time between items of varying difficulty, and such adaptive learning methods are widely used in education and in commercially available memory training programs. We investigated the effectiveness of a computer‐based adaptive learning system that utilises spacing and repetition effects by presenting difficult items with short gaps to establish fast learning, and easy items with long intervals to optimise long‐term retention. The immediate and delayed effects of adaptive training on cued recall were investigated relative to a control condition of non‐adaptive, random spacing. Adaptive training produced significantly higher immediate and delayed recall rates than random spacing. These results encourage the use of adaptive training in education and rehabilitation. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Eyewitness identification under stress in the London Dungeon
Authors: Valentine Tin , Mesout Jan
Published: May 2008

Eyewitness experiments do not induce the stress experienced by victims of crime. It is important to understand the effect of stress if results of laboratory studies are to be generalised to victims and witnesses of real crimes, but previous research has shown a mixed picture. The ability of visitors to the London Dungeon to describe and identify somebody encountered in the Horror Labyrinth was investigated, as a function of their state anxiety. To validate the measure of state anxiety, participants wore a wireless heart rate monitor whilst in the labyrinth. High state anxiety was associated with a higher heart rate. Subsequently, visitors completed measures of their state anxiety experienced whilst in the labyrinth and a measure of trait anxiety. High state anxiety was associated with reporting fewer correct descriptors of the target person, more incorrect details and making fewer correct identifications from a lineup. There was no effect of trait anxiety on eyewitness memory. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role and impact of mental simulation in design
Authors: Christensen Bo T. , Schunn Christian D.
Published: May 2008

Although theories of mental simulations have used different formulations of the premises of ‘thought experiments’, they can be fitted under a minimalist hypothesis stating that mental simulations are run under situations of uncertainty to turn that uncertainty into approximate answers. Three basic assumptions of mental simulations were tested by using naturalistic data from engineering design. Results from the design protocols showed (1) initial representations in mental simulation had higher than base‐rate uncertainty, (2) uncertainty in mental simulations were lowered after simulation runs, (3) resulting representations had more approximations than base‐rate or initial representations. Further, the reference to external representational systems (sketches and prototypes) was examined. It was found that prototypes had fewer technical/functional simulations compared to sketches or unsupported cognition. Although prototypes were associated with more approximation than unsupported cognition, the different external representation categories did not differ in information uncertainty. The results support the minimalist hypothesis of mental simulations. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effects of age and professional expertise on working memory performance
Authors: Cavallini Elena , Cornoldi Cesare , Vecchi Tomaso
Published: May 2008

Differences in professional choice and experience may explain age differences in working memory performance of elderly people. The aim of this study was to examine whether expertise and prolonged practice in verbal and visuo‐spatial abilities reduce age differences in laboratory working memory tasks. The effects of age and expertise on working memory performance were examined in three age groups in two different experiments. Firstly, the role of visuo‐spatial expertise was analysed by examining age differences in architects. Secondly, people with extensive experience in verbal abilities (literary people) were tested in order to evaluate the effect of professional verbal experience. Architects and literary people outperformed a group of unselected age peers on tasks related to professional expertise only, but not on general working memory tests. There was no interaction between age and experience, suggesting that professional experience does not increase differences between experts and non experts and cannot modulate age‐related effects. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The bounds of cognitive heuristic performance on the geographic profiling task
Authors: Taylor Paul J. , Bennell Craig , Snook Brent
Published: May 2008

Human performance on the geographic profiling task—where the goal is to predict an offender's home location from their crime locations—has been shown to equal that of complex actuarial methods when it is based on appropriate heuristics. However, this evidence is derived from comparisons of ‘X‐marks‐the‐spot’ predictions, which ignore the fact that some algorithms provide a prioritization of the offender's area of spatial activity. Using search area as a measure of performance, we examine the predictions of students (N = 200) and an actuarial method under three levels of information load and two levels of heuristic‐environment fit. Results show that the actuarial method produces a smaller search area than a concentric search outward from students' ‘X‐marks‐the‐spot’ predictions, but that students are able to produce search areas that are smaller than those provided by the actuarial method. Students' performance did not decrease under greater information load and was not improved by adding a descriptive qualifier to the taught heuristic. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Susceptibility to postidentification feedback is affected by source credibility
Authors: Skagerberg Elin M. , Wright Daniel B.
Published: May 2008

How much a person is affected by postidentification feedback is dependent on the credibility of the person giving the feedback. Seven hundred and ninety participants across three experiments viewed a crime video, made judgments from a line‐up, were provided with co‐witness and/or outcome feedback (from police officers [high credibility] or children [low credibility]), and answered testimony‐relevant questions (e.g. How good a view did you get of the person in the video?). The aim was to find out how high versus low credibility co‐witness feedback affects a witness' retrospective judgments (Experiment 1) as well as estimations of these co‐witnesses' judgments (Experiment 2). Experiment 1 showed that the feedback effect was only observed when the co‐witness responses were attributed to a high credibility source. Experiment 2 showed that high credibility co‐witnesses were estimated to score higher on the testimony‐relevant questions as compared to low credibility co‐witnesses. Experiment 3 showed that outcome feedback (e.g. ‘you identified the suspect’) produces stronger effects on testimony‐relevant questions than co‐witness feedback. The implications of these findings are that when postidentification feedback is present, it is important to determine the source of this feedback. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Driving speed changes and subjective estimates of time savings, accident risks and braking
Authors: Svenson Ola
Published: May 2008

Participants made decisions between two road improvements to increase mean speed. Time saved when speed increased from a higher driving speed was overestimated in relation to time saved from increases from lower speeds. In Study 2, participants matched pairs of speed increases so that they would give the same time saving and repeated the bias. The increase in risk of an accident with person injury was underestimated and the increase in risk of a fatal accident grossly underestimated when speed increased. The increase of stopping distance when speed increased was systematically underestimated. In Study 3, the tasks and results of Study 2 were repeated with engineering students. When forming opinions about speed limits and traffic planning, drivers, the public, politicians and others who do not collect the proper facts are liable to the same biases as those demonstrated in the present study. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The new object‐spatial‐verbal cognitive style model: Theory and measurement
Authors: Blazhenkova Olesya , Kozhevnikov Maria
Published: May 2008

The current study challenges traditional approaches to Visual‐Verbal cognitive style as a unitary bipolar dimension, and instead suggests a new three‐dimensional cognitive style model developed on the basis of modern cognitive science theories that distinguish between object imagery, spatial imagery and verbal dimensions. The results of the confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated that the overall fit to the data of the new three‐dimensional model of cognitive style was significantly better than that of a traditional model. Furthermore, based on the new theoretical model, we designed and validated a new self‐report instrument assessing the individual differences in object imagery, spatial imagery and verbal cognitive styles, the Object‐Spatial Imagery and Verbal Questionnaire (OSIVQ). Across a series of studies, the OSIVQ demonstrated acceptable internal reliability as well as construct, criterion and ecological validity. The current study supports the validity of an object‐spatial‐verbal cognitive style dimension and related measures when developed on the basis of modern cognitive science theories. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Morphological Changes in the Chicken Ductus Arteriosi During Closure at Hatching
Authors: Belanger Candace , Copeland Jennifer , Muirhead David , Heinz David , Dzialowski Edward M.
Published: June 2008

The chicken embryo has two functioning ductus arteriosi (DA) during development. These blood vessels connect the pulmonary arteries to the descending aorta providing a right‐to‐left shunt of blood away from the nonrespiring lungs and to the systemic circuit and chorioallanotic membrane. The DA consists of two distinct tissue types along its length, a muscular proximal portion and an elastic distal portion. During hatching, the DA must close for proper separation of systemic and pulmonary circulation. We examined the morphological changes of the chicken DA before, during, and after hatching. Occlusion of the proximal DA began during external pipping and was complete at hatching. Anatomical remodeling began as early as external pipping with fragmentation of the internal elastic lamina and smooth muscle actin appearing in the neointimal zone. By day 2 posthatch, the proximal DA lumen was fully occluded by endothelial cells and smooth muscle actin positive cells. In contrast, the distal DA was not fully occluded by day 2 posthatch. Increases in Po2of the blood serves as the main stimulus for closure of the mammalian DA. The responsiveness of the chicken proximal DA to oxygen increased during hatching, peaking during external pipping. This peak correlated with an increase in blood gas Po2and the initial occlusion of the vessel. The distal portion remained unresponsive to oxygen throughout hatching. In conclusion, the chicken DA begins to close during external pipping when arterial Po2increases and vessel tone is most sensitive to oxygen. Anat Rec, 291:1007–1015, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Acrosome Biosynthesis in Spermatocytes and Spermatids Revealed by HPA Lectin Cytochemistry
Authors: Valbuena Galder , Hernández Francisco , Madrid Juan Francisco , Sáez Francisco José
Published: June 2008

The origin of the acrosome is controversial, because of both its lysosomal nature and at the moment of its appearance, which seems to be species‐specific. Considering the amazing organization shown by the acrosome of some urodele amphibians, HPA‐colloidal gold cytochemistry was used to analyze the biogenesis of the acrosome in the urodele Pleurodeles waltl at electron microscopy level. The results showed that HPA‐labeling is useful to label the acrosome and its precursor vesicles and, consequently, HPA‐histochemistry could be used as a marker of acrosomal content. Labeling of the Golgi apparatus and precursor vesicles was seen in primary spermatocytes and round (stage I) spermatids, thus contributing solid evidence for the beginning of acrosome biogenesis before meiosis. In both primary spermatocytes and round spermatids, an enigmatic vesicle, probably related to the biosynthesis of the neck piece or the tail, was also labeled. Labeling in elongating spermatids (stage II–IV), showed a homogeneous distribution of colloidal gold particles in the acrosomal cap, but the perforatorium was not positive to the lectin. However, in mature (stage V–VI) spermatids, a regional distribution of labeling in the acrosome was seen, with the apical knob showing a stronger labeling than the lateral barb, and the lateral barb showing a stronger labeling than the principal piece of the acrosomal cap. This regional distribution of the labeling suggests that the acrosome develops several domains with different glycoconjugate compositions. Anat Rec, 291:1097‐1105, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Glucocorticoid excess in mice results in early activation of osteoclastogenesis and adipogenesis and prolonged suppression of osteogenesis: A longitudinal study of gene expression in bone tissue from glucocorticoid‐treated mice
Authors: Yao Wei , Cheng Zhiqiang , Busse Cheryl , Pham Aaron , Nakamura Mary C. , Lane Nancy E.
Published: May 2008

Objective

Glucocorticoid (GC) excess induces alterations in bone metabolism that weaken bone structure and increase fracture risk. The aim of this study was to identify genes associated with bone metabolism in GC‐treated mice, by performing a microarray analysis.

Methods

Long bones from mice exposed to GC excess were collected after 0, 7, 28, and 56 days of treatment, to measure bone microarchitecture and extract RNA for microarray analyses.

Results

Bone loss in this animal model was confirmed by changes in bone turnover markers as well as bone architecture, as measured by microfocal computed tomography. GC excess induced an early up‐regulation of genes involved in osteoclast activation, function, and adipogenesis, which peaked on day 7. The expression of genes associated with osteoclast cytoskeletal reorganization and genes associated with matrix degradation peaked on day 28. On day 28 and day 56, the expression of genes associated with osteoblast activation and maturation was decreased from baseline, while the expression of Wnt antagonists was increased. In addition, the expression of genes expressed in osteocytes associated with bone mineralization was significantly higher at the later time points, day 28 and day 56. Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction confirmed the results of microarray analysis in selected genes.

Conclusion

GC excess is associated with early activation of genes associated with osteoclastogenesis and adipogenesis and a later suppression of genes associated with osteogenesis and mineralization. Novel interventions with agents that modulate either Wnt signaling or mineralization may be effective in GC‐induced osteoporosis.
Different T cell subsets in the nodule and synovial membrane: Absence of interleukin‐17A in rheumatoid nodules
Authors: Stamp Lisa K. , Easson Andrea , Lehnigk Ulrike , Highton John , Hessian Paul A.
Published: May 2008

Objective

To determine gene expression of the interleukin‐17 (IL‐17) family members (IL‐17A–F) in rheumatoid subcutaneous nodules, and to assess the cytokines involved in regulating IL‐17A expression.

Methods

Total RNA was isolated from 19 nodules obtained from 16 different patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to screen for gene expression of the IL‐17 subtypes (IL‐17A–F) in all nodules. Quantitative real‐time PCR was used to measure the expression of interferon‐γ (IFNγ), IL‐6, IL‐23, IL‐12, and transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), relative to GAPDH as control, in a subset of 10 nodules.

Results

IL‐17A gene expression was present in only 1 of 19 nodules, IL‐17B in 17 of 19 nodules, IL‐17C in 18 of 19 nodules, IL‐17D in 16 of 19 nodules, and IL‐17E in 3 of 19 nodules. IL‐17F was absent in all samples. Cytokines that stimulate IL‐17A production (IL‐6, IL‐23) as well as those that inhibit IL‐17A production (IL‐12, IFNγ, TGFβ) were present in the majority of nodules. Quantitative real‐time PCR showed a similar pattern of gene expression for the individual cytokines between the different nodules. The mean ± SD expression of IL‐6 relative to GAPDH was 2.28 ± 2.2 ng, and that of TGFβ was 2.96 ± 1.14 ng. There was a lower relative expression of IL‐23 (0.05 ± 0.05 ng), while the expression of IFNγ was 0.67 ± 0.68 ng and that of IL‐12 was 0.48 ± 0.23 ng.

Conclusion

IL‐17 family members are varyingly expressed in rheumatoid nodules. The paucity of IL‐17A in nodules suggests an important difference from that observed in the synovium. The expression of IL‐23 below a critical threshold level seems the most likely explanation for the virtual absence of IL‐17A. The presence of tissue destruction within the nodule despite the absence of IL‐17A suggests that IL‐17A may be an important amplifier rather than an absolute requirement for inflammation in RA.
Systemic lupus international collaborating clinics renal activity/response exercise: Development of a renal activity score and renal response index
Authors: Petri Michelle , Kasitanon Nuntana , Lee Shin‐Seok , Link Kimberly , Magder Laurence , Bae Sang‐Cheol , Hanly John G. , Isenberg David A. , Nived Ola , Sturfelt Gunnar , van Vollenhoven Ronald , Wallace Daniel J. , Alarcón Graciela S. , Adu Dwomoa , Avila‐Casado Carmen , Bernatsky Sasha R. , Bruce Ian N. , Clarke Ann E. , Contreras Gabriel , Fine Derek M. , Gladman Dafna D. , Gordon Caroline , Kalunian Kenneth C. , Madaio Michael P. , Rovin Brad H. , Sanchez‐Guerrero Jorge , Steinsson Kristjan , Aranow Cynthia , Balow James E. , Buyon Jill P. , Ginzler Ellen M. , Khamashta Munther A. , Urowitz Murray B. , Dooley Mary Anne , Merrill Joan T. , Ramsey‐Goldman Rosalind , Font Josef , Tumlin James , Stoll Thomas , Zoma Asad
Published: May 2008

Objective

To develop a measure of renal activity in systemic lupus erythematosus and use it to develop a renal response index.

Methods

Abstracted data from the medical records of 215 patients with lupus nephritis were sent to 8 nephrologists and 29 rheumatologists for rating. Seven nephrologists and 22 rheumatologists completed the ratings. Each physician rated each patient visit with respect to renal disease activity (none, mild, moderate, or severe). Using the most commonly selected rating for each patient as the gold standard, stepwise regression modeling was performed to identify the variables most related to renal disease activity, and these variables were then used to create an activity score. This activity score could then be applied to 2 consecutive visits to define a renal response index.

Results

The renal activity score was computed as follows: proteinuria 0.5–1 gm/day (3 points), proteinuria >1–3 gm/day (5 points), proteinuria >3 gm/day (11 points), urine red blood cell count >10/high‐power field (3 points), and urine white blood cell count >10/high‐power field (1 point). The chance‐adjusted agreement between the renal response index derived from the activity score applied to the paired visits and the plurality physician response rating was 0.69 (95% confidence interval 0.59–0.79).

Conclusion

Ratings derived from this index for rating of renal response showed reasonable agreement with physician ratings in a pilot study. The index will require further refinement, testing, and validation. A data‐driven approach to create renal activity and renal response indices will be useful in both clinical care and research settings.
Association of a nonsynonymous single‐nucleotide polymorphism of matrix metalloproteinase 9 with giant cell arteritis
Authors: Rodríguez‐Pla A. , Beaty T. H. , Savino P. J. , Eagle R. C. , Seo P. , Soloski M. J.
Published: May 2008

Objective

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common type of primary vasculitis. Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP‐9) is present in arterial lesions of GCA and may be involved in its pathogenesis. We investigated whether certain genotypes of 4 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of MMP‐9 are overrepresented in patients with histologically confirmed GCA.

Methods

Four SNPs of MMP‐9, rs3918242 in the promoter region and 3 nonsynonymous coding SNPs (rs3918252, rs17576, and rs2250889) were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis in 58 white patients for whom there was a clinical suspicion of GCA. Thirty of these patients had histologically confirmed GCA (group 1), and 28 patients had negative results of a temporal artery biopsy for GCA (group 2). Estimates of the genotype distributions of each of these SNPs in a white population were determined using publicly available genotype data for a panel of 23 individuals (group 3).

Results

Although 1 SNP was monomorphic in all 3 groups, we observed statistically significant differences in the genotype distributions for rs2250889 between group 1 and group 2 (P = 0.005) and between group 1 and group 3 (P = 0.009), but not between groups 2 and 3 (P = 0.965).

Conclusion

These data derived from a sample of patients with GCA suggest that the G allele of MMP‐9 polymorphism rs2250889 is overrepresented in patients with histologically confirmed GCA. Clearly, larger sample sizes will be necessary to confirm this suggestive association and better characterize a possible linkage disequilibrium structure among polymorphisms.