bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NEW CLADID AND FLEXIBLE CRINOIDS FROM THE MISSISSIPPIAN (TOURNAISIAN, IVORIAN) OF ENGLAND and WALES
Authors: KAMMER THOMAS W. , AUSICH WILLIAM I.
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  The modern study of fossil crinoids began with J. S. Miller who, in 1821, described specimens from southern England, nearby Wales and other regions, and named several common Early Carboniferous genera. Later, in 1950–60, James Wright monographed all known Early Carboniferous crinoids from the British Isles. In spite of such previous scrutiny, we recognize here two new genera among species already described: Glamorganocrinus gen. nov. (type species: Ophiurocrinus gowerensis Wright, 1960) from South Wales and Mendipocrinus gen. nov. (type species: Poteriocrinus latifrons Austin and Austin, 1847) from southern England. These new genera increase the number of advanced cladid genera in the Ivorian Substage of the Tournaisian in western Europe to 18, and the total number of crinoid genera to 36. A review of species assigned to Mespilocrinus has led to the recognition of M. granulifer De Koninck and LeHon, 1854 as a nomen dubium. A new species of Mespilocrinus, M. wrighti sp. nov., is described from the Ivorian of South Wales; this is the most highly derived species of the genus, as based on a phylogenetic analysis including ten species and 13 characters, with Pycnosaccus as the outgroup. A single, well‐ordered tree resulted from this analysis. Interpretation of this tree suggests that the centre of evolution for Mespilocrinus was North America, where three species appeared during the Kinderhookian (early Tournaisian), rapidly achieving morphological disparity within the genus. This radiation event was part of the overall explosive radiation of crinoids following the Late Devonian mass extinction event when crinoid diversity was at a global minimum during the Frasnian. Recovery began during the Famennian, followed by an explosive radiation in the Tournaisian.
NEOSELACHIANS FROM THE UPPER CAMPANIAN AND LOWER MAASTRICHTIAN (UPPER CRETACEOUS) OF THE SOUTHERN PYRENEES, NORTHERN SPAIN
Authors: KRIWET JÜRGEN , SOLER‐GIJÓN RODRIGO , LÓPEZ‐MARTÍNEZ NIEVES
Published: September 2007

Abstract: Bulk sampling of upper Campanian to lower–middle Maastrichtian coastal and lagoonal deposits in five sections of the Tremp Formation in the south‐central Pyrenees yielded numerous neoselachian teeth. The fauna comprises nine taxa of which three species and one genus are new:Hemiscylliumsp., Lamniformes indet.,Paratrygonorrhina amblysodagen. et sp. nov.,Coupatezia trempinasp. nov.,Coupateziasp.,Coupatezia? sp.,Rhombodus ibericussp. nov. andIgdabatis indicus. The neoselachian fauna is dominated by small nectobenthic rays. This composition resembles assemblages known from the marine Upper Cretaceous, but differs from nearby localities of the Basque‐Cantabrian region and continental selachian associations of the French Pyrenees. The results indicate thatRhombodusmight not be a reliable biostratigraphic marker for the Maastrichtian. The faunal composition suggests a shallow trans‐Tethyan connection between Eurasia and India at the end of the Cretaceous Period.
A NEW BASAL BALAENOPTERID WHALE FROM THE PLIOCENE OF NORTHERN ITALY
Authors: BISCONTI MICHELANGELO
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  A new basal balaenopterid genus and species, Archaebalaenoptera castriarquati, is described and compared with all the living and fossil members of the family Balaenopteridae and related fossil rorqual‐like taxa. It was found in the Lower Pliocene of northern Italy, and is characterized by a supraoccipital with a transversely compressed anterior process, the zygomatic process of the squamosal diverging from the longitudinal axis of the skull, very long nasal bones, and subtle exposition of the parietal on the dorsal wall of the skull. It is primitive in having a maxilla with a long ascending process that is posteriorly unexpanded and round, and a dentary that is straight and not bowed outward, unlike that of living Balaenopteridae. In particular, the discovery of this new genus suggests that, among the early members of Balaenopteridae, the acquisition of the typical sutural pattern shown by maxilla, frontal, parietal and supraoccipital preceded the acquisition of the feeding‐related traits that are characteristic of the family. The primitive morphology of the feeding‐related structures of A. castriarquati (i.e. the straight dentary and the flat glenoid fossa of the squamosal) suggests that this whale was unable to undertake the intermittent ram feeding typical of Balaenopteridae as efficiently as living members of the family.
AN INTEGRATIVE APPROACH TO DISTINGUISHING THE LATE PERMIAN DICYNODONT SPECIESOUDENODON BAINIIANDTROPIDOSTOMA MICROTREMA(THERAPSIDA: ANOMODONTIA)
Authors: BOTHA J. , ANGIELCZYK K. D.
Published: September 2007

Abstract: The dicynodontsOudenodon bainiiandTropidostoma microtremaare remarkably similar in most aspects of their morphology. The most obvious distinguishing feature is the presence of tusks and/or postcanine teeth inT. microtremaand their absence inO. bainii. However, some specimens ofT. microtremalack tusks or postcanine teeth. This variability raises the possibility thatO. bainiiandT. microtremaare not distinct species, but rather endpoints on a morphological continuum. Resolution of this uncertainty is necessary because both species play important roles in Upper Permian terrestrial biostratigraphy. Here we address this issue using several types of data. Our results show that the bone histology ofT. microtremais comparable with that ofO. bainii,emphasizing their similarity. However, a geometric morphometric analysis of snout shape and a traditional morphometric analysis of skull dimensions can reliably differentiate tuskless specimens from those with tusks and/or postcanine teeth. We examine several scenarios (e.g. anagenesis, sexual dimorphism) that could explain the observed distinction, but multiple lines of evidence, including stratigraphic range data, suggest that the two morphotypes are regarded best as distinct species. BecauseO. bainiispecimens have been collected atTropidostomaAssemblage Zone localities in the Karoo Basin of South Africa, the first appearance ofO. bainiican no longer be used to define the base of theCistecephalusAssemblage Zone andOudenodon‐based correlations with other basins should be made with caution.
VARIATION IN GROWTH‐RATE AND FORM OF A BATHONIAN (MIDDLE JURASSIC) OYSTER IN ENGLAND, and ITS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATIONS
Authors: JOHNSON ANDREW L. A. , LIQUORISH MARK N. , SHA JINGENG
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  We review controls on extensional growth rate and shell thickness in the extant oyster Crassostrea. Data on these shell parameters for the ecologically similar Bathonian oyster Praeexogyra hebridica, sampled at carefully selected sites, are then used to test a hypothesis that small size in contemporaneous marine bivalves of north‐west Europe was the product of reduced salinity. The hypothesis is refuted, at least to the extent that some additional factor must be involved. The relatively low extensional growth rate and shell thickness at the highest‐salinity site, together with the elongate (‘etiolated’) shape there and the low extensional growth rate at all sites in comparison with Crassostrea, suggests that this factor is reduced primary productivity. Other faunal, sedimentological and diagenetic evidence is consistent with low productivity. We point to other possible instances of reduced productivity during the Middle Jurassic and discuss the possible role of this factor in encouraging the widespread colonization of brackish‐water environments by bivalves in the Bathonian Stage.
SKELETAL MICROSTRUCTURE OF HELENS, LATERAL SPINES OF HYOLITHIDS
Authors: MUS M. MARTÍ , BERGSTRÖM J.
Published: September 2007

Abstract: In hyolithids the skeleton consists of four elements: a conch, an operculum and a pair of long, logarithmically curved ‘spines’ called helens. These last elements are rarely preserved, and have therefore remained poorly known and enigmatic. We have studied three‐dimensionally preserved helens of the species ‘Hyolithes’lanceolatus, from the Permian of New South Wales, Australia, and ‘Hyolithes’groenwalli, from the Cambrian of Bornholm, Denmark. Helens were massive calcareous elements. Their original microstructure, herein reported for the first time, consisted of concentric lamellae surrounding a narrow elongated core, which may have been rich in organic matter. This concentric pattern resulted from the successive accretion of shell material at the proximal, internal portion of helens. This growth model is in accordance with helen morphology and with the presence of a characteristic surface sculpture of overlapping lamellae.
PLEISTOCENE EXTINCTIONS OF DEEP‐SEA BENTHIC FORAMINIFERA: THE SOUTH ATLANTIC RECORD
Authors: O'NEILL TANYA A. , HAYWARD BRUCE W. , KAWAGATA SHUNGO , SABAA ASHWAQ T. , GRENFELL HUGH R.
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Sixty‐two species and 19 genera of elongate, cylindrical benthic foraminifera disappeared from the deep‐sea in the south‐east Atlantic (ODP Sites 1082 and 1083) and the Atlantic sector of the Southern Ocean (ODP Site 1088) during the Early and Middle Pleistocene as part of the global extinction of the families Pleurostomellidae, Stilostomellidae and portions of the Nodosariidae. During the mid‐Pleistocene Climate Transition (1·2–0·6 Ma) in the Southern Ocean, these extinct taxa exhibited three pulses of glacial decline in abundance and diversity separated by partial interglacial recoveries. Beneath the high‐productivity Benguela Current upwelling region (Sites 1082, 1083), glacial declines in the extinct taxa were suppressed by favourable high organic‐carbon flux and consequent low‐oxygen bottom conditions. Here two major pulses of diversity loss occurred at c. 1·3–1·2 Ma and 1·0–0·7 Ma. At all three locations, the most dramatic decline in abundance and diversity occurred c. 0·85–0·80 Ma (marine isotope stage 20), and the final disappearance of Extinction Group taxa was completed by 0·67 Ma beneath the Benguela Current and 0·60 Ma in the Southern Ocean. We speculate that this period of enhanced global extinctions was linked to a pulsed decline in glacial temperatures and/or increase in ventilation of deep and intermediate water masses, associated with polar ice cap growth since the late Pliocene.
A NEW GENERALIZED PAUCITUBERCULATAN MARSUPIAL FROM THE OLIGOCENE OF BOLIVIA AND THE ORIGIN OF ‘SHREW‐LIKE’ OPOSSUMS
Authors: GOIN FRANCISCO J. , SÁNCHEZ‐VILLAGRA MARCELO R. , ABELLO ALEJANDRA , KAY RICHARD F.
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Insights into the origin of ‘shrew‐like’ oposssums of South America are gained thanks to a new fossil from the Oligocene Salla Beds in Bolivia. The specimen described here consists of a partial rostrum, palate and postcanine teeth, and shows several generalized features (cranial and dental) in the context of the Paucituberculata. On this basis we recognize Evolestes hadrommatos gen. et sp. nov. In order to evaluate the affinities of the new taxon, we performed a phylogenetic analysis including representatives of the Caenolestidae, Pichipilus and allies (not regarded here as caenolestids), Palaeothentidae, and Abderitidae, with three outgroups. Evolestes is the basalmost ‘caenolestoid’, and provides clues to the morphological changes involved in the origin of caenolestids.
HORSETAILS AND SEED FERNS FROM THE MIDDLE TRIASSIC (ANISIAN) LOCALITY KÜHWIESENKOPF (MONTE PRÀ DELLA VACCA), DOLOMITES, NORTHERN ITALY
Authors: KUSTATSCHER EVELYN , WACHTLER MICHAEL , VAN KONIJNENBURG‐VAN CITTERT JOHANNA H. A.
Published: September 2007

Abstract: Well‐preserved floras from the Alpine Early–Middle Triassic are rare, and thus our understanding of the vegetation in this area during this period of time continues to be incomplete. As a result, every new find represents a significant piece of information that deserves thoughtful consideration. Anisian (Middle Triassic) sphenophytes and pteridosperms have recently been recovered from the Kühwiesenkopf locality (Monte Prà della Vacca) in northern Italy. The sphenophytes are represented by stem fragments, strobili and isolated sporangiophore heads ofEquisetites, as well as by a few specimens ofNeocalamitessp. andEchinostachyssp. The pteridosperms include abundant remains of the peltasperm foliage typeScytophyllum bergeri. A secondScytophyllumspecies in this flora,S. apoldense, is regarded as conspecific withS. bergeribased on epidermal anatomy; the two morphotypes are interpreted as sun and shade leaves of a single biological species. The seed‐bearing discPeltaspermum bornemanniisp. nov. probably represents the female reproductive structure ofS. bergeri. Additional pteridosperm remains include foliage assignable toSagenopterissp. andPtilozamitessp., in both cases perhaps the earliest records of these genera.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR AND MASS MORTALITY IN THE BASAL CERATOPSIAN DINOSAURPSITTACOSAURUS(EARLY CRETACEOUS, PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA)
Authors: QI ZHAO , BARRETT PAUL M. , EBERTH DAVID A.
Published: September 2007

Abstract: An exceptionally preserved herd of the ceratopsian dinosaurPsittacosauruswas recovered from the Lujiatun Beds of the Lower Cretaceous Yixian Formation, Liaoning Province, north‐east China. This specimen provides the earliest direct evidence of post‐nestling gregarious behaviour in this important dinosaur clade. The sediment in which the skeletons occur represents a lahar (volcanic mudflow), indicating that the six individuals present were entombed simultaneously during a catastrophic mass mortality event. Reconstruction of the herd age profile shows it was composed of offspring from at least two clutches, revealing that group fidelity in these dinosaurs extended beyond time spent together in the nest. This demonstrates that sociality appeared much earlier in ceratopsian evolution than is generally acknowledged and that such behaviour preceded the evolution of the elaborate horns and frills seen in derived ceratopsids.
Retropharyngeal Tendinitis: A Rare Differential Diagnosis of Severe Headaches and Neck Pain
Authors: Harnier Simon , Kuhn Jens , Harzheim Andreas , Bewermeyer Heiko , Limmroth Volker
Published: September 2007

Retropharyngeal tendinitis is a rare cause of intense neck pain and occipital headache. It is caused by an aseptic inflammatory process in the longus colli tendon, triggered by deposition of calcium hydroxyapatite crystal. Clinically, it can be misdiagnosed as retropharyngeal abscess, traumatic injury, infectious spondylitis, cervical artery dissection, or even meningitis. The diagnosis is made radiographically by a nearly pathognomonic amorphous calcification anterior to C1‐C2 and prevertebral soft tissue swelling. We present a new case of this uncommon condition exhibiting some unusual features.
Traditional Acupuncture in Migraine: A Controlled, Randomized Study
Authors: Facco Enrico , Liguori Aldo , Petti Filomena , Zanette Gastone , Coluzzi Flaminia , De Nardin Marco , Mattia Consalvo
Published: September 2007

Objective.— To check the effectiveness of a true acupuncture treatment according to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in migraine without aura, comparing it to a standard mock acupuncture protocol, an accurate mock acupuncture healing ritual, and untreated controls.

Background.— Migraine prevalence is high and affects a relevant rate of adults in the productive phase of their life. Acupuncture has been increasingly advocated and used in Western countries for migraine treatment, but the evidence of its effectiveness still remains weak. A large variability of treatments is present in published studies and no acupoint selection according to TCM has been investigated so far; therefore, the low level of evidence of acupuncture effectiveness might partly depend on inappropriate treatment.

Design and Methods.— A prospective, randomized, controlled study was performed in 160 patients suffering from migraine without aura, assessed according to the ICD‐10 classification. The patients were divided into the following 4 groups: (1) group TA, treated with true acupuncture (according to TCM) plus Rizatriptan; (2) group RMA, treated with ritualized mock acupuncture plus Rizatriptan; (3) group SMA, treated with standard mock acupuncture plus Rizatriptan; (4) group R, without prophylactic treatment with relief therapy only (Rizatriptan). The MIDAS Questionnaire was administered before treatment (T0), at 3 (T1) and 6 months (T2) from the beginning of treatment, and the MIDAS Index (MI) was calculated. Rizatriptan intake was also checked in all groups of patients at T0, T1, and T2. Group TA and RMA were evaluated according to TCM as well; then, the former was submitted to true acupuncture and the latter to mock acupuncture treatment resembling the same as TA. The statistical analysis was conducted with factorial ANOVA and multiple tests with a Bonferroni adjustment.

Results.— A total of 127 patients completed the study (33 dropouts): 32 belonged to group TA, 30 to group RMA, 31 to group SMA, and 34 to group R. Before treatment the MI (T0) was moderate to severe with no significant intergroup differences. All groups underwent a decrease of MI at T1 and T2, with a significant group difference at both T1 and T2 compared to T0 (P < .0001). Only TA provided a significant improvement at both T1 and T2 compared to R (P < .0001). RMA underwent a transient improvement of MI at T1. The Rizatriptan intake paralleled the MI in all groups.

Conclusions.— TA was the only treatment able to provide a steady outcome improvement in comparison to the use of only Rizatriptan, while RMA showed a transient placebo effect at T1.
An Expert System for Headache Diagnosis: The Computerized Headache Assessment Tool (CHAT)
Authors: Maizels Morris , Wolfe William J.
Published: September 2007

Background.— Migraine is a highly prevalent chronic disorder associated with significant morbidity. Chronic daily headache syndromes, while less common, are less likely to be recognized, and impair quality of life to an even greater extent than episodic migraine. A variety of screening and diagnostic tools for migraine have been proposed and studied. Few investigators have developed and evaluated computerized programs to diagnose headache.

Objectives.— To develop and determine the accuracy and utility of a computerized headache assessment tool (CHAT). CHAT was designed to identify all of the major primary headache disorders, distinguish daily from episodic types, and recognize medication overuse.

Methods.— CHAT was developed using an expert systems approach to headache diagnosis, with initial branch points determined by headache frequency and duration. Appropriate clinical criteria are presented relevant to brief and longer‐lasting headaches. CHAT was posted on a web site using Microsoft active server pages and a SQL‐server database server. A convenience sample of patients who presented to the adult urgent care department with headache, and patients in a family practice waiting room, were solicited to participate. Those who completed the on‐line questionnaire were contacted for a diagnostic interview.

Results.— One hundred thirty‐five patients completed CHAT and 117 completed a diagnostic interview. CHAT correctly identified 35/35 (100%) patients with episodic migraine and 42/49 (85.7%) of patients with transformed migraine. CHAT also correctly identified 11/11 patients with chronic tension‐type headache, 2/2 with episodic tension‐type headache, and 1/1 with episodic cluster headache. Medication overuse was correctly recognized in 43/52 (82.7%). The most common misdiagnoses by CHAT were seen in patients with transformed migraine or new daily persistent headache.

Fifty patients were referred to their primary care physician and 62 to the headache clinic. Of 29 patients referred to the PCP with a confirmed diagnosis of migraine, 25 made a follow‐up appointment, the PCP diagnosed migraine in 19, and initiated migraine‐specific therapy or prophylaxis in 17.

Conclusion.— The described expert system displays high diagnostic accuracy for migraine and other primary headache disorders, including daily headache syndromes and medication overuse. As part of a disease management program, CHAT led to patients receiving appropriate diagnoses and therapy. Limitations of the system include patient willingness to utilize the program, introducing such a process into the culture of medical care, and the difficult distinction of transformed migraine.
Ni–YSZ Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Anode Behavior Upon Redox Cycling Based on Electrical Characterization
Authors: Klemensø Trine , Mogensen Mogens
Published: September 2007

Nickel (Ni)—yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) cermets are a prevalent material used for solid oxide fuel cells. The cermet degrades upon redox cycling. The degradation is related to microstructural changes, but knowledge of the mechanisms has been limited. Direct current conductivity measurements were performed on cermets and cermets where the Ni component was removed. Measurements were carried out before, during, and after redox cycling the cermet. The cermet conductivity degraded over time due to sintering of the nickel phase. Following oxidizing events, the conductivity of the cermets improved, whereas the conductivity of the YSZ phase decreased. An improved model of the redox degradation mechanism was established based on the measurements.
Thermal Stability of (Co,Cu)Z‐Hexaferrite and Its Compatibility with Ag at 900°C
Authors: Lisjak Darja , Drofenik Miha
Published: September 2007

Z‐type hexaferrite with the composition Ba3Co1.4Cu0.6Fe24O41 was studied as a candidate material for low‐temperature cofiring technology. The samples were prepared by solid‐state reaction at 1250°C and sintered and cosintered with Ag at 900°C. Bi2O3 was used as a sintering additive, which was necessary for the sintering at 900°C. The samples were characterized with X‐ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and energy‐dispersive spectroscopic analysis. The compatibility study of (Co,Cu)Z‐hexaferrite with Ag revealed the degradation of the Z‐hexaferrite. However, the present study shows that the (Co,Cu)Z‐hexaferrite was compatible with Ag and that the degradation was caused by the thermal instability of (Co,Cu)Z‐hexaferrite. The effect of the observed changes in phase composition on the permittivity and permeability of the samples was measured at 106–109 Hz.
Effect of Nanosilica Additions on Belite Cement Pastes Held in Sulfate Solutions
Authors: Dolado Jorge S. , Campillo Igor , Erkizia Edurne , Ibáñez José A. , Porro Antonio , Guerrero Ana , Goñi Sara
Published: September 2007

Fly Ash Belite Cement (FABC) pastes with and without nanosilica additions have been prepared and maintained in sulfate solutions (Na2SO4 0.5M) for 180 days. The mechanical performance and the changes in microstructure have been monitored at 28, 90, and 180 days by compressive strength, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and 29Si MAS NMR measurements. We have found that, unexpectedly, and contrary to what happens in Ordinary Portland Cements (OPC), the addition of nanosilica particles induces an initial decline in the compressive strength of the samples. Only in samples maintained for a long time (180 days) does the nanosilica addition improve the mechanical properties. Our XRD and 29Si NMR experiments have revealed that although nanosilica additions trigger the consumption of Belite phases, this is not always accompanied by formation of longer calcium–silicate–hydrate (C–S–H) gel structures. Only at a long time (180 days), and due to a mechanism that seems to be controlled by the pH of the samples, do the nanosilica additions lead to high‐polymerized C–S–H gels.
KDP–ADP Crystal Growth by the Solution‐Dropping Method
Authors: Miyazaki Hidetoshi , Seue Hideaki , Adachi Nobuyasu , Ota Toshitaka , Mizutani Mamoru
Published: September 2007

Potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KDP), ammonium dihydrogen phosphate (ADP), and KxA1−xDP (x=0–1 step 0.1) crystals were fabricated on KDP and ADP seed crystals by dropping a KADP solution. The KADP solution, with a temperature of 18°C, was dropped onto a substrate at a temperature of 35°C. The KADP crystals were subsequently deposited onto the substrate because of the different solubilities of the dropped solution and the solution at the substrate. The composition of the KADP crystal could be controlled by changing the precursor solution ratio of KDP and ADP. From this simple process, the KxA1−xDP (x=0–1, step 0.1) crystals were obtained.
Enhanced Visible‐Light Photocatalytic Degradation of Humic Acid by Palladium‐Modified Nitrogen‐Doped Titanium Oxide
Authors: Li Qi , Xie Rongcai , Mintz Eric A. , Shang Jian Ku
Published: September 2007

Palladium‐modified nitrogen‐doped titanium oxide (TiON/PdO) nanoparticles were synthesized by a sol–gel process, for visible‐light‐induced photocatalysis using humic acid (HA) as a target. Our work shows that palladium modification has strong effects on the optical and photocatalytic properties of nitrogen‐doped titanium oxide (TiON) photocatalysts. TiON/PdO nanoparticles demonstrated an enhanced photocatalytic activity over TiON within a narrow range of palladium concentration. Beyond this range, the adverse effect of palladium modification was observed in the visible‐light‐induced degradation of HA. The effects of palladium modification are discussed in terms of its role in controlling electron–hole recombination.
Dissolution Mechanisms of Tetravalent Sulphur in Silicate Melts: Evidences from Sulphur K Edge XANES Studies on Glasses
Authors: Backnaes Linda , Stelling Jan , Behrens Harald , Goettlicher Joerg , Mangold Stefan , Verheijen Oscar , Beerkens Ruud G. C. , Deubener Joachim
Published: September 2007

Incorporation of sulphur in silicate glasses produced by reactions between melts and sulphur‐bearing sources at high temperatures was studied by X‐ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy at the sulphur K edge. Three types of syntheses were performed using sodium trisilicate, soda lime silicate, and float glass as starting materials: (i) controlled bubbling of glass melts with SO2 or SO2/O2 gas mixtures at ambient pressure, (ii) melting of glass powder containing various salts (Na2SO4, Na2SO3, Na2S) in excess to the expected solubility in the melt and (iii) fusion of glass powder in gold capsules at 1000°C and 100 MPa with an added amount of salts below the expected sulphur solubility. In some of the latter experiments water was introduced to vary the oxygen fugacity in the system. Sulphur concentrations in the glasses were determined by combustion and subsequent IR spectroscopy; water concentration in the glasses was measured by IR microspectroscopy. Bulk composition and homogeneity of glasses were checked by electron microprobe analyses. XANES spectra obtained at room temperature give evidence for incorporation of sulfate (S6+) and/or sulfide (monosulfide [S2−] and/or polysulfide [Sx2−]) in all glasses, depending on starting materials and run conditions. Clear evidence for sulfite (S4+) was not found in any of the spectra, implying that this sulphur species in glass products at room temperature is at or below the detection limit. We suggest that tetravalent sulphur (as SO2 or Na2SO3) disproportionates into sulfate and sulfide when being dissolved in simple silicate melts or during cooling of the glass melt.
Predictors of violent victimization amongst those with psychosis
Authors: Dean K. , Moran P. , Fahy T. , Tyrer P. , Leese M. , Creed F. , Burns T. , Murray R. , Walsh E.
Published: September 2007

Objective:  The aim of this study was to establish the prevalence and predictors of violent victimization amongst a community‐dwelling sample of individuals with psychosis.

Method:  The 2‐year prevalence of self‐reported violent victimization was estimated for a sample of 708 individuals with chronic psychosis living in the community in four urban UK centres. Baseline socio‐demographic and clinical factors were examined as possible risk factors for victimization over the 2‐year follow‐up period.

Results:  The 2‐year prevalence of violent victimization in the sample was 23%. Four factors were found to be independently predictive of victimization – history of victimization, less than daily family contact, young age at illness onset and the presence of co‐morbid Cluster B personality disorder.

Conclusion:  Those with psychotic illnesses are at elevated risk of being assaulted. Given the likely adverse health implications, clinicians should routinely enquire about victimization in their assessments of those with psychotic disorders particularly amongst those who are socially isolated, with a younger age of illness onset and in those with co‐morbid personality disorder.
Subjective response and attitudes toward antipsychotic drug therapy during the initial treatment period: a prospective follow‐up study in patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Hofer A. , Rettenbacher M. A. , Edlinger M. , Kemmler G. , Widschwendter C. G. , Fleischhacker W. W.
Published: September 2007

Objective:  In this prospective study, patients with schizophrenia were followed up for 3 months to investigate the impact of sociodemographic factors, psychopathology, change in psychopathology and side effects on subjective response and attitudes toward antipsychotics during the initial treatment period.

Method:  We investigated 42 patients starting treatment with a new‐generation antipsychotic. Next to the registration of demographic data various rating scales were used: the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), the Udvalg for Kliniske Undersogelser (UKU) Side Effect Rating Scale and the Drug Attitude Inventory (DAI).

Results:  Two patients experienced a first episode of the illness and were neuroleptic naïve, and 40 had suffered from at least one prior episode of schizophrenia. Longer duration of illness as well as the amelioration of psychopathological symptoms had a positive impact on subjective response to treatment. Correlations between antipsychotic‐induced side effects and drug attitude tended to be weak.

Conclusion:  Our results emphasize the necessity of improving psychopathological symptoms during the initial treatment period to improve attitudes toward and compliance with treatment.
Oily calcium hydroxide suspension (Osteoinductal) used as an adjunct to guided bone regeneration: an experimental study in rats
Authors: Stavropoulos Andreas , Geenen Claudia , Nyengaard Jens R. , Karring Thorkild , Sculean Anton
Published: September 2007

Objectives: To evaluate whether an oily calcium hydroxide suspension (OCHS) promotes bone healing when used as an adjunct to guided bone regeneration (GBR).

Material and methods: Rigid, hemispherical, teflon capsules were placed with their open part facing the lateral surface of the ramus on both sides of the mandible in 10 adult Wistar rats. In each animal, one capsule was filled out with an OCHS (test) before placement, while the capsule on the other side was left empty (control). After 4 months of healing, the animals were sacrificed and histological sections containing the capsules and the neighboring soft and hard tissues were prepared. On three to four sections taken by uniformly random sampling from each specimen, the relative volumes of (1) the newly formed bone (mineralized bone and marrow), (2) the soft connective tissue, (3) the residual OCHS, and (4) the acellular (empty) space inside the capsule were estimated by a point‐counting technique, and expressed as percentage of the space originally created by the capsule.

Results: There was no new bone formation inside the capsules in all but one test specimen, where only a minimal amount of newly formed bone could be observed in continuation with the lateral surface of the ramus. OCHS had a homogenous appearance and occupied the major portion (79.4%) of the space created by the capsule. No signs of active resorption of the material could be observed. On the contrary, 31.5% of the space provided by the capsule was filled out with newly formed bone in the control group. The new bone had a trabecular appearance with large marrow spaces filled with hematopoietic and fatty marrow. The rest of the capsule space in the controls appeared empty.

Conclusion: OCHS may hamper bone healing when used as an adjunct to GBR.
A retrospective analysis of the failure rate of three different orthodontic skeletal anchorage systems
Authors: Chen Yi‐Jane , Chang Hao‐Hueng , Huang Chi‐Yin , Hung Hsin‐Chia , Lai Eddie Hsiang‐Hua , Yao Chung‐Chen Jane
Published: September 2007

Objectives: The aim of this retrospective study was to assess systematically the case distribution among three types of mini‐implants and to evaluate the clinical factors that influence the failure rates of mini‐implants used as an orthodontic anchorage.

Material and methods: Data for 359 mini‐implants (miniplates, miniscrews, and microscrews) in 129 patients were collected. The factors related to mini‐implant failure were evaluated using univariate analysis and multivariate stepwise logistic regression analysis.

Results: Among these three different types of skeletal anchorage, there was a significant difference between the failure rates of these mini‐implants, with the miniscrews and microscrews showing much higher failure rates. There were no significant differences in failure rates among the mini‐implants for the following variables: gender, type of malocclusion, local or full‐arch treatment, whether on the buccal or lingual side, length of the screw, loading pattern, or the duration of the healing phase. Greater risks for failure were found in younger patients, when an implant was placed for retraction/protraction, when it was placed on the mandibular arch, when it was placed anterior to the second premolars, or when using the miniscrew/microscrew systems. After adjusting for potential confounding effects, only three factors (type of mini‐implant, placement on the mandibular arch, and age) were found to be statistically significant in predicting mini‐implant failures (P<0.05) with an R2 value of 85.2%.

Conclusions: Mini‐implants placed in younger patients or placed on the mandibular arch are at a greater risk of failing. The miniplate system has greater stability compared with miniscrews or microscrews. However, it requires flap surgery for insertion and removal, which usually causes swelling and discomfort. Therefore, selection of the proper type of skeletal anchorage should be based on the specific treatment needs of each individual patient.
Endoscopic removal of an unusual foreign body in the sphenoid sinus: an oral implant
Authors: Felisati Giovanni , Lozza Paolo , Chiapasco Matteo , Borloni Roberto
Published: September 2007

Aim: Migration of oral implants displaced in the maxillary sinus toward the sphenoid sinus is an extremely rare event. This case report is focused on the possibility of treating such a rare complication by means of endoscopic treatment through the nasal cavity.

Material and methods: A 45‐year‐old female patient received one oral implant for the substitution of the left first upper molar, but during the surgical procedure the implant was displaced in the maxillary sinus. Owing to a delay in treatment, a spontaneous migration of the implant in the sphenoid sinus occurred.

Results: The implant was removed endoscopically through the nasal cavity: postoperative recovery was uneventful.

Conclusion: To the authors' knowledge, this case represents the first report concerning migration of an oral implant into the sphenoid sinus and demonstrates the reliability and safety of an endoscopically driven surgical removal of the foreign body, thus preventing potential complications with extremely low postoperative morbidity.
New Shade Guide for Evaluation of Tooth Whitening—Colorimetric Study
Authors: PARAVINA RADE D. , JOHNSTON WILLIAM M. , POWERS JOHN M.
Published: September 2007

Statement of the Problem:  Available shade guides lack colorimetric uniformity, which compromises the validity of visual evaluation of tooth whitening efficacy.

Purpose:  The objective of this study was to perform a colorimetric analysis of a new shade guide designed primarily for the visual evaluation of tooth whitening efficacy and to compare this shade guide with two commercial shade guides.

Materials and Methods:  Color ranges and color distribution of three shade guides (prototype of the new Vita Bleachedguide 3D‐Master [BG, Vita Zahnfabrik, Bad Säckingen, Germany], value scale of Vitapan Classical [VC, Vita], and color‐ordered Trubyte Bioform porcelain shade guide [TB, Dentsply International, York, PA, USA]) were analyzed (N=3). A circular area (d=1.7 mm) on the middle of the labial surface of the tab, excluding the cervical portion, was measured with a spectroradiometer (D65, 2). Whiteness and yellowness indices were computed. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance and Fisher’s PLSD test at a 0.05 level of significance.

Results:  The range of color difference (ΔE*) from the lightest to the darkest tab was 33.8 (BG), 17.1 (VC), and 23.2 (TB). Mean values of ΔE* among pairs of adjacent tabs were 3.0 (BG), 4.2 (VC), and 3.3 (TB). BG exhibited the highest R2 values between color coordinate pairs and between whiteness and yellowness indices with the respective color coordinates.

Conclusions:  BG exhibited the widest color range and had the most consistent color distribution as compared with the two commercial products. Extension of the lightness range of BG toward higher L* values (bleach shades) was confirmed.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

A dental shade guide that is colorimetrically uniform might increase the reliability of visual comparisons of tooth whitening efficacy, whereas the inclusion of realistic bleaching shades in the shade guide will complement contemporary esthetic dentistry.

(J Esthet Restor Dent 19:276–283, 2007)
COMPARISON OF THE EFFECTIVENESS AND SAFETY OF CARBAMIDE PEROXIDE WHITENING AGENTS AT DIFFERENT CONCENTRATIONS
Authors: Browning William D. , Swift Edward J.
Published: September 2007

In today’s society, it seems everything needs to be faster. As a result some practitioners are using whitening products with higher concentrations of the active ingredient in an attempt to provide faster whitening. Do they whiten faster, and if so, does it result in more sensitivity? This article reviews four studies to explore these two questions.
Duration and Timing of Sensitivity Related to Bleaching
Authors: BROWNING WILLIAM D. , BLALOCK JOHN S. , FRAZIER KEVIN B. , DOWNEY MARY C. , MYERS MICHAEL L.
Published: September 2007

Problem:  Reports of sensitivity vary greatly from one study to another, probably because studies are small. Generally, only the percentage of subjects is reported.

Purpose:  This study reports sensitivity using a large database. We investigated the source, duration, and timing of sensitivity during 14 days of active bleaching.

Materials and Methods:  One hundred and seventy‐two people recorded sensitivity from any of the five sources on a daily basis.

Results:  No one withdrew from the study because of sensitivity. Forty‐seven percent of participants experienced sensitivity. Seventy‐seven percent had sensitivity of 3 or fewer days. Temperature sensitivity tended to occur later in the 14‐day bleaching cycle, and hot and cold sensitivity tended to occur together.

Conclusions:  There was great variability in sensitivity levels from person to person. Temperature sensitivity tended to occur later in the active phase of bleaching, whereas irritation of the tongue tended to occur earlier.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The results from a large group of people are more likely to include a wide cross‐section of the population sampled. This data provides practitioners with a better estimate of what their patients are likely to experience. It is estimated that, during 2 weeks of active bleaching, 77% of people will experience 3 or fewer days of sensitivity. On average, sensitivity is short‐lived, thus making it is easy to underestimate the importance of discussing sensitivity with patients considering bleaching. However, for some, the duration of sensitivity is much greater and has a very negative impact on satisfaction.

(J Esthet Restor Dent 19:256–264, 2007)
Characterization of a methyl jasmonate and wounding‐responsive cytochrome P450 of Arabidopsis thaliana catalyzing dicarboxylic fatty acid formation in vitro
Authors: Kandel Sylvie , Sauveplane Vincent , Compagnon Vincent , Franke Rochus , Millet Yves , Schreiber Lukas , Werck‐Reichhart Danièle , Pinot Franck
Published: September 2007

A fatty‐acid‐metabolizing enzyme from Arabidopsis thaliana, CYP94C1, belonging to the cytochrome P450 family was cloned and characterized. CYP94C1 was heterologously expressed in a Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain (WAT11) engineered for P450 expression. When recombinant yeast microsomes were incubated with lauric acid (C12:0) for 15 min, one major metabolite was formed. The product was purified and identified by GC/MS as 12‐hydroxylauric acid. Longer incubation (40 min) led to the formation of an additional metabolite identified by GC/MS as dodecadioic acid. This diacid was also produced by incubation with 12‐hydroxylauric acid. These compounds were not produced by incubating microsomes from yeast transformed with a void plasmid, demonstrating the involvement of CYP94C1. This new enzyme also metabolized fatty acids of varying aliphatic chain lengths (C12 to C18) and in‐chain modifications, for example, degree of unsaturation or the presence of an epoxide as an additional polar functional group. Transcription of the gene encoding CYP94C1 is enhanced by stress, treatment with the hormone methyl jasmonate and wounding. Treatment with methyl jasmonate also induced lauric acid metabolism in microsomes prepared from Arabidopsis. The induction of hydroxylase activity was dose dependent and increased with exposure time, reaching 16× higher in microsomes from 24‐h treated Arabidopsis compared with control plants. Analysis of the metabolites showed a mixture of 12‐, 11‐ and 10‐hydroxylauric acids, revealing for the first time the presence of fatty acid in‐chain hydroxylase in Arabidopsis.
Pyruvate reduces DNA damage during hypoxia and after reoxygenation in hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Roudier Emilie , Bachelet Christine , Perrin Anne
Published: September 2007

Pyruvate is located at a crucial crossroad of cellular metabolism between the aerobic and anaerobic pathways. Modulation of the fate of pyruvate, in one direction or another, can be important for adaptative response to hypoxia followed by reoxygenation. This could alter functioning of the antioxidant system and have protective effects against DNA damage induced by such stress. Transient hypoxia and alterations of pyruvate metabolism are observed in tumors. This could be advantageous for cancer cells in such stressful conditions. However, the effect of pyruvate in tumor cells is poorly documented during hypoxia/reoxygenation. In this study, we showed that cells had a greater need for pyruvate during hypoxia. Pyruvate decreased the number of DNA breaks, and might favor DNA repair. We demonstrated that pyruvate was a precursor for the biosynthesis of glutathione through oxidative metabolism in HepG2 cells. Therefore, glutathione decreased during hypoxia, but was restored after reoxygenation. Pyruvate had beneficial effects on glutathione depletion and DNA breaks induced after reoxygenation. Our results provide more evidence that the α‐keto acid promotes the adaptive response to hypoxia followed by reoxygenation. Pyruvate might thus help to protect cancer cells under such stressful conditions, which might be harmful for patients with tumors.
Cell cycle‐dependent transcription of cyclin B2 is influenced by DNA methylation but is independent of methylation in the CDE and CHR elements
Authors: Tschöp Katrin , Engeland Kurt
Published: September 2007

DNA methylation is an important mechanism involved in embryogenesis and tumor development. Changing cytosines to 5‐methylcytosines in CpG dinucleotides has been found to be responsible for the inactivation of tumor suppressor genes by repressing transcription. A central cell cycle regulator whose synthesis is controlled by transcription is cyclin B. In mammalian cells, cyclin B1 and B2 proteins are well characterized and often found to be overexpressed in cancer patients. Transcription from cyclin B1 and B2 promoters during the cell cycle is dependent upon a combination of two sites named ‘cell cycle‐dependent element’ (CDE) and ‘cell cycle genes homology region’ (CHR), through repression in G0 and G1 followed by release in G2/M. Here we show that the cyclin B2 promoter contains a CpG island and that 5‐aza‐deoxycytidine treatment leads to deregulation of cell cycle‐dependent mRNA expression from this gene via a loss of repression in G0. Furthermore, deletion of the DNA methyltransferase genes DNMT1 and DNMT3b leads to an increase in transcription of cyclin B2. Additionally, DNA methylation in vitro prevents transcriptional activation of the cyclin B2 promoter in G2/M. Analysis in vivo of the cyclin B2 core promoter revealed that the CDE/CHR site is partially methylated. However, quantitative in vivo analysis of the CpG‐methylation level of the CDE during cell division indicates that CpG methylation is independent of the cell cycle. We conclude that DNA methylation affects cell cycle‐dependent transcription of cyclin B2 but that regulation through CDE/CHR is independent of cytosine methylation.
Extreme photopolarimetric behaviour of the blazar AO 0235+164
Authors: Cellone Sergio A. , Romero Gustavo E. , Combi Jorge A. , Martí Josep
Published: September 2007

We present optical photopolarimetric observations with high temporal resolution of the blazar AO0235+164. Our data, the first to test the photopolarimetric behaviour of this object at very short time-scales, show significant micro-variability in total flux, colour index, linear polarization degree and position angle. Strong inter-night variations are also detected for these parameters. Although no correlation between colour index and total flux was found, our data seem to support the general bluer-when-brighter trend already known for this object. The polarization degree, in turn, shows no correlation with total flux, but a clear trend in the sense that colour index is redder (the spectrum is softer) when the measured polarization is higher.
Direct observational test rules out small Mg ii absorbers
Authors: Pontzen Andrew , Hewett Paul , Carswell Robert , Wild Vivienne
Published: September 2007

Recent observations suggest that the incidence of strong intervening Mgii absorption systems along the line of sight to gamma-ray burst afterglows is significantly higher than expected from analogous quasar sightlines. One possible explanation is a geometric effect, arising because Mgii absorbers only partially cover the quasar continuum regions, in which case Mgii absorbers must be considerably smaller than previous estimates. We investigate the production of abnormal absorption profiles by partial coverage and conclude that the lack of any known anomalous profiles in observed systems, whilst constraining, cannot on its own rule out patchy Mgii absorbers.

In a separate test, we look for differences in the distribution function of Mgii equivalent widths over quasar continuum regions and Ciii emission lines. We show that these anomalies should be observable in any scenario where Mgii absorbers are very small, but they are not present in the data. We conclude that models invoking small Mgii absorbers to explain the excess of absorbers seen towards gamma-ray bursts are ruled out.