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Mean Values (mean + value)
Kinds of Mean Values Selected AbstractsDiastase and invertase activities in Andalusian honeysINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 1 2007Salud Serrano Summary Forty-nine samples of unheated, commercially purchased Andalusian (southern Spain) honeys were examined for diastase (, - and , -amylase) and invertase (, -glucosidase) activities. The honeys were from Citrus sp. (5), Sunflower (2), Rosmarinus (3), Eucalyptus sp. (4) or multifloral in origin (35). Mean value for diastase was 20.48 ± 10.14 (range 3.99,49.42) expressed as diastase number in Gothe's scale, for invertase it was 12.34 ± 8.09 (range 1.2,36.8) expressed as invertase number. Correlation was found between invertase and diastase activities (r = 0.853). These results were compared with literature data and differences are discussed. [source] InxGa1,xAs single crystal growth by dispersing local misfit stressPHYSICA STATUS SOLIDI (A) APPLICATIONS AND MATERIALS SCIENCE, Issue 11 2006Hiroaki Miyata Abstract We succeeded in growing a single crystal by dispersing the misfit stress around an initial solid-liquid interface in In0.3Ga0.7As ternary bulk crystal growth. We gradually increased concentration of indium arsenide so that the local misfit stress could be smaller than critical resolved shear stress. The traveling lqiuidus-zone (TLZ) method was applied for growing crystals. To grow a single In0.3Ga0.7As crystal, an In0.1Ga0.9As single crystal region was grown first on a GaAs seed. Then the concentration of indium arsenide was gradually increased up to In0.3Ga0.7As by lowering temperature at the interface. As a result, In0.3Ga0.7As single crystals of 2 mm in thickness, 10 mm in width and more than 25 mm in length were successfully obtained. Mean value of full width half maximum (FWHM) of X-ray rocking curves in the In0.3Ga0.7As grown crystal was 0.116°. It is not small enough but it will be improved by increasing compositional homogeneity. (© 2006 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source] Serum somatostatin in early-stage Parkinson's diseaseACTA NEUROLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 4 2010M. Shiraishi Shiraishi M, Kobayashi T, Watanabe H, Kamo T, Hasegawa Y. Serum somatostatin in early-stage Parkinson's disease. Acta Neurol Scand: 2010: 121: 225,229. © 2009 The Authors Journal compilation © 2009 Blackwell Munksgaard. Objective,,, To compare levels of plasma digestive hormones in patients with and without nausea or vomiting during initial treatment of early-stage Parkinson's disease (PD). Methods,,, This was a 3-week, open-label, randomized study of treatment with an antiparkinson drug in untreated PD patients. We measured the levels of plasma digestive hormones before (baseline) and 3 weeks after administration of an antiparkinson drug. Results,,, Mean value of serum somatostatin at baseline was significantly increased in PD patients compared with the control group (P < 0.01). Serum somatostatin levels were significantly increased after treatment in subjects who experienced nausea or vomiting (P < 0.01). However, significant increase in serum somatostatin levels after treatment was not observed in PD patients without nausea or vomitting. Conclusion,,, Serum somatostatin in early-stage PD patients before treatment was increased compared with healthy subjects. The nausea and vomiting induced by antiparkinson drugs may be related to uncontrolled somatostatin secretion through central vagus nerve dysfunction. [source] Color distribution of maxillary primary incisors in Korean childrenCOLOR RESEARCH & APPLICATION, Issue 2 2010Hong-Keun Hyun Abstract The purpose of this study was to investigate the color distribution of maxillary primary incisors measured with a colorimeter. The subjects were 100 Korean children aged 2,5 with total number of 400 teeth. A spot measurement intraoral colorimeter was used to determine the color of maxillary primary central and lateral incisors at labial central area. The CIE L*, a*, b* value of each tooth and color difference (,E) among each other were calculated and analyzed. The range of L*, a*, and b* values, regardless of the type of teeth, was 72.7,84.9, ,0.6 to 4.9, and 4.7,15.0, respectively. Mean value (SD) of L*, a*, and b* for maxillary primary incisors was 78.6 (2.3), 1.2 (0.9), and 9.6 (1.8), respectively. Boys showed more red (higher a* value) and less yellow (lower b* value) hue than girls in the central incisors (P < 0.05). Mean color difference (,E) (SD) between two values which selected from overall 400 L*, a*, b* values measured (n = 400C2) was 3.9 (1.8) with 95% confidence interval range of 3.86,3.89, and most of them were found to be present around the previously reported clinical acceptability thresholds (,E = 2.7,6.8). Because mean intraperson ,E (SD) was 3.0 (1.6) with 95% confidence interval range of 2.86,3.12, most colors among primary incisors in the same person were presumably difficult to discern by naked eye (,E < 3.7). Age influenced L* and b* values significantly, but the correlation coefficients were not high (r = ,0.182 for L* of central incisors, P < 0.01; r = 0.188 for b* of central incisors, P < 0.01; and r = 0.143 for b* of lateral incisors, P < 0.05). The present study showed somewhat higher color coordinates than the previous reports which based on primary anterior teeth in other ethnic groups. The results of this study could be used for the color modification of esthetic materials for primary teeth. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Col Res Appl, 2010. [source] Serum S-100 Protein Is Not a Suitable Seizure Marker in Temporal Lobe EpilepsyEPILEPSIA, Issue 10 2002Fritz Leutmezer Summary: ,Purpose: S-100 protein is a sensitive marker of various brain diseases; however, its role in epilepsy is controversially discussed in the literature. We therefore studied the temporal profile of serial concentrations of S-100 protein in serum after secondarily generalized tonic,clonic seizures during video-EEG monitoring. Methods: Ten patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy were prospectively studied. Serum S-100 protein was measured after a seizure-free period of ,24 h (baseline) and 30 min, 3, 6, 12, and 24 h after a secondarily generalized tonic,clonic seizure of temporal lobe origin in nine and a convulsive status epilepticus in one patient. Results: All S-100 levels were within the normal range, except for those of one patient at baseline. Mean values were 0.045 ,g/L (range, 0.003,0.13 ,g/L) at baseline, 0.038 ,g/L (range, 0.003,0.09 ,g/L) at 30 min, 0.036 ,g/L (range, 0.003,0.08 ,g/L) at 3 h, 0.034 ,g/L (range, 0.003,0.07 ,g/L) at 6 h, 0.034 ,g/L (range, 0.003,0.08 ,g/L) at 12 h, and 0.035 ,g/L (range, 0.003,0.09 ,g/L) at 24 h after seizure offset. There were no significant differences between mean concentrations at any interval postictally. Conclusions: We could not detect any significant alterations in serum S-100 protein concentration either after a single secondarily generalized tonic,clonic seizure or after convulsive status epilepticus in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy. Our data do not confirm previous work, which suggested serum S-100 protein to be a suitable marker for epileptic seizures. [source] Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Studies of the Development of Group Differences in Acoustic Features of Coo Calls in Two Groups of Japanese MacaquesETHOLOGY, Issue 1 2006Toshiaki Tanaka Japanese macaques, Macaca fuscata, frequently utter coo calls to maintain vocal contact. Cross-sectional and longitudinal comparisons were conducted on the acoustic features of coo vocalizations of two groups of M. fuscata, Yakushima and Ohirayama groups, to explore the possibility of vocal plasticity. These two groups derive from the same local population but have been separated for more than 34 yr. The Yakushima group is non-provisioned, while the Ohirayama group is provisioned. Initially, coo calls in the two groups were compared cross-sectionally in females ranging from 0 to 18 yr. Mean values of the four variables studied (start, end, maximum, and minimum frequencies) were consistently lower in all age groups of the Ohirayama individuals compared with the Yakushima individuals. Secondly, longitudinal comparisons were conducted on individuals in the 1,4 yr after birth. Mean values of the five frequency variables studied (start, end, maximum, minimum and average frequencies) were again consistently lower in all age groups of Ohirayama compared with Yakushima individuals, although mean values of both groups gradually declined with an increase in age. Inter-group differences were significant at all ages in minimum frequency and at the first, second and third years in start frequency. Longitudinal comparisons of individuals aged 4,11 mo were also conducted. Regarding the four variables that differed between the two groups in the cross-sectional study, the mean values of minimum and start frequency did not differ significantly between the two groups at 4,5 mo, but were significantly lower in Ohirayama individuals aged 7,8 and 9,11 mo. Although provisioning may have had an effect on the weight difference between the groups, and consequently on vocalization frequency, these results suggest that the inter-group differences in coo call features form approximately 6,7 mo after birth as a result of vocal plasticity. [source] Nitrosyl Ruthenium Diolato ComplexesEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF INORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 7 2005Michael Barth Abstract [mer -(dien)(NO)Ru(AnErytH,2)]BPh4·2,H2O (1), [mer -(dien)(NO)Ru(R,R -ChxdH,2)]BPh4 (2), [mer -(dien)(NO)Ru(EthdH,2)]BPh4 (3), and [mer -(dien)(NO)Ru(Me-,- D -Ribf2,3H,2)]BPh4·5.5,H2O (4) have been synthesized in the form of light pink crystals by the reaction of [mer -(dien)(NO)RuCl2]X with the respective diol in aqueous sodium hydroxide solution (dien = diethylenetriamine, AnEryt = anhydroerythritol, Chxd = cyclohexane-1,2-diol, Ethd = ethanediol, Rib = ribose; X = BPh4 or PF6). The nitrosyl ligand exhibits a strong trans influence which causes the trans -bonded oxygen atom of the diolato ligand to form a shorter bond with the Ru centre. Mean values are 2.038 for cis and 1.946 Å for transO -binding. Back donation is strongly supported by the diolato ligand resulting in low energies for the N,O stretch which can be observed as low as 1805 cm,1. trans -Oxygen atoms do not act as hydrogen-bond acceptors in any of the cases. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2005) [source] In vitro evaluation of marginal and internal adaptation after occlusal stressing of indirect class II composite restorations with different resinous basesEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORAL SCIENCES, Issue 1 2003Didier Dietschi Composite inlays are indicated for large cavities, which frequently extend cervically into dentin. The purpose of this study was to compare in vitro the marginal and internal adaptation of class II fine hybrid composite inlays (Herculite, Kerr) made with or without composite bases, having different physical properties. Freshly extracted human molars were used for this study. The base extended up to the cervical margins on both sides and was made from Revolution (Kerr), Tetric flow (Vivadent), Dyract (Detrey-Dentsply) or Prodigy (Kerr), respectively. Before, during and after mechanical loading (1 million cycles, with a force varying from 50 to 100 N), the proximal margins of the inlay were assessed by scanning electron microscopy. Experimental data were analysed using non-parametric tests. The final percentages of marginal tooth fracture varied from 30.7% (no base) to 37.6% (Dyract). In dentin, percentages of marginal opening varied from 9.2% (Tetric Flow) to 30.1% (Prodigy), however, without significant difference between base products. Mean values of opened internal interface with dentin varied from 11.06% (Tetric Flow) to 28.15% (Prodigy). The present results regarding dentin adaptation confirmed that the physical properties of a base can influence composite inlay adaptation and that the medium-rigid flowable composite Tetric Flow is a potential material to displace, in a coronal position, proximal margins underneath composite inlays. [source] Effect of bleaching agents on bonding to pulp chamber dentineINTERNATIONAL ENDODONTIC JOURNAL, Issue 4 2005S. Timpawat Abstract Aim, To determine the effect of intracoronal bleaching agents on adhesion of bonding agents to pulp chamber dentine. Methodology, Forty extracted human maxillary anterior teeth were randomly divided into four groups of 10 teeth each. Bleaching agents were sealed in pulp chambers for 7 days, as in clinical use. Group 1 (control): distilled water, group 2: 35% hydrogen peroxide, group 3: sodium perborate mixed with water, and group 4: sodium perborate mixed with 35% hydrogen peroxide. Teeth were stored in saline at 37 °C for 7 days. After the bleaching agent was removed, teeth were leached in water for a further 7 days prior to bonding. The crown was cut vertically from mesial to distal and the labial pulp chamber dentine was prepared for bonding with Clearfil SE-Bond and filled with resin composite (Clearfil AP-X). The bonded specimens were kept moist at 37 °C for 24 h. Microtensile bond strengths were determined using a universal testing machine. Additional teeth were prepared using the same bleaching procedures to investigate the scanning electron microscopic appearance of the dentine surface. Results, Mean values (±SD) of microtensile bond strength for the experimental groups were: group 1: 5.29 ± 2.21 MPa, group 2: 5.99 ± 1.51 MPa, group 3: 9.17 ± 1.65 MPa and group 4: 3.99 ± 1.31 MPa. Dentine treated with sodium perborate in water (group 3) had significantly higher mean bond strength when compared with the other three groups (P < 0.05, Tukey's test). Mean bond strength was lowest when dentine was treated with sodium perborate plus hydrogen peroxide (group 4). Conclusions, In terms of subsequent bond strength during restoration, sodium perborate mixed with distilled water appears to be the best intracoronal bleaching agent. [source] The efficacy of interdental brushes on plaque and parameters of periodontal inflammation: a systematic reviewINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DENTAL HYGIENE, Issue 4 2008DE Slot Abstract:, Aim:, The aim of the study was to asses the effect of the use of interdental brushes (IDB) in patients as an adjunct to toothbrushing compared with toothbrushing alone or other interdental oral hygiene devices on plaque and the clinical parameters of periodontal inflammation. Material and methods:, MEDLINE,PubMed and the Cochrane Central register of controlled trials (CENTRAL) were searched through November 2007 to identify appropriate studies. Clinical parameters of periodontal inflammation such as plaque, gingivitis, bleeding and pockets were selected as outcome variables. Results:, Independent screening of the titles and abstracts of 218 MEDLINE,PubMed and 116 Cochrane papers resulted in nine publications that met the eligibility criteria. Mean values and standard deviations were collected by data extraction. Descriptive comparisons are presented for brushing alone or brushing and woodsticks; meta-analyses were also performed for the floss comparison. Conclusion:, As an adjunct to brushing, the IDB removes more dental plaque than brushing alone. Studies showed a positive significant difference using IDB with respect to the plaque scores, bleeding scores and probing pocket depth. The majority of the studies presented a positive significant difference in the plaque index when using the IDB compared with floss. [source] Assessment of renal function with color Doppler ultrasound in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney diseaseINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 3 2001Akira Kondo Abstract Background: Measurement of renal blood flow by color Doppler ultrasound is useful for assessment of renal function in a variety of renal disorders. In autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), however, it might be difficult to visualize interlobar arteries because of deformity of renal structure. To evaluate the usefulness of color Doppler in ADPKD, parameters determined by blood flow examination were compared with the results of ordinal renal function tests. Methods: Twenty-one patients with ADPKD were examined by color Doppler ultrasound measurement. In each patient, 10 interlobar arteries in both kidneys were investigated. Minimum blood flow velocity (Vmin), maximum blood flow velocity (Vmax), mean blood flow velocity (Vmean), acceleration, resistive index and pulsatility index were measured in relation to the results of creatinine clearance, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen and 15 and 120 min values of the phenolsulfonphthalein test. Results: In all patients, interlobar arteries were able to be visualized and blood-flow profile was measured. Although variations of Vmin, Vmax, Vmean and acceleration were relatively large, the resistive index and pulsatility index varied little in each kidney. Mean values of Vmin (P < 0.005), Vmean (P < 0.05), resistive index (P < 0.005) and pulsatility index (P < 0.005) were well correlated to creatinine clearance with statistical significance. Conclusions: In ADPKD, color Doppler ultrasound measurement is a useful method for assessment of renal function and could be used for monitoring the dynamic state of renal blood flow as a non-invasive technique. [source] Effect of Timing and Nitrogen Fertilizer Application on Winter Oilseed Rape (Brassica napus L.). I. Growth Dynamics and Seed YieldJOURNAL OF AGRONOMY AND CROP SCIENCE, Issue 5 2004P. Bar Abstract The field experiments conducted on the grey-brown podzolic soil in the four growing seasons (1998,2001) at Krzeslice Farm, central-western Poland comprised seven fertilization variants: 80NF + 80CAN; 80CAN + 80CAN; 80AN + 80AN; 80NF + 50CAN + 30CN; 80CAN + 50CAN +30CN; 80AN + 50AN + 30CN (where NF , nitrofos NPK; CAN , calcium-ammonium nitrate; AN , ammonium nitrate; CN , calcium nitrate) and control (without N) applied in split rates at the beginning of spring regrowth (80 kg N ha,1), stem elongation (80 or 50) and flower buds visible stages (30). The yielding effect of tested fertilization variants was significant in comparison with the control (2.24 t ha,1). The highest mean seed yield (3.64 t ha,1) was collected from 80AN + 80AN and 80CAN + 80CAN variants. Mean values of 4 years indicate that the second N rate division (80 + 50 + 30) decreased yield, although not significantly in comparison with these two N treatments. Plants grown on these treatments have developed different patterns of growth to yield the seeds. These patterns were characterized by very high crop growth rate during flowering (above 21 g m,2 day,1) and negative at maturation (down to ,2.5 g m,2 day,1). Plants fertilized with ammonium nitrate (80AN + 80AN) reached maximum growth rate earlier (65 days), which lasted longer (20 days) than plants fertilized with calcium-ammonium nitrate (71 days lasting 17.5 days). Plants grown on the control treatment reached the highest crop growth rate within 79 days (14.8 g m,2 day,1), which lasted 15 days. [source] Physico-biochemical parameters and protein profiles of sperm from beluga Huso husoJOURNAL OF APPLIED ICHTHYOLOGY, Issue 5 2010P. Li Summary Basic physico-biochemical parameters and protein profiles of sperm from beluga (Huso huso), have been evaluated. The results show a stable spermatozoan velocity (ranging from 136.23 ± 5.63 to 105.78 ± 5.27 ,ms,1) and motility during 2 min post activation, as well as a long duration of the overall spermatozoa motility period (up to 5 min). Mean values were determined for seminal plasma protein concentration (0.29 ± 0.16 mg ml,1), spermatozoa concentration (0.28 ± 0.27 × 109 spz ml,1), seminal plasma osmolality (51.33 ± 4.91 mOsmol kg,1), the pH (8.49 ± 0.01) and Na+ (18.97 ± 3.65 mm), K+ (2.83 ± 1.36 mm), Ca2+ (0.19 ± 0.06 mm), Mg2+ (0.49 ± 0.23 mm) and Cl, (6.33 ± 0.58 mm) concentrations. Moreover, in seminal plasma, five protein bands with molecular weights (MW) of 71, 49, 46, 34, 29 kDa were identified. In spermatozoa, about 100 spots with molecular weights varying from 26.5 to 107 kDa and iso-electric points ranging from 5 to 9.5 were found. The observed physiological and biochemical properties, together with protein patterns, should be considered for the development of methods for controlled reproduction and sperm cryopreservation for the highly endangered beluga sturgeon. [source] Psychological profile in oral lichen planusJOURNAL OF CLINICAL PERIODONTOLOGY, Issue 10 2005Kiro Ivanovski Abstract Aim: Oral lichen planus (OLP) is an oral lesion with an enigmatic etiology. To explore the possibility of psycho-somatization, we evaluated the psychological personality profiles of OLP patients. Methods: Twenty patients with reticular; 20 with erosive form of OLP, and 25 controls were tested with the psychological Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI)-202 test. Eight clinical scales (hypochondriasis, depression, hysteria, psychopathic deviate, paranoia, psychasthenia, schizophrenia, and hypomania) as well as cortisol level, CD3, CD4, CD8, and CD16 markers by group were compared. Psychosomatization was evaluated by the use of internalization ratio (IR) Index. Results: A characteristic MMPI profile was noted in the OLP groups with high IR index value. Significant differences among the groups were detected for cortisol, CD4, CD8, and CD16 counts. Mean values for hypochondriasis, depression, and hysteria were all significantly different with significantly higher mean scores for both reticular and erosive OLP subjects compared with controls. Conclusions: Prolonged emotive stress in many OLP patients may lead to psychosomatization and may contribute to the initiation and clinical expression of this oral disorder. Clinical significance: If additional research involving a larger and more diverse sample of patients confirms these findings, clinical trials will be needed to determine whether adjunctive psychological intervention provides a benefit in treating patients with OLP. [source] Effect of interleukin-1 gene polymorphism in a periodontally healthy Hispanic population treated with mucogingival surgeryJOURNAL OF CLINICAL PERIODONTOLOGY, Issue 2 2002Raul G. Caffesse Abstract Objectives: A genetic test for susceptibility of periodontal disease has been introduced. A positive test indicates a risk factor for more severe periodontal destruction. The prevalence of genotype positive subjects has been reported around 30%. In a Mexican population, we have found a 26% prevalence of genotype positive individuals. Few studies have reported the response to therapy in these individuals. The purpose of this study was to assess the response to mucogingival surgery in an otherwise periodontally healthy Hispanic population. Materials and methods: 22 subjects (7 male and 15 female) with a mean age of 45 years participated. They were treated 3 years prior for the treatment of Types I and II recession defects using connective tissue grafts. No other active periodontal treatment was required, except for preventive maintenance. A full-mouth clinical evaluation was performed which included assessment of gingival inflammation and measurements of probing pocket depth and clinical attachment levels. Mean values per patient were determined. A finger stick blood sample was collected using specially provided DNA filter paper, let dried, and mailed for processing. Results: Results indicated that 5 out of the 22 subjects were genotype positive. The genotype positive subjects presented the following values: GI 1.13±0.17, PPD 2.48±0.46, and CAL 3.38±0.66. The values for the genotype negative subjects were GI 1.06±0.14, PPD 2.38±0.31 and CAL 3.11±0.53. No statistical significant differences were found when both groups were compared (p>0.05). Furthermore, the treatment of the localized recessions was effective and provided similar amount of coverage in genotype positive and negative subjects. However, more genotype negative subjects showed complete coverage of the recession than genotype positive individuals. Conclusions: Within the limits of this study it is concluded that (1) periodontal health can be maintained with proper preventive maintenance irrespective of the genotype present, (2) the mean response to mucogingival surgery to cover localized gingival recessions is similar irrespective of the IL-1 periodontal genotype, however, full coverage is achieved more frequently in genotype negative subjects. Zusammenfassung Ziele: Es wurde ein Gentest für die Anfälligkeit bezüglich einer Parodontalerkrankung eingeführt. Ein positiver Test ist ein Zeichen für einen Risikofaktor für eine stärkere parodontale Destruktion. Die Prävalenz von genotyp-positiven Personen wurde mit etwa 30% angegeben. In einer mexikanischen Population haben wir eine Prävalenz von 26% von genotyp-positiven Individuen vorgefunden. Nur wenige Studien haben bei diesen Patienten über die Reaktion auf die Therapie berichtet. Der Zweck dieser Studie war es die Heilung nach mukogingivaler Chirurgie in einer im Übrigen parodontal gesunden Population mit spanischen Abstammung. Material und Methode: 22 Patienten (7 Männer und 15 Frauen) mit einem Durchschnittsalter von 45 Jahren nahmen an der Studie teil. Sie wurden vor 3 Jahren zur Deckung einer Rezession von Typ I oder II mit einem Bindegewebetransplantat behandelt. Es war keine weitere parodontale Behandlung außer präventiven Erhaltungstherapie notwendig. Es wurde eine vollständige klinische Untersuchung des Gebisses durchgeführt, die die Bestimmung der gingivalen Etnzündung, sowie die Messung der Sondierungstiefe und des klinischen Attachmentniveaus beinhaltete. Es wurden für jeden Patienten die Mittelwerte bestimmt. Eine Blutprobe von der Fingerbeere wurde entnommen, auf ein specielles DNA-Filterpapier aufgetragen, getrocknet und zur Weiterverarbeitung versendet. Ergebnisse: Die Ergebnisse zeigten, dass 5 von 22 Patienten genotyp-positiven waren. Die genotyp-positiven Patienten wiesen folgende Werte auf: GI 1.13±0.17, PPD 2.48±0.46 und CAL 3.38±0.66. Die Werte für die genotyp-negativen Patienten betrugen: GI 1.06±0.14, PPD 2.38±0.31 und CAL 3.11±0.53. Beim Vergleich beider Gruppen ergaben sich keine statistisch signifikanten Unterschiede (p>0.05). Des weiteren war die Behandlung der lokalisierten Rezession effektiv und lieferte bei genotyp-positiven und genotyp-negativen Patienten einen ähnlichen Anteil an Wurzeldeckung. Jedoch zeigten mehr genotyp-negative Patienten eine vollständige Rezessionsdeckung als genotyp-positive Patienten. Schlussfolgerungen: Mit den Einschränkungen dieser Studie kann die Schlussfolgerung gezogen werden, dass (1) unabhängig vom vorliegenden Genotyp mit geeigneten präventiven Maßnahmen die parodontale Gesundheit erhalten werden kann und (2) dass unabhängig vom IL-1-Genotyp, die durchschnittliche Reaktion auf die mukogingivale Chirurgie zur Deckung von lokalisierten Gingivarezessionen ähnlich ist. Jedoch wird eine vollständige Deckung häufiger bei genotyp-negativen Patienten erreicht. Résumé But: Un test génétique pour la suscpetibilitéà la maladie parodontale est présenté. Un test positif indique un facteur de risque pour une destruction parodontale plus sévère. La fréquence globale de sujets positifs au génotype semblerait être de 30%. Dans une population mexicaine, une fréquence globale de 26% d'individus positifs pour le génotype a été trouvée. Peu d'études ont apporté la réponse au traitement chez ces individus. Le but de cette investigation a été de mesurer la réponse de la chirurgie muco-gingivale dans une population hispanique parodontalement saine. Matériaux et méthodes: 7 hommes et 15 femmes d'un âge moyen de 45 ans y ont participé. Ils avaient été traités 3 ans auparavant pour des lésions de récession de type I et II en utilisant des greffes de tissu conjonctif. Aucun autre traitement parodontal actif n'avait été requis, sauf pour la maintenance. Une évaluation clinique de toute la bouche a été effectuée comprenant l'estimation de l'inflammation gingivale et les measures de la profondeur de poche au sondage et des niveaux d'attache clinique. Les valeurs moyennes par patient ont été déterminées. Un échantillon sanguin par piqûre du doigt a été récolté en utilisant un papier filtre ADN, qui fût séché et envoyé pour analyse. Résultats: Les résultats ont indiqué que 5 des 22 sujets étaient génotype positif. Ces sujets présentaient les valeurs suivantes: GI 1.13±0.17, PPD 2.48±0.46 mm et CAL 3.38±0.66 mm. Les valeurs chez les sujets génotype négatif étaient: GI 1.06±0.14, PPD 2.38±0.31 mm et CAL 3.11±0.53 mm. Aucune différence statistiquement significative n'a été trouvée lorsque les deux groupes ont été comparés. De plus le traitement des récessions locales était effectif et apportait une quantité semblable de recouvrement chez les deux types de sujets. Cependant davantage de sujets génotype négatif bénéficiaient d'un recouvrement complet de la récession. Conclusions: Dans les limites d l'étude présente: (1) la santé parodontale peut être maintenue avec des mesures préventives quelque soit le génotype présent, (2) la réponse moyenne de la chirurgie muco-gingivale pour recouvrir des récessions gingivales locales est semblable quelque soit le génotype parodontal IL-1, bien qu'un recouvrement complet est plus souvent réalisé chez les sujets génotype négatif. [source] New Shade Guide for Evaluation of Tooth Whitening,Colorimetric StudyJOURNAL OF ESTHETIC AND RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY, Issue 5 2007RADE D. PARAVINA DDS ABSTRACT Statement of the Problem:, Available shade guides lack colorimetric uniformity, which compromises the validity of visual evaluation of tooth whitening efficacy. Purpose:, The objective of this study was to perform a colorimetric analysis of a new shade guide designed primarily for the visual evaluation of tooth whitening efficacy and to compare this shade guide with two commercial shade guides. Materials and Methods:, Color ranges and color distribution of three shade guides (prototype of the new Vita Bleachedguide 3D-Master [BG, Vita Zahnfabrik, Bad Säckingen, Germany], value scale of Vitapan Classical [VC, Vita], and color-ordered Trubyte Bioform porcelain shade guide [TB, Dentsply International, York, PA, USA]) were analyzed (N=3). A circular area (d=1.7 mm) on the middle of the labial surface of the tab, excluding the cervical portion, was measured with a spectroradiometer (D65, 2). Whiteness and yellowness indices were computed. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance and Fisher's PLSD test at a 0.05 level of significance. Results:, The range of color difference (,E*) from the lightest to the darkest tab was 33.8 (BG), 17.1 (VC), and 23.2 (TB). Mean values of ,E* among pairs of adjacent tabs were 3.0 (BG), 4.2 (VC), and 3.3 (TB). BG exhibited the highest R2 values between color coordinate pairs and between whiteness and yellowness indices with the respective color coordinates. Conclusions:, BG exhibited the widest color range and had the most consistent color distribution as compared with the two commercial products. Extension of the lightness range of BG toward higher L* values (bleach shades) was confirmed. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE A dental shade guide that is colorimetrically uniform might increase the reliability of visual comparisons of tooth whitening efficacy, whereas the inclusion of realistic bleaching shades in the shade guide will complement contemporary esthetic dentistry. (J Esthet Restor Dent 19:276,283, 2007) [source] Phase-equilibrium constraints on titanite and rutile activities in mafic epidote amphibolites and geobarometry using titanite,rutile equilibriaJOURNAL OF METAMORPHIC GEOLOGY, Issue 7 2009P. KAPP Abstract Activities of titanite (Ttn, CaTiSiO5) and/or rutile (Rt, TiO2) phase components were calculated for 45 well-characterized natural titanite- or rutile-undersaturated epidote,amphibolites by using the equilibria: (i) 3 anorthite + 2 zoisite/clinozoisite + rutile + quartz = 3 anorthite + titanite + water (referred to as TZARS) and (ii) anorthite + 2 titanite = grossular + 2 rutile + quartz (referred to as GRATiS). In titanite-bearing and rutile-absent samples aRt is 0.75 ± 0.26. In titanite-absent, rutile-bearing samples aTtn is 0.89 ± 0.16. Mean values derived for aRt/aTtn are 0.92 ± 0.12 for rutile + titanite-bearing samples and 0.42 ± 0.27 for samples lacking both titanite and rutile. Use of these values with TZARS yields pressure estimates for epidote,amphibolites that differ on average by <0.5 kbar from those recorded by established mineral barometers, even where both titanite and rutile are lacking. Despite rather large uncertainties in the average values obtained for aRt, aTtn or aRt/aTtn, application of TZARS yields pressure estimates that agree with independent estimates to within ±0.5 kbar for titanite- and/or rutile-saturated samples, and to within ±0.8 kbar for samples that contain neither Ti-phase. The accuracy and precision of the TZARS barometer are comparable to that of many well-calibrated barometers. TZARS offers a much-needed barometer for mafic rocks metamorphosed at epidote-bearing amphibolite and blueschist facies conditions. In addition, the results provide a basis for application of other thermobarometers, such as Ti-in-zircon, where rutile activity is required as input. [source] Parotid sialosis: morphometrical analysis of the glandular parenchyme and stroma among diabetic and alcoholic patientsJOURNAL OF ORAL PATHOLOGY & MEDICINE, Issue 1 2010Carolina Merlo J Oral Pathol Med (2010) 39: 10,15 Background:, Among the agents that cause parotid sialosis, diabetes mellitus type 2 and chronic alcoholism are included. In this study, the morphometrical modifications in the diabetic parotid sialosis were determined to compare them with the histopathological characteristics of alcoholic parotid sialosis. Methods:, Five parotid biopsy samples obtained from patients with diabetic sialosis, 12 samples from patients with alcoholic sialosis and seven from individuals without these pathologies (control group) were analyzed. A morphometrical study of parotid parenchyme and stroma, using a digital image analyzer attached to an optical microscope, was carried out. Dimensions of serous acini and striated ducts, the area occupied by the fatty tissue, and the number of ducts were recorded. Mean values were compared using the Mann,Whitney U -test (P , 0.05). Results:, The variables analyzed in diabetic patients did not show significant differences with respect to the control group. However, when diabetics were compared with alcoholics, the alcoholics exhibited a noticeable reduction in the proportion of fatty tissue of stroma and a significant development of ductal epithelium that contributed to increase the caliber of the striated ducts. Conclusions:, These results indicate that the glandular hypertrophy in the diabetic parotid sialosis is not directly associated with the ductal and acinar size, amount of fatty tissue and ductal hyperplasy. Nevertheless, these findings show that the ductal dimensions and the proportion of adipose tissue are variables that allow us to establish histopathological differences between diabetic and alcoholic sialosis. [source] Improvement in Quality of Life After Treatment for Alcohol Dependence With Acamprosate and Psychosocial SupportALCOHOLISM, Issue 1 2004Marsha Y. Morgan Abstract: Background: The impact of disease on health-related quality of life is now well recognized, as is the importance of this variable as a measure of treatment efficacy. Methods: Patients from five European countries were enrolled in an open, multicenter, prospective study designed to observe outcome in dependent drinkers treated for 6 months with acamprosate and psychosocial support. Version 1 of the 36-item Short Form Health Profile (SF-36v1) questionnaire was administered at inclusion and at 3 and 6 months. Responses were described as handicaps compared with an appropriately matched, healthy reference population. One-way fixed ANOVA and simultaneous stepwise linear regression analysis were used to identify potential predictors of quality of life at baseline and after treatment. Results: Baseline SF-36v1 data were obtained from 1216 patients (mean age, 43 ± 9 years; 77% male). Mean values for all SF-36v1 dimensions were significantly lower in the patient population than in the normative reference population; the most important deficits were observed in physical and emotional role limitations and in social functioning. The most important predictors of baseline quality of life were severity of alcohol dependence, employment status, psychiatric history, quantity and frequency of alcohol consumption, attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous, global alcohol health status, age, gender, and education. SF-36v1 data were obtained from 686 patients at 3 months and from 497 at 6 months. Significant improvements were observed in all SF-36v1 dimensional and summary scores after 3 months of treatment (p < 0.001); further marginal improvements were observed between 3 and 6 months. The most important predictors of quality of life following treatment were the SF-36v1 profile at baseline, followed by abstinence duration; patients who completed the trial and remained abstinent throughout showed the greatest improvement. Conclusions: Health-related quality of life is severly impaired in dependent drinkers. Treatment with acamprosate and psychosocial support, by promoting abstinence, improves the quality of life profile to levels comparable to those observed in healthy individuals. [source] Pharmacokinetics and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic integration of orbifloxacin in Korean Hanwoo cattleJOURNAL OF VETERINARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 3 2009G. ELIAS The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of orbifloxacin were studied in six clinically healthy Hanwoo cows after intravenous (i.v.) and intramuscular (i.m.) administration at a dose of 3 mg/kg. Orbifloxacin concentrations were determined by high performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. Steady-state volume of distribution and clearance of orbifloxacin after i.v. administration were 0.92 L/kg and 0.24 L/h·kg, respectively. Following i.m. administration, a slow and complete absorption with absolute bioavailability of 101.4%, and a maximum concentration (Cmax) of 1.17 ,g/mL at 1.04 h were observed. The in vitro serum protein binding was 14.76%. The in vitro antibacterial activity of orbifloxacin against a pathogenic strain of Mannheimia haemolytica (M. haemolytica), Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) was determined. The ex vivo activity of orbifloxacin against M. haemolytica strain was also determined, and these data were integrated with the ex vivo bacterial counts to establish AUC24h/MIC values producing bacteriostatic action, bactericidal action and elimination of bacteria. Mean values were 32.7, 51.6 and 102.6 h, respectively. From these data, we predict that orbifloxacin, when administered i.m. at a dosage of 2.5,5 mg/kg once a day, would be effective against bovine pathogens, such as M. haemolytica. Additional studies may be needed to confirm its efficacy in a clinical setting, and to evaluate the penetration of the drug in diseased tissues. [source] Effect of the proton motive force inhibitor carbonyl cyanide- m -chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP) on Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm developmentLETTERS IN APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 4 2008A. Ikonomidis Abstract Aims:, Proton motive force (PMF) inhibition enhances the intracellular accumulation of autoinducers possibly interfering with biofilm formation. We evaluated the effect of the PMF inhibitor carbonyl cyanide- m -chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP) on Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm development. Methods and Results:, Four epidemiologically unrelated P. aeruginosa isolates were studied. A MexAB-oprM overproducing strain was used as control. Expression of gene mexB was examined and biofilm formation after incubation with 0, 12·5 and 25 ,mol l,1 of CCCP was investigated. Mean values of optical density were analysed with one-way analysis of variance and t -test. Two isolates subexpressed mexB gene and only 25 ,mol l,1 of CCCP affected biofilm formation. Biofilms of the other two isolates and control strain PA140 exhibited significantly lower absorbance (P ranging from <0·01 to <0·05) with either 12·5 or 25 ,mol l,1 of CCCP. Conclusions:, The PMF inhibitor CCCP effect was correlated with the expression of MexAB-OprM efflux system and found to compromise biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa. Significance and Impact of the Study:, These data suggest that inhibition of PMF-dependent trasporters might decrease biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa. [source] Differences among forced-air warming systems with upper body blankets are small.ACTA ANAESTHESIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 9 2003A randomized trial for heat transfer in volunteers Background:, Forced-air warming is known as an effective procedure in prevention and treatment of perioperative hypothermia. Significant differences have been described between forced-air warming systems in combination with full body blankets. We investigated four forced-air warming systems in combination with upper body blankets for existing differences in heat transfer. Methods:, After approval of the local Ethics Committee and written informed consent, four forced-air warming systems combined with upper body blankets were investigated in a randomized cross-over trial on six healthy volunteers: (1) BairHuggerÔ 505 and Upper Body Blanket 520, Augustine Medical; (2) ThermaCareÔ TC 3003, GaymarÔ and OptisanÔ Upper Body Blanket, Brinkhaus; (3) WarmAirÔ 134 and FilteredFlowÔ Upper Body Blanket, CSZ; and (4) WarmTouchÔ 5800 and CareDrapeÔ Upper Body Blanket, Mallinckrodt. Heat transfer from the blanket to the body surface was measured with 11 calibrated heat flux transducers (HFTs) with integrated thermistors on the upper body. Additionally, the blanket temperature was measured 1 cm above the HFT. After a preparation time of 60 min measurements were started for 20 min. Mean values were calculated over 20 min. The t -test for matched pairs with Bonferroni-Holm-correcture for multiple testing was used for statistical evaluation at a P -level of 0.05. The values are presented as mean±SD. Results:, The WarmTouchÔ blower with the CareDrapeÔ blanket obtained the best heat flux (17.0±3.5 W). The BairHuggerÔ system gave the lowest heat transfer (8.1±1.1 W). The heat transfer of the ThermaCareÔ system and WarmAirÔ systems were intermediate with 14.3±2.1 W and 11.3±1.0 W. Conclusions:, Based on an estimated heat loss from the covered area of 38 W the heat balance is changed by 46.1 W to 55 W by forced-air warming systems with upper body blankets. Although the differences in heat transfer are significant, the clinical relevance of this difference is small. [source] Effectiveness of Acupuncture in Patients with Category IIIB Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: A Report of 97 PatientsPAIN MEDICINE, Issue 4 2010Volkan Tugcu MD Abstract Objective., Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is of significant interest in urology and unfortunately, the therapy modalities recommended are not fully effective. Therefore, we undertook a pilot study to determine whether acupuncture improves the pain, voiding symptoms, and quality of life in men with category IIIB CP/CPPS. Design., Prospective, one-group trial, cohort study. Setting., Outpatient urology clinic. Patients and Interventions., Ninety-seven CP/CPPS patients received six sessions of acupuncture to the BL-33 acupoints once a week. The National Institute of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI) was completed by each patient before and after the treatment and on 12th and 24th weeks following the treatment. Outcome Measures., Mean values of total CPSI score, pain subscore, urinary subscore, and quality of life subscore after the treatment and on follow-up after the treatment were compared with the baseline values. Results., There was a statistically significant decrease in all of the subscores evaluated at all periods compared with the baseline. Eighty-six patients out of 93 (92.47%) were NIH-CPSI responders (more than 50% decrease in total NIH-CPSI score from baseline) at the end of the treatment. Conclusions., The results of this study suggest that acupuncture appears to be a safe and potentially effective treatment in improving the symptoms and quality of life of men clinically diagnosed with CP/CPPS. [source] Single-breath exhaled nitric oxide in preschool children facilitated by a servo-controlled device maintaining constant flow,PEDIATRIC PULMONOLOGY, Issue 6 2004Philip E. Silkoff MD Abstract Fractional concentration of exhaled nitric oxide (FENO), an index of airway inflammation, is optimally measured in adults and school-age children using a single-breath online (SBOL) exhalation at constant flow. However, preschool-aged (<6 years old) children have difficulty exhaling at constant flow, and alternative methods are needed. We employed a servo-controlled variable resistance device (servo device) that controls expiratory flow while allowing the child to vary expiratory pressure. To validate this device, 8 children (aged 6,12 years) performed SBOL exhalations with and without the servo device at expired flow rates between 20,50 ml/sec. We then studied 32 young children aged 24,71 months with the servo device alone at exhalation flows of 30, 40, and 50 ml/sec. Test difficulty (TD) with each method was rated by questioning the older children, or as observed by the physician obtaining the data in the younger children (0,=,no difficulty, 1,=,mild difficulty, 2,=,moderate difficulty, and 3,=,unable to perform test). In the older children, SBOL exhalations with and without the servo device demonstrated equivalent flow-dependence of FENO values. Test difficulty was low (0.125,0.625) at all flow rates, with excellent agreement between the two methods (P,<,0.001). Twenty-eight young children (<6 years old) were able to complete measurements at all three flow rates evaluated. The 4 subjects who were not able to successfully complete all the measurements were between 2,3 years old (mean 2.75,±,SD). Exhaled NO (mean,±,SD; ppb) was 8.8 (±6.2), 10.6 (±6.7), and 13.2 (±8.8) ppb at flows of 50 ml/sec, 40 ml/sec, and 30 ml/sec, respectively. Mean values of SD scores were 1.00, 1.14, and 1.43 at flows of 50, 40, and 30 ml/sec, respectively (P,=,NS). In conclusion, exhaled NO measurement by the SBOL method was facilitated in preschool children by the use of a servo-controlled variable resistance device. This device may allow these measurements to be applied to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of asthma in the preschool child, where spirometry is generally impossible. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2004; 37:554,558. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Prevalence of overweight among adolescent females in the United Arab EmiratesAMERICAN JOURNAL OF HUMAN BIOLOGY, Issue 6 2003Huda M. Al-Hourani The purpose of the study was to investigate the prevalence of overweight in adolescent females in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). A total of 898 females, ages 11,18 years, were recruited from five of the seven Emirates with the highest resident Emirati population. Height, weight, triceps skinfold thickness (TSF), and mid-upper-arm circumference were measured in each subject. Reference data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) were used for comparison. At risk for overweight or overweight were defined as a body mass index (BMI, kg/m2) ,85,95th percentile and ,95th percentile, respectively. Mean values for BMI and TSF at all ages were higher than the 50th percentile (median) of the NHANES reference data. Using the BMI classification, 14% and 9% of all subjects were classified as at risk for overweight or overweight, respectively. The proportion of subjects at risk for overweight ranged between 7,19% and the prevalence of overweight ranged between 6,15%. The proportion of subjects with a BMI ,85 percentile ranged from 15% at age 17 years to 33% at age 11 years. Furthermore, 27% and 28% of subjects ages 11 and 12 years, respectively, were above the TSF 90th percentile. These two age groups also showed a high prevalence of overweight using the BMI classification. In conclusion, the findings from our study suggest that a high proportion of adolescent females in the UAE are overweight or at risk for overweight. The consequences of this are a serious concern for public health and need to be addressed. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 15:758,764, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Secular trend in peak oxygen consumption among United States youth in the 20th centuryAMERICAN JOURNAL OF HUMAN BIOLOGY, Issue 6 2002Joey C. Eisenmann The purpose of this study was to examine secular change in peak oxygen consumption (Vo2) in U.S. boys and girls using available data from the 20th century. Studies were primarily identified from review articles and a Medline search. To be included in the analysis, studies must have included direct measurement of peak Vo2 on healthy (free from overt disease) United States children and youth from the general population separated by sex. Data (mean values) were divided by decade and separated into three age groups: 6,12, 13,15, and 16,18 years for boys, and 6,11, 12,14, and 15,18 years for girls. Peak Vo2 values were expressed as related to bipedal locomotion; therefore, cycle ergometry values were corrected by a factor of 1.075. Mean values were fit by least squares, goodness-of-fit regression lines. Results indicate that absolute (L·min,1) and relative (ml·kg,1·min,1) peak Vo2 have remained relatively stable among boys and young girls. In adolescent girls, particularly those 15 years of age and older, peak Vo2 has decreased by approximately 20% over the past few decades. The available data indicate that aerobic fitness has not decreased in United States youth except in adolescent girls over the past few decades. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 14:699,706, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Changes in leaf photosynthetic parameters with leaf position and nitrogen content within a rose plant canopy (Rosa hybrida)PLANT CELL & ENVIRONMENT, Issue 4 2000M. M. Gonzalez-Real ABSTRACT This paper deals with changes in leaf photosynthetic capacity with depth in a rose (Rosa hybrida cv. Sonia) plant canopy. Measurements of leaf net CO2 assimilation (Al) and total nitrogen content (Nl) were performed in autumn under greenhouse conditions on mature leaves located at different layers within the plant canopy, including the flower stems and the main shoots. These leaves were subjected (i) to contrasting levels of CO2 partial pressure (pa) at saturating photosynthetic photon flux density (I about 1000 ,mol m,2 s,1) and (ii) to saturating CO2 partial pressure (pa about 100 Pa) and varying I, while conditions of temperature were those prevailing in the greenhouse (20,38 °C). A biochemical model of leaf photosynthesis relating Al to intercellular CO2 partial pressure (pi) was parameterized for each layer of leaves, supplying corresponding values of the photosynthetic Rubisco capacity (Vlm) and the maximum rate of electron transport (Jm). The results indicated that rose leaves growing at the top of the canopy had higher values of Jm and Vlm, which resulted from a higher allocation of nitrogen to the uppermost leaves. Mean values of total leaf nitrogen, Nl, decreased about 35% from the uppermost leaves of flower stem to leaves growing at the bottom of the plant. The derived values of non-photosynthetic nitrogen, Nb, varied from 76 mmolN m,2leaf (layer 1) to 60 mmolN m,2leaf (layer 4), representing a large fraction of Nl (50 and 60% in layer 1 and 4, respectively). Comparison of leaf photosynthetic nitrogen (Np=Nl,Nb) and I profiles supports the hypothesis that rose leaves acclimate to the time-integrated absorbed I. The relationships between I and Np, obtained during autumn, spring and summer, indicate that rose leaves seem also to acclimate their photosynthetic capacity seasonally, by allocating more photosynthetic nitrogen to leaves in autumn and spring than in summer. [source] Computer-assisted tibia preparation for total ankle arthroplasty: a cadaveric studyTHE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ROBOTICS AND COMPUTER ASSISTED SURGERY, Issue 4 2007Samuel B. Adams Jr Abstract Background Most surgeons performing total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) suggest that accurate tibial preparation perpendicular to the tibial shaft axis improves outcomes. Recent studies demonstrate that computerized surgical navigation significantly improves the accuracy of tibial preparation in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Methods We performed the tibial preparation for TAA in seven matched pairs of cadaver lower extremities. One set of matched pairs was prepared using the conventional external tibial alignment guide/cutting block from the Scandanavian Total Ankle Replacement system (STAR, Waldemar Link GmbH & Co., Hamburg, Germany) under fluoroscopic guidance. The second set of matched pairs was prepared using the VectorVision® navigation system (BrainLAB, Munich, Germany), with currently available computed tomography (CT)-based TKA software. Pre-operative CT data were used to assess the tibial mechanical axis. In both groups, accuracy of the tibial plafond preparation relative to the tibial shaft axis in both the coronal and sagittal planes was determined by fluoroscopic, radiographic and CT analysis. Results Mean values of the tibial cut for the set of matched-pair tibiae prepared by the conventional surgical method ranged across the three imaging assessment techniques in the ranges 89.3,89.6° (coronal plane, anteroposterior) and 90.3,90.4° (sagittal plane, lateral). For the computer-navigated set, the values were 89.7,89.9° (coronal) and 89.1,89.4° (sagittal). Comparison between the conventional and computer-navigated tibial measurements were not different at the 95% confidence interval (CI) for CT, fluoroscopy or radiographic assessments. Conclusions Our results demonstrate that accuracy of TAA tibial preparation using computer-navigation equals that of the conventional technique performed by a foot and ankle surgeon experienced in TAA. We anticipate that this investigation will encourage the development of computer-navigation applications specific to TAA, with the potential of improving accuracy over conventional methods. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Pharmacokinetics and allometric scaling of levormeloxifene, a selective oestrogen receptor modulatorBIOPHARMACEUTICS AND DRUG DISPOSITION, Issue 3 2003O. Østerberg Abstract The pharmacokinetics of a new selective oestrogen receptor modulator levormeloxifene was investigated in mice, rats, cynomolgus monkeys and humans by compartmental pharmacokinetics. Levormeloxifene was administered as an oral solution in all studies. Allometric scaling was used to predict human pharmacokinetic parameters and the performance of the approach was evaluated. Mean values of clearance confounded by F(CL/F) were 0.073, 0.29, 3.18 and 2.4 l/h in mice, rats, monkeys and humans, respectively. Values of distribution volume at steady state confounded by F(Vss/F) were 0.073 and 7.5 l in mice and rats. In monkeys, values of the central volume F(Vc/F) and volume at steady state F(Vss/F) were 28.9 and 57.9 l, respectively. In humans, values of Vc/F and Vss/F were 106 and 587 l, respectively. Predicted CL/F and Vss/F showed a linear relationship when plotted vs BW on a log,log scale; for CL/F, r was 0.95,0.98 and for Vss/F, r was 0.99. Using allometric scaling the predicted human Vss/F deviated 3-fold from the experimentally determined values. Observed values of CL/F deviated 21,25 fold from the predicted, the latter depending on the scaling method. Confidence intervals for the predicted parameters showed major lack of precision for all the allometric scaling methods. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Repeated measures of macular pigment optical density to test reproducibility of heterochromatic flicker photometryACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 2 2010Stefan Hagen Abstract. Purpose:, To report the reproducibility of macular pigment optical density (MPOD) values assessed with heterochromatic flicker photometry (HFP) in healthy individuals. Methods:, Twenty-four volunteers from our department underwent MPOD testing of both eyes by flicker photometry on three separate occasions. To test reproducibility of MPOD, the coefficient of variance was calculated separately for right and left eyes. In addition, we investigated MPOD averages of right and left eyes and interocular correlations (Pearson's r) at every visit. Results:, The mean MPODs at the first visit were 0.61 ± 0.24 and 0.72 ± 0.27 in right and left eyes, respectively. Mean values of 0.58 ± 0.29 and 0.60 ± 0.21 (second visit) and 0.62 ± 0.27 and 0.63 ± 0.24 (third visit) were assessed for right and left eyes, respectively. Differences of the mean values between eyes were not significant. Correlations were weak at visits one and two (r = 0.49, p < 0.014 and r = 0.43, p < 0.038, respectively) and moderate at visit three (r = 0.58, p < 0.003). The coefficients of variance were 36.1% and 23% for right and left eyes, respectively. Conclusion:, Our mean MPODs are higher and the interocular correlations weaker compared to the literature. The coefficient of variance in both eyes is high and does not imply good reproducibility of obtained MPOD values. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||