bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hepatitis A and B vaccination and public health
Authors: Blaine Hollinger F. , Bell B. , Levy‐Bruhl D. , Shouval D. , Wiersma S. , Van Damme P.
Published: October 2007

Summary.  The introduction and implementation of hepatitis B vaccination programmes in areas of high endemicity has been very stressful. However, this initial accomplishment has led to the reassessment of priorities in some countries which could undermine these early successes. Work still remains to be done to support and implement interventions that will bring us closer to the WHO goal and to the control of hepatitis B in the community at large. Hepatitis A vaccine strategy for immunizing toddlers is shifting to those countries with intermediate endemicity where increasing morbidity in adults is being observed. Accumulating evidence indicates that such programmes can result in impressive reductions in the incidence of hepatitis A by herd immunity. Monitoring of these populations to determine durability of protection will be important to avoid shifting the infection to the older age population, when symptoms are more likely to occur. National policies need to consider hepatitis A vaccination in the context of other public health priorities.
Genetic diversity associated with in vitro and conventional bud propagation of Saccharum varieties using RAPD analysis
Authors: Da Silva C. M. , Mangolin C. A. , Mott A. S. , Machado M. F. P. S.
Published: October 2007

Polymorphisms in the genomic DNA of eight varieties maintained by conventional bud propagation (via rhizomes) and by in vitro shoot tip cultures were detected by RAPD analysis of sugarcane varieties. The study estimated the genetic diversity induced after in vitro multiplication of these varieties. Higher (28.9%) and lower (12%) numbers of polymorphic bands were detected in plants propagated via rhizomes; the genetic similarity estimate varying from 0.63 to 0.80. Plants of SP90‐3723 and SP91‐1049, or RB85‐5113 and SP90‐3723, varieties involving greater genetic distances may be indicated as progenitors in breeding programmes. In vitro multiplication of RB86‐7515, RB85‐5113, RB83‐5054 and SP86‐42 varieties increases genetic variability, while in vitro multiplication of SP91‐1049, SP90‐1638, RB92‐8064 and SP90‐3723 leads to genetic similarity. Results show that the RAPD technique is an effective tool for detecting polymorphism in sugarcane clones and it allows quick collection of the necessary information (more genetically divergent plant varieties) to guide new crossing in sugarcane breeding programmes.
Identification of SSR markers linked to the Phytophthora resistance gene Rps1‐d in soybean
Authors: Sugimoto T. , Yoshida S. , Watanabe K. , Aino M. , Kanto T. , Maekawa K. , Irie K.
Published: October 2007

To identify markers for the Phytophthora resistance gene, Rps1‐d, 123 F2 : 3 families were produced from a cross between Glycine max (L.) Merr. ‘Tanbakuro’ (a Japanese traditional black soybean) and PI103091 (Rps1‐d) as an experimental population. The results of virulence tests produced 33 homozygous resistant, 61 segregating and 29 homozygous susceptible F2 : 3 families. The chi‐squared test gave a goodness‐of‐fit for the expected ratio of 1 : 2 : 1 for resistant, segregating and susceptible traits, suggesting that the inheritance of Rps1‐d is controlled by a monogenic dominant gene. Simple sequence repeat (SSR) analyses of this trait were carried out using the cultivars ‘Tanbakuro’ and PI103091. Sixteen SSR primers, which produced 19 polymorphic fragments between the two parents, were identified from 41 SSR primers in MLG N. Eight SSR markers were related to Rps1‐d, based on 32 of the 123 F2 : 3 families, consisting of 16 homozygous resistant and 16 homozygous susceptible lines. The remaining 91 families were analysed for these eight markers, and a linkage map was constructed using all 123 F2 : 3 families. The length of this linkage group is 44.0 cM. The closest markers, Sat_186 and Satt152, are mapped at 5.7 cM and 11.5 cM, respectively, on either side of the Rps1‐d gene. Three‐way contingency table analysis indicates that dual‐marker‐assisted selection using these two flanking markers would be efficient.
Use of ultrasound in 187 infants with suspected infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Authors: Forster N , Haddad RL , Choroomi S , Dilley AV , Pereira J
Published: October 2007

The diagnostic efficacy of ultrasound (US) in the diagnosis of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS) was evaluated, with particular attention paid to whether prematurity, age or weight correlate significantly to the sonographic measurements. The medical records of 187 infants with suspected IHPS were reviewed retrospectively. Eighty‐seven had an US examination with details of the pylorus. Fifty‐nine of these gave a positive diagnosis. The US criteria for a positive diagnosis were pyloric muscle thickness (PMT) ≥3 mm and pyloric muscle length (PML) ≥17 mm. The mean overall PMT was 4.14 mm and mean overall PML was 18.99 mm. Premature infants had a lower mean PML (17.8 mm) than the term infants (PML mean 19.3 mm); however, this was not significant (t‐value 1.92, P = 0.062). The sensitivity and specificity of PMT was 91 and 85%, respectively, and of PML 76 and 85%, respectively. The ability of US to diagnose IHPS using our criteria was significant (t‐value, PMT 14.93 and PML 6.89; P < 0.0001). There was no significant correlation between age, weight or prematurity and a sonographic diagnosis of IHPS (Pearson’s coefficient <0.3). Therefore, the same US criteria should apply irrespective of prematurity, age or weight. Borderline PMT and PML measurements necessitate repeat US or alternative imaging.
+61A>G polymorphism in the EGF gene does not increase the risk of lung cancer
Authors: KANG Hyo‐Gyoung , CHOI Jin Eun , LEE Won Kee , KAM Sin , CHA Sung Ick , KIM Chang Ho , JUNG Tae Hoon , PARK Jae Yong
Published: October 2007

Background and objectives:  Epidermal growth factor (EGF) plays an important role in tumourigenesis by binding with its receptor, EGFR. Variations in the DNA sequence in the EGF gene can lead to an alteration in EGF production and/or activity, which can affect an individual's susceptibility to lung cancer. To test this hypothesis, this study examined the association between the +61 A>G polymorphism in the 5′‐untranslated region of the EGF gene and the risk of lung cancer in a Korean population.

Methods:  The EGF+61 A>G genotype was determined in 432 lung cancer patients and 432 healthy age‐ and gender‐matched control subjects.

Results:  The +61 AA and +61 AG genotypes were not significantly associated with the risk of lung cancer compared with the +61 GG genotype (adjusted OR = 1.02, 95% CI: 0.77–1.37; and adjusted OR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.51–1.29, respectively). In addition to the reference model, the EGF+61 A>G polymorphism had no significant association with the risk of lung cancer under both dominant and recessive models for the +61A allele (adjusted OR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.74–1.29; and adjusted OR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.51–1.24, respectively).

Conclusion:  These results suggest that the EGF+61 A>G polymorphism may not significantly affect the susceptibility to lung cancer in the Korean population.
Decline of outpatient asthma management in Argentina
Authors: RAIMONDI Guillermo A. , MENGA Guillermo , BOTAS Carolina , LAWRINSKY Verónica
Published: October 2007

Background and objectives:  To assess management of adult patients admitted with acute asthma and compare the results obtained with a similar study 5 years earlier.

Methods:  A cross‐sectional survey of 211 consecutive patients admitted to hospital during a 12‐month period was conducted. Patients were surveyed using a validated management questionnaire and the results compared with those of the previous survey.

Results:  There were 211 patients in the present survey and patient demographics were similar in both populations studied. Comparison of the previous to the current survey showed significant differences in predicted FEV1% at admission (30.2 ± 10.7 vs 23.9 ± 8.9, respectively, P < 0.001), and the average number of hospital admissions in the year prior to the survey (0.7 ± 1.2 vs 1.3 ± 0.7, P < 0.0001). In the present survey, more patients changed their medication after acute exacerbation and more received an action plan. Compared with the previous survey, there were no significant differences between the mean number of emergency department visits, need for mechanical ventilation, number of patients prescribed inhaled corticosteroids and other related variables.

Conclusion:  Compared with the previous study the severity of asthma at the time of admission was worse. Some of the recommended international asthma management programmes appear to have been followed.
Systemic inflammation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma: Similarities and differences
Authors: HIGASHIMOTO Yuji , YAMAGATA Yuko , TAYA Satoshi , IWATA Takuya , OKADA Morihiro , ISHIGUCHI Tadashi , SATO Hiroaki , ITOH Hidekazu
Published: October 2007

Background and objective:  While recent studies have shown that patients with COPD and patients with asthma exhibit evidence of airway and systemic inflammation, markers of systemic inflammation have not been compared between the two diseases.

Methods:  To evaluate circulating inflammatory markers, blood was sampled from 111 patients with COPD, 75 control subjects and 46 asthmatic patients (some of whom were smokers). Measurements of WCC, serum levels of fibrinogen, high‐sensitivity (hs)‐CRP, IL‐8, IL‐6, tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase (TIMP)‐1, neutrophil elastase and alpha1‐antitrypsin (α1‐AT) were performed.

Results:  Serum TNF‐α, IL‐6 and TIMP‐1 concentrations were significantly higher in patients with stable COPD and patients with asthma than in control patients. Serum α1‐AT levels were significantly higher in COPD patients than in asthmatic patients and control subjects, and serum TGF‐β1 levels were higher in asthma patients than in COPD patients. Smoking status had no effect on markers in COPD and asthmatic patients.

Conclusions:  Although COPD and asthma share common markers of systemic inflammation, serum levels of TGF‐β1 and α1‐AT may reflect differences between the diseases.
Delivery life support: A preliminary report on the chain of survival for complicated deliveries in rural Cambodia
Authors: Chandy Houy , Steinholt Margit , Husum Hans
Published: October 2007

Abstract  Most programs to reduce maternity deaths focus on hospital performance and general obstetric protocols. In communities where most mothers deliver at home, such strategies will not reduce avoidable deaths. The key concept in the actual intervention is to regard deliveries in poor rural communities as a trauma and to merge midwives and traditional birth attendants (TBAs) with an already existing and successful rural trauma rescue system. A total of 256 Cambodian careproviders, 41 health center midwives and paramedics, plus surgical teams at local hospitals were trained over a 2 year period. After completing the training program, the participants themselves rated their skills, confidence, and quality of team work by Visual Analog Scale measurement. The results demonstrate significant improvement, both for the TBAs and the certified midwives. The intervention results so far indicate that delivery life support training to rural careproviders increases their capacity to cope with emergency obstetric cases.
Association between condom use and perceived barriers to and self‐efficacy of safe sex among young women in Japan
Authors: Kaneko Noriyo
Published: October 2007

Abstract  This study aimed to assess the relationships between condom‐use behaviors and perceived barriers to and self‐efficacy of safe sex among young women in Japan. The data were obtained from a total of 456 participants who reported having had sex in the past. The initial analysis examined the associations between condom use and demographics, perceived condom‐use barriers, and perceived self‐efficacy of safe sex items. Variables displaying significance in the bivariate analysis were inserted into a multivariate model to determine the adjusted odds ratios. The variables most highly associated with condom use included age and the lifetime number of sex partners. The perceptual barriers included “condoms reduce sexual sensation”, “confidence in using condoms from beginning to end”, and “confidence to refuse sex if neither my partner nor I have a condom at hand”. The findings suggest that behavior‐change interventions that focus on addressing the perceived barriers and enhancing self‐efficacy might be effective in order to promote consistent condom use.
Egyptian women's attitudes and beliefs about female genital cutting and its association with childhood maltreatment
Authors: Afifi Mustafa , Von Bothmer Margareta
Published: October 2007

Abstract  This study aimed to establish Egyptian women's attitudes and beliefs about female genital cutting (FGC) or mutilation by applying a questionnaire module about violence to a subsample of 5249 married women from a total of 19 474 women who participated in the 2005 Egypt Demographic Health Survey. Women were interviewed to determine if they had been exposed to marital violence in the year prior to the survey, their attitudes and beliefs about FGC, and if they physically abused their children. The association of beliefs about FGC with maternal physical abuse was examined, adjusting for exposure to marital violence and other socio‐demographic variables. Of the women surveyed 16.4% and 3.4% had been exposed to physical and sexual violence, respectively, during the year prior to the survey. Around 76% of the women surveyed intended to continue the FGC practice, and 69.8% had slapped or hit their children during the year prior to the survey. Holding positive beliefs about the practice of FGC or intending to continue it was associated with maternal physical abuse and this has significant implications for health and welfare workers in Egypt and for society in general.
The outcome of loop ileostomy closure: a prospective study
Authors: Williams L. A. , Sagar P. M. , Finan P. J. , Burke D.
Published: October 2007

Background  The use of a loop ileostomy is an effective method to protect pelvic anastomoses, although there is some debate as to the routine use of a stoma. A second operation is required to close the stoma, with potential complications.

Objective  The aim of this study was to assess prospectively the morbidity of closure of loop ileostomy.

Method  All patients scheduled for loop ileostomy closure over a 12‐month period were included. The patient demographics, operative technique, complications and length of stay were recorded prospectively.

Results  Fifty consecutive patients (28 males and 22 females) with a median age (interquartile range, IQR) of 56 (42–73) years underwent closure of loop ileostomy, at a median time (IQR) of 29 (18–48) weeks after formation. Twelve patients (24%) developed complications: six (12%) had intestinal obstruction of which one required a laparotomy, four (8%) had wound infections of which one required re‐operation, one (2%) had an ileal anastomotic leak and subsequently died and one (2%) died from a myocardial infarction. The median length (IQR) of hospital stay was 8 (7–10) days.

Conclusion  We have demonstrated that a quarter of patients develop complications after loop ileostomy closure. The majority of these are minor. Methods to reduce the number of complications, such as optimum time for closure and distal limb irrigation techniques, need to be studied.
Conceptualizing, assessing, and managing front‐end fuzziness in innovation/NPD projects
Authors: Chang Sheng‐Li , Chen Chih‐Yuan , Wey Shyh‐Chyi
Published: October 2007

Front‐end fuzziness (FEF) within innovation/NPD projects remains unclear and under‐explored. In this research, FEF is clarified to have three change patterns of dynamic fuzziness levels and to have both positive and negative effects on the success of an innovation/NPD project. In this context, FEF sources are categorized into front‐end environment, means, and goals, and FEF dimensions are extended to include uncertainty, equivocality, complexity, and variability. Accordingly, a management template is developed to help innovators track specific FEF to relative sources, assess FEF quantitatively, and manage both the positive and the negative effects of FEF. Finally, the article concludes with suggestions of the applications of the FEF management template.
Children's and Adolescents' Developing Perceptions of Gender Inequality
Authors: Neff Kristin D. , Cooper Carey E. , Woodruff Althea L.
Published: October 2007

Two studies examined children's and adolescents' developing perceptions of gender inequality. The first study examined perceptions of inequality among 272 early, middle, and late adolescents, focusing on the spheres of politics, business, and the home. Results indicated an age‐related increase in perceptions of male dominance. Men were seen to have more power and status in politics than in business whereas relative equality was seen to exist in the home. The second study included 96 child and adolescent participants aged 7–15 and once again found an increase in general perceptions of male dominance with age. Results suggest that young children are less explicitly aware of gender inequality than might be assumed given their extensive knowledge of power‐loaded gender‐role stereotypes.
Capital Structure Swaps and Shareholder Wealth
Authors: O'Brien Thomas J. , Schmid Klein Linda , Hilliard James I.
Published: October 2007

We show how capital structure swaps can increase the wealth of a firm's long‐term shareholders when a firm's debt or equity is misvalued. We review the conventional rule that a firm should issue equity and use the proceeds to retire outstanding debt (an equity‐for‐debt swap) when equity is overvalued, or repurchase equity with proceeds of new debt (a debt‐for‐equity swap) when equity is undervalued. We also analyse the more complex case where a firm's debt and equity are both undervalued, showing the optimal swap may be to issue undervalued equity, contrary to the conventional rule.
The Operating Performance of Newly Privatised Firms in Central European Transition Economies
Authors: Aussenegg Wolfgang , Jelic Ranko
Published: October 2007

This study examines the operating performance of privatised firms in three Central European Transition Economies between 1990 and 1998. Overall, we find no evidence of a significant improvement in operating performance for the first six years after privatisation. Contrary to the increasing empirical evidence for non‐transition economies, our privatised firms experience no improvement in profitability, capital investments, efficiency, and output, a significant drop in employment, as well as a significant increase in leverage. The most important determinants of the performance changes following privatisation were country effects, timing of the privatisation sales, industry classification, and state ownership after privatisation. Our findings are consistent with the empirical evidence that the transition process proved to be more difficult than expected and that, although necessary, privatisations do not necessarily produce equal efficiency gains in transition economies (Megginson, 2005; Havrylyshyn and McGettigan, 1999).
GLAZED CERAMIC MANUFACTURING IN SOUTHERN TUSCANY (ITALY): EVIDENCE OF TECHNOLOGICAL CONTINUITY THROUGHOUT THE MEDIEVAL PERIOD (10TH–14TH CENTURIES)*
Authors: FORTINA C. , MEMMI TURBANTI I. , GRASSI F.
Published: October 2007

Archaeometric investigation allowed the characterization of two important classes of ceramics: ‘vetrina sparsa’ and ‘invetriata grezza’. Their archaeological peculiarity makes them particularly suited for tracing the evolution of glaze manufacturing in southern Tuscany throughout the medieval period (10th–14th centuries). These ceramics were found in different sites of historical importance, and also from a mining perspective. Local copper, lead, zinc and iron mineralizations supported the growth of several settlements in the vicinity of the mines. The many castles and different archaeological finds (ceramics, glazed ceramic, slag etc.) attest to the intense mineral exploitation of the area from at least the first millennium bc up to the modern period. In light of these geological and archaeological characteristics, archaeometric investigation was intended to provide insight into ancient technical knowledge of ceramic glazing and to determine the source area for raw materials in the medieval period (10th–14th centuries). Ceramic bodies were analysed through OM, XRDp, SEM–EDS and XRF, while coatings were investigated through SEM–EDS. Mineralogical, petrographic and chemical analyses revealed slightly different preparation and firing processes for the two classes of ceramics. These data suggest the continuity through the centuries of the ‘vetrina sparsa’ and ‘invetriata grezza’ production technology. The mineralogical phases, such as monazite, xenotime, zircon, barite, Ti oxide, ilmenite, titanite, tourmaline and ilvaite, and the lithic (intrusive and volcanic) fragments detected within the ceramic bodies suggest a source area in the vicinity of the Campiglia mining district. Lastly, the presence of Cu–Zn–Pb (Ag) and Fe sulphide mineralizations (materials used to produce glaze) in the area supports the hypothesis of local manufacture.
Hemodialysis at Home Series Editors: Bertrand L. Jaber and John Moran: Short Daily Hemodialysis and Nocturnal Hemodialysis at Home: Practical Considerations
Authors: Lockridge Robert S. , Moran John
Published: October 2007

There are currently over 350,000 patients in the United States on dialysis, with more than 90% receiving conventional in‐center thrice‐weekly hemodialysis (HD). Less than 1% of patients receiving HD are at home, and of these approximately 1500 patients receive more frequent and usually longer dialysis sessions. This article provides a historical perspective of HD at home, followed by practical considerations for short daily HD (SDHD) and long nocturnal HD, contrasting the strengths and limitations of these modalities. Finally, frequent and longer dialysis therapy is put forth as the best way to improve patient outcomes. It suggested that the optimal location in the present dialysis delivery system for more frequent and longer dialysis is in the home.
The Syndrome of Cardiac Tamponade with “Small” Pericardial Effusion
Authors: Saito Yuji , Donohue Amanda , Attai Sherwin , Vahdat Arash , Brar Ramandeep , Handapangoda Iroshan , Chandraratna P. Anthony
Published: October 2007

Cardiac tamponade is usually a consequence of increased pericardial pressure with accumulation of pericardial effusion. Pericardial effusion may be caused by acute pericarditis, tumor, uremia, hypothyroidism, trauma, cardiac surgery, or other inflammatory/noninflammatory conditions. In this article we describe four scenarios illustrated by case reports where a small or apparently small pericardial effusion may produce cardiac tamponade. The first scenario illustrates how a small pericardial effusion can cause clinically significant cardiac tamponade when it accumulates rapidly. The second scenario exhibits how an apparently small pericardial effusion on transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) turned out to be a small amount of unclotted blood and an echogenic hematoma. The third scenario details how an apparently small pericardial effusion on TTE was actually a large loculated effusion in an unusual location seen only by transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE). The fourth scenario demonstrates how the combination of a large pleural effusion and a small pericardial effusion can result in cardiac tamponade. The role of echocardiography in the diagnosis and management of these scenarios is discussed here. Although many clinicians depend on the amount of pericardial effusion to suspect cardiac tamponade, it is important to suspect cardiac tamponade when patients have hemodynamic compromise regardless of the amount of pericardial effusion.
Live Three‐Dimensional Echocardiography in Evaluation of Alfieri Mitral Valve Repair A Case Report
Authors: Agrawal Ritwick , Rangasetty Umamahesh C. , Kollar Andras , Tuero Enrique , Ahmad Masood
Published: October 2007

Echocardiography plays a significant role in the evaluation of mitral valve repair. Three‐dimensional(3D) echocardiography provides surgeon' views not obtainable by two‐dimensional echocardiography. We report the live 3D echocardiographic evaluation of Alfieri mitral valve repair.
Assessment of Regional Right Ventricular Velocities, Strain, and Displacement in Normal Children Using Velocity Vector Imaging
Authors: Kutty Shelby , Deatsman Sara L. , Nugent Melodee L. , Russell David , Frommelt Peter C.
Published: October 2007

Background: Velocity vector imaging (VVI) is a novel technique to assess regional myocardial mechanics. We evaluated the utility of VVI in the assessment of right ventricular (RV) function in normal children. Methods: RV images (apical 4‐chamber view, high frame rate capture) from 30 normal children (mean 8.7 years; range 1.1–18) were selected. Longitudinal myocardial velocities, peak systolic strain (PSS), maximal longitudinal displacement (LD), and times to peak for these parameters were obtained from six RV segments. Simultaneous Doppler tissue imaging (DTI) derived peak systolic and early diastolic velocities were obtained from the free tricuspid annulus. Measurements were made independently by two observers. Results: Qualitative analysis shows dominant longitudinal systolic and diastolic myocardial motion, particularly at the basal segments. Velocities and LD were greatest at the basal segments and decreased from base to apex. PSS values were less consistent between segments and observers, with the greatest PSS generally found in the apical segments. LD and time to peak displacement (TPD) were the most reproducible. TPD in the basal segments were strikingly similar in each patient and correlated with R‐R intervals. Peak diastolic velocities in the right base did correlate with corresponding annular DTI velocities; DTI velocities were consistently higher than VVI velocities. Conclusions: RV segmental velocities and LD are reliably obtained by VVI. PSS is less reproducible. LD is a reproducible measure of systolic function and TPD appears to be useful in the assessment of synchrony. Correlation of these findings with children who have known RV pathology is an important next step.
In Vitro Culture of the Obligate Parasite Spongospora subterranea (Cercozoa; Plasmodiophorida) Associated with Root‐Inducing Transferred‐DNA Transformed Potato Hairy Roots
Authors: QU XINSHUN , CHRIST BARBARA J.
Published: October 2007

ABSTRACT. Spongospora subterranea is a soil‐borne, obligate parasitic protist that causes powdery scab of potatoes. In this study, an in vitro culture system was developed for the maintenance and proliferation of the protist in potato hairy roots. The hairy roots of potato were induced in vitro with Agrobacterium rhizogenes. Cystosori of S. subterranea from potato scab lesions were surface disinfested and used to inoculate potato hairy roots. Plasmodia, zoosporangia, and cystosori were observed microscopically in the hairy roots within 6 wk after inoculation, indicating the completion of the life cycle of S. subterranea in vitro. This is the first in vitro culture system for S. subterranea, and will be a valuable tool to study fundamental and practical aspects of the biology of the parasite.
Evaluation by quantitative magnetic resonance imaging of trabecular bone quality in the dentate and edentulous mandible
Authors: Celenk Cetin , Celenk Peruze
Published: October 2007

Objective: To quantify the differences in mandibular trabecular bone quality between edentulous and dentate patients using quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (QMRI).

Methods: The patients in this study had been referred to our clinic for QMRI examination for various reasons. A total of 40 male patients (18 dentate, 22 edentulous), 45–55 years of age, were examined.

Mandibular T2* axial cross‐sections were performed following receipt of consent from each patient. T2* relaxation time values (RTVs) were determined in the trabecular area.

Results: The mean mandibular T2* RTVs of dentate and edentulous patients were 181 and 182, respectively. There were no significant differences between the two groups (P=0.929) (Student's t‐test).

Conclusions: Mandibular trabecular bone quality may not be influenced by edentulousness according to QMRI.
Effect of smoking on folic acid and vitamin B12 after nonsurgical periodontal intervention
Authors: Erdemir Ebru Olgun , Bergstrom Jan
Published: October 2007

Aim: The main purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of smoking on the serum levels of folic acid and vitamin B12 in smokers and nonsmokers with chronic periodontal disease after nonsurgical intervention.

Material and Methods: The study base consisted of 45 current smokers and 43 nonsmokers. The clinical parameters included plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), pocket depth (PD), and clinical attachment level (CAL). Folic acid and vitamin B12 were determined from peripheral blood samples. Clinical measurements and blood samples were collected at baseline and 1, 3, and 6 months after the intervention.

Results: Mean PI was significantly greater in smokers compared with non‐smokers throughout the observation period (p<0.001). During the first month, GI levels significantly decreased in both groups. From months 1 through 6, a significant return towards an increased GI level was observed in smokers (p<0.001). PD and CAL levels significantly decreased during the first month in both groups. Thereafter, increasing levels of PD and CAL were seen in both groups, although significantly more pronounced in smokers. Throughout the observation period, the mean CAL was significantly greater in smokers relative to nonsmokers (p<0.001). In smokers, the mean folic acid level gradually and significantly decreased and a slight and significant decrease in mean vitamin B12 levels was observed in both groups over the entire observation period (p<0.001).

Conclusion: The clinical response to nonsurgical intervention is impaired by smoking and smoking seems to negatively influence the serum level of folic acid following non‐surgical intervention.
COMPARISON OF GROSS AND HISTOPATHOLOGIC FINDINGS WITH QUANTITATIVE COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHIC BONE DENSITY IN THE DISTAL THIRD METACARPAL BONE OF RACEHORSES
Authors: DRUM MARTHA G. , KAWCAK CHRISTOPHER E. , NORRDIN ROBERT W. , PARK RICHARD D. , McILWRAITH C. WAYNE , LES CLIFFORD M.
Published: October 2007

Comparison of subchondral bone density determined by quantitative computed tomography (CT) with gross and histopathologic changes have not been made in horses. The goal of this study was to determine if mean quantitative CT density and mean voxel standard deviation are associated with the presence and severity of osteochondral lesions in the palmar aspect of the distal third metacarpal bone in racing horses. Metacarpophalangeal joints from nine racehorses were imaged using CT and scored for gross damage. Four‐millimeter‐thick sagittal and 30° palmar dorsal plane sections were cut, decalcified and stained with hematoxylin and eosin from the distal third metacarpal bone. Microscopic osteochondral lesions and subchondral remodeling were scored on a scale of 0–3. Percent subchondral bone, expressed as the ratio of bone volume to tissue volume, was also measured. Mean quantitative CT density and mean voxel standard deviation were measured from three‐dimensional models of CT images comparable with histologic sections. Mean quantitative CT density was not associated with lesion severity or number of lesions. A weak correlation between mean quantitative CT density and gross score was found, but mean quantitative CT density was not predictive for gross score. Mean voxel standard deviation was not correlated with gross or histopathologic measures, but was predictive of mild osteochondral lesions. Results support the association of subchondral remodeling with the development of palmar metacarpal lesions. However, there was not a strong correlation between mean quantitative CT density or mean voxel standard deviation and histopathologic lesions of the distal third metacarpal bone.
RADIOBIOLOGICAL AND TREATMENT PLANNING STUDY OF A SIMULTANEOUSLY INTEGRATED BOOST FOR CANINE NASAL TUMORS USING HELICAL TOMOTHERAPY
Authors: GUTIÉRREZ ALONSO N. , DEVEAU MICHAEL , FORREST LISA J. , TOMÉ WOLFGANG A. , MACKIE THOMAS R.
Published: October 2007

Feasibility of delivering a simultaneously integrated boost to canine nasal tumors using helical tomotherapy to improve tumor control probability (TCP) via an increase in total biological equivalent uniform dose (EUD) was evaluated. Eight dogs with varying size nasal tumors (5.8–110.9 cc) were replanned to 42 Gy to the nasal cavity and integrated dose boosts to gross disease of 45.2, 48.3, and 51.3 Gy in 10 fractions. EUD values were calculated for tumors and mean normalized total doses (NTDmean) for organs at risk (OAR). Normal Tissue Complication Probability (NTCP) values were obtained for OARs, and estimated TCP values were computed using a logistic dose–response model and based on deliverable EUD boost doses. Significant increases in estimated TCP to 54%, 74%, and 86% can be achieved with 10%, 23%, and 37% mean relative EUD boosts to the gross disease, respectively. NTCP values for blindness of either eye and for brain necrosis were <0.01% for all boosts. Values for cataract development were 31%, 42%, and 46% for studied boost schemas, respectively. Average NTDmeanto eyes and brain for mean EUD boosts were 10.2, 11.3, and 12.1 Gy3, and 7.5, 7.2, and 7.9 Gy2, respectively. Using helical tomotherapy, simultaneously integrated dose boosts can be delivered to increase the estimated TCP at 1‐year without significantly increasing the NTDmeanto eyes and brain. Delivery of these treatments in a prospective trial may allow quantification of a dose‐response relationship in canine nasal tumors.
Mental Health and Academic Achievement: Role of School Nurses
Authors: Puskar Kathryn Rose , Marie Bernardo Lisa
Published: October 2007

PURPOSE.  This article discusses how school nurses promote mental health and subsequent academic achievement by screening and referral for children demonstrating mental health problems. Nursing interventions are discussed at the individual, systems, and community levels.

CONCLUSION.  Mental health problems can affect school performance and academic achievement. When mental health problems are not recognized, students may be unable to reach their academic potential. School nurses are in a key position to provide interventions to address mental health and academic achievement.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS.  The role of school nurses and examples of mental health collaborative activities are provided.
Sleep Practices and Environment and the Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome in Turkey
Authors: Efe Emine , Sarvan Süreyya , Kukulu Kamile
Published: October 2007

PURPOSE.  The aim of this study is to determine what mothers know about infant sleep practices and the environment.

DESIGN AND METHODS.  Data were collected with a semistructured questionnaire. The research was conducted with 231 mothers who delivered an infant and who agreed to participate between September and December 2005.

RESULTS.  It was determined that 70.6% (n = 163) of mothers would use a pillow with their sleeping infants, and 44.2% (n = 102) would cover their infants’ faces. When infants were alone in a room, 96.5% of mothers would leave them in the supine position.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS.  Public health interventions should alert women to the increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome associated with identifiable risk factors, and specific intervention campaigns for safe sleeping can be developed for Turkish families.
Implementing Best Practice Pain Management in a Pediatric Hospital
Authors: Ellis Jacqueline A. , McCleary Lynn , Blouin Renee , Dube Karen , Rowley Betty , MacNeil Mary , Cooke Carol
Published: October 2007

PURPOSE.  This study aims to evaluate the implementation of a comprehensive program to improve pain management practices in a pediatric hospital.

METHODS.  The pretest posttest design used questionnaires, patient record audits, and postimplementation focus groups with 366 nurses and 8 physicians.

RESULTS.  Positive changes occurred in the use of pain scales and in valuing good pain management. The program was less effective in improving procedural pain management and pain documentation.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS.  Important program strengths were the “local champions” (Pain Resource Nurses) and the ongoing support and expertise of the pain committee. Systematic evaluation was important to document successes as well as areas requiring further focus.
Sediment flux in a small gravel‐bed stream: Response to channel remediation works
Authors: Fuller Ian C. , Hutchinson Erin L.
Published: October 2007

Abstract:  Sediment transfers in a short reach of the Kiwitea Stream, near Fielding, lower North Island, New Zealand, are assessed using morphological budgeting based on repeat digital elevation model (DEM) differencing. Field data were acquired using high‐precision GPS in October 2004, May and November 2005. Two interpolation methods to construct DEMs were compared. Universal kriging and Triangulation with Linear Interpolation produced consistent results and mean errors of between 4 and 14 mm. DEM error increases where relief changes rapidly. Sediment transfers are derived only from the low‐relief active channel and indicate a rapidly changing environment. Remediation works following 2004 flood impacts have reduced bank erosion. A highly mobile bed renders the channel system sensitive to small and frequent flood events.
Ecology and management of rodents in no‐till agriculture in Washington, USA
Authors: WITMER Gary , SAYLER Rodney , HUGGINS David , CAPELLI Jason
Published: October 2007

No‐till farming is an important approach to sustainable agriculture because it can conserve soil and water resources. Unfortunately, rodent populations can thrive under no‐till conditions because burrow systems are not disrupted by annual plowing and plant residues build‐up on the surface, providing cover and insulation. This can result in substantial crop damage. We assessed rodent populations, habitat use, food habits, and crop damage in a no‐till cropping system in Washington, USA. We also conducted preliminary trials of methods to reduce rodent populations and crop damage. In the fall, many more rodents were captured in fields with unharvested crops than in fields containing only plant stubble, suggesting that rodents leave fields after crop harvest, providing that suitable habitats are nearby, even when adequate cover is still available in harvested crop fields. By spring, the number of voles captured was much lower relative to fall. Despite this, capture rates were much higher in surrounding permanent grass areas than in crop (barley, wheat, pea) fields, suggesting that these grassy areas serve as refugia for rodents. Furthermore, the permanent grass cover type was the landscape variable most associated with rodent capture rates. In three winter pea fields, rodents removed 5–15% of the pea plants over winter. Examination of stomach contents revealed that voles mainly fed on grain plants in spring, but that their diet was more diversified in fall. Deer mice fed heavily on grain plants in both spring and fall, but also used insects as food. Metal barrier exclosures (9 m × 9 m), extending above and below ground, did not prevent access by rodents. Rodent populations in areas treated with zinc phosphide on grain were comparable to untreated areas 1 year after application of the rodenticide, perhaps because of immigration and recruitment, suggesting that baiting does not provide a long‐term solution to rodent damage in no‐till agricultural fields.
Evaluation of Genetic and Epigenetic Modification in Rapeseed (Brassica napus) Induced by Salt Stress
Authors: Guangyuan Lu , Xiaoming Wu , Biyun Chen , Gao Guizhen , Kun Xu
Published: October 2007

Salinity is an important limiting environmental factor for rapeseed production worldwide. In this study, we assessed the extent and pattern of DNA damages caused by salt stress in rapeseed plants. Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP)
analysis revealed dose‐related increases in sequence alterations in plantlets exposed to 10–1 000 mmol/L sodium chloride. In addition, individual plantlets exposed to the same salt concentration showed different AFLP and selected region amplified polymorphism banding patterns. These observations suggested that DNA mutation in response to salt stress was random in the genome and the effect was dose‐dependant. DNA methylation changes in response to salt stress were also evaluated by methylation sensitive amplified polymorphism (MSAP). Three types of MSAP bands were recovered. Type I bands were observed with both isoschizomers Hpa II and Msp I, while type II and type III bands were observed only with Hpa II and Msp I, respectively. Extensive changes in types of MSAP bands after NaCl treatments were observed, including appearance and disappearance of type I, II and III bands, as well as exchanges between either type I and type II or type I and type III bands. An increase of 0.2–17.6% cytosine methylated CCGG sites were detected in plantlets exposed to 10–200 mmol/L salt compared to the control, and these changes included both de novo methylation and demethylation events. Nine methylation related fragments were also recovered and sequenced, and one sharing a high sequence homology with the ethylene responsive element binding factor was identified. These results demonstrated clear DNA genetic and epigenetic alterations in plantlets as a response to salt stress, and these changes may suggest a mechanism for plants adaptation under salt stress.
Activity of Stress‐related Antioxidative Enzymes in the Invasive Plant Crofton Weed (Eupatorium adenophorum)
Authors: Lu Ping , Sang Wei‐Guo , Ma Ke‐Ping
Published: October 2007

Crofton weed is an invasive weed in southwestern China. The activities of several antioxidative enzymes involved in plant protection against oxidative stress were assayed to determine physiological aspects of the crofton weed that might render the plant vulnerable to environmental stress. Stresses imposed on crofton weed were heat (progressively increasing temperatures: 25 °C, 30 °C, 35 °C, 38 °C and 42 °C at 24 h intervals), cold (progressively decreasing temperatures: 25 °C, 20 °C, 15 °C, 10 °C and 5 °C at 24 h intervals), and drought (without watering up to 4 days). The three stresses induced oxidative damage as evidenced by an increase in lipid peroxidation. The effect varied with the stress imposed and the length of exposure. The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) increased in response to all stresses but was not significantly different from the controls (P < 0.05) when exposed to cold stress. Catalase (CAT) activity decreased in response to heat and drought stress but increased when exposed to cold conditions. Guaiacol peroxidase (POD) and glutathione reductase (GR) activities increased in response to cold and drought but decreased in response to heat stress. The activity of ascorbate peroxidase (APX) responded differently to all three stresses. Monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDHAR) activity decreased in response to heat and drought, and slightly increased in response to the cold stress but was not significantly different from the controls (P < 0.05). The activity of dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR) increased in response to all three stresses. Taken together, the co‐ordinate increase of the oxygen‐detoxifying enzymes might be more effective to protect crofton weed from the accumulation of oxygen radicals at low temperatures rather than at high temperatures.
Locomotor muscle fatigue modifies central motor drive in healthy humans and imposes a limitation to exercise performance
Authors: Amann Markus , Dempsey Jerome A.
Published: October 2007

We asked whether the central effects of fatiguing locomotor muscle fatigue exert an inhibitory influence on central motor drive to regulate the total degree of peripheral fatigue development. Eight cyclists performed constant‐workload prefatigue trials (a) to exhaustion (83% of peak power output (Wpeak), 10 ± 1 min; PFT83%), and (b) for an identical duration but at 67%Wpeak (PFT67%). Exercise‐induced peripheral quadriceps fatigue was assessed via changes in potentiated quadriceps twitch force (ΔQtw,pot) from pre‐ to post‐exercise in response to supra‐maximal femoral nerve stimulation (ΔQtw,pot). On different days, each subject randomly performed three 5 km time trials (TTs). First, subjects repeated PFT83% and the TT was started 4 min later with a known level of pre‐existing locomotor muscle fatigue (ΔQtw,pot−36%) (PFT83%‐TT). Second, subjects repeated PFT67% and the TT was started 4 min later with a known level of pre‐existing locomotor muscle fatigue (ΔQtw,pot−20%) (PFT67%‐TT). Finally, a control TT was performed without any pre‐existing level of fatigue. Central neural drive during the three TTs was estimated via quadriceps EMG. Increases in pre‐existing locomotor muscle fatigue from control TT to PFT83%‐TT resulted in significant dose‐dependent changes in central motor drive (−23%), power output (−14%), and performance time (+6%) during the TTs. However, the magnitude of locomotor muscle fatigue following various TTs was not different (ΔQtw,pot of −35 to −37%, P= 0.35). We suggest that feedback from fatiguing muscle plays an important role in the determination of central motor drive and force output, so that the development of peripheral muscle fatigue is confined to a certain level.
Mg2+and memantine block of rat recombinant NMDA receptors containing chimeric NR2A/2D subunits expressed inXenopus laevisoocytes
Authors: Wrighton David C. , Baker Edward J. , Chen Philip E. , Wyllie David J. A.
Published: October 2007

N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptors (NMDARs) display differences in their sensitivity to the channel blockers Mg2+and memantine that are dependent on the identity of the NR2 subunit present in the receptor–channel complex. This study used two‐electrode voltage‐clamp recordings fromXenopus laevisoocytes expressing recombinant NMDARs to investigate the actions of Mg2+and memantine at the two NMDARs displaying the largest differences in sensitivity to these blockers, namely NR1/NR2A and NR1/NR2D NMDARs. In addition, NR2A/2D chimeric subunits have been employed to examine the effects of pore‐forming elements and ligand‐binding domains (LBD) on the potency of the block produced by each of these inhibitors. Our results show that, as previously documented, NR2D‐containing NMDARs are less sensitive to voltage‐dependent Mg2+block than their NR2A‐containing counterparts. The reduced sensitivity is determined by the M1M2M3 membrane‐associated regions, as replacing these regions in NR2A subunits with those found in NR2D subunits results in a ∼10‐fold reduction in Mg2+potency. Intriguingly, replacing the NR2A LBD with that from NR2D subunits results in a ∼2‐fold increase in Mg2+potency. Moreover, when responses mediated by NR1/NR2A NMDARs are evoked by the partial agonist homoquinolinate, rather than glutamate, Mg2+also displays an increased potency. Memantine block of glutamate‐evoked currents is most potent at NR1/NR2D NMDARs, but no differences are observed in its ability to inhibit NR2A‐containing or NR2A/2D chimeric NMDARs. We suggest that the potency of block of NMDARs by Mg2+is influenced not only by pore‐forming regions but also the LBD and the resulting conformational changes that occur following agonist binding.