bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
On the quantification of the constraint effect along a three-dimensional crack front
Authors: Wang Xin 
Published: June 2008

Abstract
In this paper we examined the characterization of constraint effects for surface cracked plates under uniaxial and biaxial tension loadings. First, three-dimensional (3D) modified boundary layer analyses were conducted using the finite element method to study the constraint effect at a typical 3D crack front. The analyses were carried out using small geometry change formulation and deformation plasticity material model. Elastic-plastic crack front stress fields at a constant J and various T-stress levels were obtained. Three-dimensional elastic-plastic analyses were performed for semi-circular surface cracks in a finite thickness plate, under remote uniaxial and biaxial tension loading conditions. In topological planes perpendicular to the crack fronts, the crack stress fields were obtained. Then, J-Q and J-T two-parameter approaches are used in characterizing the elastic-plastic crack-tip stress fields along the 3D crack front. It is found that the J-Q characterization provides good estimate for the constraint effect for crack-tip stress fields. Reasonable agreements are achieved between the T-stress based Q-factors and the Q-factors obtained from finite element analysis.
A Generalized Method for Calculating Strain for a Circular Cross-Section Specimen Subject to Axial Force and Bending
Authors: Liang Xin Bang , Gao Yi Fei 
Published: June 2008

Abstract
A theoretical analysis was performed with multiple-point measurements of the bending strain distribution along the circumferential cross section of a cylindrical alignment cell. A simple and general equation for representing the maximum bending strain was developed to unify the expression of bending strain. Also, both the general equation for the net bending contributions, due, respectively, to the testing machine and the specimen and the equation for the general orientation angle after separation of the testing machine component and the specimen component are provided.
Elevated serum levels of IGF-binding protein 2 in patients with non-seminomatous germ cell cancer: correlation with tumor markers α-fetoprotein and human chorionic gonadotropin
Authors: Fottner Christian , Sattarova Sabina , Hoffmann Kerstin , Spöttl Gerald , Weber Matthias M 
Published: June 2008

Background/aimsAlterations of the IGF system have been described in several different types of cancer. However, no information is available about the role of the IGF system in patients with non-seminomatous germ cell cancer.MethodsFree IGF-I, IGF-II, acid-labile subunit, and IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs) 1–4 were analyzed by specific RIAs in 32 patients with untreated non-seminomas and compared with IGFBP levels of 38 healthy controls. Serum IGFBPs were analyzed by western ligand blotting (WLB) and immunoblotting. In 16 patients, IGFBP profiles were measured before, during, and after treatment.ResultsIn patients with testicular cancer, IGF-II levels were on average 1.44-fold higher than in the healthy control group (1027±48 ng/ml versus 711±30 ng/ml, P<0.0001). IGFBP-2 levels were on average 2.6-fold higher (586±58 ng/ml versus 226±17 ng/ml, P<0.001). During follow-up, a decrease in IGFBP-2 levels was observed in all successfully treated patients, which correlated closely with a decrease in the tumor markers α-fetoprotein and human chorionic gonadotropin. Additionally, in all patients with recurrent disease, a significant further increase in IGFBP-2 levels (from 358±97 to 976±260 ng/ml) was detected. IGFBP-3 levels, as measured by RIA, were not different in patients with testicular cancer compared with controls. However, WLB analysis demonstrated markedly decreased intact IGFBP-3 bands in untreated patients and a significant increase after successful therapy.ConclusionOur results demonstrate that markedly elevated IGF-II and IGFBP-2 serum levels in patients with non-seminomatous germ cell cancer, showing a significant decrease after successful therapy and an increase in recurrent disease. Additionally, indirect evidence points to an increased proteolytic activity for IGFBP-3 in untreated testicular cancer patients.
Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 in Brazil: MEN1 founding mutation, clinical features, and bone mineral density profile
Authors: Lourenço D M , Toledo R A , Mackowiak I I , Coutinho F L , Cavalcanti M G , Correia-Deur J E M , Montenegro F , Siqueira S A C , Margarido L C , Machado M C , Toledo S P A 
Published: June 2008

ObjectiveOnly few large families with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) have been documented. Here, we aimed to investigate the clinical features of a seven-generation Brazilian pedigree, which included 715 at-risk family members.DesignGenealogical and geographic analysis was used to identify the MEN1 pedigree. Clinical and genetic approach was applied to characterize the phenotypic and genotypic features of the family members.ResultsOur genetic data indicated that a founding mutation in the MEN1 gene has occurred in this extended Brazilian family. Fifty family members were diagnosed with MEN1. Very high frequencies of functioning and non-functioning MEN1-related tumors were documented and the prevalence of prolactinoma (29.6%) was similar to that previously described in prolactinoma-variant Burin (32%). In addition, bone mineral density analysis revealed severe osteoporosis (T, −2.87±0.32) of compact bone (distal radius) in hyperparathyroidism (HPT)/MEN1 patients, while marked bone mineral loss in the lumbar spine (T, −1.95±0.39), with most cancellous bone, and femoral neck (mixed composition; T, −1.48±0.27) were also present.ConclusionsIn this study, we described clinically and genetically the fifth largest MEN1 family in the literature. Our data confirm previous findings suggesting that prevalence of MEN1-related tumors in large families may differ from reports combining cumulative data of small families. Furthermore, we were able to evaluate the bone status in HPT/MEN1 cases, a subject that has been incompletely approached in the literature. We discussed the bone loss pattern found in our MEN1 patients comparing with that of patients with sporadic primary HPT.
Gender, smoking during pregnancy and gestational age influence cord leptin concentrations in newborn infants
Authors: Kayemba-Kay's Simon , Geary Michael P P , Pringle Jane , Rodeck Charles H , Kingdom John C P , Hindmarsh Peter C 
Published: June 2008

BackgroundLow birth weight (BW), small head circumference, reduced length, increased preterm births and neuro-endocrine dysfunctions are among known consequences of smoking during pregnancy. Few studies have linked leptin to clinical features of growth restriction associated with maternal smoking and explored interaction with other determinants of size at birth, such as gender.MethodsCord serum leptin concentrations were measured in 1215 term infants born to Caucasian mothers at completion of uneventful pregnancy. Serum concentrations were related to BW, gestational length, gender and maternal smoking and interaction with other determinants of size at birth evaluated.ResultsSmoking was more frequent in younger (P<0.001) and shorter mothers (P=0.03) from lower socio-economic groups (SEGPs) (P<0.001). Infants born to smokers were lighter (190 g less), shorter and with smaller head circumference. Cord serum leptin concentrations were higher in girls (9.8 s.d. 7.6 ng/ml) than in boys (7.05 s.d. 5.8 ng/ml) (P<0.001). Boys were heavier (BW 3.52 s.d. 0.49 kg) than girls (3.39 s.d. 0.44 kg) (P<0.001), but girls had greater skinfold thickness measurements (sub-scapular and quadriceps skinfold thicknesses 5.5 s.d. 1.6 mm and 7.6 s.d. 1.9 mm respectively; boys 5.3 s.d. 1.6 vs 7.24±1.90 mm, P<0.001 respectively). Multivariate analyses showed gender (P<0.001), BW SDS (P<0.001), gestational length (P<0.001) and maternal smoking (P<0.042) as factors that influenced umbilical cord serum leptin concentrations in newborns.ConclusionMaternal smoking restrains foetal growth through placental vascular effects, and likely also via associated effects on leptin metabolism. More studies are needed to determine the influence that maternal smoking may have on placental syncytiotrophoblast and foetal adipose tissue.
On the Hydrodynamics‐Based Power‐Law Function and Its Application in Fish Swimming Energetics
Authors: Papadopoulos Anthony 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThe standard metabolic rate and metabolic transport differential represent parameters of energetic costs and are derived from either the conventional exponential function or the hydrodynamics‐based power‐law function (HPF). These two models are used independently to describe the relationship between total metabolic rate and sustained swimming speed for fish. Inappropriate estimates of the standard metabolic rate and inaccurate estimates of the metabolic transport differential have been reported in the literature owing to a lack of practical guidance in methods, especially in regard to the estimation, interpretation, and use of the parameters of the HPF. Hence, the field of fish swimming energetics could benefit from clarification and standardization of parameter estimation and use. The distinction between the parameters in the two models is addressed to ensure appropriate use of the HPF in evaluating the standard metabolic rate and metabolic transport differential. The analytical derivation of the parameters of the HPF is also addressed to ensure that they are evaluated correctly and robustly. Finally, a two‐step approach to standardizing the estimation of the standard metabolic rate and metabolic transport differential is discussed, where step 1 is to choose the estimate of the standard metabolic rate derived from the model that best predicts the first derivative of the total metabolic rate with respect to sustained swimming speed and step 2 involves evaluating the metabolic transport differential without substituting the standard metabolic rate from one model into the equation for the other model.
Collagen Fibrils of Human Acellular Extrinsic Fiber Cementum
Authors: Catros Sylvain , Pothuaud Laurent , Dard Michel , Fricain Jean‐Christophe 
Published: June 2008

Background: Tissue‐engineering techniques require the accurate description of biologic tissues to recreate these structures using a biomimetic approach. The purpose of this study was to quantify the mean diameter and the distribution of collagen fibrils in acellular extrinsic fiber cementum (AEFC) in human premolars. In human teeth, Sharpey fibers link AEFC to the surrounding alveolar bone. These fibers are composed of type I collagen, and their role is to attach teeth to the surrounding alveolar bone. Although the collagen fibril diameter in periodontal ligament has been studied, the mean diameter of collagen type I fibrils and their size distribution in human AEFC have been poorly described.Methods: Nine human premolars extracted for orthodontic reasons were used for this study, and they were prepared for electron transmission microscopy after decalcification. Specific selection and orientation of the samples allowed us to obtain transverse sections of collagen fibrils of AEFC from four sides of the teeth (i.e., buccal, lingual, mesial, and distal) and from two levels of the roots (i.e., coronal and mid‐part). An image analysis process was developed for this study to quantify the mean diameter of collagen fibrils.Results: This semicomputerized technique allowed the quantification of the diameter of almost 251,000 fibrils. The average diameter varied from 50 to 60 nm, and it was not significantly different based on the surface observed.Conclusions: Data obtained were compared with literature data on periodontal ligament and other connective tissues. These results could be used to modify the dental‐implant surface with synthetic collagen fibrils with similar diameters and distributions rather than the AEFC surface implanted on titanium.
Association Among Rheumatoid Arthritis, Oral Hygiene, and Periodontitis
Authors: Pischon N. , Pischon T. , Kröger J. , Gülmez E. , Kleber B.‐M. , Bernimoulin J.‐P. , Landau H. , Brinkmann P.‐G. , Schlattmann P. , Zernicke J. , Buttgereit F. , Detert J. 
Published: June 2008

Background: A limited number of studies suggest a higher prevalence of periodontal disease among individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA); however, results have been inconsistent. Further, it is unclear to what extent poor oral hygiene among patients with RA may account for this association.Methods: The association between RA and periodontitis was examined in 57 subjects with RA and 52 healthy controls, matched by age and gender. Oral examination included plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD), and clinical attachment loss (CAL). Potential risk factors for periodontal disease, such as smoking, education, alcohol consumption, and body mass index (BMI), as well as chronic diseases associated with RA and periodontal disease were assessed through questionnaires.Results: In a stepwise logistic regression, including RA status, age, gender, education, smoking, alcohol consumption, and BMI, only RA status and age remained significant predictors of periodontal disease. Subjects with RA had a significant 8.05‐fold increased odds (95% confidence interval: 2.93 to 22.09) of periodontitis compared to controls. The strength of the association was attenuated but remained statistically significant after further adjustment for PI, GI, or both. PI alone accounted for 12.4%, GI alone accounted for 11.1%, and PI and GI combined accounted for 13.4% of the association between RA and periodontitis.Conclusions: Subjects with RA have significantly increased periodontal attachment loss compared to controls. Oral hygiene may only partially account for this association.
Periosteal Expansion Osteogenesis Using Highly Purified Beta‐Tricalcium Phosphate Blocks: A Pilot Study in Dogs
Authors: Yamauchi Kensuke , Takahashi Tetsu , Funaki Katsuyuki , Yamashita Yoshihiro 
Published: June 2008

Background: In highly atrophic edentulous jaws, the augmentation of the alveolar process is standard treatment for dental implantation because of the lack of alveolar bone height and width. Our aim was to examine periosteal expansion osteogenesis in a dog model, based on the concept of distraction osteogenesis, using a highly purified beta‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) block instead of an original bone segment.Methods: Three beagle dogs weighing 10 to 12 kg were used. The β‐TCP block was placed at the lateral surface of the mandibular bone. Two titanium screws were inserted from the lingual aspect to push the block to the buccal side. After a latency period of 8 days, during which primary wound healing occurred, the lingual screws were advanced by ∼0.5 mm/day for 8 days. Specimens were taken 8 weeks after lingual screw adjustments ceased and were analyzed by hematoxylin and eosin, tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), and Villanueva bone staining.Results: The alveolar form at the experimental region was changed dramatically following lateral expansion with the β‐TCP block. Newly formed bone was observed in the gap between the bone and the β‐TCP block, as well as on the lateral surface of the block. Moreover, the replacement of large parts of β‐TCP with newly formed bone was observed in the β‐TCP block area. However, newly formed bone was not observed over the upper parts of the block, and multinucleated TRAP‐positive cells were attached to the β‐TCP in the periphery of this area.Conclusion: The highly purified β‐TCP block worked as an activator for the soft tissue, including the periosteum, as well as a space maker to induce an osteoblastic response in the periosteum.
Oral Health Care–Specific Self‐Efficacy Assessment Predicts Patient Completion of Periodontal Treatment: A Pilot Cohort Study
Authors: Kakudate Naoki , Morita Manabu , Kawanami Masamitsu 
Published: June 2008

Background: Whether patients complete periodontal treatment is an important matter of concern. Self‐efficacy is the confidence of an individual that determines “how well he/she can take the actions necessary for producing certain results” and is a variable that forecasts behavior. This study examined whether oral health care–specific self‐efficacy can predict patient completion of periodontal treatment.Methods: A total of 140 subjects with mild to moderate chronic periodontitis (64 females and 76 males; 19 to 86 years of age; mean age: 51.7 ± 15.7 years) participated in this study. Their self‐efficacy was assessed using the self‐efficacy scale for self‐care (SESS) and the general self‐efficacy scale (GSES) scores at the initial visit. SESS consists of three subscales: self‐efficacy for dentist consultations, brushing of the teeth, and dietary habits. The subjects were classified into three groups: group 1 = 87 subjects who stayed in periodontal treatment and fulfilled maintenance criteria; group 2 = 17 subjects who stayed in periodontal treatment but did not fulfill criteria; and group 3 = 36 subjects who dropped out of periodontal treatment. Clinical and demographic characteristics and scores of GSES, SESS, and their subscales were compared among the three groups using the χ2 and non‐parametric multiple comparison tests.Results: The mean age of the subjects in groups 1 and 2 was significantly greater than the mean age of the subjects in group 3. Groups 1 and 2 exhibited significantly deeper probing depths and higher scores for SESS and its subscale, self‐efficacy for dentist consultations, than did group 3.Conclusion: Assessment of oral health care–specific self‐efficacy is effective for the prediction of patient completion of periodontal treatment.
Review of Anoplocephaloides species from African rodents, with the proposal of Afrobaeria n. g. (Cestoda: Anoplocephalidae)
Authors: Haukisalmi V. 
Published: June 2008

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

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

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

Abstract
A survey for Bursaphelenchus nematodes, associated with different conifer trees, was conducted in several forest areas in the northern regions of Turkey. Only pine trees (Pinus nigra, P. pinaster and P. sylvestris) yielded Bursaphelenchus specimens. Nematodes were identified using several morphological diagnostic characters of the genus (male spicule structure, number of lateral incisures, number and distribution of the male papillae, presence of female vulval flap), and confirmed by using RFLP analysis of the internal transcriber spacer (ITS) regions of ribosomal DNA. Three different species were identified from several sampled areas, namely B. mucronatus, B. pinophilus and B. sexdentati, representing a first report of the last two species for Turkey. The association of B. pinophilus with black pine (P. nigra) is herein reported for the first time.