bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interfacial Fracture Phenomena in Ceramic Composite Directionally Solidified Eutectics with a Ductile Interphase
Authors: Alem Nasim , Dravid Vinayak P.
Published: January 2006

Interphase interfaces in NixCo1−xO/ZrO2(CaO) directionally solidified eutectics (DSEs) are modified by selective chemical reduction of the NixCo1−xO oxide phase. Scanning electron microscopy studies of such NixCo1−xO/ZrO2(CaO) DSEs show formation of a thin layer of metallic Ni(Co) interphase (∼100 nm) and interfacial porosity upon reduction at high temperatures. A significant change is observed in the mechanical behavior of the reduced NixCo1−xO/ZrO2(CaO) DSEs compared with its pristine counterpart, which is largely attributed to the formation of metallic Ni(Co) interphases. Indentation fracture studies indicate that the presence of metallic interphases in the DSEs enhance the stress energy release mechanism through plastic deformation, interfacial delamination, crack arrest, and crack bridging across the metallic interphase after reduction.
Electrochemical Properties of Hydroxyapatite Crystal Surfaces on Anatase Photocatalysts
Authors: Funakoshi Kunio , Nonami Toru
Published: January 2006

Hydroxyapatite (HAp) was crystallized on anatase titanium dioxide (TiO2) photocatalytic crystals or their thin films using of a pseudo‐body solution method, and electrochemical properties of the HAp‐adhered anatase TiO2 photocatalytic surfaces were discussed. Decomposition rates of methylene blue were faster for the HAp‐adhered anatase TiO2 photocatalysts, although specific surface areas were smaller than those for the commercial anatase TiO2 ones. Surface potential dispersions on the HAp‐adhered anatase TiO2 thin films before and after an ultraviolet light irradiation were measured by an atomic force microscopy. Changes in the color of leucocrystalviolet mixed in the HAp‐adhered anatase TiO2 photocatalysts or the commercial anatase TiO2 ones with experimental durations were compared. Movements of electrons from the anatase TiO2 photocatalytic surfaces to the HAp, crystals and oxidizing reactions on the HAp‐adhered anatase TiO2 photocatalytic surfaces in the dark were discussed on the basis of these experimental results.
Role of the Surface Treatment in the Deflocculation of Kaolinite
Authors: Andreola Fernanda , Romagnoli Marcello , Castellini Elena , Lusvardi Gigliola , Menabue Ledi
Published: January 2006

Suspensions of untreated and properly treated Na‐exchanged kaolinite have been subjected to rheological investigations using sodium hexametaphosphate (NaHMP) or sodium disilicate (DIS) as deflocculants. The treatment of the clay consisted of a 24 h contact with solutions of NaHMP or DIS and separation of the resulting solid phase. This was then used to form the suspensions subjected to the rheological measurements. The results indicate that the dispersion ability of each deflocculant is remarkably influenced by the type of treatment. In particular, with respect to the untreated kaolinite, the efficiency of DIS is dramatically increased when the clay has been previously treated with a NaHMP solution. On the other hand, a decrease in the dispersant ability of NaHMP is observed from the untreated kaolinite to the one previously treated with DIS.
Inter‐examiner reliability in the clinical examination of temporomandibular disorders: influence of age
Authors: Hassel Alexander J. , Rammelsberg Peter , Schmitter Marc
Published: January 2006

Abstract –  Objective:  The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of the age of the subject on inter‐examiner reliability of the clinical signs of temporomandibular disorder (TMD).

Methods:  Forty‐three elderly (ES) and 44 younger adults (YS) were selected. The female/male distribution was almost the same in the two groups. All participants underwent clinical examination according to the Research Diagnostic Criteria for TMD, performed successively by two clinicians.

Results:  For metric measurements – with the exception of unassisted opening – the ES gave a significantly lower range of motion with both examiners and significantly worse percentage agreement between the examiners. A remarkable inter‐examiner disagreement in the elderly was found with laterotrusion and protrusion movements. The prevalence of joint sounds was rated inconsistently by the examiners. The reliability of detection was not different in the two groups. The prevalence of tender muscle sites was also inconsistent. The overall percentage agreement for subjects with at least one tender muscle point was not age dependent. Because of the very low prevalence in ES, further statistical assessment of reliability is not possible.

Conclusions:  The age‐dependent lower range of motion and the inferior reliability of metric measurements in the elderly could lead to wrong diagnoses. The reliability of detecting joint sounds and tender muscles was not age dependent within the limitations of the study.
Dental Discomfort Questionnaire: assessment of dental discomfort and/or pain in very young children
Authors: Versloot Judith , Veerkamp Jaap S. J. , Hoogstraten Johan
Published: January 2006

Abstract –  Objective:  To present and analyse the Dental Discomfort Questionnaire (DDQ) for very young children and to assess the possible differences in pain‐related behaviours displayed by children with or without reported toothache, and by children with or without decayed teeth.

Methods:  Based on parental interviews of toddlers referred to a dental care practice 12 pain‐related behaviours were identified which formed the DDQ. The DDQ was filled out by parents on behalf of their children (n = 146; mean age 47 months). Two‐third (n = 94) of the children were referred to a special dental care centre and one‐third (n = 52) were controls from a day care centre.

Results:  The results show that the 12 items of the DDQ seem to measure one dimension. However, four items do not correlate with the presence of reported toothache, when these items are removed the DDQ‐8 has a satisfactory reliability. All eight behaviours from the DDQ‐8 occur significantly more often in children with decayed teeth and toothache than in children without decayed teeth or toothache. Especially behaviours concerning eating or brushing teeth are found to be more often present in children with decayed teeth and toothache.

Conclusions:  It seems useful to take the child behaviour into account in assessing toothache. The DDQ has shown to be a reliable instrument, which could be helpful in the future for both parents and dentists in identifying toothache in young children.
An empirically derived population‐response model of the short form of the Oral Health Impact Profile
Authors: Nuttall N. M. , Slade G. D. , Sanders A. E. , Steele J. G. , Allen P. F. , Lahti S.
Published: January 2006

Abstract –  Objective:  The aim of this paper was to model the consequences of dental conditions from an empirical basis and to test the model's ability to predict response combinations.

Methods:  The model was derived from responses to the short‐form Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP14) obtained from a UK population sample of 5281 dentate adults. This model was then used to predict OHIP14 response combinations obtained from a sample of 3973 dentate and edentulous adults in Australia.

Findings:  The empirically derived population‐response model accounted for over 98% of response combinations of Australian dentate adults.

Conclusions:  The empirically derived model followed a similar hierarchical pattern to the base model underlying the long‐form version of the measure (thereby supporting the validity of the OHIP14 measure) and was strongly predictive of the pattern of responses obtained from Australian adults.
Quantifying training intensity distribution in elite endurance athletes: is there evidence for an “optimal” distribution?
Authors: Seiler K. Stephen , Kjerland Glenn Øvrevik
Published: January 2006

This study was designed to quantify the daily distribution of training intensity in a group of well‐trained junior cross‐country skiers and compare the results of three different methods of training intensity quantification. Eleven male athletes performed treadmill tests to exhaustion to determine heart rate and VO2 corresponding to ventilatory thresholds (VT1, VT2), maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), and maximal heart rate. VT1 and VT2 were used to delineate three intensity zones. During the same time period, all training sessions (N=384, 37 strength training, 347 endurance) performed over 32 consecutive days were quantified using continuous heart rate registration and session Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE). In addition, a subset of 60 consecutive training sessions was quantified using blood lactate measurements. Intensity distribution across endurance training sessions (n=318) was similar when based on heart rate analysis (75±3%, zone 1; 8±3%, zone 2; 17±4%, zone 3) or session RPE (76±4%, zone 1; 6±5%, zone 2; 18±7%, zone 3). Similarly, from measurements of 60 consecutive sessions, 71% were performed with ≤2.0 mM blood lactate, 7% between 2 and 4 mM, and 22% with over 4 mM (mean=9.5±2.8 mM). In this group of nationally competitive junior skiers, training was organized after a polarized pattern, with most sessions performed clearly below (about 75%) or with substantial periods above (15–20%) the lactate accommodation zone, which is bounded by VT1 and VT2. The pattern quantified here is similar to that reported in observational studies of elite endurance athletes across several sports. It appears that elite endurance athletes train surprisingly little at the lactate threshold intensity.
Predictive validity of ventilatory and lactate thresholds for cycling time trial performance
Authors: Amann Markus , Subudhi Andrew W. , Foster Carl
Published: January 2006

Purpose: To determine which laboratory measurement best predicts 40 km cycling time‐trial (TT) performance.

Methods: Fifteen male cyclists performed lactate‐threshold (LT), ventilatory‐threshold (VT), 5 km and 40 km TT. Key variables of interest were Watts at thresholds. For VT determination we used: breakpoint of ventilatory equivalent of oxygen (VE/VO2); breakpoint of ventilatory equivalent of carbon dioxide (VE/VCO2); V‐slope; respiratory exchange ratio (RER)=1 and 0.95. For LT we used Stegmann's individual anaerobic threshold; the stage preceding the second 0.5 mmol L−1 increase (Baldari); 4 mmol L−1; 1 mmol L−1 increase in 3 min; the stage preceding the first 1 mmol L−1 increase as criterion methods (<1 mmol). Analyses also included peak power during the incremental threshold tests (MaxVTwatts, MaxLTwatts) and 5 km performance (5Kavgwatts).

Results: Regression analyses between VT variables and 40Kavgwatts were significant for V‐slope (r2=0.63), VE/VO2 (r2=0.64), RER0.95 (r2=0.53), RER1 (r2=0.57), and MaxVTwatts (r2=0.65). Regressions between LT variables and 40Kavgwatts were significant for Baldari (r2=0.52), 4 mmol L−1 (r2=0.36), <1 mmol (r2=0.35), Keul (r2=0.34), and MaxLTwatts (r2=0.51). Regressions between 5K variables and 40Kavgwatts were significant for 5Kavgwatts (r2=0.58). Paired t‐tests between these variables and the 40Kavgwatts indicated that absolute power outputs at VE/VO2 (P=0.33), RER0.95 (P=0.93), and 4 mmol L−1 (P=0.39) were not significantly different from 40Kavgwatts.

Conclusion: We conclude that VT‐based variables are generally superior to LT variables relative to predicting 40Kavgwatts, the simplest of several valid measures appears to be VE/VO2.
Exercise performance in hypoxia after novel erythropoiesis stimulating protein treatment
Authors: Lundby C. , Damsgaard R.
Published: January 2006

Maximal aerobic power at high altitude (<4000 m) does not increase with altitude acclimatization. In order to investigate the isolated effects of increased arterial oxygen content (CaO2) on maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) in hypoxia, we studied 10 subjects during exercise in acute exposure to 12.6% O2 before and after novel erythropoiesis stimulating protein (NESP) induced increases in CaO2. Over a period of 1 month, weekly NESP treatment increased resting hemoglobin (Hb) from 13.8±0.9 to 16.2±0.5 g/dL, hematocrit from 42.1±0.6% to 49.0±1.5%, and CaO2 from 189.7±3.0 to 218.6±5.7 mL/L. At maximal exercise CaO2 was increased from 172.3±3.7 to 191.5±3.8 mL/L with NESP treatment, and although maximal heart rate was similar in both conditions (178.4±2.6 and 180.9±2.5 b.p.m.) VO2max remained unaltered, the values being 3.12±2.0 and 3.12±2.0, before and after NESP treatment, respectively. NESP‐injections in human subjects causes Hb and accordingly CaO2 to increase both in normoxia and hypoxia. Despite increases in CaO2 at maximal exercise in hypoxia VO2max is not increased.
Post‐operative use of knee brace in bone–tendon–bone patellar tendon anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: 5‐year follow‐up results of a randomized prospective study
Authors: Harilainen A. , Sandelin J.
Published: January 2006

Sixty patients were prospectively randomized to brace and no‐brace groups after bone–tendon–bone patellar tendon anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The brace group wore a rehabilitation knee brace for 12 weeks post‐operatively, while the no‐brace group was mobilized immediately, and crutches were discarded 2 weeks post‐operatively. The groups were comparable with respect to age, gender, time from injury to surgery and concomitant injuries. There were no differences either pre‐operatively or 5 years post‐operatively (80% of patients reviewed) between the groups in terms of the knee score (Lysholm), activity level (Tegner), degree of laxity or isokinetic peak muscle torque. Thus it appears that knee braces are not needed in the post‐operative rehabilitation after ACL reconstruction with the patellar tendon graft.
The COL5A1 gene and Achilles tendon pathology
Authors: Mokone G. G. , Schwellnus M. P. , Noakes T. D. , Collins M.
Published: January 2006

Purpose: There is an increase in the incidence of Achilles tendon injuries as a result of the participation in physical activity. It has been suggested that some individuals have a genetic predisposition to Achilles tendon pathology (ATP). The aim of this study was to determine whether the α 1 type V collagen (COL5A1) gene, which encodes for a tendon protein, is associated with the symptoms of ATP.

Methods: One‐hundred and eleven Caucasian subjects diagnosed with ATP and 129 Caucasian control (CON) subjects were genotyped for the BstUI and DpnII restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) within the COL5A1 gene.

Results: There was a significant difference in the allele frequencies of the COL5A1 BstUI RFLP between the ATP and CON subjects (P=0.006). The frequency of the A2 allele was significantly higher in the CON group (29.8%) than in the ATP group (18.0%) (odds ratio of 1.9; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3–3.0; P=0.004). This allele had a stronger protective role when only the 72 patients diagnosed with chronic Achilles tendinopathy were analyzed (odds ratio of 2.6; 95% CI 1.5–4.5).

Conclusions: The COL5A1 BstUI RFLP is associated with ATP and more specifically, chronic Achilles tendinopathy. Individuals with an A2 allele of this gene are less likely of developing symptoms of chronic Achilles tendinopathy.
Predictors of hamstring injury at the elite level of Australian football
Authors: Gabbe B. J. , Bennell K. L. , Finch C. F. , Wajswelner H. , Orchard J. W.
Published: January 2006

Background: Hamstring injuries are the most common injury sustained by elite Australian football players and result in substantial costs because of missed training time, unavailability for matches and lost player payments. Evidence to support proposed risk factors for hamstring injury is generally lacking, limiting the development of appropriate prevention strategies.

Aim: To identify intrinsic risk factors for hamstring injury at the elite level of Australian football.

Methods: A prospective cohort of 222 players underwent baseline measurement in the form of a self‐report questionnaire and a musculo‐skeletal screen during the pre‐season period of the 2002 Australian football season. Injury surveillance and exposure data were collected for the full season. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent predictors of hamstring injury in this group of players.

Results: Thirty‐one players sustained a hamstring injury. A past history (previous 12 months) of hamstring injury and increasing age were found to be independent predictors of hamstring injury.

Conclusions: Older players and those with a previous history of hamstring injury are target groups for further research and implementation of injury prevention strategies. Restricted ankle dorsiflexion range of movement warrants consideration in the development of prevention programs for hamstring injury.
Single‐leg hop testing following fatiguing exercise: reliability and biomechanical analysis
Authors: Augustsson J. , Thomeé R. , Lindén C. , Folkesson M. , Tranberg R. , Karlsson J.
Published: January 2006

A fatiguing exercise protocol was combined with single‐leg hop testing to improve the possibilities of evaluating the effects of training or rehabilitation interventions. In the first test–retest experiment, 11 healthy male subjects performed two trials of single‐leg hops under three different test conditions: non‐fatigued and following fatiguing exercise, which consisted of unilateral weight machine knee extensions at 80% and 50%, respectively, of 1 repetition maximum (1 RM) strength. Intraclass correlation coefficients ranged from 0.75 to 0.98 for different hop test conditions, indicating that all tests were reliable. For the second experiment, eight healthy male subjects performed the fatiguing exercise protocol to investigate how fatigue influences lower‐extremity joint kinematics and kinetics during single‐leg hops. Hip, knee and ankle joint angles, moments and powers, as well as ground‐reaction forces were recorded with a six‐camera, motion‐capture system and a force platform. Recovery of hop performance following the fatiguing exercise was also measured. During the take‐off for the single‐leg hops, hip and knee flexion angles, generated powers for the knee and ankle joints, and ground‐reaction forces decreased for the fatigued hop conditions compared with the non‐fatigued condition (P<0.05). Compared with landing during the non‐fatigued condition, hip moments and ground‐reaction forces were lower for the fatigued hop conditions (P<0.05). The negative joint power was two to three times greater for the knee than for the hip and five to 10 times greater for the knee than for the ankle during landing for all test conditions (P<0.05). Most measured variables had recovered three minutes post‐exercise. It is concluded that the fatiguing exercise protocol combined with single‐leg hop testing was a reliable method for investigating functional performance under fatigued test conditions. Further, subjects utilized an adapted hop strategy, which employed less hip and knee flexion and generated powers for the knee and ankle joints during take‐off, and less hip joint moments during landing under fatigued conditions. The large negative power values observed at the knee joint during the landing phase of the single‐leg hop, during which the quadriceps muscle activates eccentrically, indicate that not only hop distance but also the ability to perform successful landings should be investigated when assessing dynamic knee function.
Energy balance in weight stable athletes with and without menstrual disorders
Authors: Tomten S. E. , Høstmark A. T.
Published: January 2006

The energy balance and nutritional adequacy was assessed in a group of runners with irregular menstrual function (IR, n=10) and in a comparable group of runners with normal menstrual function (R, n=10).

Based on computerized records of 3 days food intake, the mean content of energy and macronutrients were estimated. Excess energy expenditure (EEE) during training hours was estimated using HF monitoring and individual HF/VO2 nomograms. For the rest of a daily 24 h cycle, estimated values for basal metabolic rate (BMR) and sedentary metabolic rate were applied.

Daily training‐related excess energy expenditure (2.1±0.3 vs 2.2±0.4) MJ (Mean±SEM) and total energy expenditure (TEE) (11.0±0.3 vs 11.2±0.4) MJ in R vs IR were not different in the two groups. Calculated daily energy intake (EI) was, however, significantly lower in IR (9.7±0.5 MJ) than in R (12.3±0.7 MJ), (P=0.007). Calculated EI and TEE were in balance in R athletes. When the same calculations were applied on IR athletes, a moderate but statistically significant negative energy balance was found (−1.5±0.6 MJ, P=0.03). The calculated energy deficit was supported by significantly lower levels of free thyroxine in IR athletes, and may indicate an adaptive lower BMR in IR athletes.

Mean intakes of carbohydrates (7.0 g/kg in R and 5.7 g/kg in IR) and protein (1.71 g/kg in R and 1.49 g/kg in IR) were close to guidelines. Intakes were not significantly different in the two groups. The most important difference in macronutrient intake was found in dietary fat (1.70 g/kg in R and 1.04 g/kg in IR) that was significantly lower in the IR group than in the R group (P=0.007).

The weight stable IR and R athletes seemed to meet the recommended intake of carbohydrates, protein and fat in their diet fairly well. However, according to the present calculations, a small energy deficit was observed in IR athletes but not in R athletes. Compared with the intake of the R athletes, this energy deficit seems primarily to be related to a lower intake of dietary fat in IR athletes.
Nerve conduction study of ulnar nerve in volleyball players
Authors: Özbek A. , Bamaç B. , Budak F. , Yenigün N. , Çolak T.
Published: January 2006

Ulnar neuropathy at the elbow is a common disorder seen in the throwing athlete. The purpose of our study was to determine whether asymptomatic physically active volleyball players and non‐actives demonstrate distinct differences in nerve conduction of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. Nerve conduction studies were performed on both arms of 24 male volleyball players and 24 male non‐actives. Nerve conduction velocity at the above to below elbow segment of the ulnar motor nerve were slower in the volleyball players compared with controls and their non‐dominant arms. There were no statistical differences in latencies and conduction velocity of the ulnar nerve on the forearm, both in volleyball players and in the controls. In the evoked responses of the ulnar nerve, the amplitude was the same as corresponding normal values in both sensory nerve and muscle action potentials. We conclude that abnormal ulnar (motor) nerve conduction at the elbow segment may suggest a subclinical entrapment neuropathy as a result of strenuous elbow movements in volleyball players.
Stability and prediction of physical activity in 5‐, 10‐, and 28‐year follow‐up studies among industrial employees
Authors: Kirjonen J. , Telama R. , Luukkonen R. , Kääriä S. , Kaila‐Kangas L. , Leino‐Arjas P.
Published: January 2006

The aim of the study was to examine the stability of voluntary and household physical activity (PA) and to compare it with that of the use of the most common stimulants. The prospective cohort study comprised of follow‐ups at 5, 10, and 28 years at baseline in 1973 in four plants of an industrial corporation in Finland. A systematic, non‐proportional sample (n=902, age range 18–64 years) stratified for age, gender, and occupational status was drawn from the employees. Scores of PA were based on a questionnaire and interviews. Logistic regression models with proportional odds assumptions were counted. The 5‐year stability (Spearman's ρ) of PA time was 0.44 (PA intensity 0.44), the respective 10‐year coefficient was 0.26 (0.32), and that in the 28‐year follow‐up was 0.18 (0.20). The stability of PA decreased rapidly from 1973 to 1983 and more slowly thereafter. Changes along the follow‐up reflect a polarization of the distributions of PA within the sample. Age and an initially low level of activity were the strongest predictors of inactivity. The stability coefficient of smoking and alcohol consumption was twice as high as that of PA. Stimulant use was a greater factor in the individual's lifestyle than PA.
α‐Latrotoxin Modulates the Secretory Machinery via Receptor‐Mediated Activation of Protein Kinase C
Authors: Liu Jie , Wan Qunfang , Lin Xianguang , Zhu Hongliang , Volynski Kirill , Ushkaryov Yuri , Xu Tao
Published: January 2006

The hypothesis whether α‐latrotoxin (LTX) could directly regulate the secretory machinery was tested in pancreatic β cells using combined techniques of membrane capacitance (Cm) measurement and Ca2+ uncaging. Employing ramp increase in [Ca2+]i to stimulate exocytosis, we found that LTX lowers the Ca2+ threshold required for exocytosis without affecting the size of the readily releasable pool (RRP). The burst component of exocytosis in response to step‐like [Ca2+]i increase generated by flash photolysis of caged Ca2+ was also speeded up by LTX treatment. LTX increased the maximum rate of exocytosis compared with control responses with similar postflash [Ca2+]i and shifted the Ca2+ dependence of the exocytotic machinery toward lower Ca2+ concentrations. LTXN4C, a LTX mutant which cannot form membrane pores or penetrate through the plasma membrane but has similar affinity for the receptors as the wild‐type LTX, mimicked the effect of LTX. Moreover, the effects of both LTX and LTXN4C were independent of intracellular or extracellular Ca2+ but required extracellular Mg2+. Our data propose that LTX, by binding to the membrane receptors, sensitizes the fusion machinery to Ca2+ and, hence, may permit release at low [Ca2+]i level. This sensitization is mediated by activation of protein kinase C.
Prebreeding Maternal Immunostimulation with Freund's Complete Adjuvant Reduces Placental Damage and Distal Limb Defects Caused by Methylnitrosourea
Authors: Renee Prater Mary , Zimmerman Kurt L. , Laudermilch Chelsea L. , Holladay Steven D.
Published: January 2006

Problem  Immunostimulation reduces murine teratogen‐induced birth defects. It is unclear if placental improvement contributes to this outcome. The current study examined murine placental ultrastructure and fetal limb development following maternal methylnitrosourea (MNU) exposure, ±Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA) immunostimulation.

Method of study  Two murine strains (CD‐1, C57BL/6N) were administered MNU on gestation day 9 (GD9), FCA pre‐breeding, or FCA + MNU. Fetal limb and placental development were examined on GD14.

Results  MNU decreased placental weight and reduced placental cellular viability; FCA reversed these effects. MNU shortened fetal limbs and increased digital defects in both strains. Placentas were less damaged in C57BL/6N versus CD‐1 mice, and distal limb malformations improved only in CD‐1 mice. FCA immunostimulation also increased pregnancy rate.

Conclusion  Improved fetal outcome from immune‐stimulated mice may not be dependent on improved placental morphology. However, placental function and morphology in immune‐stimulated mice may not directly correlate, thus functional improvements should be examined for possible relationship to reduced birth defects.
In Vivo Correlation between IL‐1β Concentration in Uterine Fluid and Integrin Expression Pattern in Infertile Women
Authors: Mikolajczyk Mateusz , Wirstlein Przemyslaw , Szymanowski Krzysztof , Skrzypczak Jana
Published: January 2006

Problem  To evaluate the possible correlation between interleukin‐1beta (IL‐1β) and integrin expression.

Method of study  Endometrium and uterine fluid from 77 infertile women and 24 fertile, healthy control were studied with immunohistochemistry and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for the presence of IL‐1β and integrin alphaVbeta3 and alpha4beta1 expression.

Results  Highest expression of alphaVbeta3 was found in epithelium and glands in endometria from fertile women. There was no positive correlation between IL‐1β and integrin expression pattern.

Conclusion  This study confirms the importance of alphaVbeta3 as molecular marker of receptive phase. Also supports the views that synchrony in development of endometrium is necessary for successful nidation. There was however, contrary to results of previous in vitro studies, no positive correlation between IL‐1β and endometrial integrin patter expression.
A case of amelogenesis imperfecta, cleft lip and palate and polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Suda N , Kitahara Y , Ohyama K
Published: January 2006

Structured Abstract

Authors –  Suda N, Kitahara Y, Ohyama K

Objective –  Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) is a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders characterized by developmental abnormalities of tooth enamel. The AI is also seen as part of multi‐organ abnormalities, e.g. with cone‐rod dystrophy, hypothalamo‐hypophyseal insufficiency and renal failure. The present patient with AI and nephrocalcinosis exhibited a phenotype different from previous cases with renal failure. To highlight the characteristics of this rare case, extensive analysis that included histological, biochemical and genetic examinations was performed.

Patient –  The present Japanese male patient exhibited dentition with AI and bilateral cleft lip and palate. Ground sections of his extracted tooth showed that it was hypomaturation‐type AI, unlike previous cases with nephrocalcinosis were hypoplastic‐type. He showed nephrocalcinosis and hematuria at 15 years of age but these symptoms appeared to be secondary to polycystic kidney disease. He showed skeletal Class II pattern with a retrognathic profile and retroclined incisors of both arches. A dolicofacial appearance was seen with an enlarged gonial angle. Biochemical makers including serum alkaline phosphatase, parathyroid hormone, calcitonin, calcium, and phosphate, were all in the normal range. Sequence analysis of the genes encoding amelogenin and enamelin, which are known to be responsible for hypoplastic‐type AI, did not reveal any mutations. Since mouse null mutant of homeobox transcription factor, Msx2, exhibits a phenotype resembling AI, the human homolog of this gene, MSX2, was sequenced. There was a missense mutation of T447C that resulted in the conversion of methionine to threonine at 129.
Effects of low‐level laser therapy on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement
Authors: Limpanichkul W , Godfrey K , Srisuk N , Rattanayatikul C
Published: January 2006

Structured Abstract

Authors –  Limpanichkul W, Godfrey K, Srisuk N, Rattanayatikul C

Objectives –  To test the hypothesis that mechanical forces combined with low‐level laser therapy stimulate the rate of orthodontic tooth movement.

Study design –  This study was a double blind, randomized placebo/control matched pairs clinical trial to test the efficacy of GaAlAs low‐level laser therapy (LLLT) on 12 young adult patients who required retraction of maxillary canines into first premolar extraction spaces using tension coil springs with fixed edgewise appliance. LLLT was applied on the mucosa buccally, distally and palatally to the canine on the test side and using a pseudo‐application on the placebo side. Dental impressions and casts were made at the commencement of the trial and at the end of the first, second and third months after starting the trial. Measurement of tooth movements was made on each stage model using a stereo microscope.

Results –  There was no significant difference of means of the canine distal movement between the LLLT side and the placebo side for any time periods (p‐value = 0.77).

Conclusion –  The energy density of LLLT (GaAlAs) at the surface level in this study (25 J/cm2) was probably too low to express either stimulatory effect or inhibitory effect on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement.
A new method for the 3D measurement of postoperative swelling following orthognathic surgery
Authors: Kau CH , Cronin A , Durning P , Zhurov AI , Sandham A , Richmond S
Published: January 2006

Structured Abstract

Authors –  Kau CH, Cronin A, Durning P, Zhurov AI, Sandham A, Richmond S

Objective –  To describe a new method for measuring facial swelling following orthognathic surgery using a 3D laser‐scanning device.

Design –  Prospective clinical trial.

Setting and Sample Population –  University Dental Hospital, Wales College of Medicine, Biology Life and Health Sciences. Three subjects requiring bi‐maxillary orthognathic surgery were recruited for the study.

Experimental Variables –  Laser‐scanned images of the subjects were obtained under a reproducible and controlled environment with two Minolta Vivid 900 (Osaka, Japan) optical laser‐scanning devices assembled as a stereo‐pair. A set of left and right scanned images was taken for each subject and each scan took an average of 2.5 s. 3D laser scans were recorded over six time periods (T1 – pre‐surgical scan, postoperatively: T2 – 1 day, T3 – 1 week, T4 – 1 month, T5 – 3 months and T6 – 6 months).

Outcome Measure –  Facial scans from different time periods were overlaid onto the baseline (T6) facial scan to determine the reduction and changes in swelling following orthognathic surgery.

Results –  The results showed that swelling could be accurately quantified following surgery. Furthermore, there was a significant reduction in the amount of swelling 1 month postoperatively. Furthermore, the facial morphology returned to approximately 90% of the baseline facial scan at 3 months.

Conclusion –  The 3D laser‐scanning device and the method described was a reliable and accurate measure of facial swelling following surgery.
Influence of steroid drugs on orthodontically induced root resorption
Authors: Verna C , Hartig LE , Kalia S , Melsen B
Published: January 2006

Structured Abstract

Authors –  Verna C, Hartig LE, Kalia S, Melsen B

Objectives –  To investigate the effect of acute and chronic corticosteroid treatment on orthodontically induced root resorption.

Design –  ‘Split mouth’ design performing orthodontic tooth movement in 64, 6‐month‐old male rats divided into three groups: acute (n = 22), chronic (n = 23) and control group (n = 19). Acute and chronic group received corticosteroid treatment (8 mg/kg/day) for 3 and 7 weeks, respectively, while no pharmacological treatment was performed in the control group. Performed at the Department of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of Aarhus, Aarhus, Denmark.

Experimental variable –  The upper left first molar was moved mesially for 21 days in all three groups with 25 g of force. Undecalcified histological sections were cut at the coronal and apical level.

Outcome measure –  The number of intersections hitting resorption lacunae (ES), defined as a scalloped surface with or without cementoclasts, over the total number of intersections hitting the root surface (RS) were recorded and expressed as percentage.

Results –  The acute group showed significantly more root resorption at the mesio‐coronal level compared with the control and the chronic group.

Conclusion –  This could be ascribed to the lack of balance between blastic activities (inhibited by the drug) and the clastic activities (enhanced or unchanged by drug administration) occurring in the initial phase of drug administration. As a consequence, a careful monitoring of patients undergoing acute corticosteroid treatment is suggested.
Management of Honeymoon Impotence
Authors: Shamloul Rany
Published: January 2006

Introduction

Honeymoon impotence can be defined as the failure to be successfully involved in sexual intercourse at the beginning of marriage, particularly in the first few nights. While its exact causes are not yet elucidated, many studies recognize this problem as related to performance anxiety.

Aim

The aim of this study was to report the outcome of management of patients with honeymoon impotence.

Methods and Main Outcome Measures

This study included 100 consecutive patients presenting to our department complaining of failed sexual intercourse since the beginning of their marriage. History taking, completion of the abridged form of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) questionnaire, and combined intracavernous injection and stimulation and nocturnal penile tumescence monitoring were performed. Penile duplex was performed to elucidate vascular insufficiency. All psychogenic patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) were treated with sildenafil and sex therapy. All organic ED patients were treated either with sildenafil alone or combined therapy with either intracavernous prostaglandin E1 or vacuum constriction device.

Results

Seventy-four patients had psychogenic ED and 26 patients had vasculogenic ED. All psychogenic ED patients were treated successfully with sildenafil and sex therapy. Twenty-two patients with vasculogenic ED were treated successfully with sildenafil or combined therapy, while four patients needed venous surgery. Minimal side effects of all treatment modalities occurred throughout the study.

Conclusions

Management of honeymoon impotence requires profound diagnosis of its causative factors. Treating physicians in areas with high prevalence of this condition should be ready to manage this problem with vigilant systematic overture. A combined approach of sildenafil and sex therapy proved highly effective in treatment of honeymoon impotence of psychogenic origin; however, controlled studies are needed. Other patients showing functional erectile abnormalities should be treated accordingly.
A Simple Noninvasive Test to Detect Vascular Disease in Patients with Erectile Dysfunction: A Novel Method
Authors: Alkhayal Shawket , Lehmann Victoria , Thomas Philip
Published: January 2006

Introduction

The association between erectile dysfunction (ED) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) is becoming increasingly evident. Both conditions are thought to share a common denominator, which is endothelial dysfunction. Therefore, testing endothelial function in ED patients may serve to detect vascular disease in this cohort of patients.

Aims

To investigate whether measuring the reactive hyperemic response (RHR) of the forearm vessels through a simple noninvasive method could identify vascular disease in patients with ED.

Patients and Methods

Forty-eight male subjects were recruited into the study, 35 of whom presented to the sexual dysfunction clinic with a complaint of ED, and 13 healthy subjects served as a control group. The ED patients were subdivided into two groups, according to the presence or absence of CVD or its risk factors. The RHR of the forearm vessels was measured noninvasively in all subjects by using a handheld Doppler device.

Results

Significant reduction in the peak systolic velocity ration was observed in ED patients with concomitant CVD or risk factors in comparison with the other ED patients with no CVD or risk factors and the control group. Results were highly significant on both occasions (P < 0.001). The 50% recovery time was not significantly different between any of the groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that those patients with impaired RHR have an abnormality in their vascular system, which is likely to be the cause of their ED and CVD. Using this simple noninvasive method can help to identify vascular disease in ED patients. It can also be used to suggest vascular disease in any patient, where further tests might be indicated.
CCR2 allele polymorphisms in 15 Chinese ethnic populations
Authors: Zhang X. L. , Zhang C. Y. , Yu Y. , Chen F. , Li P. , Fu S. B.
Published: January 2006

Chemokine receptor‐2 (CCR2) is a co‐receptor for the entry of human immunodeficiency virus‐1 (HIV‐1) into the target cells. A mutation in CCR2 (CCR2‐64I) exhibited a protective effect to delay the progression of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). To study the mutant frequency and polymorphism of CCR2 in Chinese populations, 1082 individuals from 15 Chinese populations distributing widely from north to south were collected. The genotypes of CCR2‐64I were determined by polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) with the digestion of restriction endonuclease FokI. Of the 1082 individuals, 352 (32.53%) were carriers of CCR2‐64I allele, 257 of whom (23.75%) were heterozygotes (CCR2‐64V/I), whereas 95 (8.78%) were homozygotes (CCR2‐64V/V). The frequency of the CCR2‐64I allele in those tested individuals was 20.66%. This prevalence of CCR2‐64I was higher than what was known for American and European populations. Moreover, the frequencies of CCR2‐64I were generally higher in northern China than they were in southern China, and the frequencies had significant variance in 15 populations of China (χ2 = 27.135, P = 0.018).
Association between ICAM‐1 Gly‐Arg polymorphism and renal parenchymal scarring following childhood urinary tract infection
Authors: Gbadegesin R. A. , Cotton S. A. , Watson C. J. , Brenchley P. E. C. , Webb N. J. A.
Published: January 2006

Renal parenchymal scarring (RPS) following urinary tract infection (UTI) is an important cause of renal morbidity in children. Studies have shown that the intensity of the inflammatory response following infection is related to the risk of RPS. However, genetic variability in this response has not been studied. Adhesion molecules play a crucial role in leucocyte recruitment following infection, and polymorphisms have been reported in the genes for key cell adhesion molecules. We have investigated the possibility that children who develop RPS following UTI may exhibit altered genotype or allele frequencies for polymorphisms of the intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) (exons 4 and 6), E‐selectin (exons 2 and 4), platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 (PECAM‐1) (exon 3) and CD11b (3′UTR) genes, which may predict outcome of UTI. DNA was isolated from 99 children shown to have developed RPS, 43 children with no evidence of scarring (NS) following UTI and 170 healthy controls. Genotyping was performed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis. When the RPS group was compared with the NS group, there was a significant reduction in the frequency of the ICAM‐1 exon 4 A allele (10.6 vs. 21.3%, respectively, χ2= 6.01, P= 0.014). There was no significant difference in either allele or genotype frequency for any of the other polymorphisms studied. These data suggest that the A allele of the ICAM‐1 exon 4 polymorphism may protect against the risk of RPS following UTI and may participate in the regulation of the inflammatory response following UTI.
Promoter polymorphism rs3087456 in the MHC class II transactivator gene is not associated with susceptibility for selected autoimmune diseases in German patient groups
Authors: Akkad D. A. , Jagiello P. , Szyld P. , Goedde R. , Wieczorek S. , Gross W. L. , Epplen J. T.
Published: January 2006

We analysed whether the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs3087456 in the promoter of the MHC class II transactivator (MHC2TA) gene is associated with manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, narcolepsy and Wegener granulomatosis. The recently reported association in a northern population of the MHC2TA variation with these autoimmune diseases is not evident in the German population.
Structure in the radio counterpart to the 2004 December 27 giant flare from SGR 1806–20
Authors: Fender R. P. , Muxlow T. W. B. , Garrett M. A. , Kouveliotou C. , Gaensler B. M. , Garrington S. T. , Paragi Z. , Tudose V. , Miller-Jones J. C. A. , Spencer R. E. , Wijers R. A. M. , Taylor G. B.
Published: January 2006

On 2004 December 27, the magnetar SGR 1806-20 underwent an enormous outburst resulting in the formation of an expanding, moving, and fading radio source. We report observations of this radio source with the Multi-Element Radio-Linked Interferometer Network and the Very Long Baseline Array. The observations confirm the elongation and expansion already reported based on observations at lower angular resolutions, but suggest that at early epochs the structure is not consistent with the very simplest models such as a smooth flux distribution. In particular, there appears to be significant structure on small angular scales, with ∼10 per cent of the radio flux arising on angular scales ⩽100 milliarcsec. This structure may correspond to localized sites of particle acceleration during the early phases of expansion and interaction with the ambient medium.
Small-Amplitude Free-Vibration Analysis of Piezoelectric Composite Plates Subject to Large Deflections and Initial Stresses
Authors: Varelis Dimitris , Saravanos Dimitris A.
Published: January 2006

A coupled theoretical and computational framework is presented for analyzing the small amplitude-free vibrational response of composite laminated plates with piezoelectric actuators and sensors, subject to nonlinear effects due to large rotations and initial stresses. Coupled laminate mechanics incorporating nonlinear governing equations with mixed-field shear-layerwise assumptions for the piezoelectric laminate are implemented. A finite element method is formulated to yield the linearized discrete dynamic equations of a piezocomposite plate on top of its nonlinear electrostatic response, and a novel eight-node coupled nonlinear plate finite element forms the basis of numerical analyses. The natural frequencies in a beam with a piezoceramic actuator and sensor subject to in-plane mechanical loading, high enough to induce buckling and postbuckling are also experimentally characterized, and comparisons to numerical results show excellent correlation. Additional numerical evaluations quantify the active shifting of natural frequencies in adaptive beams and plates subject to high out-of-plane and in-plane electromechanical loading, and the variation of modal frequencies during buckling and postbuckling response. Finally, the possibility to detect and actively manage buckling in adaptive piezocomposite plates is illustrated.
Theoretical and Experimental Investigation of Elevator Cable Dynamics and Control
Authors: Zhu W. D. , Chen Y.
Published: January 2006

The vibratory energy of a moving cable in an elevator increases in general during upward movement. A control method is presented to dissipate the energy associated with the lateral vibration of the cable. A novel experimental method is developed to validate the theoretical predictions for the uncontrolled and controlled lateral responses of a moving cable in a high-rise elevator. This includes the design and fabrication of a scaled elevator, experimental setup, and development of measurement and parameter estimation techniques. Experimental results show good agreement with the theoretical predictions.
Effects of Frictional Models on the Dynamic Response of the Impact Drive Mechanism
Authors: Ha Jih-Lian , Fung Rong-Fong , Han Chang-Fu , Chang Jer-Rong
Published: January 2006

This paper first introduces the effects of various frictional models on the dynamic behaviors of a simple mechanical system with frictional forces, which are described by the Leuven model combined with the Bouc-Wen model of the hysteresis. The frictional model allows accurate dynamic modeling both in the sliding and the presliding regimes without using switching functions. Secondly, these analytic results are applied to the precise positioning impact drive mechanism (IDM) and make the frictional actions more accurate. The hysteresis effect is also considered in the piezoelectric force of the IDM. It is shown that the hysteresis frictional force has critical influence on the final position of the micro- and nanometer positioning.
On the Mechanism of Stick and Nonstick, Periodic Motions in a Periodically Forced, Linear Oscillator With Dry Friction
Authors: Luo Albert C. J. , Gegg Brandon C.
Published: January 2006

In this paper, the dynamics mechanism of stick and nonstick motion for a dry-friction oscillator is discussed. From the theory of Luo in 2005 [Commun. Nonlinear Sci. Numer. Simul., 10, pp. 1–55], the conditions for stick and nonstick motions are achieved. The stick and nonstick periodic motions are predicted analytically through the appropriate mapping structures. The local stability and bifurcation conditions for such periodic motions are obtained. The stick motions are illustrated through the displacement, velocity, and force responses. This investigation provides a better understanding of stick and nonstick motions of the linear oscillator with dry friction. The methodology presented in this paper is applicable to oscillators with nonlinear friction forces.