bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collared doves Streptopelia decaocto display with high, near‐maximal muscle powers, but at low energetic cost
Authors: Usherwood James R.
Published: February 2008

Display flight in collared doves Streptopelia decaocto consists of a rapid ascent from a perch, followed by a glide back to the same or near‐by perch. The hypothesis that ascending flight presents an honest signal of the maximum power generating capacity of the displayer is considered. Using a deliberately conservative approach to calculating the power requirements of collared dove display flights, the highest power performance in an ascending collared dove is equivalent to that derived from wind tunnel studies on the morphologically similar ringed turtle‐dove Streptopelia risoria. Muscle power requirements are very high (up to 232 W/kg), representing the highest performance measured in the field to date. However, the maximum energy requirements over an hour due to climbing power equates to only 5% of the basal metabolic rate. Display flight in collared doves appears to be an efficient and ‘uncheatable’ system for demonstrating fitness, either for mating or for territory defence.
Awake palliative thoracic surgery in a high‐risk patient: one‐lung, non‐invasive ventilation combined with epidural blockade
Authors: Guarracino F. , Gemignani R. , Pratesi G. , Melfi F. , Ambrosino N.
Published: February 2008

We report the case of a terminally ill cancer patient with recurrent pericardial and bilateral pleural effusions who was scheduled for video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery. The operation was performed with the patient awake under epidural anaesthesia. The patient’s cough reflex in response to lung manipulation was successfully minimised by the inhalation of aerosolised lidocaine. Video‐assisted thoracic surgery requires the exclusion of a lung from ventilation. In order to support one‐lung spontaneous ventilation in this high‐risk patient, we successfully used non‐invasive bilevel positive airway pressure ventilation via a facemask. Based on this preliminary experience, we think that critically ill patients scheduled for palliative surgery can be successfully managed with the combination of minimally invasive surgical techniques and neuraxial block with non‐invasive lung ventilation.
Time course of the increase in 4β‐hydroxycholesterol concentration during carbamazepine treatment of paediatric patients with epilepsy
Authors: Wide Katarina , Larsson Hanna , Bertilsson Leif , Diczfalusy Ulf
Published: February 2008

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT

• CYP3A4 converts cholesterol into 4β‐hydroxycholesterol.

• We have suggested that 4β‐hydroxycholesterol could be used as a clinical marker for CYP3A4 activity aiding in dose adjustments.

• The kinetics of 4β‐hydroxycholesterol formation is not known, however, and must be determined in order to establish under what conditions 4β‐hydroxycholesterol can be used as a CYP3A marker.

WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS

• The concentration of 4β‐hydroxycholesterol increases very slowly during CYP3A4/5 induction in paediatric patients.

• Whereas induction of CYP3A4/5 was apparently complete within 1–2 weeks of carbamazepine treatment, plasma 4β‐hydroxycholesterol levels continued to increase until at least 8 weeks of treatment.

AIMS To investigate the time course of the increase in 4β‐hydroxycholesterol and carbamazepine plasma concentrations during treatment of paediatric patients with epilepsy.

METHODS Eight paediatric patients with newly diagnosed epilepsy were studied. Blood samples were drawn before and after about 1, 2, 4, 8 and 16 weeks of carbamazepine treatment. The plasma concentrations of 4β‐hydroxycholesterol were determined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and carbamazepine and its epoxide metabolite by high‐performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS The basal plasma concentrations of 4β‐hydroxycholesterol showed a large range of observed values between 18 and 99 ng ml−1. Carbamazepine treatment increased mean plasma 4β‐hydroxycholesterol significantly already after 1 week of treatment (from 43 to 80 ng ml−1, P < 0.001). 4β‐Hydroxycholesterol concentrations continued to increase until at least 8 weeks of treatment and the concentrations in the final samples (8–23 weeks of treatment) varied between 122 and 494 ng ml−1. Plasma concentrations of carbamazepine and its epoxide metabolite reached steady state at 1–2 weeks after last dose change.

CONCLUSIONS Carbamazepine treatment of paediatric patients with epilepsy resulted in an induction of CYP3A4/5 and a concomitant increase in plasma 4β‐hydroxycholesterol. Whereas the induction of CYP3A4/5 was apparently complete after 1–2 weeks, the increase in 4β‐hydroxycholesterol continued for several weeks. Thus CYP3A4 activity is not the only determinant of the circulating level of 4β‐hydroxycholesterol. Additional factors such as transport and storage or presence of another enzyme may thus be of importance.
Probiotics and prebiotics in inflammatory bowel disease: microflora ‘on the scope’
Authors: Damaskos Dimitrios , Kolios George
Published: February 2008

The intestinal microflora is a large bacterial community that colonizes the gut, with a metabolic activity equal to an organ and various functions that affect the physiology and pathology of the host's mucosal immune system. Intestinal bacteria are useful in promotion of human health, but certain components of microflora, in genetically susceptible individuals, contribute to various pathological disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease. Clinical and experimental observations indicate an imbalance in protective and harmful microflora components in these disorders. Manipulation of gut flora to enhance its protective and beneficial role represents a promising field of new therapeutic strategies of inflammatory bowel disease. In this review, we discuss the implication of gut flora in the intestinal inflammation that justifies the role of probiotics and prebiotics in the prevention and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease and we address the evidence for therapeutic benefits from their use in experimental models of colitis and clinical trials.
A human anti‐D monoclonal antibody selected for enhanced FcγRIII engagement clears RhD+ autologous red cells in human volunteers as efficiently as polyclonal anti‐D antibodies
Authors: Beliard Roland , Waegemans Tony , Notelet Dominique , Massad Léna , Dhainaut Frédéric , Romeuf Christophe de , Guemas Eric , Haazen Wouter , Bourel Dominique , Teillaud Jean‐Luc , Prost Jean‐François
Published: February 2008

A human anti‐RhD immunoglobulin G1 monoclonal antibody (mAb), R297, was tested in a phase I study to assess its ability to induce the clearance of antibody‐coated autologous RhD+ red blood cells (RBCs) in healthy male volunteers. The clearance potency of R297 was compared with that of a marketed human polyclonal anti‐D product (Rhophylac®). This mAb has been selected for its ability to strongly engage Fc‐gamma receptor IIIA and to mediate a potent antibody‐dependent cell cytotoxicity (ADCC) against RhD+ RBCs. Autologous RhD+ RBCs were sensitized with either Rhophylac® or R297 at three different coating percentages (25, 12·5 and 6·25%), before re‐infusion. This phase I study showed that the human R297 mAb promoted rapid and complete clearance of RBCs, and showed activity that was at least as potent as the human polyclonal anti‐D antibody preparation. Clearance of RBCs could still be observed when the percentage of R297 used to coat the RBCs was reduced to 6·25%. Finally, none of the adverse events was severe or considered to be related to R297. Thus, R297 is a promising candidate for the prevention of allo‐immunization and represents a new generation of Fc‐modified monoclonal antibodies with increased FcγRIII binding and increased ADCC.
Managing relapsed and refractory Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Brice Pauline
Published: February 2008

Despite a high curability rate, some patients with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) fail to respond to, or relapse after, primary conventional treatment. This review aims to identify prognostic factors at relapse and guidelines for treatment in relapsed HL. Patients with relapsed HL should be identified according to their prognostic factors at relapse (duration of remission and extranodal disease or stage). This enables relapsing patients to be separated in to three different prognostic groups; primary refractory patients should be included in the unfavourable group because of their poor prognosis. All relapsed HL should receive second‐line chemotherapy and the response to this chemotherapy is crucial for the outcome. Benefit of autologous stem‐cell transplantation (ASCT) has been shown in a large randomized study and, although is often proposed in relapsed HL, it may be not necessary in the rare group of patients with stage I/II and late relapse who can receive additional radiotherapy after response to chemotherapy. Patients with intermediate and unfavourable relapse should receive high‐dose chemotherapy and ASCT when chemosensitive; the first goal is to achieve this chemosensitivity. For patients in the unfavourable group, including refractory patients, the role of tandem HDT or allogeneic SCT will be discussed and should be proposed for patients not in complete remission at the time of HDT.
Toll‐like receptor 4 ligand can differentially modulate the release of cytokines by human platelets
Authors: Cognasse Fabrice , Hamzeh‐Cognasse Hind , Lafarge Sandrine , Delezay Olivier , Pozzetto Bruno , McNicol Archie , Garraud Olivier
Published: February 2008

Blood platelets link the processes of haemostasis and inflammation. This study examined the immunomodulatory factors released by platelets after Toll‐Like Receptor 4 (TLR4) engagement on their surfaces. Monoclonal anti‐human FcγRII Ab (IV.3)‐treated human platelets were cultured with TLR4 ligands in the presence or absence of blocking monoclonal antibody to human TLR4. The release of sCD62p, epidermal growth factor (EGF), transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), interleukin (IL)‐8, platelet activating factor 4 (PAF4), platelet‐derived growth factor, α, β polypeptide (PDGF‐AB), Angiogenin, RANTES (regulated upon activation, normal T‐cell expressed, and presumably secreted) and sCD40L were measured by specific enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. TLR4 ligand [Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS)] bound platelet TLR4, which differentially modulates the release of cytokines by platelets. It was noted that (i) sCD62p, IL‐8, EGF and TGFβ release were each independent of platelet activation after TLR4 engagement; (ii) RANTES, Angiogenin and PDGF‐AB concentration were weaker in platelet supernatant after TLR4 engagement; (iii) sCD40L and PAF4 are present in large concentration in the releaseate of platelets stimulated by TLR4 ligand. The effects of LPS from E. coli on the modulation of secretory factors were attenuated by preincubation of platelets with an anti‐TLR4 monoclonal antibody, consistent with the immunomodulation being specifically mediated by the TLR4 receptor. We propose that platelets adapt the subsequent responses, with polarized cytokine secretion, after TLR4 involvement.
Frequency and characteristics of TBII‐seronegative patients in a population with untreated Graves’ hyperthyroidism: a prospective study
Authors: Vos Xander G. , Smit Natalie , Endert Erik , Tijssen Jan G. P. , Wiersinga Wilmar M.
Published: February 2008

Objective  It is claimed that second generation thyrotropin‐binding inhibitory immunoglobulin (TBII) assays have a very high sensitivity for the diagnosis of Graves’ hyperthyroidism (GH). However, studies evaluating the accuracy of TBII have been retrospective in nature and/or GH had not been diagnosed independently of TBII. The aim of the present study, therefore, was to prospectively evaluate the frequency and characteristics of TBII‐seronegative patients in a population of untreated GH diagnosed independent of serum TBII.

Design  Prospective multicentre observational study.

Patients  A total of 259 consecutive untreated patients with a first episode of GH, diagnosed independent of serum TBII. TBII levels were measured by second generation assay and correlated to thyroid function, clinical characteristics and exposure to environmental factors.

Results  Serum TBII was positive in 245 (94·6%) patients and negative (< 2 IU/l) in 14 (5·4%) patients. TBII‐seronegative patients had lower fT4 (median 42·5 vs. 53·9 pmol/l, P = 0·02), T3 (median 3·55 vs. 4·90 nmol/l, P < 0·01) and fT3‐index (median 4·30 vs. 6·27, P < 0·01) compared to TBII‐seropositive patients. None of the TBII‐seronegative patients had TSH‐receptor activating mutations, Graves’ orbitopathy or pretibial myxedema. Serum TBII was positively correlated to free T3 (fT3)‐index and free T4 (fT4)‐index (P < 0·01), goitre size (P < 0·01) and the prevalence of Graves’ orbitopathy (P < 0·01). There were no significant differences between TBII‐seropositive and TBII‐seronegative patients in environmental factors.

Conclusion  The prevalence of TBII‐seronegativity in untreated patients with GH is 5·4% using a second generation assay. TBII‐seronegative patients have biochemically less severe thyrotoxicosis and no Graves’ orbitopathy. TBII‐seronegative and TBII‐seropositive patients apparently belong to the same population of GH, albeit the severity of the autoimmune attack is less in TBII‐seronegative patients.
High prevalence of biochemical acromegaly in primary care patients with elevated IGF‐1 levels
Authors: Schneider H. J. , Sievers C. , Saller B. , Wittchen H. U. , Stalla G. K.
Published: February 2008

Objective  The estimated prevalence of acromegaly is 40–125 per million. The diagnosis of acromegaly is often delayed due to deficits in recognizing the signs of the disease. It is not known how many subjects with increased IGF‐1 levels have acromegaly. We aimed to assess the prevalence of acromegaly in primary care by screening for elevated IGF‐1 levels.

Design  A cross‐sectional, epidemiological study (the DETECT study).

Patients  A total of 6773 unselected adult primary care patients were included.

Measurements  We measured IGF‐1 in all patients and recommended further endocrine evaluation in all patients with elevated IGF‐1 levels (> 2 age‐dependent SDS).

Results  Of 125 patients with elevated IGF‐1 levels, 76 patients had indeterminate results and acromegaly could be excluded in 42 patients. One patient had known florid acromegaly. Two patients had newly diagnosed acromegaly and pituitary adenomas. Four patients had biochemical acromegaly but refused further diagnostics. This corresponds to a prevalence of 1034 per million patients.

Conclusions  Our study shows a high prevalence of undiagnosed acromegaly in primary care. These results imply that acromegaly is underdiagnosed and stress the importance of detecting acromegaly.
Spinning with the dinosaurs: the fossil record of spiders
Authors: Penney David , Selden Paul A.
Published: February 2008

When most people hear the word ‘fossil’ they tend to conjure up images of giant dinosaurs such as Tyrannosaurus rex or shelled marine invertebrates. Prior to the Hollywood blockbuster movie Jurassic Park, which was based on recreating dinosaurs through extracting their DNA from fossil mosquitoes preserved in amber, few non‐palaeontologists would entertain the notion that small, soft‐bodied organisms such as insects occur in the fossil record. However, insects and spiders are common as fossils in amber, where they are often preserved with life‐like fidelity, and they also occur to a lesser degree in carbonate rocks.
On the classification of surface geoelectric arrays
Authors: Szalai Sándor , Szarka László
Published: February 2008

We collected approximately one hundred independent geoelectric arrays from published geophysical literature. We have presented them in a systematic way and with a unified notation. The classification of arrays is based on three divalent parameters: “superposition” of measurements, “focusing” of currents and “colinearity” of the array, creating 8 classes of geoelectric arrays.

Among the 102 independent arrays we found in the geophysical literature, we managed to classify 92 arrays in the aforementioned way. Ten further techniques fell beyond the proposed classification.

The classification we propose may open the way to new geoelectric arrays, hopefully providing improving responses to the infinite variety of field problems we may face. It may bring to daylight, exclusively in a logical way, currently unused arrays. In searching new geoelectric arrays this paper helps to avoid rediscovering the discovered. Although it might be thought that the modern multielectrode systems will supersede all former arrays, such systematization is not only for historical and tutorial interests: some of the “old” arrays can be perhaps built into new multielectode systems, further enhancing their effectivity in the future. Finally, this collection of arrays establishes the possibility of systematic intercomparisons of arrays on the basis of various theoretical or practical aspects.
An algorithm to calculate the gravity anomaly of sedimentary basins with exponential density‐depth relationships
Authors: Chappell Alex , Kusznir Nick
Published: February 2008

We derive wavenumber domain expressions to calculate the gravity anomaly of a body with irregular bounding surfaces and an exponential density‐depth relationship. We apply the method to sedimentary basins, which commonly have this type of geometry and density distribution. The mathematical formulation also allows the exponential density‐depth relationship to be measured from an arbitrary irregular surface rather than the top surface. Using this arrangement, the gravity anomaly of exhumed sedimentary basins can be predicted if the amount of eroded section can be estimated. The corresponding inverse algorithms are also derived. Examples of the use of the forward algorithms, from the Galicia Interior Basin and the Central Irish Sea Basin, are used to illustrate these methods.
Inversion of magnetotelluric data in the presence of strong bathymetry/topography
Authors: Li Shenghui , Booker John R. , Aprea Claudia
Published: February 2008

We describe an algorithm for inverting magnetotelluric (MT) data in the presence of strong bathymetry or topography. Instead of correcting distortions due to bathymetry or topography we incorporate them directly into the inversion. To achieve a high accuracy in computing MT responses we use finite‐difference approximations that permit sloping discrete boundaries inside model elements. The same approach is applicable to any seafloor electromagnetic calculation and can also be used to incorporate steep topography on land. We test our approach on various topographic features and compare our results to that of a finite element approach. Finally, we present inversion examples that illustrate the effectiveness of our inversion algorithm in recovering true subsurface structures in the presence of strong bathymetry and topography.
Secondary prophylaxis with recombinant activated factor VII improves health‐related quality of life of haemophilia patients with inhibitors
Authors: HOOTS W. K. , EBBESEN L. S. , KONKLE B. A. , AUERSWALD G. K.‐H. , ROBERTS H. R. , WEATHERALL J. , FERRAN J.‐M. , LJUNG R. C. R. ,   THE NOVOSEVEN (F7HAEM‐1505) INVESTIGATORS
Published: February 2008

Summary. Haemophilia patients with inhibitors characteristically have impaired joint function and reduced health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). This analysis examined whether secondary prophylaxis with recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) improves HRQoL vs. conventional on‐demand therapy in patients with haemophilia with inhibitors and frequent bleeds. After a 3‐month preprophylaxis period, 22 patients received daily rFVIIa prophylaxis (90 or 270 μg kg−1) for 3 months, followed by 3 months’ postprophylaxis. Days of hospitalization, absence from school/work and mobility aids requirements were recorded. HRQoL was assessed by EuroQoL (EQ‐5D) questionnaire, visual analogue scale (VAS), derived Time to Trade‐Off (TTO) scores and Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALYs). rFVIIa prophylaxis significantly (P < 0.0001) reduced bleeding frequency vs. prior on‐demand therapy. Hospitalization (5.9% vs. 13.5%;P = 0.0026) and absenteeism from school/work (16.7% vs. 38.7%;P = 0.0127) decreased during prophylaxis; these effects tended to be maintained during postprophylaxis. HRQoL (evaluated by EQ‐5D) tended to improve during and after rFVIIa prophylaxis. Notably, pain decreased and mobility increased in 40.9% and 27.3% of patients, respectively, at the end of the postprophylaxis period vs. preprophylaxis. Median VAS score increased from 66 to 73 (P = 0.048), and TTO scores suggested better HRQoL (0.62 vs. 0.76;P = 0.054) during postprophylaxis than preprophylaxis. Small to moderate changes in effect sizes were reported for VAS and TTO scores. Median QALYs were 0.68 (VAS) and 0.73 (TTO). Reductions in bleeding frequency with secondary rFVIIa prophylaxis were associated with improved HRQoL vs. on‐demand therapy.
Prosthetic treatment planning on the basis of scientific evidence
Authors: PJETURSSON B. E. , LANG N. P.
Published: February 2008

Summary  The objective of this report is to summarize the results on survival and complication rates of different designs of fixed dental prostheses (FDP) published in a series of systematic reviews. Moreover, the various parameters for survival and risk assessment are to be used in attempt to perform treatment planning on the basis of scientific evidence. Three electronic searches complemented by manual searching were conducted to identify prospective and retrospective cohort studies on FDP and implant‐supported single crowns (SC) with a mean follow‐up time of at least 5 years. Patients had to have been examined clinically at the follow‐up visit. Failure and complication rates were analyzed using random‐effects Poisson regression models to obtain summary estimates of 5‐ and 10‐year survival proportions. Meta‐analysis of the studies included indicated an estimated 5‐year survival of conventional tooth‐supported FDP of 93·8%, cantilever FDP of 91·4%, solely implant‐supported FDP of 95·2%, combined tooth‐implant‐supported FDP of 95·5% and implant‐supported SC of 94·5% as well as resin‐bonded bridges 87·7%. Moreover, after 10 years of function the estimated survival decreased to 89·2% for conventional FDP, to 80·3% for cantilever FDP, to 86·7% for implant‐supported FDP, to 77·8% for combined tooth‐implant‐supported FDP, to 89·4% for implant‐supported SC and to 65% for resin‐bonded bridges. When planning prosthetic rehabilitations, conventional end‐abutment tooth‐supported FDP, solely implant‐supported FDP or implant‐supported SC should be the first treatment option. Only as a second option, because of reasons such as financial aspects patient‐centered preferences or anatomical structures cantilever tooth‐supported FDP, combined tooth‐implant‐supported FDP or resin‐bonded bridges should be chosen.
Is there a certain number of implants needed to retain an overdenture?
Authors: KLEMETTI E.
Published: February 2008

Summary  The aim of this systematic review was to determine if there are reasons to recommend a certain number of implants for retaining or supporting maxillary or mandibular overdentures. Literature search for this review covered clinical trials, randomized controlled‐clinical trials, meta‐analyses and review articles in English dental journals from 1990 to 2007. The search produced 1779 articles, of which the abstracts of 182 studies were reviewed and those with any exclusion criterion were removed. The remaining 39 full articles were reviewed against the inclusion criteria for finalizing the selection. Eleven research reports meeting the inclusion criteria were selected for this review; three for the maxilla and eight for the mandible. According to this data, in the maxilla and in the mandible, patient satisfaction or function of the prosthesis are not dependent on the number of implants or type of attachment. In the mandible, an overdenture with two implants and with bar attachment has the least number of complications.
Should we extract teeth to avoid tooth–implant combinations?
Authors: LINDH T.
Published: February 2008

Summary  The controversy over combining teeth and implants for support of fixed partial dentures still remains after almost three decades of debate. The aim of this review was to evaluate what support that could be found in the literature for extracting teeth in favour of implants, and to elucidate whether tooth–implant prostheses were inferior to solely implant supported constructions in terms of survival and complications. The methods for gathering relevant information entailed electronic searches on PubMed using relevant key words, as well as complementary manual searches in the retrieved publications. The results showed that there was no support for extracting teeth in favour of placing implants. On the contrary, the healthy tooth had a survival that was life‐long, which is yet to be shown for the dental implant. Also the use of teeth as abutments in combination with dental implants for support of fixed dental prostheses could be endorsed in certain situations with solid albeit limited scientific support. In a wider sense, such prostheses could be used as a reliable therapy in all regions of the jaws. However the status of the abutment teeth in terms of periodontal support, pulpal status and risk for carious lesions and biomechanical complications should always be considered in relation to the long‐term prognosis of the prosthesis. The conclusion was that teeth should not be extracted in favour of placing dental implants without a specific indication, and that tooth–implant supported prostheses should be considered as a viable prosthetic option.
When should we extract deciduous teeth and place implants in young individuals with tooth agenesis?
Authors: BERGENDAL B.
Published: February 2008

Summary  The aim was to systematically review and find evidence to determine when to extract deciduous teeth and place implants in young individuals with tooth agenesis. A search was made in MEDLINE on combinations of the terms ‘tooth agenesis’, ‘deciduous teeth’ and ‘dental implants’. Publications with an abstract and written in the English language only were included. To give a background to the clinical management of young individuals with agenesis of teeth, publications on epidemiology of tooth agenesis, persistence of deciduous teeth, treatment outcomes after multi‐disciplinary treatment planning and experiences of treatment with dental implants in young individuals were also reviewed.

A search on the terms ‘tooth agenesis’, ‘deciduous teeth’ and ‘dental implants’ resulted in nine references and a search on ‘dental implants’ and ‘tooth agenesis’ gave 132 references; 46 met the inclusion criteria. Only two were prospective studies on treatment with implants in young individuals.

A vast majority of publications on the clinical management of young individuals with tooth agenesis are reflections of clinical experiences and single case reports. Deciduous teeth are extracted for different reasons and at different ages in an optimal plan for a good treatment result from aesthetic and functional point of view. For ethical reasons, randomized clinical trials on when to extract deciduous teeth and place implants cannot be made in young individuals. There was only limited, low level evidence on when to extract deciduous teeth and place implants. Recommendations on treatment are based mainly on clinical experience.
Implant treatment in periodontitis‐susceptible patients: a systematic review
Authors: SCHOU S.
Published: February 2008

summary  Implant treatment in individuals with periodontitis‐associated tooth loss is frequently debated. The objective of the present systematic review was to assess the principles and outcome of implant treatment in periodontitis‐susceptible patients. Studies considered for inclusion were searched in MEDLINE (PubMed) and relevant journals were hand‐searched. The search was restricted to studies published in English from 1980 to 2006. Prospective and retrospective cohort studies assessing implant treatment in partially and totally edentulous individuals with a history of periodontitis‐associated tooth loss were included when the follow‐up period was >1 year, when more than five patients were included in the study, and when the treatment involved titanium implants. The outcome measures were loss of suprastructures, loss of implants, loss of teeth, health status of peri‐implant tissues and health status of periodontal tissues. Screening of eligible studies and data extraction were conducted by the reviewer. A total of 23 studies were identified. The survival rates of suprastructures and implants were high in individuals with a history of periodontitis‐associated tooth loss. Therefore, implant treatment in periodontitis‐susceptible patients is not contraindicated provided adequate infection control and an individualized maintenance programme. However, the higher incidence of peri‐implantitis may jeopardize the longevity of the implant treatment. Consequently, further long‐term prospective studies of sufficient numbers of well‐characterized patients are needed before definitive conclusions can be drawn about the long‐term outcome of implant treatment in periodontitis‐susceptible patients.
Implants and/or teeth: consensus statements and recommendations
Authors: GOTFREDSEN K. , CARLSSON G. E. , JOKSTAD A. , FYRBERG K. ARVIDSON , BERGE M. , BERGENDAL B. , BERGENDAL T. , ELLINGSEN J.‐E. , GUNNE J. , HOFGREN M. , HOLM B. , ISIDOR F. , KARLSSON S. , KLEMETTI E. , LANG N. P. , LINDH T. , MIDTBø M. , MOLIN M. , NÄRHI T. , NILNER K. , ÖWALL B. , PJETURSSON B. , SAXEGAARD E. , SCHOU S. , STOKHOLM R. , THILANDER B. , TOMASI C. , WENNERBERG A.
Published: February 2008

Summary  In August 23–25, 2007, the Scandinavian Society for Prosthetic Dentistry in collaboration with the Danish Society of Oral Implantology arranged a consensus conference on the topic ‘Implants and/or teeth’. It was preceded by a workshop in which eight focused questions were raised and answered in eight review articles using a systematic approach. Twenty‐eight academicians and clinicians discussed the eight review papers with the purpose to reach consensus on questions relevant for the topic. At the conference the consensus statements were presented as well as lectures based on the review articles. In this article the methods used at the consensus workshop are briefly described followed by the statements with comments.
Pharmacokinetics of total thyroxine in dogs after administration of an oral solution of levothyroxine sodium
Authors: LE TRAON G. , BURGAUD S. , HORSPOOL L. J. I.
Published: February 2008

Orall‐thyroxine (l‐T4) supplementation is used to replace thyroid hormone concentrations in dogs with hypothyroidism. The pharmacokinetics ofl‐T4 following administration of a solution (Leventa®) was investigated in healthy dogs.l‐T4 was absorbed fairly rapidly (tmax3 h). A mean bioavailability of 22% was calculated following a single oral administration of 40 μgl‐T4/kg body weight. Repeated oral administration at the same dose for 14 consecutive days did not lead to any accumulation of T4 in serum. After intravenous administration ofl‐T4, a serum half‐life of 11.6 h was calculated. Food intake concomitant withl‐T4 oral administration delayedl‐T4 absorption and decreased its rate and extent by about 45%. The relative bioavailability ofl‐T4 following administration of a tablet formulation was about 50% of that of thel‐T4 solution. The pharmacokinetic properties of liquidl‐T4 after oral administration support the use of a dose rate of 20 μg/kg once daily, as a starting dose for replacement therapy in dogs with hypothyroidism.
Comparative pharmacokinetics of two intravenous administration regimens of tiludronate in healthy adult horses and effects on the bone resorption marker CTX‐1
Authors: DELGUSTE C. , AMORY H. , GUYONNET J. , THIBAUD D. , GARNERO P. , DETILLEUX J. , LEPAGE O. M. , DOUCET M.
Published: February 2008

Bioavailability and pharmacological effects of tiludronate were compared when administered as an intravenous (i.v.) bolus at a dosage of 0.1 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) once daily for 10 consecutive days (group 1, n = 6) and as a single constant rate infusion (CRI) at a total dose of 1 mg/kg b.w. (group 2, n = 6) in healthy adult horses.

Tiludronate and carboxy‐terminal cross‐linking telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX‐1) were measured in plasma and urine.

There was no statistically significant difference in area under the curve (AUC) and clearance (Cl) between the two groups. Bioavailability of the CRI was 103% (not significantly different) that of the 10 daily i.v. bolus doses. Cumulative urine tiludronate excretion could not be compared between groups because of poor sensitivity of the assay in urine. Plasma and urine CTX‐1 levels were not different between groups throughout the study. However, interindividual variations were greater in group 1 than in group 2. A significant decrease in CTX‐1 levels was observed in plasma after the first administration in group 1, but not in urine; while in group 2, a significant decrease in CTX‐1 concentrations was observed after treatment in both plasma and urine.

In conclusion, both dosage regimens of tiludronate produced similar plasma exposure and pharmacological effects in adult healthy horses.
Patterns of differentiation in a colour polymorphism and in neutral markers reveal rapid genetic changes in natural damselfly populations
Authors: ABBOTT J. K. , BENSCH S. , GOSDEN T. P. , SVENSSON E. I.
Published: February 2008

The existence and mode of selection operating on heritable adaptive traits can be inferred by comparing population differentiation in neutral genetic variation between populations (often using FST values) with the corresponding estimates for adaptive traits. Such comparisons indicate if selection acts in a diversifying way between populations, in which case differentiation in selected traits is expected to exceed differentiation in neutral markers [FST (selected) > FST (neutral)], or if negative frequency‐dependent selection maintains genetic polymorphisms and pulls populations towards a common stable equilibrium [FST (selected) < FST (neutral)]. Here, we compared FST values for putatively neutral data (obtained using amplified fragment length polymorphism) with estimates of differentiation in morph frequencies in the colour‐polymorphic damselfly Ischnura elegans. We found that in the first year (2000), population differentiation in morph frequencies was significantly greater than differentiation in neutral loci, while in 2002 (only 2 years and 2 generations later), population differentiation in morph frequencies had decreased to a level significantly lower than differentiation in neutral loci. Genetic drift as an explanation for population differentiation in morph frequencies could thus be rejected in both years. These results indicate that the type and/or strength of selection on morph frequencies in this system can change substantially between years. We suggest that an approach to a common equilibrium morph frequency across all populations, driven by negative frequency‐dependent selection, is the cause of these temporal changes. We conclude that inferences about selection obtained by comparing FST values from neutral and adaptive genetic variation are most useful when spatial and temporal data are available from several populations and time points and when such information is combined with other ecological sources of data.
Regulation of the fimB promoter: a case of differential regulation by ppGpp and DksA in vivo
Authors: Åberg Anna , Shingler Victoria , Balsalobre Carlos
Published: February 2008

The expression of type 1 fimbriae is dependent on the intracellular levels of ppGpp through stimulation of fimB transcription. Here we show that in contrast to the previously described decreased fimbriation observed in a ppGpp‐deficient strain, DksA deficiency results in a hyperfimbriated state. In vivo assays show that the effect of DksA deficiency on the type 1 fimbriae occurs at the phase variation level because of elevated transcription from the fimB P2 promoter. In contrast, our in vitro transcription studies demonstrate that ppGpp and DksA can stimulate transcription from the fimB P2 promoter both independently and codependently. We provide evidences that the apparently contradictory results from the in vivo and in vitro transcriptional studies are at least in part a consequence of the increased association of the anti‐pausing factors (GreA and GreB) to the RNA polymerase in the absence of DksA in vivo.
Legionella translocates an E3 ubiquitin ligase that has multiple U‐boxes with distinct functions
Authors: Kubori Tomoko , Hyakutake Akihiro , Nagai Hiroki
Published: February 2008

Legionella pneumophila has a Dot/Icm type IV secretion system used to translocate a number of ‘effector proteins’ which subvert host cell functions. In this study, we identified 19 novel Dot/Icm substrate proteins using a systematic screening technique. A blast analysis revealed that one of the substrates, which we named LubX (LegionellaU‐box protein), contains two domains that have a remarkable similarity to the U‐box, a domain found in eukaryotic E3 ubiquitin ligases. The expression of LubX is induced upon infection, and most of the LubX produced was translocated into the host cells. LubX has ubiquitin ligase activity in conjunction with UbcH5a or UbcH5c E2 enzymes and mediates polyubiquitination of host Clk1 (Cdc2‐like kinase 1). We demonstrate that one of the U‐boxes (U‐box 1) is critical to the ubiquitin ligation, and the other U‐box (U‐box 2) mediates interaction with Clk1. Thus, the two U‐boxes of LubX have distinct functions, and U‐box 2 plays a non‐canonical role in substrate binding. Although we demonstrate that inhibition of Clk kinase results in a marked reduction of Legionella growth within mouse macrophages, the consequence of Clk1 ubiquitination is still being elucidated. Together, these data suggest that Clk1 is the target host molecule which Legionella modulates during infection.
Gemini/GMOS spectroscopy of the spheroid and globular cluster system of NGC 3923
Authors: Norris Mark A. , Sharples Ray M. , Bridges Terry , Gebhardt Karl , Forbes Duncan A. , Proctor Robert , Raul Faifer Favio , Carlos Forte Juan , Beasley Michael A. , Zepf Stephen E. , Hanes David A.
Published: February 2008

We present a technique to extract ultra-deep diffuse-light spectra from the standard multi-object spectroscopic observations used to investigate extragalactic globular cluster (GC) systems. This technique allows a clean extraction of the spectrum of the host galaxy diffuse light from the same slitlets as the GC targets. We show the utility of the method for investigating the kinematics and stellar populations of galaxies at radii much greater than usually probed in longslit studies, at no additional expense in terms of telescope time. To demonstrate this technique, we present Gemini South Multi-Object Spectrograph (GMOS) spectroscopy of 29 GCs associated with the elliptical galaxy NGC 3923. We compare the measured stellar population parameters of the GC system with those of the spheroid of NGC 3923 at the same projected radii, and find the GCs to have old ages >10 Gyr, [α/Fe]∼ 0.3 and a range of metallicities running from [Z/H]=−1.8 to +0.35. The diffuse light of the galaxy is found to have ages, metallicities and [α/Fe] abundance ratios indistinguishable from those of the red GCs.
Visceral hypersensitivity and impaired accommodation in refractory diabetic gastroparesis
Authors: Kumar A. , Attaluri A. , Hashmi S. , Schulze K. S. , Rao S. S. C.
Published: February 2008

Abstract  The pathophysiology of persistent gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms in patients with diabetic gastroparesis is poorly understood. Our aim was to evaluate gastric sensation and accommodation to a meal in patients with diabetic gastroparesis and refractory symptoms. We performed intermittent, phasic balloon distensions of the stomach using a gastric barostat device in 18 patients with diabetes and gastroparesis unresponsive to prokinetic therapy and in 13 healthy volunteers. We assessed the biomechanical, sensory and accommodation responses of the stomach, during fasting and after liquid meal. During balloon distension, the sensory thresholds for discomfort were lower (P < 0.02) in patients with diabetes than those in controls, in both the fasting and the postprandial states. The accommodation response to a meal was significantly impaired (P = 0.01) in patients with diabetes when compared to controls, although fasting gastric tone was similar (P = 0.08). Patients with diabetic gastroparesis and refractory GI symptoms demonstrate sensori‐motor dysfunction of the stomach, comprising either impaired accommodation, gastric hypersensitivity or both. An objective evaluation of these biomechanical and sensory properties may provide valuable mechanistic insights that could guide therapy.
Mucosal antibody responses in experimental hookworm infection
Authors: BUNGIRO R. D. , SUN T. , HARRISON L. M. , SHOEMAKER C. B. , CAPPELLO M.
Published: February 2008

Hookworms are bloodfeeding nematodes that reside in the intestinal mucosa. These parasites secrete proteins that induce robust systemic immune responses in humans and experimental animals. By contrast, mucosal immune responses in and around the site of attachment are not described as well. This paper presents data from studies aimed at examining hookworm‐specific mucosal antibody responses in a hamster model of Ancylostoma ceylanicum infection. Intestinal flush prepared from infected hamsters was analysed by ELISA and shown to be enriched in IgA‐specific for A. ceylanicum excretory–secretory (ES) products. Evaluation of mucosal IgA responses by immunoblot demonstrated that infected hamsters recognized a broad range of ES proteins. Hamsters repeatedly exposed to drug‐terminated infections were shown to have enhanced serum IgG and mucosal IgA responses, as well as a high level of protection from challenge infection. Parasite‐specific IgA was also detected in the faeces of hamsters undergoing a primary infection, and increasing faecal IgA responses were coincident with significant reductions in intestinal worm burdens and faecal ES output over time. Together these results suggest that secretory IgA may act in concert with other components of the mucosal and systemic immune response to promote protective immunity against hookworm infection and/or disease.
Investigating glutamate receptor‐like gene co‐expression inArabidopsis thaliana
Authors: ROY S. J. , GILLIHAM M. , BERGER B. , ESSAH P. A. , CHEFFINGS C. , MILLER A. J. , DAVENPORT R. J. , LIU L.‐H. , SKYNNER M. J. , DAVIES J. M. , RICHARDSON P. , LEIGH R. A. , TESTER M.
Published: February 2008

There is increasing evidence of the important roles of glutamate receptors (GLRs) in plant development and in adaptation to stresses. However, the studies of these putative ion channels, bothin plantaand inXenopusoocytes, may have been limited by our lack of knowledge of possible GLR heteromer formation in plants. We have developed a modification of the single‐cell sampling technique to investigateGLRco‐expression, and thus potential heteromer formation, in single cells ofArabidopsis thalianaleaves. Micro‐EXpression amplification (MEX) has allowed us to amplify gene transcripts from a single cell, enabling expression of up to 100 gene transcripts to be assayed. We measured, on average, the transcripts of five to six differentAtGLRsin a single cell. However, no consistent patterns of co‐expression or cell‐type‐specific expression were detected, except that cells sampled from the same plant showed similar expression profiles. The only discernible feature was the detection ofAtGLR3.7in every cell examined, an observation supported by GUS staining patterns in plants stably expressing promoter::uidAfusions. In addition, we foundAtGLR3.7expression in oocytes induces a Ba2+‐, Ca2+‐ and Na+‐permeable plasma membrane conductance.
Changes in fungicide sensitivity and relative species abundance in Oculimacula yallundae and O. acuformis populations (eyespot disease of cereals) in Western Europe
Authors: Parnell S. , Gilligan C. A. , Lucas J. A. , Bock C. H. , Van Den Bosch F.
Published: February 2008

Changing fungicide sensitivities in populations of Oculimacula yallundae and O. acuformis, the species responsible for cereal eyespot in Western Europe, were determined over a 17 year period between 1984 and 2000. The data were collected by Aventis Crop Science as part of their long‐term survey to monitor changes in sensitivity to prochloraz and the methyl benzimidazole carbamate (MBC) fungicides in eyespot populations. The results show evidence for reduced sensitivity to both fungicides over the period of the survey. The decline in MBC sensitivity is in agreement with reports of practical resistance (a detectable loss of disease control in the field) to this fungicide which were widely reported from the mid 1980s onward. Prochloraz sensitivity was more complex, with the emergence of a higher resistance category of isolates in the late 1980s and early 1990s which then decreased in frequency towards the end of the survey. This may be partly explained by the introduction and increased use of cyprodinil in the mid 1990s. Although all trends were similar across Europe, differences were observed between the two eyespot species. A higher frequency of O. yallundae isolates showed decreased sensitivity to MBC, whereas decreased sensitivity to prochloraz was at a higher frequency in O. acuformis populations. The relative abundance of the two eyespot species was influenced by their differential levels of fungicide sensitivity, with the ratio increasing toward the species with the highest level of resistance to the prevailing fungicide.
Sensitive real‐time PCR detection of Xanthomonas fragariae in strawberry plants
Authors: Vandroemme J. , Baeyen S. , Van Vaerenbergh J. , De Vos P. , Maes M.
Published: February 2008

Xanthomonas fragariae, the causal agent of angular leaf spot on strawberry, is a quarantine organism in strawberry propagation material in the European Union. For the reliable screening of planting material for latent infections, a real‐time PCR assay based on Taqman® chemistry for the detection of X. fragariae was developed. Primers and probe sequences were based on a DNA fragment amplified by a previously reported X. fragariae‐specific technique. The sequence of this genomic fragment had no significant similarity with any published GenBank sequence. Specificity of the designed assay was tested with an extended range of X. fragariae collection strains and isolates, with other Xanthomonas spp. and with unidentified bacterial isolates from strawberry plants. A nested PCR, which until now was the reference method for sensitive detection in planta, cross‐reacted with the reference strain of Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris. In combination with an elaborated DNA extraction procedure, the Taqman® PCR enabled reliable detection down to 300 colony forming units in a 100 mg strawberry leaf sample. The assay offers a new tool for epidemiological research and for sanitary control of plant material with low level or latent infections of X. fragariae.