bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A surface lipid may control the permeability slump associated with entry into anhydrobiosis in the plant parasitic nematode Ditylenchus dipsaci
Authors: Wharton D. A. , Petrone L. , Duncan A. , McQuillan A. J.
Published: September 2008

The anhydrobiotic plant-parasitic nematode Ditylenchus dipsaciundergoes a decrease in permeability (the permeability slump) during the early stages of desiccation and this produces the slow rate of water loss necessary for its survival. There were no changes in annulation spacing, followed in individual nematodes by confocal microscopy, that would account for the permeability slump. Nile Red staining reveals that the surface of the nematode is coated with an extracuticular layer of lipid. This material can be seen in unstained desiccated nematodes where it forms an oil that adheres to the coverslip and to adjacent nematodes. The oily material leaves impressions on the coverslip (cuticle prints) after the nematode has detached upon rehydration. The presence of the surface lipid was confirmed using attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopy. This material was shown to be a triglyceride and the proportion of fatty acids determined, using thin layer and gas chromatography. The production of the surface lipid material may be responsible for the permeability slump observed during the early phases of desiccation and its removal upon immersion in water may explain the paradox that cuticular permeability decreases during the permeability slump and yet desiccated nematodes are more permeable than are fully hydrated nematodes.
Electro-initiated Coupling Reactions of N-Acyliminium Ion Pools with Arylthiomethylsilanes and Aryloxymethylsilanes
Authors: Suga Seiji , Shimizu Ikuo , Ashikari Yosuke , Mizuno Yusuke , Maruyama Tomokazu , Yoshida Jun-ichi
Published: September 2008

Electro-initiated coupling reactions of N-acyliminium ion with arylthiomethylsilanes and aryloxymethylsilanes were developed. Pulse electrolyses with intervals were found to be quite effective for the initiation. A chain mechanism involving cation, radical cation, and radical intermediates has been proposed.
Hageseth's principle of extraterritorial jurisdiction and international telemedicine
Authors: McLean Thomas R , McLean Alexander B
Published: September 2008

At what point does an international telemedicine transaction create a sufficient commercial nexus to allow one country the authority to impose its laws on a foreign telemedicine providers? Some light on this matter was shed by the US case of Hageseth versus Superior Court. The authority for extraterritorial jurisdiction is found in the US Constitution, which requires the states to cooperate in matters of law enforcement. Similar cooperation from foreign nations cannot be expected. Unless a defendant is charged with a capital offence, nations are rarely willing to extradite their citizens. As the unlicensed practice of medicine is not a capital offence, it is unlikely that an unlicensed telemedicine provider would be extradited to the US. Because low-volume unlicensed offshore telemedicine providers are unlikely to be extradited or to be subject to trade sanctions, they may be able to operate beyond the law.
The use of telemedicine to aid in assessing patients prior to aeromedical retrieval to a tertiary referral centre
Authors: Mathews Kate A , Elcock Mark S , Furyk Jeremy S
Published: September 2008

We evaluated the effect of telemedicine compared with traditional telephone conversations when evaluating patients for aeromedical retrieval. A convenience sample of consecutive patients referred for retrieval from Palm Island over a six-month period was compared retrospectively with patients referred during the previous six months. There was a significant difference ( P = 0.014) in the number of patients referred in the telemedicine period (113) compared to the previous six months (78), which may have been a seasonal fluctuation. There was a smaller proportion of aeromedical retrievals in the telemedicine period (78%) compared to the control period (92%), P = 0.009. Other significant differences between the telemedicine and control period included a larger proportion of patients not transferred at all (16% compared to 5%, P = 0.022) and a smaller percentage of rotary flights (52% compared with 73%, P = 0.004). Retrieval coordinators perceived that telemedicine use prevented 10 aeromedical flights and six night flights. The coordinators and referrers felt that telemedicine improved patient care in 75% and 65% of consultations, respectively. The coordinators felt that it improved communication with the referring doctor for 84% of the consultations.
Telemedicine in the work site: a study of feasibility, and patient and provider satisfaction
Authors: Varkey Prathibha , Schumacher Kay , Swanton Claudia , Timm Barbara , Hagen Philip T
Published: September 2008

We examined the use of telemedicine for improving access to care in a work-site clinic. A prospective study of 100 patients was conducted over a four-month period in a work site that housed 700 employees. Sinusitis (10 visits), upper respiratory tract infections (9 visits), otitis media (9 visits), hypertension (9 visits) and back pain (8 visits) were the most common reasons for the visits. In 99 visits, clinicians were of the opinion that the telemedicine visit felt similar to a face-to-face visit. For most of the visits (67), patients strongly agreed or agreed that telemedicine had a positive effect on their relationship with the health-care provider. The otoscope, microscope and stethoscope telemedicine peripherals were important in aiding diagnosis (and ruling out other causes) in about 55% of the visits (upper respiratory tract infection, sinusitis, otitis media, cough, sore throat, nevi, rhinitis and ear wax related concerns). The ability for the patient to watch their ENT examination and see any associated abnormalities was appreciated by many patients. Physicians, nurses and patients were capable of using the technology with little training.
ShapeFinder: A software system for high-throughput quantitative analysis of nucleic acid reactivity information resolved by capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Vasa Suzy M. , Guex Nicolas , Wilkinson Kevin A. , Weeks Kevin M. , Giddings Morgan C.
Published: September 2008

Analysis of the long-range architecture of RNA is a challenging experimental and computational problem. Local nucleotide flexibility, which directly reports underlying base pairing and tertiary interactions in an RNA, can be comprehensively assessed at single nucleotide resolution using high-throughput selective 2′-hydroxyl acylation analyzed by primer extension (hSHAPE). hSHAPE resolves structure-sensitive chemical modification information by high-resolution capillary electrophoresis and typically yields quantitative nucleotide flexibility information for 300–650 nucleotides (nt) per experiment. The electropherograms generated in hSHAPE experiments provide a wealth of structural information; however, significant algorithmic analysis steps are required to generate quantitative and interpretable data. We have developed a set of software tools called ShapeFinder to make possible rapid analysis of raw sequencer data from hSHAPE, and most other classes of nucleic acid reactivity experiments. The algorithms in ShapeFinder (1) convert measured fluorescence intensity to quantitative cDNA fragment amounts, (2) correct for signal decay over read lengths extending to 600 nts or more, (3) align reactivity data to the known RNA sequence, and (4) quantify per nucleotide reactivities using whole-channel Gaussian integration. The algorithms and user interface tools implemented in ShapeFinder create new opportunities for tackling ambitious problems involving high-throughput analysis of structure–function relationships in large RNAs.
Do Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Monitoring of Diabetes Mellitus Fulfill the Criteria of Evidence-Based Guideline Development?
Authors: Nagy Eva , Watine Joseph , Bunting Peter S , Onody Rita , Oosterhuis Wytze P , Rogic Dunja , Sandberg Sverre , Boda Krisztina , Horvath Andrea R
Published: September 2008

Background: Although the methodological quality of therapeutic guidelines (GLs) has been criticized, little is known regarding the quality of GLs that make diagnostic recommendations. Therefore, we assessed the methodological quality of GLs providing diagnostic recommendations for managing diabetes mellitus (DM) and explored several reasons for differences in quality across these GLs.

Methods: After systematic searches of published and electronic resources dated between 1999 and 2007, 26 DM GLs, published in English, were selected and scored for methodological quality using the AGREE Instrument. Subgroup analyses were performed based on the source, scope, length, origin, and date and type of publication of GLs. Using a checklist, we collected laboratory-specific items within GLs thought to be important for interpretation of test results.

Results: The 26 diagnostic GLs had significant shortcomings in methodological quality according to the AGREE criteria. GLs from agencies that had clear procedures for GL development, were longer than 50 pages, or were published in electronic databases were of higher quality. Diagnostic GLs contained more preanalytical or analytical information than combined (i.e., diagnostic and therapeutic) recommendations, but the overall quality was not significantly different. The quality of GLs did not show much improvement over the time period investigated.

Conclusions: The methodological shortcomings of diagnostic GLs in DM raise questions regarding the validity of recommendations in these documents that may affect their implementation in practice. Our results suggest the need for standardization of GL terminology and for higher-quality, systematically developed recommendations based on explicit guideline development and reporting standards in laboratory medicine.
Dancing with a Giant: The Effect of Wal-Mart's Entry into the United Kingdom on the Performance of European Retailers
Authors: Gielens Katrijn , Van De Gucht Linda M. , Steenkamp Jan-Benedict E.M. , Dekimpe Marnik G.
Published: September 2008

The authors examine the value-destroying and value-enhancing effects of a giant player's foreign entry on incumbents operating in that region. They use Wal-Mart's entry into the United Kingdom, through its acquisition of Asda, as the empirical context. Drawing on the marketing, strategy, and finance literature streams, the authors develop hypotheses as to why some incumbents are negatively affected whereas others actually may benefit from the entry of a giant competitor. Their measure of performance impact is the change in shareholder value around the announcement date, which has recently been recognized as an important metric to evaluate the effectiveness of marketing actions. The authors find strong support for the conceptual model, which distinguishes between the seriousness of the threat to the incumbents and their capacity to withstand the threat. The authors validate their findings using three alternative measures of company performance: percentage growth in the incumbent retailer's sales, earnings before interest and taxes, and return on assets between 1998 (the year before the Asda takeover) and 2002 (three years after the takeover). The authors discuss various managerial implications of their results. By acting proactively, incumbents can mitigate the negative performance consequences, while maximally benefiting from the positive implications of a giant competitor's entry.
Treating Zero Brand Sales Observations in Choice Model Estimation: Consequences and Potential Remedies
Authors: Briesch Richard A. , Dillon William R. , Blattberg Robert C.
Published: September 2008

This research focuses on the consequences of and potential remedies for incorporating zero brand sales observations when calibrating choice models on the basis of household panel data. As the authors show both analytically and empirically, including or excluding zero brand sales observations can bias price elasticities, even in cases in which the data are generated by a multinomial logit model. The authors show that an appropriate choice of a model form (i.e., specification) is influenced by the incidence of “missingness” and the mechanism presumed to be causing a brand to have no purchases in a given store/week. The authors propose two model forms that may perform well in the presence of zero brand sales observations and investigate their relative performance on the basis of simulated data and two household panel data sets.
Redacted's Double Vision
Authors: Provencher Ken
Published: September 2008

Brian De Palma's Redacted borrows the forms of Internet video to dramatize incidents of atrocity in the Iraq War, and to question the limitations, and culpability, of new media at a time of war. The film's multifaceted approach conditions the viewer to doubt the substance and nature of its images.
Negotiating the Pleasure Principle: The Recent Work of Adam Curtis
Authors: Rosenbaum Jonathan
Published: September 2008

This essay discusses the most recent BBC documentary series by Adam Curtis: The Century of the Self, The Power of Nightmares, and The Trap. It is argued that the theses of the films are to a degree undermined by Curtis's reliance on the same persuasive, advertising-style techniques that are being critiqued.
Psychotropic Medication Research in Children and Adolescents: Empirical Findings and Ethical Implications
Authors: Aman Michael G. , Farmer Cristan A.
Published: September 2008

With the escalation in prescriptions of psychotropic medicine to young people over the last 1½ decades, there has been increased scrutiny of psychopharmacological research with children and adults. There is a small but growing literature on participant knowledge of consent form information and of subject satisfaction in psychopharmacological studies. The data thus far suggest that parents and their participating children generally have had a good knowledge of the purposes of the trials, experimental conditions, possibility of receiving placebo, and right to withdraw from pharmacological trials; however, understanding of randomization is relatively poor. Social validity surveys indicate high levels of satisfaction with choice of outcome measures, clinical recommendations emanating from the research, and treatment received; most participants indicate that they would recommend the studies to other parents and children having similar conditions. None of the studies reviewed appears in a journal dedicated to research ethics or bioethics and in this sense may be hidden from IRB members and bioethicists. Nevertheless, the findings are pertinent to IRB deliberations. More research on participant knowledge and satisfaction is needed, with some emphasis on the perspectives of the youth themselves.
Purpose and Benefits of Early Phase Cancer Trials: What Do Oncologists Say? What Do Patients Hear?
Authors: Kass Nancy , Taylor Holly , Fogarty Linda , Sugarman Jeremy , Goodman Steven N. , Goodwin-Landher Annallys , Carducci Michael , Hurwitz Herbert
Published: September 2008

Cancer patients overestimate benefits of early phase trials but studies have not reported what oncologists say to patients about trials. We audiotaped oncologists talking to cancer patients about Phase I or II trials and interviewed patients about the purpose and expected outcomes of trials presented to them. Oncologists gave mixed messages, saying Phase I trials measure safety and dosing, yet referring to trials as treatment with uncertain therapeutic effects. Seventeen percent of Phase I respondents said the trials purpose related to safety/dosing ( p = 0.017); 17% of Phase I respondents said the purpose was “to cure my cancer.” Patients may find it important to believe trials offer significant benefit. Oncologists, while respecting patients' hopes, should be precise in their language, particularly regarding Phase I trials, distinguishing early stages of research from treatment.
Management of osteoporosis in children
Authors: Shaw Nicholas J
Published: September 2008

Osteoporosis is being increasingly recognised in paediatric practice as a consequence of several factors. These include the increasing complexity of chronic conditions and the associated treatments managed by paediatricians. In addition, the improved care provided to children with chronic illness has led to many of them living long enough to develop osteoporosis. The availability of methods to assess bone density in children as a surrogate marker of bone strength and the possibility of medical treatment to increase bone density have also resulted in an increased awareness of groups of children who may be at risk of osteoporosis. This article reviews the current definition of osteoporosis in children, aetiological factors and the evidence for effective treatment.
IFATS Collection: Human Adipose Tissue-Derived Stem Cells Induce Angiogenesis and Nerve Sprouting Following Myocardial Infarction, in Conjunction with Potent Preservation of Cardiac Function
Authors: Cai Liying , Johnstone Brian H. , Cook Todd G. , Tan Jian , Fishbein Michael C. , Chen Peng-Sheng , March Keith L.
Published: September 2008

The administration of therapeutic cell types, such as stem and progenitor cells, has gained much interest for the limitation or repair of tissue damage caused by a variety of insults. However, it is still uncertain whether the morphological and functional benefits are mediated predominantly via cell differentiation or paracrine mechanisms. Here, we assessed the extent and mechanisms of adipose-derived stromal/stem cells (ASC)-dependent tissue repair in the context of acute myocardial infarction. Human ASCs in saline or saline alone was injected into the peri-infarct region in athymic rats following left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery ligation. Cardiac function and structure were evaluated by serial echocardiography and histology. ASC-treated rats consistently exhibited better cardiac function, by all measures, than control rats 1 month following LAD occlusion. Left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction and fractional shortening were improved in the ASC group, whereas LV remodeling and dilation were limited in the ASC group compared with the saline control group. Anterior wall thinning was also attenuated by ASC treatment, and post-mortem histological analysis demonstrated reduced fibrosis in ASC-treated hearts, as well as increased peri-infarct density of both arterioles and nerve sprouts. Human ASCs were persistent at 1 month in the peri-infarct region, but they were not observed to exhibit significant cardiomyocyte differentiation. Human ASCs preserve heart function and augment local angiogenesis and cardiac nerve sprouting following myocardial infarction predominantly by the provision of beneficial trophic factors.
Tumor Necrosis Factor-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand Promotes Migration of Human Bone Marrow Multipotent Stromal Cells
Authors: Secchiero Paola , Melloni Elisabetta , Corallini Federica , Beltrami Antonio Paolo , Alviano Francesco , Milani Daniela , D'Aurizio Federica , di Iasio Maria Grazia , Cesselli Daniela , Bagnara Gian Paolo , Zauli Giorgio
Published: September 2008

Adult multipotent stromal cells (MSCs), also known as mesenchymal stem cells, represent an important source of cells for the repair of a number of damaged tissues. Both bone marrow (BM)-derived and amniotic MSCs expressed detectable surface levels of two (tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand receptor 2 [TRAIL-R2] and TRAIL-R4) of four transmembrane TRAIL receptors. Although the best-characterized activity of TRAIL-R2 is the transduction of apoptotic signals, neither recombinant TRAIL (rTRAIL) nor infection with an adenovirus-expressing TRAIL induced cytotoxic effects on MSCs. Moreover, whereas rTRAIL did not affect proliferation or differentiation of MSCs along the osteogenic and adipogenic lineages, it significantly promoted the migration of human MSCs in range of concentrations comparable to that of soluble TRAIL in human plasma (100 pg/ml). Since rTRAIL induced the rapid phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) in MSC cultures and pretreatment with pharmacological inhibitors of the ERK1/2 pathway efficiently counteracted the rTRAIL-induced human MSC migration, these data indicate that ERK1/2 is involved in mediating the ability of rTRAIL to stimulate MSC migration. Taking into consideration that the soluble factors able to induce MSC migration have not been extensively characterized, our current data indicate that the TRAIL/TRAIL-R system might play an important role in the biology of MSCs.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Effect of Scaling and Root Planing on Alveolar Bone as Measured by Subtraction Radiography
Authors: Hwang You‐Jeong , Fien Matthew Jonas , Lee Sam‐Sun , Kim Tae‐Il , Seol Yang‐Jo , Lee Yong‐Moo , Ku Young , Rhyu In‐Chul , Chung Chong‐Pyoung , Han Soo‐Boo
Published: September 2008

Background: Scaling and root planing of diseased periodontal pockets is fundamental to the treatment of periodontal disease. Although various clinical parameters have been used to assess the efficacy of this therapy, radiographic analysis of changes in bone density following scaling and root planing has not been extensively researched. In this study, digital subtraction radiography was used to analyze changes that occurred in the periodontal hard tissues following scaling and root planing.

Methods: Thirteen subjects with a total of 39 sites that presented with >3 mm of vertical bone loss were included in this study. Clinical examinations were performed and radiographs were taken prior to treatment and were repeated 6 months following scaling and root planing. Radiographic analysis was performed with computer‐assisted radiographic evaluation software. Three regions of interest (ROI) were defined as the most coronal, middle, and apical portions of each defect. A fourth ROI was used for each site as a control region and was placed at a distant, untreated area. Statistical analysis was carried out to evaluate changes in the mean gray level at the coronal, middle, and apical region of each treated defect.

Results: Digital subtraction radiography revealed an increase in radiographic density in 101 of the 117 test regions (83.3%). A 256 gray level was used, and a value >128 was assumed to represent a density gain in the ROI. The average gray level increase was 18.65. Although the coronal, middle, and apical regions displayed increases in bone density throughout this study, the bone density of the apical ROI (gray level = 151.27 ± 20.62) increased significantly more than the bone density of the coronal ROI (gray level = 139.19 ± 21.78). A significant increase in bone density was seen in probing depths >5 mm compared to those <5 mm in depth. No significant difference was found with regard to bone‐density changes surrounding single‐ versus multiple‐rooted teeth.

Conclusion: Scaling and root planing of diseased periodontal pockets can significantly increase radiographic alveolar bone density as demonstrated through the use of digital subtraction radiography.
Gingivitis and Periodontitis Are Related to Repeated High Levels of Circulating Tumor Necrosis Factor‐Alpha in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Nilsson Mikael , Kopp Sigvard
Published: September 2008

Background: Several studies have indicated a relationship between rheumatoid arthritis and periodontal disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the circulating proinflammatory mediators tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), interleukin‐1β, prostaglandin E2, serotonin, rheumatoid factor, and periodontitis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Methods: Nineteen patients, 17 women and two men, with rheumatoid arthritis were included. These patients had been examined repeatedly (average of three times) with regard to inflammatory markers and mediators from blood samples. Their teeth, excluding third molars, were examined with regard to number, clinical attachment level (CAL), probing depth (PD), and gingival bleeding on probing (BOP). Assessment of furcation involvement and increased tooth mobility was also made. All patients were non‐smokers. Thirty healthy individuals, 20 women and 10 men, were included as a reference regarding TNF‐α.

Results: Patients with high levels of time‐averaged TNF‐α from repeated plasma samples had a higher frequency of BOP as well as increased CAL and PD compared to those with low levels.

Conclusion: Gingivitis and periodontitis are related to high levels of circulating TNF‐α in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Distribution of Systemic Clarithromycin to Gingiva
Authors: Burrell Renita C. , Walters John D.
Published: September 2008

Background: Aggressive and recurrent forms of periodontitis are associated with infections by Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (previously Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans) and Porphyromonas gingivalis. Because these pathogens invade tissue, they are difficult to eliminate by root planing alone. The use of systemic antibiotics in conjunction with root planing significantly enhances clinical and microbiologic treatment outcomes. Although it is not widely prescribed by periodontists, clarithromycin is potentially useful because it is taken up by host cells and has favorable antimicrobial activity.

Methods: Experimental gingivitis was induced in eight healthy subjects at one randomly selected maxillary posterior site. The contralateral maxillary site served as the healthy control. Thereafter, subjects were administered six doses of clarithromycin, 500 mg, every 12 hours. Blood was then drawn, and samples of gingiva were harvested from both sites. The samples were extracted, and clarithromycin content was analyzed by liquid chromatography.

Results: Mean clarithromycin concentrations in healthy control and inflamed gingiva (2.4 and 3.0 μg/g, respectively) were significantly higher than in serum (0.5 μg/ml; P <0.05). Clarithromycin levels at control and gingivitis sites were higher than serum by 5.7‐ and 7.0‐fold, respectively (difference between sites was significant; P = 0.02). At control sites, a significant decrease in gingival crevicular fluid flow rate was evident at the conclusion of the clarithromycin regimen (P = 0.018).

Conclusions: Clarithromycin can attain higher levels in gingiva than serum and reach higher levels in inflamed gingiva than in healthy gingiva. Its distribution profile seems to be suitable for the treatment of periodontitis. The reduction in crevicular fluid flow at control sites suggested that clarithromycin may produce anti‐inflammatory effects.
Periodontitis and the Risk for Non‐Fatal Stroke in Korean Adults
Authors: Sim Seon‐Ju , Kim Hyun‐Duck , Moon Ja‐Young , Zavras Athanasio I. , Zdanowicz John , Jang Sun‐Ja , Jin Bo‐Hyoung , Bae Kwang‐Hak , Paik Dai‐Il , Douglass Chester W.
Published: September 2008

Background: The association between periodontal inflammation and non‐fatal stroke is still controversial and limited to evidence in Western countries. The aim of this study was to investigate whether periodontitis is independently associated with non‐fatal stroke in Korean adults.

Methods: A case‐control study was conducted on 265 non‐fatal chronic stroke cases at the National Rehabilitation Center, Seoul, Korea, and 214 non‐stroke population controls. Medical specialists diagnosed stroke by using brain imaging from magnetic resonance imaging and/or computerized tomography. A dentist recorded the clinical attachment level (CAL), the distance between the cemento‐enamel junction and the probed base of the periodontal pocket, using a University of North Carolina‐15 manual probe. An interview assessed 17 sociodemographic, behavioral, systemic/oral health–related possible confounders. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between periodontitis and stroke while controlling for age, gender, income, education, smoking, drinking, history of systemic disease, body mass index, familial cardiovascular risk factors, and oral health behaviors. Subgroup analyses were also performed.

Results: Stroke was strongly associated with periodontitis (presence of CAL ≥6 mm): the odds ratio was 4.0 (95% confidence interval: 2.3 to 7.0) after controlling for all possible confounders. The association with periodontitis (tertiary percentage of CAL ≥5 mm) had a dose‐response effect. The association between periodontitis and stroke was higher among adults younger than age 60 (6.0 versus 2.6) and normotensives (4.8 versus 3.2).

Conclusion: Our data suggested that periodontitis is independently associated with non‐fatal stroke, and its impact seems to be greater among younger or normotensive Korean adults.
Adjunctive Benefits of Systemic Etoricoxib in Non‐Surgical Treatment of Aggressive Periodontitis: Short‐Term Evaluation
Authors: Azoubel Maria Cecília F. , Sarmento Viviane A. , Cangussú Virna , Azoubel Eduardo , Bittencourt Sandro , Cunha Fernando Q. , Ribeiro Ronaldo A. , Brito Gerly Anne C.
Published: September 2008

Background: This pilot study assessed the effect of short‐duration treatment with etoricoxib as adjuvant therapy to scaling and root planing (SRP) on the clinical and radiographic parameters and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels in aggressive periodontitis.

Methods: Subjects were randomly allocated to test or control treatment (n = 10 in each group) and submitted to SRP and treatment with etoricoxib, 120 mg/day, or placebo for 7 days. Probing depth, clinical attachment level (CAL), gingival recession, visible plaque index, bleeding on probing, linear distance (LD) from the cemento‐enamel junction to the alveolar crest, and analysis of the gray levels were recorded before and 1 month after the therapies. The prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) level in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) was measured by radioimmunoassay at the beginning of the study and 7 and 30 days after treatment.

Results: No significant difference in the clinical parameters was observed between the groups at the end of the experimental period, although both groups presented significant improvement in all variables examined. There was a decrease in CAL from 5.54 ± 0.47 mm to 3.59 ± 0.53 mm in the test group and from 5.92 ± 1.10 mm to 3.69 ± 0.80 mm in the control group. A significant reduction in PGE2 was found after 7 days of treatment. LD differed between the groups.

Conclusion: Etoricoxib did not promote additional improvement in the clinical parameters; however, it produced an initial reduction in the PGE2 levels in the GCF, which could be related to the discrete improvement in the bone condition.
Soil Aggregation and Microbial Responses to Straw Pulping Byproducts
Authors: Xiao C. , Fauci M. , Bezdicek D. F. , McKean W. T. , Pan W. L.
Published: September 2008

Wastes from straw pulping in paper manufacturing can be used as soil amendments depending on their chemical composition. Polysaccharides and lignin, the major organic components of these products, are potentially important in soil aggregation. Incubation studies were conducted to determine (i) the extent of soil water‐stable macroaggregate (WSM) formation following application of black liquor (BL) and fine fiber (FF) from KOH‐based bluegrass pulping as soil amendments, and (ii) the relative importance of fungi and bacteria in the enhanced WSM formation. Soil respiration rates peaked 2 d after the addition of BL or FF, while maximum WSM formation occurred at 20 d of incubation. Compared with BL‐ or FF‐amended soils receiving no biocides, BL‐ and FF‐amended soils receiving fungicide had decreased WSM, while BL‐ and FF‐amended soils receiving bactericide had increased WSM, suggesting that fungal activity was more responsible than bacteria for the BL‐ and FF‐enhanced WSM. Dehydrogenase and β‐glucosidase activities did not correlate with soil respiration in BL‐ or FF‐amended soils receiving biocides, suggesting that these enzymes may not be useful as indicators of soil microbial activity under these conditions. Additions of BL and FF at a rate of 1.5 g C kg−1increased soil respiration dehydrogenase and β‐glucosidase activities, and WSM, suggesting that both byproducts have potential as beneficial soil amendments.
Effects of Strip Tillage and Production Inputs on Soil Biology across a Spatial Gradient
Authors: Overstreet Laura F. , Hoyt Greg D.
Published: September 2008

Strip tillage results in soil disturbance levels similar to those of conventional tillage systems in the row locations (strip) and properties of no‐till in the interrow (between‐row) locations. In this study, biological and physical soil properties in the region spanning the row to interrow were investigated and results were compared among strip–tillage systems utilizing different inputs (conventional fertilizer and pesticides vs. USDA‐approved organic inputs) and rotation regimes (continuous tomato [Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.] vs. a 3‐yr vegetable rotation). Bulk density was significantly greater in the interrow locations. Soil respiration potential was greatest in the interrow and least in the row locations, and greater in treatments receiving organic inputs relative to synthetic inputs. No differences in soil N mineralization potential were determined. Microbial biomass C and N were greatest in interrow and least in row locations. Total soil C and N values did not vary from row to interrow locations or as a result of synthetic vs. organic inputs. The data suggest that organically managed production systems are less biologically stratified than conventional input systems under strip‐tillage management. Although net C mineralization was similar between chemical and organically managed systems, greater microbial biomass values in the organic treatment systems may have been the result of continuous additions of weed biomass during the summer. The hypothesis of a gradient effect for biological activity in strip‐tillage systems from row to interrow appears to be true in systems managed with synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, but not true of organically managed systems.
Coiled Time Domain Reflectometry Matric Potential Sensor
Authors: Lungal Murray , Si Bing Cheng
Published: September 2008

Matric potential is a measure of the combined capillary and adsorptive forces of soil particles and is imperative for determining both the direction and magnitude of water flow in unsaturated soils. Measuring soil matric potential in semiarid and arid environments is a challenge. Current methods cannot measure the entire range of values, from 0 to −1.5 MPa. The objective of this research was to develop a new sensor capable of measuring the relationship between the dielectric constant of a ceramic core and the range of field soil matric potential values. This instrument uses two Cu TDR rods wrapped around a dual‐threaded Plexiglas core, which is inserted into a porous ceramic block salvaged from damaged Campbell Scientific 229 heat dissipation sensors. The relationship of the ceramic's measured dielectric constant to soil matric potential is determined through a laboratory calibration curve. Calibration of the probe involved the use of a tension table and pressure plate apparatus. The dielectric constant of the probe was measured at a range of points between 0 and −1.5 MPa, and a modified van Genuchten water retention model was used to fit the data (R2 = 0.84). The proposed instrument provided an effective method of measuring soil matric potentials from 0 to −1.5 MPa.
Broadband Apparent Permittivity Measurement in Dispersive Soils Using Quarter‐Wavelength Analysis
Authors: Thomas A. M. , Chapman D. N. , Rogers C. D. F. , Metje N. , Atkins P. R. , Lim H. M.
Published: September 2008

Time‐domain reflectometry (TDR) has, since the early 1980s, become a widely used and robust method for measuring the electromagnetic properties of soils. Although it allows use of relatively simple probes and measurement equipment that free users from complex analysis of small soil samples in the laboratory, it provides little information on the dispersive nature of fine‐grained soils. Therefore, we developed a quarter‐wavelength analysis (QWA) methodology that allows apparent permittivity spectra to be obtained for soils, while retaining the same range of cells and probes and the simplicity of data analysis associated with TDR. We tested the technique on clay soils across a wide water content range and found that it provided useful data for frequencies ranging from approximately 100 MHz to >1 GHz—the accuracy being considered no worse than two units of apparent permittivity. The results show that the methodology is capable of providing broadband dispersion data that give significantly greater detail on soil electromagnetic properties than can be expected from single‐frequency TDR data. This has a number of important advantages including the potential to provide accurate water content measurements in clay soils, a means to extend TDR soil monitoring data, and the opportunity to validate research into the measurement frequency associated with simple TDR measurements and time‐ to frequency‐domain inversions.
Predicting the Incidence of Iron Deficiency Chlorosis from Hydroxylamine‐Extractable Iron in Soil
Authors: de Santiago Ana , Díaz Isabel , del Campillo María del Carmen , Torrent José , Delgado Antonio
Published: September 2008

Management of crops sensitive to iron deficiency chlorosis (IDC) includes the use of effective methods to predict the incidence of this nutritional disorder. The objective of this work was to validate the use of hydroxylamine‐extractable Fe (Feha) for predicting the incidence of IDC in olive (Olea europaeaL.), grapevine (Vitis berlandieriPlanch ×Vitis rupestrisScheele), chickpea (Cicer arietinumL.), and sunflower (Helianthus annuusL.) typical of the Mediterranean climate of Spain. This test was compared with the “active lime” test and oxalate, citrate–ascorbate, and diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid extractions. Overall, Fehaprovided the best estimates of leaf chlorophyll concentration, accounting for 26 to 66% of the variance (linear‐plateau regression) depending on the particular crop. The optimum extractant/soil ratio for accurately predicting the chlorophyll content was 100 for olive and 20 for grapevine, chickpea, and sunflower. The concentration of Fe in the hydroxylamine extracts was found to be related to that of poorly crystalline Fe oxides in the soil, which testifies to the ability of this test to accurately predict the incidence of IDC. Proposed critical levels of Fehabelow which IDC is likely to occur were 60 mg kg−1for olive, 11 mg kg−1for grapevine, and 10 mg kg−1for chickpea and sunflower.
Biochemical Changes during Alcoholic Fermentation in the Production of ``Tchapalo'', a Traditional Sorghum Beer
Authors: Djè Marcellin Koffi , N'Guessan Kouadio Florent , Djeni Theodore N'Dede , Dadie Thomas Adjehi
Published: September 2008

The production of tchapalo remains more or less an empirical process. For the improvement of the product quality, there is a need of more knowledge on this traditional process and the beer characteristics. The alcoholic fermentation is one of the most steps which most determines the quality of the beer. In this study, the characteristics of the traditional starter and the evolution of temperature, ethanol, sugars and organic acids were assessed at small-scale production during alcoholic fermentation of tchapalo. Brewers used traditional starter at the rate of 0.76-0.88 % when it was dried or at 2.38 % when it was not. When the wort was at 36.6-39.3 °C, the starter was added to initiate the fermentation. Temperature decreased to 34.6-36.5 °C at the end of the fermentation which was concluded after 7.6 h to 8.4 h. Sugars were consumed during the fermentation but it remained 12.9 to 16.57 g/L of reducing sugars and 8.02 to 9.12 °Brix of TSS in the final product. Ethanol content increased from 0.02-0.35 % (v/v) in the wort to 3.5-4.59 % in the beer. The oxalic, citric, tartaric, malic, lactic, fumaric and propionic acids were found in the wort and in tchapalo and increased or decreased during fermentation differently from one site to another. But, the acetic acid was not always detected in both the wort and the beer.
Diffusion Model for Apple Cubes Atmospheric Freeze-Drying with the Effect of Shrinkage
Authors: Li Sheng , Zbicinski Ireneusz , Wang Hongwao , Stawczyk Jan , Zhang Zongyu
Published: September 2008

Atmospheric freeze-drying (AFD) could combine the advantages of both freeze drying (high product quality) and convective heat pump drying (lower process costs). A black box modelling approach, the diffusion model, was adopted and verified. Effective diffusivity coefficient and activation energy were used to cover the AFD multi-component diffusion mechanism. Coupled with the shrinkage factor diffusion model showed good prediction of the drying kinetics of 10 mm Idared apple cubes in the AFD process. Based on the estimation of presented prediction results, the diffusion model is capable of being applied to simulate AFD process for selected food products at constant and ascending process temperature (CT and AT) modes.
Adopting Paivio's General Analytic Framework to Examine Imagery Use in Sport
Authors: Watt Anthony P , Spittle Michael , Jaakkola Timo , Morris Tony
Published: September 2008

This study examined the use of imagery according to Paivio's (1985) general analytic framework. The aims were to examine functional differences in imagery use according to the five subscales of the SIQ, to investigate differences in imagery use by competitive level, and to explore the influence on the use of imagery of skills involving a perceptual target (reactive tasks) and without a perceptual target (nonreactive tasks). Participants included 484 individuals (280 male, 204 female), with a mean age of 20.39 (SD = 4.10) from the United Kingdom, Finland, and Australia. The group comprised 84 national, 210 state, 120 district, and 70 recreational level athletes representing 54 sports. Participants completed a demographic information sheet and the Sport Imagery Questionnaire (SIQ). Participants were classified according to competitive level and task type. Results indicated that overall participants used more motivational general-mastery imagery. A one-way multivariate analysis of variance revealed that there were significant differences among the four competitive levels on imagery use with the district level participants reporting significantly higher use of motivational general-arousal (MG-A) imagery than state and national level participants and national level participants reporting higher use of cognitive specific (CS) imagery than recreational level participants. There was also a significant difference between tasks with a perceptual target and tasks with no target for motivational-specific imagery, with higher scores for tasks with a perceptual target. The results suggest the continued evaluation of imagery use in relation to competitive level and support that task type may influence the functional use of imagery in sport.
Connectivity and Allocation Rule in a Directed Network
Authors: Kim Jeong-Yoo , Jun Tackseung
Published: September 2008

We introduce a new notion of connectivity, what we call weak connectivity, in a directed network where communication is one-way, and show that weak connectivity is equivalent to the usual concept of connectivity if the outdegree of each node is at most one, referred as the [DC] condition. Based on weak connectivity, we define an allocation rule in a directed network by applying the Shapley value type of consideration. We show that the allocation rule is the unique allocation rule satisfying component efficiency and equal bargaining power under the [DC] condition. If the [DC] condition does not hold, it fails to satisfy component efficiency, but can be shown to be the only allocation rule that satisfies equal bargaining power and quasi-component efficiency which is a weaker property.
Modified Total-Body Recumbent Stepper Exercise Test for Assessing Peak Oxygen Consumption in People With Chronic Stroke
Authors: Billinger Sandra A , Tseng Benjamin Y , Kluding Patricia M
Published: September 2008

Background

Assessment of peak oxygen consumption (V̇o2peak) using traditional modes of testing such as treadmill or cycle ergometer can be difficult in individuals with stroke due to balance deficits, gait impairments, or decreased coordination.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to quantitatively assess the validity and feasibility of a modified exercise test using a total-body recumbent stepper (mTBRS-XT) in individuals after stroke.

Design

A within-subject design, with a sample of convenience, was used.

Participants

Eleven participants (7 male, 4 female) with a mean of 40.1 months (SD=32.7) after stroke, a mean age of 60.9 years (SD=12.0), and mild to severe lower-extremity Fugl-Myer test scores (range=13–34) completed the study.

Methods

Participants performed 2 maximal-effort graded exercise tests on separate days using the mTBRS-XT and a cycle ergometer exercise protocol to assess cardiorespiratory fitness. Measurements of V̇o2peak and peak heart rate (peak HR) were obtained during both tests.

Results

A strong relationship existed between the mTBRS-XT and the cycle ergometer exercise test for V̇o2peak and peak HR (r=.91 and .89, respectively). Mean V̇o2peak was significantly higher for the mTBRS-XT (16.6 mL×kg−1×min−1[SD=4.5]) compared with the cycle ergometer exercise protocol (15.4 mL×kg−1×min−1 [SD=4.5]). All participants performed the mTBRS-XT. One individual with severe stroke was unable to pedal the cycle ergometer. No significant adverse events occurred.

Conclusion

The mTBRS-XT may be a safe, feasible, and valid exercise test to obtain measurements of V̇o2peak in people with stroke. Health care professionals may use the mTBRS-XT to prescribe aerobic exercise based on V̇o2peak values for individuals with mild to severe deficits after stroke.
Semiconductor microcavities for enhanced nonlinear optics interactions
Authors: Andronico Alessio , Caillet Xavier , Favero Ivan , Ducci Sara , Berger Vincent , Leo Giuseppe
Published: September 2008

Semiconductor microcavities offer a unique way to enhance nonlinear optical processes through light confinement in space and time. In this article we review two different nonlinear optics semiconductor-based applications that benefit from the microcavity setting. Firstly, we discuss a difference frequency generation scheme in a GaAs microdisk. Secondly, we show how a recently demonstrated source of counter-propagating twin photons can display a sensible performance improvement when combined with a vertical cavity.
Metformin therapy and clinical uses
Authors: Scarpello John HB , Howlett Harry CS
Published: September 2008

Metformin is now established as a first-line antidiabetic therapy for the management of type 2 diabetes. Its early use in treatment algorithms is supported by lack of weight gain, low risk of hypoglycaemia and its mode of action to counter insulin resistance. The drug's anti-atherosclerotic and cardioprotective effects have recently been confirmed in prospective and retrospective studies, and appear to reflect a collection of glucose-independent effects on the vascular endothelium, suppressant effects on glycation, oxidative stress and formation of adhesion molecules, stimulation of fibrinolysis and favourable effects on the lipid profile. Although avoidance of troublesome gastrointestinal tolerability issues requires careful dose titration, the risk of serious adverse events is considered low provided that contra-indications (especially with respect to renal function) are observed. As many of its actions go beyond glucose lowering, emerging evidence indicates potential benefits in other insulin-resistant states and possibly tumour suppression.