bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ten‐year follow‐up study of personality traits in adults with intact and restored dentitions
Authors: KAMPE T. , EDMAN G. , HANNERZ H.
Published: May 2007

SUMMARY
The personality traits of 69 of a sample of 70 adolescents aged 25–26 years were re‐examined after 10 years by means of a personality inventory (KSP). A total of 11 subjects had intact dentitions (group I), while 18 subjects had had some fillings in their teeth since the first examination (group FI), and 40 subjects had restored dentitions from the starting‐point (group F). The subjects with fillings 10 years ago had significantly higher scores in two of the anxiety variables ‐ somatic anxiety and muscular tension ‐ and in the hostility variable, suspicion, than did those without the fillings. Together with the finding of a significant correlation between high scores for the clinical dysfunction index (DiII and DiIII) and the muscular tension scale, the results of this study support the hypothesis of a possible correlation between dental filling therapy, craniomandibular disorders (CMD) and personality. Frequent tooth clenching (once to twice a week or more) was significantly more common among the subjects with fillings 10 years ago. The clenchers scored highest in the somatic anxiety, muscular tension and suspicion scales and constituted a well‐defined subgroup within the subjects of this study. There was a highly significant increase of muscular tension among the clenchers during the 10‐year examination period compared to the non‐clenchers. However, the results of this study are not clear‐cut. There was no statistically significant difference in personality between subjects with fillings after 10 years (group F + Fi) and the group of subjects with intact teeth (group I). Hypothetically, this may indicate that the differences found in this study could be due to how long the fillings had been in the mouth and at which age they were inserted. In order to test the hypothesis further and to establish the possible mechanisms behind this finding, more studies are necessary and especially more longitudinal comparative studies between subjects with intact and restored dentitions.
Influence of the buccolingual position of artificial posterior teeth on the pressure distribution on the supporting tissue under a complete denture
Authors: KAWANO F. , NAGAO K. , INOUE S. , MATSUMOTO N.
Published: May 2007

SUMMARY
The buccolingual position of artificial teeth is one of the important factors affecting denture stability, chewing efficiency, and pressure distribution on the supporting tissue under a denture. This study compared the pressure values on the supporting tissue under a denture during chewing in denture wearers, each of whom tried three different setting positions of artificial posterior teeth. The pressure on supporting tissue was greater on the working side that on the non‐working side during chewing. The difference in mean pressure was found among the buccolingual positions of artificial posterior teeth. When the posterior teeth were set on the crest, the total pressure was the smallest. This strongly suggests that the setting position of artificial teeth should be considered not only for denture stability but also for the avoidance of high pressure on the supporting structures.
Colour changes in acrylic teeth comparison of an objective and subjective method
Authors: LIBERMAN R. , COMBE E.C. , PIDDOCK V. , WATTS D.C.
Published: May 2007

SUMMARYColour changes in four currently used brands of acrylic dental teeth were measured objectively and assessed subjectively following the application of heat, acrylic monomer and light. The data indicated that no clear correlation existed between the results of visual inspection and opto‐electronic measurements. It is suggested that visual assessment is an unreliable method of detecting colour change, and an objective colorimetric method is therefore recommended.
An accurate and simple method for the measurement of dental composite wear
Authors: WINKLER M.M. , LAUTENSCHLAGER E.P. , BOGHOSIAN A. , GREENER E.H.
Published: May 2007

SUMMARY
This study describes a relatively simple mechanical technique for measuring occlusal wear at the margin of dental restorations. The device was essentially a custom profilometer which consisted of a linear variable differential transformer with its core supported by double cantilever springs, a specially shaped stylus, a motor driven microscopic stage, custom computer software utilizing a colour coding to separate differences in slope, and a cross‐hair‐shaped mouse cursor to differentiate the boundary of wear. Two sets of visual standard stone casts were evaluated. The first set consisted of 17 stone replicas of machined steel dies and the second set consisted of five clinical casts, which have been used to measure the wear of composite restorations by direct vision. The reproducibility found when measuring the stone replicas of the machined steel dies was 2 μm, while, for the clinical standards, it was 16 μm.
Secondary caries formation in vitro around glass ionomer‐lined amalgam and composite restorations
Authors: DIONYSOPOULOS P. , KOTSANOS N. , PAPADOGIANIS Y.
Published: May 2007

SUMMARY
The aim of this in vitro secondary caries study was to examine the glass‐ionomer liner's effect on wall‐lesion inhibition when a conventional and a light‐cured glass ionomer liner was placed under amalgam and composite resin restorations. Class V preparations in extracted upper premolars were used and ten restorations were used for each of the following groups: (i) two layers of copal varnish and amalgam; (ii) conventional glass‐ionomer and amalgam; (iii) light‐cured glass‐ionomer and amalgam; (iv) bonding agent and light‐cured composite resin; (v) conventional glass‐ionomer, bonding agent and light‐cured composite resin; (vi) light‐cured glass‐ionomer, extended 0.3 mm short of the enamel margin bonding agent and light‐cured composite resin; and (vii) light‐cured glass‐ionomer, extended 1 mm short of the enamel margin, bonding agent and light‐cured composite resin. The teeth were thermocycled and artificial caries were created using an acid‐gel. The results of this study showed that artificial recurrent caries can be reduced significantly (P < 0.05) with a glass‐ionomer liner under amalgam restorations. The results also showed that when the light‐cured glass‐ionomer liner was placed 0.3 mm from the cavo‐surface margin under composite resin restoration, the artificial recurrent caries reduced significantly (P < 0.05).
Frequency of edentulism and identification marking of removable dentures in long‐term care units
Authors: BENGTSSON A. , OLSSON T. , RENÉ N. , CARLSSON G.E. , DAHLBOM U. , BORRMAN H.
Published: May 2007

SUMMARY
There were two aims of this study. First, the frequency of edentulism and denture wearers among 464 residents in long‐term units in Göteborg, Sweden, was evaluated. Second, the dentures were examined to determine whether they were marked correctly for identification. Of the subjects, 46% were edentulous in both jaws, and 13% in one jaw. Among complete denture wearers, 47% of the patients had at least one identification‐marked denture. Removable partial dentures, worn by 26 subjects, were marked to a lesser extent (32%). Since there are many edentulous people among the elderly in most parts of the world we suggest that removable dentures are marked with the patient's name or identification number.
Front tooth replacement with Tübingen (Frialit®) implants: a radiographical evaluation
Authors: DE Wijs F.L.J.A. , DE Putter C. , Cune M.S.
Published: May 2007

summary
A total of 214 radiographs of 76 Tubingen implants placed in the anterior region of the maxillae of 56 patients were evaluated by two observers. The first radiographs were taken after implant placement (n = 76). The second set of radiographs were taken during months 13–23 (n =53), the third during the months 24–35 (n = 28), the fourth during months 36–47 (n = 15), the fifth during months 48–59 (n = 18) and the sixth during months 60–72 (n = 20). Only four radiographs were available after longer periods, namely the eight and the ten year of function. The two observers together classified the marginal bone height (mesial and distal) as 0 (no resorption) or 1–5 in steps of 2–5 mm resorption. A score of 1 represents marginal bone resorption less than 2–5 mm, 2 from 2–5 mm to 5 nun, 3 from 5 to 7–5 mm, 4 from 7–5 to 10 mm and 5 more than 10 mm loss of marginal bone height. Thirty‐six implants scored marginal bone height of 0 or 1. Twenty‐two implants scored not higher than 2. Eight implants scored bone loss up to 3, four up to 4 and one up to 5. Five implants were lost.
Long‐term changes in marginal and periapical periodontal conditions in patients with fixed prostheses: a radiographic study
Authors: Swartz B. , Svenson B. , Palmqvist S.
Published: May 2007

summary
Patients treated at a prosthodontic department during the years 1968–73 with fixed restorations (at least five units) were followed up in 1991–92. The aim of the present study was to compare marginal and periapical periodontal conditions on radiographs from 1968–73 and 1991–92 and relate the changes to the results of the prosthodontic treatment. In the group in which the restorations remained unchanged, 90% of the abutments that were not root filled and showed no periapical radiolucency when the restorations were placed, were still not root filled and showed no periapical radiolucency at the follow‐up examination. The corresponding figure for the group in which the restorations had been replaced was only 69%. The changes in marginal bone levels also differed between the groups. In the group with remaining restorations, 66% of the surfaces were given the same score on a five‐point scale both in 1968–73 and in 1991–92. In the other group, only 54% were scored the same on both occasions. Thus, unfavourable changes in both periapical and marginal periodontal conditions were associated with poorer results for the fixed restorations.
Waxes for functional impressions
Authors: Kotsiomiti E. , McCabe J.F.
Published: May 2007

summary
The aim of this study was to devlop a wax suitable to serve as a function impression material. Several binary mixtures of paraaffin, beeswax and rosin were prepared.They were characterized by differential, thermal analysis(DTA), and tested for plastic deformation, thermal expansion, detail reprouduction and mechanical prperties. It was found that the combinations of paraffin with rosin can funtion well as impression materials, as they combine a high value of plastic deformation at 37°C with relatively low values at room temperature. Concentrations of rosin as small as1% or 2% are adequate to produce this result. The flow of paraffin was significantly reduced by the addition of beeswax.A liner relationship was found between the 37°C flow values of paraffin‐beeswax mixtures and the proportions of the ingredients.
The clinical success and periodontal evaluation of patients rehabilitated with light‐cured obturators
Authors: Benington I. C. , Lappin C. , Linden G. J. , Thompson R.
Published: May 2007

summary
The clinical performance of a visible light‐cured (VLC) resin for obturators was evaluated in 10 patients. All patients had undergone ablative surgery of the maxilla, previously worn conventional heat‐cured hollow bulb acrylic obturators and were currently rehabilitated with VLC obturators. The obturators were assessed on their performance for each of the following: weight, retention, speech, eating and comfort. An evaluation of the periodontal status of those who retained teeth in the maxilla was also performed. It is concluded that patients found VLC obturators to have a more acceptable clinical performance than conventional acrylic obturators due primarily to a reduction in appliance weight.
Objective evaluation of function of the lower lip reconstructed with a myocutaneous advancement flap
Authors: Yoshida H. , Tomizuka A. , Suzki K. , Yusa H.
Published: May 2007

summary
Many surgical methods have been developed for reconstruction of extensive defects resulting from resection of lower lip cancer, with the aim of achieving of normal appearance and function. However, observers' subjective evaluation, which is the method usually employed, makes comparison of the outcomes of appearance and function obtained from different techniques difficult. In this paper, a speech intelligibility test and electromyography were used as objective means of evaluating the motor function of the reconstructed lower lip.
Four year clinical study of glass‐infiltrated, sintered alumina crowns
Authors: PRÖBSTER L.
Published: May 2007

summary
The clinical outcome of 95 consecutively placed In‐Ceram complete coverage crowns, 68 posterior and 28 anterior, all luted with conventional cements, was studied. In the 56 month observation period no total failure requiring replacement of a restoration occurred. The veneer of a molar single crown fractured, while its ceramic core remained intact. With four crowns, marginal caries was observed after 2–4–5 years. It was concluded from this clinical study that In‐Ceram complete coverage all‐ceramic cornws are indicated for anterior and posterior teeth.
Influence of layer and stain firing on the fracture strength of heat‐pressed ceramics
Authors: ÜÇTAŞLI S. , WILSON H. J.
Published: May 2007

summary
Fracture strength (T= torque to initiate fracture; KIC= fracture toughness) and the fractography of heat‐pressed leucite reinforced ceramic (IPS Empress, Ivoclar AG‐Schaan, Liechtenstein) were analysed by the notched disc test technique and scanning electron microscopy methodologies. To determine the effects of additional firing schedules on the heat‐pressed core ceramic, three groups of specimens were prepared. These groups were heat pressed core, heat‐pressed core and simulated stain firing, and heat‐pressed core and simulated layer firing. Statistical analysis of both T and KIC values showed that there was no statistically significant difference between these three groups (P > 0–05). Scanning electron microscopy analysis of the fractured surfaces revealed that crack propagation occurred around some of the leucite particles and also partly and directly through other leucite particles.
Oral conditions and aptitude to receive implants in patients with removable partial denture: a cross‐sectional study. Part II. Aptitude
Authors: BASSI F. , SCHIERANO G. , LORENZETTI M. , PRETI G.
Published: May 2007

summary
The aim of this study was to evaluate the possibility of replacing removable partial denture (RPD) with fixed partial dentures on osseointegrated implants in a selective group of patients with partially edentulous lower jaws. Forty patients were evaluated to receive implants. Twenty‐three patients showed a precarious oral hygiene, five patients refused the treatment (being satisfied with their RPD), six refused for economic reasons, three patients refused for fear and scepticism, one for long duration of therapy, and one was not treated because of a very marked atrophy of the alveolar crest. Finally, one patient was treated with implants. For these reasons, at the present time implants are not an appropriate treatment for introduction into large‐scale public health programmes and RPD must still be considered a valid therapeutic procedure.
Determination of fluoride release from light‐cured glass‐ionomers and a fluoridated composite resin from the viewpoint of curing time
Authors: ULUKAPI H. , BENDERLI Y. , SOYMAN M.
Published: May 2007

summary
The purpose of this study was to investigate the fluoride releasing pattern of several visible light‐curing glass‐ionomers and one fluoride‐containing filling material, from the viewpoint of curing time. Standardized blocks of Time Line (Caulk‐USA), XR‐Ionomer (Kerr‐USA), Vitrebond (3M‐USA) and Heliomolar‐Ro (Vivadent‐Lichtenstein) were light cured for 20, 40 and 60 s, and then stored in deionized distilled water at 37°C for 24, 48, 72 h and 7 days. The water was changed every day and measurements of the fluoride released from the materials were made daily. The results were compared statistically with the results obtained from Ketac‐Bond (Espe‐Germany) prepared in the same manner. The levels were highest for the first 24 h; in the following days they decreased rapidly. The fluoride‐releasing patterns of all these materials were similar to each other. The fluoride release was the highest from XR‐Ionomer, and the lowest from Heliomolar‐RO. For Time Line glass‐ionomer, the fluoride release from 20 s cured blocks was significantly higher than the fluoride release from 40 and 60 s cured blocks at the end of 1 week. It was observed that the fluoride release from Ketac‐Bond was significantly lower than XR‐Ionomer and Vitre‐Bond and higher than Time Line and Heliomolar‐Ro.
A new technique for determining the denture tooth bond
Authors: CUNNINGHAM J. L. , BENINGTON I.C.
Published: May 2007

summary
Defective bonds between resin teeth and denture base material remain a continuing source of failure. Findings from the limited number of studies on this topic are diminished by the numerous experimental approaches adopted. National and international standard specifications also adopt different methods of specimen preparation and physical straining. A critical appraisal of the various standards is carried out and a new procedure for determining the denture tooth to acrylic resin bond is described. A study using this technique found that physical modification and alginate contamination of the tooth had no significant effect on the bond strength. Ineffectual wax elimination was the main cause of failure.
The neurokinin‐1 antagonist activity of maropitant, an antiemetic drug for dogs, in a gerbil model
Authors: DE LA PUENTE‐REDONDO V. , TINGLEY F. D. , SCHNEIDER R. P. , HICKMAN M. A.
Published: May 2007

Maropitant is a novel synthetic nonpeptide neurokinin type 1 (NK1) selective receptor antagonist, recently developed for use in the dog as an antiemetic. Thein vivofunctional activity of maropitant was investigated in the gerbil foot‐tapping model, to determine the ability of maropitant to penetrate the central nervous system and inhibit foot‐tapping induced by the selective NK1agonist GR73632. In comparison with CP‐122,721, a previously characterized NK1receptor antagonist, maropitant (1 mg/kg by s.c. injection) was found to inhibit foot‐tapping for significantly longer (P < 0.01). Inhibition of foot‐tapping by maropitant was 100% at 2 h and approximately 50% at 8 h postdosing. The mean brain:plasma concentration ratio at 8 h post‐treatment was 3.59. These data demonstrate the central functional action of maropitant as a selective and potent NK1receptor antagonist and help to support and explain its clinical potential as a broad‐spectrum antiemetic agent.
Constitutive deficiency in DNA mismatch repair: is it time for Lynch III?
Authors: Felton KEA , Gilchrist DM , Andrew SE
Published: May 2007

Hereditary non‐polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), also known as Lynch syndrome types I and II, and the related subtypes Turcot and Muir–Torre syndrome, have all been associated with inheritance of germ line mutations in the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes. Fifty individuals have recently been identified with an early onset of a different spectrum of cancers associated with inheritance of two MMR mutations – resulting either in a constitutive loss of MMR function, or greatly impaired MMR function. In contrast to Lynch I and II individuals, individuals with inheritance of homozygous or compound heterozygous mutations in the MMR genes that result in a complete lack of protein, present with hematological and brain malignancies in the first decade of life. Biallelic mutations with compromised but residual protein function present with a broader spectrum of cancers (brain, hematological or gastrointestinal) in the second to fourth decades of life. We propose that inheritance of two MMR mutations in an individual and the unique tumor spectrum that occurs with an early onset should be defined separately from Lynch syndrome I and II, or the subtypes Turcot and Muir–Torre. We suggest Lynch III as an appropriate name for identifying individuals with constitutively compromised MMR associated with biallelic mutations.
Assessment of the prevalence of the 985A>G MCAD mutation in the French‐Canadian population using allele‐specific PCR
Authors: Giroux S , Dubé‐Linteau A , Cardinal G , Labelle Y , Laflamme N , Giguère Y , Rousseau F
Published: May 2007

Inherited deficiency of medium‐chain acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) is a severe, sometimes fatal disorder. A single mutation in the MCAD gene, 985A>G, is involved in approximately 90% of cases. To evaluate the relevance of implementing a systematic population‐based screening program in the province of Quebec using a biochemical test, we measured the prevalence of this mutation in a set of anonymous newborn samples from the Quebec City area, a region where the majority of its inhabitants are French‐Canadians. An allele‐specific polymerase chain reaction assay was designed and used to detect the mutation in 7143 DNA samples obtained from consecutive anonymous newborns. Pools of eight DNA samples were genotyped in parallel for the same mutation to validate this pooling strategy. The allelic frequency of the MCAD 985A>G mutation was found to be 0.71% and the carrier frequency 1:71 (95% confidence interval 1:55 to 1:98). This estimate predicts a homozygous frequency of 1:19,837. Ninety‐nine heterozygous carriers and one homozygous individual were identified out of 7143 samples. There was 100% concordance between the individual and pooled analyses, and the pooling strategy reduced the total genotyping costs by approximately 70%. The carrier frequency estimated for this population is similar to other northwestern European populations and would support implementation of systematic newborn screening (such as tandem mass spectrometry screening) for this disease. Pooling DNA samples followed by genotyping appears to be cost‐effective for estimating prevalence of rare mutations.
Immunohistochemical and immunochemical study of amyloid in liver affected by systemic Aλ amyloidosis with antibodies against three different regions of immunoglobulin λ light chain
Authors: Kiyama Makiko , Hoshii Yoshinobu , Cui Dan , Kawano Hiroo , Kanda Takashi , Ishihara Tokuhiro
Published: May 2007

The purpose of the present paper was to investigate the heterogeneous nature of amyloid deposits in the liver, by immunohistochemical and immunochemical examination of liver samples from cases of immunoglobulin λ light chain amyloidosis (Aλ amyloidosis) with antibodies generated against the peptides corresponding to the three different regions of the λ light chain. Amyloid deposits in the hepatic artery tended to react better with anti‐λ(118–134) than with anti‐λ(159–175). Amyloid deposits in the space of Disse tended to react weakly or partially with anti‐λ(118–134) but well with anti‐λ(159–175). Amyloid deposits in the portal vein reacted relatively well with both antibodies. By western blotting of water‐extracted amyloid in which amyloid deposits were not stained with anti‐λ(118–134) immunohistochemically, the three antibodies detected 27 kDa bands consistent with the full‐length Ig λ chain and some smaller bands. These findings indicate that amyloid deposits may not be homogeneous in the liver of AL amyloidosis, and that molecular heterogeneity of amyloid fibril protein or a difference in the mode of deposition results in the histopathological heterogeneity of AL amyloid deposits even within a single patient.
Activation of the lectin complement pathway in post‐streptococcal acute glomerulonephritis
Authors: Hisano Satoshi , Matsushita Misao , Fujita Teizo , Takeshita Morishige , Iwasaki Hiroshi
Published: May 2007

The aim of the present study was to elucidate the correlation between complement pathways and clinicopathological findings in post‐streptococcal acute glomerulonephritis (PSAGN). Immunohistological staining was performed on renal specimens obtained from 18 patients with PSAGN and 20 controls, using antibodies against IgG, IgA, IgM, C1q, C3c, C4, fibrinogen, factor B, C4‐binding protein (C4‐bp), C5b‐9, CD59, mannose‐binding lectin (MBL) and MBL‐associated serine protease‐1 (MASP‐1). Controls showed no deposition of any antibody. In seven patients, glomerular deposits of C3c, C4, factor B, C4‐bp, C5b‐9, CD59, MBL and MASP‐1 were found. In the remaining 11 patients, glomerular deposits of neither C4 nor MBL/MASP‐1 were found, and glomerular deposits of C3c, factor B, C5b‐9 and CD59 were evident. C4‐bp was detected in seven of these 11 patients. Glomerular deposits of fibrinogen were detected in five of seven patients with MBL/MASP‐1 deposits and in only two of 11 patients without MBL/MASP‐1 deposits. Hematuria was prolonged in three of seven patients with MBL/MASP‐1 deposits through follow up, whereas urinalysis was normal in all patients without MBL/MASP‐1 deposits. However, the histological indicators were not different between the two groups. To the authors' knowledge this is the first report to show that complement activation through both the alternative and lectin pathways is evident in some patients with PSAGN. Complement activation is promoted in situ in the glomerulus.
Occurrence and diversity of bacterial communities in Tuber magnatum during truffle maturation
Authors: Barbieri Elena , Guidi Chiara , Bertaux Joanne , Frey‐Klett Pascale , Garbaye Jean , Ceccaroli Paola , Saltarelli Roberta , Zambonelli Alessandra , Stocchi Vilberto
Published: May 2007

Tuber magnatum, an ascomycetous fungus and obligate ectomycorrhizal symbiont, forms hypogeous fruit bodies, commonly called Italian white truffles. The diversity of bacterial communities associated with T. magnatum truffles was investigated using culture‐independent and ‐dependent 16S rRNA gene‐based approaches. Eighteen truffles were classified in three groups, representing different degrees of ascocarp maturation, based on the percentage of asci containing mature spores. The culturable bacterial fraction was (4.17 ± 1.61) × 107, (2.60 ± 1.22) × 107 and (1.86 ± 1.32) × 106 cfu g−1 for immature, intermediate and mature ascocarps respectively. The total of bacteria count was two orders of magnitude higher than the cfu g−1 count. Sequencing results from the clone library showed a significant presence of α‐Proteobacteria (634 of the 771 total clones screened, c. 82%) affiliated with Sinorhizobium, Rhizobium and Bradyrhizobium spp. The bacterial culturable fraction was generally represented by γ‐Proteobacteria (210 of the 384 total strains isolated, c. 55%), which were mostly fluorescent pseudomonads. Fluorescent in situ hybridization confirmed that α‐Proteobacteria (85.8%) were the predominant components of truffle bacterial communities with β‐Proteobacteria (1.5%), γ‐Proteobacteria (1.9%), Bacteroidetes (2.1%), Firmicutes (2.4%) and Actinobacteria (3%) only poorly represented. Molecular approaches made it possible to identify α‐Proteobacteria as major constituents of a bacterial component associated with T. magnatum ascoma, independently from the degree of maturation.
Cardioembolic stroke secondary to non‐bacterial endocarditis in wegener disease
Authors: Caballero P. E. Jiménez , Martín T. Segura
Published: May 2007

Wegener granulomatosis is a systemic vasculitis that mainly affects the upper and lower respiratory tract and the kidneys. The presence of an ischemic stroke in this disease is very rare. A 40‐year‐old man, smoker with cavitated lesions in both lungs, and inflammation in the nasal mucosa and vocal cords developed an ischemic stroke in the left middle cerebral artery, with the etiological study showing non‐bacterial endocarditis. Non‐bacterial endocarditis can appear in patients with Wegener granulomatosis, with this being the first case of this cardioembolism reported in this disease.
The use of gabapentin in chronic cluster headache patients refractory to first‐line therapy
Authors: Schuh‐Hofer S. , Israel H. , Neeb L. , Reuter U. , Arnold G.
Published: May 2007

Chronic cluster headache (CCH) is a rare but challenging condition. About 20% of CCH patients get refractory to treatment. Gabapentin has recently been reported to be efficacious in the treatment of CCH. To test the potential of gabapentin as second‐line drug, we prospectively studied the efficacy of gabapentin as add‐on drug in eight patients suffering from CCH refractory to first‐line treatment. Six of eight CCH patients responded to treatment. After the end of the study phase, the patients’ clinical course was further followed up until January 2006. The longest period of being continuously pain‐free under gabapentin treatment was 18 months. In some individuals, increasing doses were needed with time. We conclude that gabapentin may be offered as treatment trial in patients refractory to first‐line treatment. However, patients may fail to respond to treatment and drug tolerance may occur with time.
Hospital‐referred polyneuropathies‐causes, prevalences, clinical‐ and neurophysiological findings
Authors: Rudolph T. , Farbu E.
Published: May 2007

The aim of this study was to evaluate the causes, prevalences, clinical manifestations of hospital‐referred polyneuropathies, and evaluate neurophysiological findings in idiopathic polyneuropathy. From 2000 to 2005, 226 patients with polyneuropathy were examined. Polyneuropathy was diagnosed when symptoms, clinical‐ and neurophysiological findings were compatible with affection of at least two peripheral nerves. They were classified in symptomatic and idiopathic polyneuropathy after investigation. Clinical manifestations were evaluated for diabetes‐ (DPN), inflammatory‐ (INPN), hereditary‐ (HPN) and idiopathic polyneuropathy (IDPN). Neurophysiological findings were investigated in IDPN. 72% had a symptomatic polyneuropathy. Most frequent causes were diabetes mellitus (18%), inflammation, (16%) and hereditary (14%). Most common prevalences per 100 000 were as follows: IDPN, 21; DPN, 13 and HPN, 11. Predominating clinical manifestations were: sensory and motor in INPN, HPN and IPN; sensory in DPN. Pain was more present in IDPN and DPN than in others. In IDPN axonal demyelinating affection was present in 20%. Symptomatic polyneuropathy was common and diabetes mellitus, inflammation and hereditary were frequent causes. In IDPN, DPN, HPN and INPN different clinical patterns were found. Additionally, in IDPN axonal demyelinating affection was more frequent than previously reported.
Carotidynia: a new case for an old controversy
Authors: Tardy J. , Pariente J. , Nasr N. , Peiffer S. , Dumas H. , Cognard C. , Larrue V. , Chollet F. , Albucher J.‐F.
Published: May 2007

Whereas International Headache society (IHS) criteria of carotidynia were defined in 1988, its validity as a distinct nosological entity has recently been questioned, leading this entity to be removed from the second IHS classification in 2004. We report the case of a 30‐year‐old woman who developed a pain located at the left carotid bulb, associated with typical findings on ultrasonography and MRI. We discuss new criteria and denomination of this clinical entity.
A comparative study of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy with and without diabetes mellitus
Authors: Kalita J. , Misra U. K. , Yadav R. K.
Published: May 2007

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is occasionally associated with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) raising the question of coexistence or etiological link. The study compares, neurophysiological and outcome of CIDP patients with and without DM. Consecutive CIDP patients were subjected to detailed clinical evaluation, haematology, serum chemistry, vasculitis profile, paraproteins, myeloma screening and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) examination. Electrodiagnostic (EDx) tests included motor and sensory conduction and F‐wave studies. The patients were treated with oral prednisolone 1 mg/kg/day with or without azathioprine 1–2 mg/kg and followed up for 6 months. The clinical and EDx finding in CIDP with and without DM were compared. Thirty‐five CIDP patients were included and nine had DM. CIDP with diabetes (CIDP‐D) had higher frequency of autonomic dysfunction. In CIDP‐D, motor (38.9% vs. 16.7%) and sensory (40.7% vs. 14.1%) nerve conductions were more frequently unrecordable or had reduced compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitude. F‐waves were also more frequently unrecordable in CIDP‐D (28.8% vs. 12.8%) compared with idiopathic CIDP (I‐CIDP). The degree of conduction block was more in I‐CIDP. At 6‐month follow up, I‐CIDP patients improved better than CIDP‐D. CIDP‐D patients present with higher frequency of autonomic dysfunction, electrophysiological evidences of associated axonal loss and had a poorer outcome at 6 months compared with I‐CIDP.
Antigen‐specific oligoclonal bands in cerebrospinal fluid and serum from patients with anti‐amphiphysin‐ and anti‐CV2/CRMP5 associated paraneoplastic neurological syndromes
Authors: Stich O. , Rauer S.
Published: May 2007

Using isoelectric focusing and affinity blotting employing paraneoplastic recombinant antigens, we investigated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and sera from three patients with positive anti‐CV2/CRMP5‐ and one patient with positive anti‐amphiphysin serology. CSF and sera were previously adjusted to total IgG concentrations of 20 mg/l. All patients suffered from paraneoplastic neurological syndromes (PNS) with predominant involvement of the central nervous system (CNS). Using affinity blot preloaded with paraneoplastic antigen, we detected in three of four patients more or stronger specific oligoclonal bands (OCB) in the CSF than in the corresponding serum, providing qualitative evidence of antigen specific intrathecal antibody synthesis. These results are in line with previous studies demonstrating specific OCB predominantly in CSF from patients with anti‐Hu‐, anti‐Yo‐ and anti‐Ri‐associated PNS, supporting the hypothesis of autoimmunity in the pathogenesis of PNS. One patient harboured extensive anti‐amphiphysin specific OCB, although OCB of total IgG could not be detected, indicating a higher sensitivity for detection of intrathecal antibody synthesis of the affinity blot preloaded with the paraneoplastic antigen, compared with investigation of total IgG OCB. These results could have implications concerning pathophysiological autoimmune aspects in other inflammatory diseases of CNS associated with total IgG OCB, provided that the target antigen is known.
Clinical characteristics of carriers of a GAG deletion in the DYT1 gene amongst Polish patients with primary dystonia
Authors: Szczaluba K. , Jurek M. , Milewski M. , Friedman A. , Kadziolka B. , Szolna A. , Bal J. , Mazurczak T.
Published: May 2007

DYT1 primary torsion dystonia is an autosomal dominant disorder caused by deletion of a GAG triplet in exon 5 of the DYT1 gene. A significant proportion of individuals with early‐onset generalized dystonia is believed to be DYT1 mutation carriers. We assessed the frequency of the GAG deletion in the DYT1 gene in a group of 61 Polish probands with clinical diagnosis of primary dystonia. The deletion was identified in four probands presenting with early‐onset generalized disease (7%). Further studies in probands’ families revealed two symptomatic and nine asymptomatic mutation carriers. We tested all mutation‐positive individuals for the presence of some common polymorphisms within the DYT1 gene. Two of the 15 mutation‐positive individuals additionally carried polymorphisms in 3′‐UTR of the gene. Early onset in a limb and progression toward a generalized form, but not family history of dystonia, are indicative of DYT1 dystonia in Polish dystonic individuals.
Double‐blind crossover trial of gabapentin in SPG4‐linked hereditary spastic paraplegia
Authors: Scheuer K. H. , Svenstrup K. , Jennum P. , á Rogvi‐Hansen B. , Werdelin L. , Fenger K. , Nielsen J. E.
Published: May 2007

Patients with hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) are often treated with antispastic drugs to relieve symptoms but documentation is lacking. In this study, gabapentin was tested in a double‐blind crossover trial on a group of patients with HSP and linkage to the SPG4 locus. There was no difference between periods with gabapentin and placebo treatment in clinical assessment, self‐reported parameters or paired transcranial magnetic stimulation evaluation of motor cortical excitability.
Resource allocation to brain research in Denmark: an example for other European countries
Authors: Olesen J. , Lekander I. , Sobocki P
Published: May 2007

This study represents a first attempt at estimating Danish resource allocation to brain research including both public and private spending. It appears that private spending is at a reasonable level because a highly developed Danish pharmaceutical industry invests significantly in this branch of science. However, public spending is at a low level compared with several other European countries with a similar economic status. As for other European countries the funding is very low compared with the USA. Dedicated national investigations of the resource allocation to different branches of biomedical research are warranted. Brain research should of course be an important part of such studies. The USA and the European Union have selected brain research as one of their priority areas within health‐related research. The present figures indicate that this is highly justified and should be copied in Denmark and in all other European countries.
Remission of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy and primary central nervous system lymphoma in an HIV‐infected patient
Authors: Lima M. A. , Katz‐Brull R. , Lenkinski R. E. , Nunez R. , Feinrider D. , Koralnik I. J.
Published: May 2007

The coexistence of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) and primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a rare event, usually associated with a fatal outcome. We report the case of a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected individual presenting with both PML and PCNSL who made a remarkable recovery after highly active anti retroviral theraphy (HAART) and radiation therapy, and discuss diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of both conditions.
The impact of HLA‐A and ‐DRB1 on age at onset, disease course and severity in Scandinavian multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Smestad C. , Brynedal B. , Jonasdottir G. , Lorentzen Å. R. , Masterman T. , Åkesson E. , Spurkland A. , Lie B. A. , Palmgren J. , Celius E. G. , Hillert J. , Harbo H. F.
Published: May 2007

The human leucocyte antigen (HLA) class II haplotype DRB1*15–DQB1*06 (DR15–DQ6) is associated with susceptibility to multiple sclerosis (MS), and HLA class I associations in MS have also been reported. However, the influence of HLA class I and II alleles on clinical phenotypes in MS has not yet been completely studied. This study aimed at evaluating the impact of HLA‐A and ‐DRB1 alleles on clinical variables in Scandinavian MS patients. The correlation between HLA‐A or ‐DRB1 alleles and age at onset, disease course and Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score (MSSS) were studied in 1457 Norwegian and Swedish MS patients by regression analyses and Kruskal–Wallis rank sum test. Presence of HLA‐DRB1*15 was correlated with younger age at onset of disease (corrected P = 0.009). No correlation was found between HLA‐A and the variables studied. This study analysed the effect of HLA‐A on clinical variables in a large Scandinavian sample set, but could not identify any significant contribution from HLA‐A on the clinical phenotype in MS. However, associations between HLA‐DRB1*15 and age at onset of MS were reproduced in this extended Scandinavian MS cohort.
How Crisis Shapes Change: New Perspectives on China's Political Economy during the Sino‐Japanese War, 1937–19451
Authors: Bian Morris L.
Published: May 2007

This article surveys the recent literature on China's political economy during the Sino‐Japanese War (1937–45). This literature reveals that the war‐triggered sustained systemic crisis brought about the most intensive Nationalist state‐building efforts, thedanweidesignation of political, economic, and administrative organizations, the expansion of state‐owned industries and the decline of the private sector, the creation of a state enterprise system, and the formation of an ideology of developmental state. This literature suggests that the elements of post‐1949 institutional and structural arrangements and ideological systems developed well before 1949. Therefore, the critical issue is no longer that of establishing institutional, structural, and ideological continuity between the Nationalist and Communist eras; instead, it rests in understanding why and how the Chinese Communists kept intact, built on, and expanded existing institutions, structures, and ideologies in certain key areas of political, economic, and administrative life.
Submerged healing following surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis: a case series
Authors: Roos‐Jansåker Ann‐Marie , Renvert Helena , Lindahl Christel , Renvert Stefan
Published: May 2007

Objectives: The aim was to study a regenerative surgical treatment modality for peri‐implantitis employing submerged healing.

Material and Methods: Twelve patients, having a minimum of one osseointegrated implant with peri‐implantitis, with a progressive loss of 3 threads (1.8 mm) following the first year of healing were involved in the study. After surgical exposure of the defect, granulomatous tissue was removed and the implant surface was treated using 3% hydrogen peroxide. The bone defects were filled with a bone substitute (Algipore®), a resorbable membrane (Osseoquest®) was placed over the grafted defect and a cover screw was connected to the fixture. The implant was then covered by flaps and submerged healing was allowed for 6 months. After 6 months the abutment was re‐connected to the supra‐structure.

Results: A 1‐year follow‐up demonstrated clinical and radiographic improvements. Probing depth was reduced by 4.2 mm and a mean defect fill of 2.3 mm was obtained.

Conclusion: Treatment of peri‐implant defects using a bone graft substitute combined with a resorbable membrane and submerged healing results in defect fill and clinical healthier situations.
The plaque and gingivitis reducing effect of a chlorhexidine and aluminium lactate containing dentifrice (Lacalut aktiv®) over a period of 6 months
Authors: Rathe F. , Auschill T. M. , Sculean A. , Gaudszuhn Ch. , Arweiler N. B.
Published: May 2007

Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the plaque and gingivitis reducing effect of a dentifrice containing chlorhexidine and aluminium lactate compared with a control toothpaste during the course of 6 months.

Material and Methods: This randomized, double‐blind study looked prospectively at participants over a 6‐month period. Plaque, gingivitis, calculus formation and tooth staining were assessed in 59 participants, who were divided into parallel groups. The participants used either a chlorhexidine and aluminium lactate‐containing toothpaste (test group) or a minus active control toothpaste (control group). Parameters were assessed at baseline and again after 1, 3 and 6 months.

Results: After 6 months of product use, both groups had less gingivitis compared with the baseline evaluation (p<0.001). At this time point, the test group showed a statistically significant lower gingival index values compared with the control group (p=0.001). No statistically significant differences between either the groups or time points were detected with regard to plaque index and the development of calculus and staining.

Conclusion: Although there was a statistically significant difference at 6 months between test and control groups, this difference was too small to be considered clinically meaningful.
Breastfeeding Best Start study: training midwives in a ‘hands off’ positioning and attachment intervention
Authors: Law Susan M. , Dunn Orla M. , Wallace Louise M. , Inch Sally A.
Published: May 2007

The most common reasons cited by women for giving up breastfeeding early can be attributed to ineffective positioning and attachment and are therefore preventable. This study aimed to determine whether a 4‐h training programme in ‘hands off’ positioning and attachment support increases midwives’ knowledge and problem‐solving skills. Using an unrelated comparison group and a pre‐ and post‐intervention design, 108 midwives (experimental group) completed a 4‐h standard breastfeeding training workshop focusing on effective positioning and attachment and the use of hands‐off teaching methods. Knowledge and problem‐solving skills were assessed using a modified form of the previously validated Breastfeeding Support Skills Tool. Pre‐ and post‐training scores were compared with those of 27 student midwives (control group) who undertook the same assessments but without the breastfeeding training. Baseline knowledge scores of the midwives and the student midwives did not differ significantly (average difference 0.7 points to qualified midwives’ advantage, 95% CI = −3.4 to 1.9). Following training, the qualified midwives’ total scores increased significantly (7.2 points, 95% CI = 6.2–8.2). Minimal changes (1.4 points, 95% CI = −0.15 to 2.9) in students’ scores were found. The additional increase owing to training above that which might be expected due to practice (i.e. the average difference in change scores between the two groups) was 5.8 points (95% CI = 3.75–7.96), representing a large effect size for the training (d = 0.95). There is a large variation in the breastfeeding knowledge of midwives working in post‐natal care and, on average, they are no more skilled than senior student midwives. The study has shown that a 4‐h workshop in a positioning and attachment intervention, using a ‘hands‐off’ approach, can increase midwives’ knowledge of breastfeeding support relevant to the immediate post‐natal period. It is applicable to all midwives, and could be a cost‐effective way of improving the ability of mothers to begin and continue to breastfeed successfully.
A large‐scale operational study of home‐based therapy with ready‐to‐use therapeutic food in childhood malnutrition in Malawi
Authors: Linneman Zachary , Matilsky Danielle , Ndekha MacDonald , Manary Micah J. , Maleta Ken , Manary Mark J.
Published: May 2007

Home‐based therapy with ready‐to‐use therapeutic food (RUTF) for the treatment of malnutrition has better outcomes in the research setting than standard therapy. This study examined outcomes of malnourished children aged 6–60 months enrolled in operational home‐based therapy with RUTF. Children enrolled in 12 rural centres in southern Malawi were diagnosed with moderate or severe malnutrition according to the World Health Organization guidelines. They were treated with 733 kJ kg−1 day−1 of RUTF and followed fortnightly for up to 8 weeks. Staff at each centre followed one of three models: medical professionals administered treatment (5 centres), patients were referred by medical professionals and treated by community health aids (4 centres), or community health aids administered treatment (3 centres). The primary outcome of the study was clinical status, defined as recovered, failed, died or dropped out. Regression modelling was conducted to determine what aspects of the centre (formal training of staff, location along a main road) contributed to the outcome. Of 2131 severely malnourished children and 806 moderately malnourished, 89% and 85% recovered, respectively. Thirty‐four (4%) of the moderately malnourished children failed, with 20 (2%) deaths, and 61 (3%) of the severely malnourished children failed, with 29 (1%) deaths. Centre location along a road was associated with a poor outcome. Outcomes for severely malnourished children were acceptable with respect to both the Sphere guidelines and the Prudhon case fatality index. Home‐based therapy with RUTF yields acceptable results without requiring formally medically trained personnel; further implementation in comparable settings should be considered.