bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing bar and double‐crown attachments in implant‐retained prosthetic reconstruction: a follow‐up investigation
Authors: Eitner Stephan , Schlegel Andreas , Emeka Nkenke , Holst Stefan , Will Joachim , Hamel Jörg
Published: March 2008

Objectives: A removable implant‐retained dental prosthesis in an edentulous mandible can use telescopic crowns or a bar superstructure as anchorage elements for an overdenture. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical results for bar‐anchored and telescopic crown‐retained overdentures in implant prosthetic treatment of the toothless lower jaw with two or more implants placed in the intraforaminal region.

Material and methods: A clinical and radiographical comparison was made of the telescope vs. the bar method for removable prosthetic rehabilitation treatments in patients with an edentulous mandible. For evaluation of the clinical data, the sulcus fluid flow rate, Periotest values, and the peri‐implant bone loss were recorded.

Results: In the follow‐up examinations, 19 implant losses were reported between insertion and review of 328 implants. The frequency distribution of the observed loss rates showed no treatment‐specific trend. In the group with bar‐treated implants, failure led to ‘group loss’ of the whole prosthetic superstructure. Failure of one of the double‐crown‐stabilized full dental prosthesis could usually be adapted so that the overdenture remained usable even without re‐implantation.

Conclusions: After comparing all the clinical parameters evaluated, no significant difference between the stabilization of full dentures via conus and telescopic crowns and bar‐anchored dentures could be found. The choice of one particular method remains the decision of the professional treating the patient.
Temperature changes in dental implants following exposure to hot substances in an ex vivo model
Authors: Feuerstein Osnat , Zeichner Kobi , Imbari Chen , Ormianer Zeev , Samet Nachum , Weiss Ervin I.
Published: March 2008

Objectives: The habitual consumption of extremely hot foods and beverages may affect implant treatment modality. Our objectives were to: (i) establish the maximum temperature produced intra‐orally while consuming very hot substances and (ii) use these values in an ex vivo model to assess the temperature changes along the implant–bone interface.

Materials and methods: Temperatures were measured using thermocouples linked to a computer. The thermocouple electrodes were attached to the tooth–gum interface of the interproximal areas in 14 volunteers during consumption of extremely hot foods and beverages. The in vivo measured temperature values obtained were used in an ex vivo model of a bovine mandible block with an implant and with an assembled abutment. Temperatures were measured by thermocouple electrodes attached to five locations, three of them along the implant–bone interface.

Results: During consumption of a hot beverage, a maximum temperature of up to 76.3°C was recorded, and a calculated extreme intra‐oral temperature of 61.4°C was established. The ex vivo model showed a high correlation between the temperature measured at the abutment and that measured at the abutment–implant interface and inside the implant, reaching maximum temperatures close to 60°C. At the mid‐implant–bone and apical implant–bone interfaces, the maximum temperatures measured were 43.3 and 42°C, respectively.

Conclusions: The maximum temperatures measured at the implant–bone interfaces reached the temperature threshold of transient changes in bone (42°C). The results of this study support the notion that intra‐oral temperatures, developed during the consumption of very hot substances, may be capable of damaging peri‐implant tissues.
Biologic width changes around loaded implants inserted in different levels in relation to crestal bone: histometric evaluation in canine mandible
Authors: Pontes Ana Emí lia Farias , Ribeiro Fernando Salimon , Iezzi Giovanna , Piattelli Adriano , Cirelli Joni Augusto , Marcantonio Jr Elcio
Published: March 2008

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate histometric changes around dental implants inserted at different levels in relation to the crestal bone, under different loading conditions.

Material and methods: Thirty‐six implants were inserted in the edentulous mandible of six mongrel dogs. Each implant was assigned to an experimental group according to the distance from the top of the implant to the crestal bone: Bone Level (at the crestal bone level), Minus 1 (1 mm below the crestal bone) or Minus 2 group (2 mm below the crestal bone). Each hemimandible was submitted to a loading protocol: conventional or immediate restoration. After 90 days, the animals were killed. Specimens were processed, and measurements were performed concerning the length of soft and hard peri‐implant tissues. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Student's t test (α=5%).

Results: Among conventionally restored sites, the distance from the most coronal position of soft tissue margin (PSTM) and first bone–implant contact (fBIC) was greater for Minus 2 than for Bone Level and Minus 1 sites (P=0.03), but significant differences were not observed among immediately restored sites. Differences among groups were not observed concerning the PSTM, and the distance from the implant–abutment junction to fBIC. Greater amounts of lateral bone loss were observed for conventionally than for immediately restored sites (P=0.006).

Conclusions: These findings suggest that the apical positioning of the top of the implant may not jeopardize the position of soft peri‐implant tissues, and that immediate restoration can be beneficial to minimize lateral bone loss. Further studies are suggested to evaluate the clinical significance of these results in longer healing periods.
Five‐year results from a randomized, controlled trial on early and delayed loading of implants supporting full‐arch prosthesis in the edentulous maxilla
Authors: Fischer Kerstin , Stenberg Torsten , Hedin Måns , Sennerby Lars
Published: March 2008

Objectives: The overall aim was to compare the clinical outcomes of early and delayed implant loading in the totally edentulous maxilla during 5 years of function.

Materials and methods: Twenty‐four patients with edentulous maxillae were randomized in two groups and subjected to early (test, n=16) or delayed (control, n=8) loading. A total of 142 implants were placed and 139 implants (Straumann AG) were loaded with full‐arch bridges and followed for 5 years.

Results: All patients received and maintained a fixed bridge throughout the study period. Five (5.3%) test implants in three patients and two (4.3%) control implants in two patients were lost during the 5 years (NS). There were no differences in implant stability as measured with resonance frequency analysis at 5 years. More bone loss occurred at test than at control implants, −0.8 mm (SD 1.2) vs. −0.3 mm (SD 1.1), respectively. However, test implants showed a more coronal marginal bone level than control implants after 5 years, 2.9 mm (SD 1.1) vs. 3.7 mm (SD 1.2) from the implant shoulder, respectively. No control implants and four (4.4%) test implants in three (18.8%) patients showed >3 mm bone loss after 5 years. Two of the latter implants in one patient also showed increased probing depths, bleeding at probing and plaque accumulation. Tooth fracture was the most common prosthetic complication. The use of lingual gold onlay effectively reduced the number of resin‐related complications as opposed to a resilient mouth guard.

Conclusions: The present randomized controlled trial showed no important differences between early and delayed loading of implants in the edentulous maxilla after 5 years of function. A favourable long‐term marginal bone response to the sandblasted large‐grit acid‐etched (SLA) surface was observed. Technical complications were mainly resin‐related which could be avoided by the use of a lingual gold onlay. It is concluded that early loading of SLA‐surface implants for support of full‐arch bridges represents a viable therapy for the totally edentulous maxilla.
Protective effects of melatonin against caustic esophageal burn injury in rats
Authors: Larios‐Arceo F. , Ortiz G. G. , Huerta M. , Leal‐Cortés C. , Saldaña J. A. , Bitzer‐Quintero O. K. , Rodríguez‐Reynoso S.
Published: March 2008

Abstract:  Caustic ingestion is one of the most life‐threatening events in the pediatric age group, which requires the immediate management and subsequent treatment of its most significant complication, i.e. alterations in esophageal structure. We investigated whether melatonin could reduce the esophageal burn damage induced by sodium hydroxide. It was assumed that melatonin could be effective because of its function as a direct free radical scavenger, its antioxidative actions and its ability to diminish tissue hydroxyproline (HP) levels. Esophageal burns were induced in male rats by the administration of 10% sodium hydroxide. Lipid peroxidation (LPO) products were then measured at the following times: 0, 1, 6, 24, 48 and 72 hr after treatment. Tissue HP concentrations in the injured area were assessed at 14 days after the administration of sodium hydroxide. The groups received either systemic melatonin or normal saline. There were two, non‐ischemic, sham control groups treated with or without melatonin. LPO products, malondialdehyde (MDA) and 4‐hydroxyalkenal (4‐HDA), increased immediately after the administration of sodium hydroxide; this indicates the participation of free radicals in the development of damage. Melatonin diminished the oxidative response and the amount of HP in the late phase of the lesion. Melatonin reduced oxidative damage in the early phase of the esophageal burns induced by sodium hydroxide.
Successful therapy of pemphigus vulgaris with immunoadsorption using the TheraSorb™ adsorber
Authors: Günther Claudia , Laske Jörg , Frind Antje , Julius Ulrich , Pfeiffer Christiane
Published: March 2008

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is caused by autoantibodies to desmogleins. Standard immunosuppressive therapy may be limited by concomitant diseases or ineffective.In these cases, removal of circulating antibodies by immunoadsorption can induce remission.

An 87‐year‐old woman with PV and considerable co‐morbidities suffered from extensive mucous membrane erosions and bouts of skin blistering refractory to treatment with methotrexate,as well as mycopheno‐late mofetil and corticosteroids even when combined with plasmapheresis and intravenous immunoglobulin. Adjuvant immunoadsorption therapy with the TheraSorb™ columns‐first weekly, than monthly‐induced a complete remission, as well as a parallel decrease in PV antibody titers. Continued therapy for 18 months kept the patient in remission but for one infection‐related relapse, and remission has been stable over two further years on low‐dose methotrex‐ate monotherapy. This case confirms the clinical efficacy of immunoad‐sorption in PV and adds another type of adsorber column to the armamentarium, which is useful to the dermatologist who has to cooperate with local lipid apheresis or dialysis units.
The Schnitzler syndrome: Chronic urticaria and monoclonal gammopathy – an autoinflammatory syndrome?
Authors: Eiling Elisabeth , Schröder Johann O. , Gross Wolfgang L. , Kreiselmaier Inga , Mrowietz Ulrich , Schwarz Thomas
Published: March 2008

Schnitzler syndrome describes the simultaneous occurrence of monoclonal gammopathy and chronic urticaria with at least two additional minor symptoms (arthralgia, bone pain, fever of uncertain origin, hepato‐ or splenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate, leukocytosis/thrombocytosis or increased bone density). Schnitzler syndrome is not wellknown and very likely under‐recognized. Comprehensive diagnostic examinations are necessary to rule out other diseases, especially those of hematologic origin. Close interdisciplinary collaboration is mandatory. The etiology of Schnitzler syndrome is unclear, but the rapid response to the interleukin‐1 receptor inhibitor anakinra underlines the pivotal role which the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin‐1 may play in the pathophysiology of this potentially autoinflammatory disorder.
Interdisciplinary management recommendations for toxicity associated with interferon‐alfa therapy
Authors: Hauschild Axel , Kähler Katharina C. , Schäfer Martin , Fluck Michael
Published: March 2008

Adjuvant interferon‐α (IFN‐α) therapy in patients with melanoma has been established as standard therapy since more than 10 years.During IFN‐α therapy, flu‐like symptoms, gastrointestinal disorders, arthralgias and neuropsychiatric symptoms are the most common side effects. The management and prophylaxis of these side effects have been improved by a more detailed understanding of pathophysiologic mechanisms and increased clinical experience. New insights in the relevance of detection of autoantibodies and development of autoimmunity have influenced the clinical pathway substantially. This review covers the pathomechanisms, incidence and optimized therapy of IFN‐α‐associated side effects.
Appetitive and Aversive Classical Conditioning of Female Sexual Response
Authors: Both Stephanie , Laan Ellen , Spiering Mark , Nilsson Tove , Oomens Sanne , Everaerd Walter
Published: March 2008

Introduction

There is only limited evidence for appetitive classical conditioning of female sexual response, and to date modulation of female sexual response by aversive conditioning has not been studied.

Aim

The aim of this article is to study appetitive and aversive classical conditioning of sexual responses in women.

Main Outcome Measures

Vaginal pulse amplitude was assessed by vaginal photoplethysmography and ratings of affective value were obtained.

Method

Two differential conditioning experiments were conducted. In Experiment 1, on appetitive conditioning, neutral pictures served as conditional stimuli (CSs) and genital vibrotactile stimulation as the unconditional stimulus (US). In Experiment 2, on aversive conditioning, erotic pictures served as CSs and a pain stimulus as US. In both experiments, only one CS (the CS+) was followed by the US during the acquisition phase. Conditioned responses were assessed during the extinction phase.

Results

In Experiment 1, during the extinction phase, as expected vaginal pulse amplitude was higher in response to the CS+ than during the CS−. Also, the CS+ was rated as marginally more positive than the CS−. In Experiment 2, during the extinction phase, as expected vaginal pulse amplitude was lower in response to the CS+ than during the CS−, and the CS+ was rated as more negative than the CS−.

Conclusions

The results provide evidence for appetitive classical conditioning of sexual response in women, and are the first to show attenuation of sexual response in women by aversive conditioning.
Ultrasonic Evaluation of High‐Density Silicon Carbide Ceramics
Authors: Brennan Raymond , Haber Richard , Niesz Dale , McCauley James
Published: March 2008

Nondestructive ultrasound testing has been evaluated as a technique for analyzing isolated bulk defects and microstructural inhomogeneities in silicon carbide (SiC). Three SiC samples of varying thickness, two of which were fabricated by hot pressing and a third that was fabricated by chemical vapor deposition (CVD), were characterized using pulse–echo ultrasound characterization at a frequency of 75 MHz. Point analysis techniques were utilized to measure variations in time‐of‐flight (TOF), or ultrasound travel time through each sample, for calculation of regional differences in material velocity and elastic properties. C‐scan imaging was used to evaluate differences in both TOF and reflected signal amplitude over the area of each sample. Area‐under‐the‐curve (AUTC) and full‐width at half‐maximum (FWHM) data were obtained from normalized histograms to establish trends for direct sample comparison. It was determined that lower AUTC and FWHM values correlated to higher density samples with fewer inhomogeneities. However, the histogram tail area and distribution were also important features, providing information about specific inhomogeneities and their distributions.
Correlation of histology of healed fractures and tissue surrounding implants with ultrasonographic and radiographic appearance
Authors: Risselada M. , Van Bree H. , Kramer M. , Chiers K. , Duchateau L. , Verleyen P.
Published: March 2008

Objectives: To determine if there was histological correlation with ultrasonographic images of healed fractures and implant‐associated tissue after fracture treatment by plate osteotomy.

Methods: Eight adult dogs were included in this retrospective study. Ultrasonography (B‐mode and power Doppler) and radiography were performed before plate removal. Surgical biopsies were taken of the fracture site and the tissue adjacent to the plate. These were stained with haematoxylin and eosin to assess histomorphology and bone content and immunolabelled with CD31 to assess vascularity.

Results: Ultrasound and radiographic diagnoses of a healed fracture correlated with histological finding of bone healing. Ultrasonography and histology findings of vascularity were also highly correlated. The tissue surrounding the surgical implants was significantly more vascularised on both ultrasonography and histology than that at the fracture site itself.

Clinical Relevance: Ultrasonography can be used to diagnose fracture healing in plated fractures. Power Doppler ultrasonography examination of fracture healing should be performed away from surgical implants to avoid false‐positive results of vascularisation.
Modified functional end‐to‐end stapled intestinal anastomosis: technique and clinical results in 15 dogs
Authors: White R. N.
Published: March 2008

Objectives: To evaluate the use of a gastrointestinal anastomosis (GIA) stapling device to perform small intestinal anastomosis in the dog.

Methods: A retrospective study to evaluate the use of a GIA stapling device to perform small intestinal anastomosis in 15 dogs.

Results: Reasons for intervention included dehiscence of a previous enterotomy (four of 15), intestinal neoplasia (five of 15), vascular compromise (three of 15), intussusception (two of 15) and foreign body (one of 15). The mean time taken to perform the anastomosis was 7·7 minutes (range five to 12 minutes). No operative complications were recorded and all dogs recovered from the surgery. Major (two dogs) and minor (six dogs) short‐term complications of pyrexia and anorexia were recorded in six dogs. In five of these, the cause was considered to be related to a pre‐existing peritonitis. One dog was euthanased five months postoperatively for a multi‐centric recurrence of intestinal lymphoma. Six month follow‐up confirmed an unremarkable and complete recovery in all remaining dogs. No major or minor long‐term complications were recorded in any individual.

Clinical Significance: A modified stapled functional end‐to‐end intestinal anastomosis holds merit and should be considered a viable alternative to other stapled and sutured anastomosis techniques.
Primary prostatic haemangiosarcoma causing severe haematuria in a dog
Authors: Della Santa D. , Dandrieux J. , Psalla D. , Gorgas D. , Lang J. , Geissbuehler U. , Howard J.
Published: March 2008

A 10‐year‐old, entire, male, mixed‐breed dog was presented for severe haematuria and stranguria. Ultrasound revealed a large intraluminal urinary bladder blood clot and a prostatic space‐occupying lesion. Invasion of the lesion into the prostatic urethra was detected ultrasonographically during compression of the urinary bladder. Post‐mortem examination revealed primary prostatic haemangiosarcoma infiltrating the urethra. Haemangiosarcoma should be considered as a rare cause of prostatic mass lesions, haematuria or lower urinary tract signs in dogs.
Retrospective review of 50 canine nasal tumours evaluated by low‐field magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Avner A. , Dobson J. M. , Sales J. I. , Herrtage M. E.
Published: March 2008

Objectives: Low‐field magnetic resonance imaging machines are being used more often in veterinary practice for the investigation of sinonasal disease. The aim of this retrospective study was to describe and characterise the low‐field magnetic resonance imaging features of nasal tumours in dogs.

Methods: The Queen’s Veterinary School Hospital magnetic resonance imaging database (2001‐2005) was searched for dogs with a magnetic resonance imaging diagnosis of a nasal tumour. Fifty cases with histological diagnosis of nasal tumour were found. The appearance and extent of the nasal tumour as well as the involvement of adjacent anatomic structures were examined against a checklist.

Results: The most common magnetic resonance imaging findings were as follows. (1) Soft tissue mass replacing the destroyed nasal conchae and/or ethmoturbinates (98 per cent of cases). (2) Nasal septum destruction (68 per cent of cases). (3) Retained secretions with or without mass caudally in frontal sinuses (62 per cent of cases). (4) Nasal/frontal bone destruction (52 per cent of cases). Low‐field magnetic resonance imaging allowed differentiation of tumour tissue from retained secretions or necrotic tissue. Magnetic resonance imaging was invaluable in assessing the extension of the tumour into the maxillary recesses, caudal recesses, nasopharynx, adjacent bones and cranial cavity. The tumour often extended caudally into the frontal sinuses, nasopharynx and perhaps most importantly into the caudal recesses. Tumour extension into the cranial cavity was not common (16 per cent), and only three of these cases showed neurological signs. However, 54 per cent of cases showed focal meningeal (dural) hyperintensity, although the significance of this is unclear. A significant difference (P<0·05) in tumour signal intensity between the sarcomas and carcinomas was found.

Clinical Significance: The use of a low‐field magnetic resonance imaging technique is excellent for the diagnosis and determination of extent of sinonasal tumours.
Dilatation of the right atrium in a dog with polymyositis and myocarditis
Authors: Warman S. , Pearson G. , Barrett E. , Shelton G. D.
Published: March 2008

A nine‐year‐old, female, neutered golden retriever was referred for investigation of weakness. Immune‐mediated polymyositis with mixed mononuclear cell inflammation and fibrosis was diagnosed in muscle biopsy specimens from several sites. A soft tissue opacity was noted radiographically cranial to the cardiac silhouette. The dog failed to respond to treatment with prednisolone and was euthanased. At post‐mortem examination, the structure observed radiographically was showed to be an enlarged right atrium. Histopathological examination of samples collected at post‐mortem confirmed polymyositis. Additionally, mononuclear cell infiltrations and fibrosis were observed in areas of endocardium and/or myocardium in the walls of all four cardiac chambers. Myocarditis has not been reported previously in canine polymyositis but is well recognised in people. Enlargement of the right atrium has also been reported in association with polymyositis and myocarditis in people.
MicroRNA Involvement in Brain Tumors: From Bench to Bedside
Authors: Nicoloso Milena S. , Calin George A.
Published: March 2008

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a novel class of small non‐coding RNAs, are effective post‐transcriptional regulators of gene expression, exhibiting, when altered in human tumors, both oncogenic and tumor suppressive potential. Recently, miRNA involvement in the pathophysiology of brain cancer has been assessed. Aberrant gene expression is the main mechanism of miRNAs dysfunction in cancer, with abnormal expression levels of mature and/or precursor miRNA expression in tumor samples versus normal. MiRNA germline and somatic mutations or polymorphisms in the protein coding messenger RNA targeted by miRNAs may also occur, contributing to cancer predisposition, initiation and/or progression. If present in somatic cells, miRNA alterations may play a role in tumor initiation, while if present in germ line cells they could constitute a cancer predisposing event. MiRNA expression profiling of human tumors has led to the identification of signatures correlated with the tumor diagnosis, staging, progression, prognosis and response to treatment. MiRNA fingerprinting can therefore be added to the diagnostic and prognostic tools used by medical oncologists. Furthermore, new therapeutic strategies involving miRNA silencing or miRNA mimics could be proposed based on the roles of these small non‐coding RNAs as oncogenes and tumor suppressors in brain tumors.
Generation Me, the Origins of Birth Cohort Differences in Personality Traits, and Cross‐temporal Meta‐analysis
Authors: Twenge Jean M.
Published: March 2008

Birth cohort, or generation, differences in personality include views of the self (increases in self‐esteem, narcissism, assertiveness, and agentic traits, leading to the label ‘Generation Me’) and mental health (externality in locus of control, increases in depressive symptoms). The origins of these trends lie in culture, including changes in women's roles, parenting, media, and social connections. Birth cohort should be considered as an environmental influence on individual personality traits. Challenges to cross‐temporal meta‐analysis are discussed, including response bias, changes in college populations, data from the University of California campuses with major confounds, sampling issues, and the misperception that the ecological fallacy is committed.
Social Psychology and Media: Critical Considerations
Authors: Chamberlain Kerry , Hodgetts Darrin
Published: March 2008

In this paper, we argue that media saturate everyday living, and that people engage with and are engaged by media in diverse and complex ways. We suggest a need for an informed social psychology of media that conceptualises media as social practice, and attends to media practices as they occur. We propose that much media psychology research is limited because it: (i) focuses too strongly on documenting causal, and usually negative, media effects; (ii) continues to apply unsuitable research methodologies and theories to investigating media and ignores advances in media research and theory arising outside the discipline; and (iii) largely ignores the social contexts in which media engagements occur. These arguments are illustrated by studies that take a more social and critical approach to media research and that show possibilities for overcoming these limitations and developing insights into psychological concerns enmeshed in media practices.
Measurement of optic disc parameters on digital fundus photographs: algorithm development and evaluation
Authors: Bartling Herman , Wanger Peter , Martin Lene
Published: March 2008

Purpose:  To develop and evaluate a simple and rapid algorithm for optic disc measurements on digital fundus photographs, relying on the macula–disc centre distance as a reference when converting length expressed in pixels to metric distance.

Methods:  Measurements were performed on fundus photographs from 68 normal subjects, acquired using five different cameras. The magnification factor and actual size in μm of 1 pixel was known for only one camera. The measurements from this camera were compared to corresponding measurements from a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope.

Results:  Using the described algorithm, no significant differences in mean disc or cup size were observed between the tested cameras, despite differences in magnification factor (range 0.5–2.5). There were no significant differences between disc and cup measurements obtained with the confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope and those obtained with the described algorithm in the 20 subjects examined.

Conclusion:  The algorithm described in the current study provided clinically relevant measurements of optic disc parameters. The final program can be used directly on the acquired images, with the examined subject still available for re‐examination.
Subjective visual sensations during cataract surgery performed under topical anaesthesia
Authors: Biró Zsolt , Schvöller Mónika
Published: March 2008

Purpose:  To examine the patient’s subjective visual sensations during cataract surgery performed under topical anaesthesia.

Methods:  Prospective, non‐randomized, cohort study. One hundred and thirty‐two patients were interviewed by standard questionnaire within 1 hr of uncomplicated cataract surgery performed under topical anaesthesia.

Results:  Everyone saw lights of different and changing intensity. One hundred and twenty‐six (95.5%) patients saw different colours; 18 (13.6%) patients saw a rainbow‐like scale of colours. Ninety‐eight (74.2%) patients could see clear shapes and forms (mainly circle, square, rectangle, ellipse). Forty‐nine (37.1%) patients could see instruments, and 35 (26.5%) patients saw the fingers of the surgeon during surgery. Twenty‐six patients (19.7%) considered the strong light of the microscope very disturbing and uncomfortable. Forty‐seven patients made drawings of the visual sensations that they experienced during surgery.

Conclusion:  Consistent with our review of the literature, we found no relation between intraoperative visual sensations and patient’s age, sex, preoperative visual acuity, duration of surgery or cataract severity. We found that it is helpful to inform the cataract patients of potential visual sensations before their surgery.
Section of tropical taxonomy: Seven new species and one new record of Polygala (Polygalaceae) from Somalia
Authors: Thulin Mats
Published: March 2008

The following new species are described: Polygala gypsophila (northern, central and southern Somalia, on gypsum), P. bariensis (northern Somalia, on limestone), P. hamarensis (coastal dunes near Mogadishu), P. argentea (central Somalia, on limestone near coast), P. gawenensis (central Somalia, on limestone), P. effusa (central Somalia and eastern Ethiopia, on sand), P. citrina (southern Somalia, on granitic outcrops). P. meonantha is reported for the first time from Somalia.
The genus Leptogonum (Polygonaceae)
Authors: Brandbyge John
Published: March 2008

Revision of the genus Leptogonum resulted in the recognition of one species with one variety. A new combination L. domingense var. molle is proposed. The systematic position of Leptogonum is discussed. It is considered to be phylogenetically old and isolated genus within Polygonaceae.
Seasonal variation of storage substances in stem cells of Diapensia lapponica. A light microscopic study
Authors: Pihakaski‐Maunsbach Kaarina , Walles Björn
Published: March 2008

Owerwintering strategy of the sub‐arctic evergreen Diapensia lapponica has been studied by examining storage substances in the stem cells throughout different seasons. Stem segments were taken from 5 and 20 mm behind the shoot tip, fixed in glutaraldehyde/formaldehyde and embedded in Epon. Semithin sections were stained with Toluidine blue for general observation, Sudan black for lipids, Amido black for proteins and periodic acid‐Schiff s reagent (PAS) for carbohydrates. Lipids occurred abundantly throughout the year and seem to be the main storage substances. They were particularly common in mid‐winter in the lower part of the shoot. The highest lipid content was found in the pith cells and parenchyma cells of the conductive tissues. Large amyloplasts appeared in mid‐summer in higher amounts in the cortex than in the pith of the upper shoot, but vice versa in the lower stem. Starch was almost entirely lacking from November to April. Amido black staining did not indicate presence of protein bodies at any season.

The occurrence of lipids and starch grains in the stem of Diapensia is in general similar to the occurrence of these substances in the leaves throughout the annual cycle.
Morphology, ontogeny and histochemistry of secretory trichomes of Geranium robertianum (Geraniaceae)
Authors: Pedro L. , Campos P. , Pais M. S.
Published: March 2008

Geranium robertianum bears three types of glandular uniseriate trichomes which originate from a single protodermal cell and develop through periclinal divisions. Type I trichomes are procumbent and have an oval apical cell, two stalk cells and a basal cell. Type II trichomes are erect and have a pear shaped apical cell, two stalk cells and a basal cell. Type III trichomes are much longer than the other two types and have an elongated apical cell, five long stalk cells and a basal cell. Type I and type II trichomes are common on leaves while III trichomes are more abundant on flower structures.

Type I and type II trichomes secrete terpenoids and phenols. Type III trichomes are characterized by the accumulation of anthocyanins in the apical cell and secrete flavonoids.
Ascocarp and spore ontogeny in two species of Sphaerophorus (Caliciales)
Authors: Wedin Mats
Published: March 2008

Two different ascocarp ontogenies have been demonstrated in Sphaerophorus (Caliciales). A globose primordium arises in both species investigated. In S. globosus, the primordium wall encloses the whole structure during the hymenium development, although a weak differentiation of the basal part takes place, while in S. tener the wall is clearly differentiated into a watchglass‐like basal part and a cap‐like apical part not in contact with the basal part. In S. globosus, the cover disintegrates during the mazaedial development. In S. tener, the cover persists until the mazaedium is well developed, and is then shed, most often in one piece, thereby exposing the spores. The mechanism of the shedding and the possible biological consequences of the specialized ascocarp ontogeny in S. tener is discussed. The spore ontogeny of S. tener has also been investigated. No ornamentation is deposited on the spore surface until the spores are liberated from the asci. The spore ontogeny thus resembles that of S. murrayii, but only a small amount of mazaedial material is deposited on the spore surface. The classification of the species is discussed and it is concluded that the genus Sphaerophorus as presently circumscribed is very heterogeneous.
Studies on the type species of Compsonema, C. minutum (Fucophyceae, Scytosiphonales); aspects of life history, taxonomic position, shedding of wall elements and plasmodesmata
Authors: Pedersen Poul Møller , Sokhi Gunwant
Published: March 2008

Compsonema minutum, the type species of the genus, shows two features which are characteristic for the Scytosiphonales: the presence of a single large lobed chloroplast per cell with a large pyrenoid in a pyrenoid sac, and a partly parenchymatous prostrate system morphologically similar to the knot filaments in the comparable thallus parts of, for example, Scytosiphon and Petalonia. The genus, therefore, finds a natural position in the Scytosiphonales.

The direct type of life history seems to dominate in the reproductive pattern as swarmers from the plurilocular sporangia develop without copulation into plants similar to the parental plant. One unilocular sporangium has been observed but the fate of the swarmers from this reproductive structure has not been determined. The fine structural background for the formation of overlapping wall elements has been investigated. Lacunae develop between the layers in the 2‐layered wall and the outermost part of the wall gradually becomes electron dense. During growth the electron dense part breaks away to become separated from the rest of the wall in the area with lacunae.

The plasmodesmata in the transverse walls show a single membrane profile similar to for example Fucus, i.e. the pores provide continuity but lack desmotubules and ER.
Antithamnion makroklonion sp. nov. (Rhodophyta, Ceramiales) from the Gulf of Aqaba (Red Sea)
Authors: Athanasiadis A. , Garbary D. J. , Vandermeulen H.
Published: March 2008

Antithamnion makroklonionsp. nov. is described from Elat, Gulf of Aqaba (Gulf of Elat) in the Red Sea, where vegetative, spermatangial, and tetrasporangial specimens were found growing in the upper sublittoral zone. The new alga belongs to a group ofAntithamnionspecies characterized by distichous‐alternate ramification of branches, sessile tetrasporangia, and decussately arranged laterals along the bearing axis. It shows a unique combination of distinctive features, including the proximal development of gland cells on elongate branchlets that overtop the parent branch. In addition to the characteristic position, and in contrast to congeners, gland cells ofA. makroklonionoften have a large and prominent cytoplasmic band and one or two vacuoles. Morphological features ofA. makroklonionand eight related species are tabulated and the characteristics of the new species are discussed.
Rule Learning by Rats
Authors: Murphy Robin A. , Mondragón Esther , Murphy Victoria A.
Published: March 2008

Using rules extracted from experience to solve problems in novel situations involves cognitions such as analogical reasoning and language learning and is considered a keystone of humans' unique abilities. Nonprimates, it has been argued, lack such rule transfer. We report that
Rattus norvegicus
can learn simple rules and apply them to new situations. Rats learned that sequences of stimuli consistent with a rule (such as XYX) were different from other sequences (such as XXY or YXX). When novel stimuli were used to construct sequences that did or did not obey the previously learned rule, rats transferred their learning. Therefore, rats, like humans, can transfer structural knowledge from sequential experiences.
Gene Regulation in the Third Dimension
Authors: Dekker Job
Published: March 2008

Analysis of the spatial organization of chromosomes reveals complex three-dimensional networks of chromosomal interactions. These interactions affect gene expression at multiple levels, including long-range control by distant enhancers and repressors, coordinated expression of genes, and modification of epigenetic states. Major challenges now include deciphering the mechanisms by which loci come together and understanding the functional consequences of these often transient associations.
Electric Fields Due to Synaptic Currents Sharpen Excitatory Transmission
Authors: Sylantyev Sergiy , Savtchenko Leonid P. , Niu Yin-Ping , Ivanov Anton I. , Jensen Thomas P. , Kullmann Dimitri M. , Xiao Min-Yi , Rusakov Dmitri A.
Published: March 2008

The synaptic response waveform, which determines signal integration properties in the brain, depends on the spatiotemporal profile of neurotransmitter in the synaptic cleft. Here, we show that electrophoretic interactions between AMPA receptor–mediated excitatory currents and negatively charged glutamate molecules accelerate the clearance of glutamate from the synaptic cleft, speeding up synaptic responses. This phenomenon is reversed upon depolarization and diminished when intracleft electric fields are weakened through a decrease in the AMPA receptor density. In contrast, the kinetics of receptor-mediated currents evoked by direct application of glutamate are voltage-independent, as are synaptic currents mediated by the electrically neutral neurotransmitter GABA. Voltage-dependent temporal tuning of excitatory synaptic responses may thus contribute to signal integration in neural circuits.
Comparison of Serum Humoral Responses Induced by Oral Immunization with the Hepatitis B Virus Core Antigen and the Cholera Toxin B Subunit
Authors: Broos Katleen , Janssens Michiel E. , De Goeyse Ine , Vanlandschoot Peter , Leroux-Roels Geert , Geysen Dirk , Guisez Yves
Published: March 2008

The hepatitis B virus core (HBc) virus-like particle (VLP) is known as one of the most immunogenic antigens and carrier vehicles in different immunization strategies. Recent findings are suggesting the potential of the HBc VLPs as an oral immunogen. Here, we focus on the induction of serum humoral responses by oral administration of HBc VLPs in preparations substantially free of lipopolysaccharide and immunomodulating encapsidated RNA. The full-length HBc antigen was used, because the C-terminal arginine-rich tail may contribute to the immunogenicity of the antigen as the region is involved in cell surface heparan sulfate binding and internalization of the protein. Serum antibody levels and isotypes were determined following oral administration of the HBc VLPs with the perspective of using the HBc VLP as an immunostimulatory and carrier molecule for epitopes of blood-borne diseases in oral immunization vaccination strategies. Following oral administration of the HBc VLP preparations to mice, a strong serum humoral response was induced with mainly immunoglobulin G2a (IgG2a) antibodies, pointing toward a Th1 response which is essential in the control of intracellular pathogens. Intraperitoneal immunization with the HBc VLP induced a stronger, mixed Th1/Th2 response. Finally, a comparison was made with the induced serum humoral response following oral administration of the recombinant cholera toxin B pentamer, a commonly used oral immunogen. These immunizations, in contrast, induced predominantly antibodies of the IgG1 isotype, indicative of a Th2 response. These data suggest that the HBc VLP can be an interesting carrier molecule in oral vaccine development.
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Detection of
Plasmodium falciparum
Histidine-Rich Protein 2 in Blood, Plasma, and Serum
Authors: Kifude Carolyne M. , Rajasekariah Halli G. , Sullivan David J. , Stewart V. Ann , Angov Evelina , Martin Samuel K. , Diggs Carter L. , Waitumbi John N.
Published: March 2008

Microscopy, the gold standard for the detection and quantification of malaria parasites in blood, is in many aspects deficient for this purpose. The method is poorly reproducible and can be inaccurate because
Plasmodium falciparum
parasites sequester for a portion of each asexual cycle. Due to these deficiencies, biomarkers such as
P. falciparum
histidine-rich protein 2 (PfHRP2) are increasingly being used. In this study, we evaluated the use of a commercial PfHRP2 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit with some procedural modifications. We determined the linear range of the assay, including the lower limits of detection and quantitation, using recombinant PfHRP2 (rPfHRP2). In 10 repeat experiments, the linear range of optical densities (ODs) at 450 to 650 nm was from 0.05 ± 0.002 to 2.28 ± 0.042, corresponding to 3.91 to 250 ng/ml of rPfHRP2. The coefficient of variation (CV) at each target concentration ranged from 1.93 to 8.07%. Using cultured parasites, we confirmed the linear range of ODs as well as the association between the PfHRP2 ELISA results and the microscopic parasite densities. For whole-blood samples spiked with cultured, washed, ring-stage-infected red blood cells (iRBCs), the linear range was 11.7 to 750 iRBCs/μl, with CVs of 0.29 to 7.56%. The same spiked samples evaluated by microscopists had similar sensitivities, but the CVs were unacceptably high (20.7 to 161.6%). Stock rPfHRP2 was stable through four freeze-thaw cycles (
P
< 0.05; paired
t
test). When different patient sample types at different concentrations within the linear range of the assay are compared, the recoveries of PfHRP2 from blood and serum were within ±20%, whereas the recoveries from plasma ranged between +35 and −41%. We conclude that PfHRP2 ELISA using whole-blood and serum samples is a suitable adjunct to microscopy and could ultimately benefit malaria intervention trials.
Rapid Detection of the Mosaic Structure of the
Neisseria gonorrhoeae penA
Gene, Which Is Associated with Decreased Susceptibilities to Oral Cephalosporins
Authors: Ochiai Susumu , Ishiko Hiroaki , Yasuda Mitsuru , Deguchi Takashi
Published: March 2008

In
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
, the mosaic structure of the
penA
gene (encoding penicillin-binding protein 2 [PBP 2]), which is composed of fragments of the
penA
genes from
Neisseria cinerea
and
Neisseria perflava
, has been significantly associated with decreased susceptibility to cephalosporins, particularly oral cephalosporins. The aim of this study was to develop a rapid assay for the detection of mosaic PBP 2 of
N. gonorrhoeae
by real-time PCR. This assay successfully detected the mosaic
penA
gene of
N. gonorrhoeae
, and its sensitivity was ≥10
1
copies/reaction. Six hundred twenty-one clinical strains were examined by this assay for the presence of mosaic PBP 2, which was detected in 85 (39.4%) of 216 strains from 2002, 69 (40.6%) of 170 strains from 2003, 71 (44.4%) of 160 strains from 2004, and 31 (41.3%) of 75 strains from 2005. The MICs of cephalosporins for strains with the mosaic PBP 2 detected by the assay were statistically higher than those for strains without the mosaic PBP 2. One hundred sixty-six (64.8%) of 256 strains with the mosaic PBP 2 exhibited cefixime MICs of ≥0.5 μg/ml. The emergence and spread of strains with mosaic PBP 2 could be a threat to the cefixime treatment of gonorrhea. This real-time PCR assay for the detection of mosaic PBP 2 of
N. gonorrhoeae
is thus useful in the prediction of decreased susceptibilities to oral cephalosporins.
Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Infection Caused by
Actinomyces neuii
subsp.
neuii
Authors: Watkins Richard R. , Anthony Kathy , Schroder Suzanne , Hall Gerri S.
Published: March 2008

Actinomyces neuii
subsp.
neuii
is a rare isolate in clinical specimens. The organism was previously designated CDC coryneform group 1 and was renamed in 1994. A case of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection caused by this organism is described.
Development and Validation of a One-Step Real-Time PCR Assay for Simultaneous Detection of Subtype H5, H7, and H9 Avian Influenza Viruses
Authors: Monne Isabella , Ormelli Silvia , Salviato Annalisa , De Battisti Cristian , Bettini Francesca , Salomoni Angela , Drago Alessandra , Zecchin Bianca , Capua Ilaria , Cattoli Giovanni
Published: March 2008

Among the different hemagglutinin (HA) subtypes of avian influenza (AI) viruses, H5, H7, and H9 are of major interest because of the serious consequences for the poultry industry and the increasing frequency of direct transmission of these viruses to humans. The availability of new tools to rapidly detect and subtype the influenza viruses can enable the immediate application of measures to prevent the widespread transmission of the infection. In this study, a novel one-step real-time reverse transcription-PCR (RRT-PCR) was developed to detect simultaneously the H5, H7, and H9 subtypes of AI viruses from clinical samples of avian origin. The sensitivity of the RRT-PCR assay was determined by using in vitro-transcribed RNA and 10-fold serial dilutions of titrated AI viruses. High sensitivity levels were obtained, with limits of detection ranging from 10
1
to 10
3
RNA copies and from 10
1
50% egg infectious dose (EID
50
)/100 μl to 10
2.74
EID
50
/100 μl with titrated viruses. Excellent results were achieved in the intra- and interassay variability tests. The comparison of the results with those obtained from the analysis of 725 avian samples by means of the reference method (virus isolation [VI]) showed a high level of agreement. To date, this is the first real-time PCR protocol available for the simultaneous detection of AI viruses belonging to subtypes H5, H7, and H9, and the results obtained indicate that this method is suitable as a routine laboratory test for the rapid detection and differentiation of the three most-important AI virus subtypes in samples of avian origin.