bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Recurrences after Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation Ablation: When is the Proper Timing for Reablation?
Authors: WANG XINHUA , LIU XU , SHI HAIFENG , TAN HONGWEI , JIANG WEIFENG , WANG YUANLONG , YANG GUOSHU , ZHOU LI
Published: January 2011

Background:
 Early recurrences (ERs) within 1 month after paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation are common and may subside in a considerable proportion of patients. Although late reablation after 3 months is recommended, the proper timing for reablation remains undetermined.

Methods and Results:
 One hundred and seventeen (31.2%) from the pool of 375 patients experienced ERs at 7.5 ± 5.5 days postablation. They were allocated into two groups randomly: early reablation group (ERe+) (n = 57) and nonearly reablation group (ERe−) (n = 60). Forty patients (70.2%) in ERe+ group underwent early reablation at 28.1 ± 2.7 days postablation. Forty patients (66.7%) in ERe− group underwent late reablation at 98.2 ± 5.2 days postablation. The proportion of reablation was comparable (P = 0.68). ERs subsided in 17 (29.8%) in ERe+ group and in 20 (33.3%) in ERe− group. In ERe+ group, PV reconnection in 36 (80.0%), non‐PV foci in six (10.5%), and right or left atrial flutter in five (8.8%) was abolished by ablation. In ERe− group, pulmonary vein (PV) reconnection in 29 (72.5%), non‐PV foci in eight (13.3%), and right or left atrial flutter in eight (13.3%) was ablated successfully. The proportion of PV reconnection, nonfoci, and atrial flutter was comparable, P = 0.45, 0.64, and 0.56, respectively. At the end of 16.5 ± 2.0 (ERe+ group) and 15.2 ± 2.6 (ERe− group) months’ follow‐up, 47 (82.5%) in ERe+ group and 51 (85%) in ERe− group were free of atrial tachyarrhythmias, P = 0.70.

Conclusions:
 Compared with reablation 2 months later after initial ablation, early reablation at ≈1 month had similar clinical effectiveness. The proper timing for reablation can be set at ≈1 month after initial paroxysmal AF ablation. (PACE 2011; 709–716)
Vertical ridge augmentation of atrophic posterior mandible using an inlay technique with a xenograft without miniscrews and miniplates: case series
Authors: Scarano Antonio , Carinci Francesco , Assenza Bartolomeo , Piattelli Maurizio , Murmura Giovanna , Piattelli Adriano
Published: January 2011

Background: Rehabilitation of partially or totally edentulous posterior mandible with implant‐supported prosthesis has become a common practice in the last few decades, with reliable long‐term results. The use of miniscrews and miniplates have been reported to increase the risk of fracture of the osteotomy segments. The purpose of this case series was to use an inlay technique, without the use of miniscrews and miniplates for stabilization of the transported bone fragments.

Materials and methods: Nine consecutive patients (six men and three women) aged between 26 and 51 years (mean 44 years) were enrolled in this study. A horizontal osteotomy was performed 2–3 mm above the mandibular canal, and two oblique cuts were made using a piezosurgery device. The final phase of the osteotomy was performed with chisels. The osteotomized segment was then raised in the coronal direction, sparing the lingual periosteum. Two miniblocks of xenograft without miniscrews and miniplates were inserted mesially and distally between the cranial osteotomized segment and the mandibular basal bone. The residual space was filled with particles of cortico‐cancellous porcine bone. Four months after surgery, a panoramic X‐ray was taken before implant insertion. A bone trephine with an internal diameter of 2 mm was used as the second dental drill to take a bone core biopsy during preparation of the #35 and #37 or #45 and #47 implant sites.

Results: The postoperative course was uneventful in seven of the nine patients. No dehiscence of the mucosa was observed at the marginal ridge of the mobilized fragment. Newly formed bone was present near the osteotomized segments, and was observed in the bottom half of the specimens and was identified by its higher affinity toward the staining. Newly formed bone was observed to be in close contact with the particles of biomaterials. No gaps or connective tissue were present at the bone–biomaterial interface. Histomorphometry demonstrated that 44±2.1% of the specimens was composed by newly formed bone, 18±0.8% by marrow spaces, and 33±2.4% by the residual grafted biomaterial.

Conclusion: The rigidity of the equine collagenated block allowed to eliminate the use of miniscrews and miniplates and simplified the technique. Moreover, the rigidity of the block allowed maintenance of the space.

To cite this article:
 Scarano A, Carinci F, Assenza B, Piattelli M, Murmura G, Piattelli A. Vertical ridge augmentation of atrophic posterior mandible using an inlay technique with a xenograft without miniscrews and miniplates: case series. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 22, 2011; 1125–1130 doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2010.02083.x
Problem solving and problem‐solving education in dentistry
Authors: ten Bosch Jaap J.
Published: January 2011

Academic education in dentistry should lead to the capability to solve complex open problems. The student entering university is only familiar with closed problems. Research into the making of a medical diagnosis has shown that novices do so differently than experts. These research results are summarised and are presumed to be transferable to dental diagnosing and treatment planning. Examples of this transfer are given. Until 1 or 2 decades ago, education in problem solving was done only by extensive teacher‐student interaction in clinical and scientific work. Presently, this is no longer adequate because of reduction of curriculum time for these activities. Therefore other methods have been developed in many places. These methods include the use of a problem‐solving model (heuristic). Based on models in the literature, 3 new models are presented. These are intended for novices that solve a dentally relevant open problem in basic sciences, for novices that solve a clinical dental problem, and for more expert students that solve such a problem. Diagrams and examples are given.
The Baltic dental programme at The Faculty of Dentistry of The Karolinska Institute: first evaluation
Authors: Röding Karin
Published: January 2011

In 1992, The Faculty of Dentistry of The Karolinska Institute (KI) introduced a dental undergraduate programme specifically for Baltic students. Initiative for this programme came from both the Ministries of Health in Estonia and Latvia and a Member's Bill in the Swedish Committee for Foreign Affairs. The first 10 students were admitted in January 1992, and in 1994, a further 8 students were accepted. The main objective is to train Baltic students according to the Scandinavian model of dental education, in order to facilitate a positive development in dentistry in these countries. Candidates for the programme, dental students in Latvia or Estonia who had completed several preclinical years, were interviewed and tested in their home countries by a Swedish Admissions Committee. The curriculum comprises 7 semesters at the School of Dentistry, and includes complementary courses in basic science, preventive dentistry, and theoretical and practical courses in all fields of clinical dentistry. The students work with Increasing independence, treating patients with a great variety of oral diseases and from different age groups. A course in Informatics is central and forms a base for a research‐based assignment in collaboration with the respective home universities. The Baltic Programme is the first time KI has designed and implemented a specially tailored dental undergraduate curriculum in English for a selected group of foreign undergraduates. The students have proved to be ambitious and industrious, with very high academic standards. Their results in the written examinations were equal to or better than those of the home students. Of the 9 students who to date have completed the course, all are working as dentists In their respective countries and 6 are associated with their university.
A new admission procedure to dental education at The Karolinska Institute: An initial evaluation
Authors: Röding Karin
Published: January 2011

This study compares the performance to date of dental undergraduates selected by a new, individual admissions procedure, and those admitted by the traditional centralised system (control groups). Admission to all full‐time tertiary study in Sweden was centralised and administered by special national units until 1993, following which the universities were allowed to adopt their own admission system. The Dental School at The Karolinska Institute in 1993 introduced an individualised selection system, initially for one‐third and subsequently for 60% of the freshmen intake, the remaining places being reserved for students applying through the national admissions centre. The main objective of the new selection procedure is to seek out highly motivated students (less likely to drop‐out) with general competence, high academic achievement, and personal attributes considered important in a health professional. An Admissions Committee (AC) comprising seven faculty members, was appointed by the Vice‐Chancellor, for the new system which has been used unaltered since 1993. In the first stage applicants with the highest academic grades are selected in descending order. In the second stage, the prospective students spend a day at The Dental School writing separate assignments, which are assessed by the AC according to defined criteria. Applicants who do well in the written assessment proceed to the third stage in which each applicant is interviewed by two AC members on separate occasions. In the final selection procedure, the AC considers the combined merits of all the interviewed applicants. Analysis of the first three intakes discloses few or no drop‐outs among AC‐selected undergraduates. In three major integrated examinations, designed to disclose not only factual knowledge but also comprehension and maturity and as such reflect clinical conditions, their performance is as good as or better than the control groups.
Communication skills training courses in dental education
Authors: Gorter Ronald C. , Eijkman Michiel A. J.
Published: January 2011

In this article, some reasons for teaching communication skills in dental schools are discussed. An overview of 3 courses at the Amsterdam dental school is presented, along with the results of a student evaluation. Students evaluated these courses as useful and relevant for dental practice. It is concluded that this is especially so when the students recognize direct applicability of the courses to dental practice.
Competency‐based dental education in context
Authors: Chambers David W.
Published: January 2011

The theoretical foundations of competency‐based education are described. Among these are definitions of learning in terms of the situations one can function in rather than the accumulation of knowledge or skills, and of professional growth as a succession of stages from novice to expert. Competence is the midpoint on this continuum where individuals are capable of practicing independently and of assuming responsibility for their continued professional growth. Dental education has functioned well at the early stages of this process, but the assumption that “more of the same” will complete the process is questioned. Also considered are the implications of competency in the political context of dentistry, in curriculum design, and for evaluation.
Investigation of the operative response of a group of general dental practitioners to varying extents of proximal caries
Authors: Amer Mohammed E. , Omer Osama E. , Bergquist John , Elderton Richard J. , Claffey Noel
Published: January 2011

The aim of this investigation was to assess the operative response of a representative sample of Irish General Dental Practitioners of various times since qualification to carious lesions of varying extent in both approximal surfaces of a lower left first molar tooth. 82 General Dental practitioners participated. The dentists were asked to treat 2 manikin teeth for minimal caries on both approximal surfaces extending to the enamel dentine junction, 2 teeth for caries extending approximately to half the thickness of the dentine and 2 teeth for caries extending more than ¾ of the dentine thickness. Weight measurements were made of the tooth substance cut away. Mean volumes of tooth material removed ranged from 21 mm3 for minimal caries to 76 mm3 for the largest amount of caries. A two‐factor analysis of variance revealed that the type of cavity preparation the dentist used had a significant effect on the volume of tooth material removed for all three extents of caries. Time since graduation had a significant effect on the volume of tooth material removed for the least extent of caries, but not for the other categories of carious involvement.
Providing care in an infectious disease clinic. Why students volunteer*
Authors: Lopez Naty , Glick Michael , Berthold Peter
Published: January 2011

This qualitative study explores the motivations of dental students who volunteered as care providers for patients identified as carriers of infectious diseases. The study involved 12 students, seven 4th year and five 3rd year students who worked 1–2.5 days per week in an infectious disease clinic in a dental school in the northeastern United States. 4 faculty members who also volunteered their time in the clinic supervised the students. Personal interviews were conducted with each student to determine their reasons for volunteering and to explore the perceived significance of their experiences in the clinic. Internal validity was established through group interviews wherein responses during the personal interviews were discussed with the students. All 12 students were interested in Oral Medicine and all 4th year students had completed a course on HIV‐AIDS for their selective requirement. Students expressed willingness to care for patients who are medically compromised in anticipation of an increase of this type of patients in their future practice. Previous exposure to a family member or friend or patients (non‐dental) who were terminally ill or to patients with HIV was another common reason. All 12 students preferred to work in the infectious disease clinic more than in other school clinics. They felt that there was more faculty‐student interaction and a more stimulating learning atmosphere that the faculty created. The students felt that the patients treated in the clinic were more appreciative. Students also claim they experienced more team spirit among their fellow students and staff and that the clinic atmosphere was more relaxed and less competitive. Students got the most satisfaction from helping patients who were perceived to have had problems in accessing care prior to their visit to the clinic. Results of the study show that the students volunteered to treat patients who are known to have infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS because they find personal and academic satisfaction from working in a clinic which provides care to individuals with specific medical needs.
Problem‐based curricula and dental education: facilitating change for teachers and learners
Authors: Winning Tracey A. , Townsend Grant C.
Published: January 2011

Problem‐based curricula (PBC) are being implemented increasingly in dental schools around the world, along with the associated excitement and dilemmas that accompany any change process. Successful development and implementation of this approach to teaching and learning involves a range of issues. This paper discusses the need for recognition of the conceptions of both teachers and students in the teaching and learning process as well as approaches that facilitate change from existing beliefs. A collaborative approach to curriculum implementation that involves staff and students in the development and practice of PBL is recommended, rather than an institutional directive or “top‐down” approach. Other suggestions for managing the transition are provided, including provision of a specific introductory PBL unit that addresses issues commonly encountered with PBL such as rôles and expectations of staff and students, group work and assessment. In summary, careful consideration and management of the many issues associated with curriculum change are required to optimise implementation of a “new” PBC approach.
Assessing the use of CD‐ROM technology in case‐based learning
Authors: Oesterle Larry J. , Shellhart William Craig
Published: January 2011

CD‐ROM programs for orthodontic case presentation and biomechanics that demonstrate malocclusions and treatment in a highly visual, animated format are commercially available. The purpose of this study was to determine the usefulness of two of these programs in enhancing case‐based learning in a seminar setting. Junior year predoctoral dental students were provided with orthodontic records of patients and asked to work up the patients and present the problem list, diagnosis, treatment objectives and treatment strategies in class. One‐half of the class used the CD‐ROMs to determine treatment strategies, while the other half of the class used a literature search. The CD‐ROM Group used computer technology in class to present the treatment. Effectiveness was evaluated using a case‐based examination and a student survey. Results indicated no difference on the examination, but a preference by the students for the use of the CD‐ROMs both in researching possible treatment and for the in‐class presentations. The commercially available CD‐ROMs appear to be a useful way of enhancing student interest in orthodontic case‐based seminars, but may have little effect on actual learning.
Undergraduate teaching of periodontology in UK dental schools
Authors: Heasman P. A.
Published: January 2011

A questionnaire survey of dental schools in the United Kingdom was undertaken to evaluate the teaching of periodontology and the extent to which the curricula correlate with the guidelines set by the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) in 1996. The questionnaire sought details regarding the basic structure and content of courses, the manpower for teaching the subject, methods of assessment and evaluation, and extra‐curricula opportunities linked to periodontology. The responses show that there is considerable consistency between the UK schools in teaching periodontology and that the curriculum content largely fulfils EFP guidelines. The survey has also established an extensive database on information in this area of undergraduate dental education.
The cost of endodontic procedures in a French university hospital
Authors: Barek Stephane , Rilliard Frederic , Roth Françoise
Published: January 2011

Clinical costs have become an important consideration in dental schools, and have been the subject of several recent studies. In order to determine the actual costs of endodontic procedures, we have attempted to identify the various components of root canal therapy. The present study is based on findings in a university hospital functioning within the context of the French health care system. A questionnaire was used to survey the major factors entering into the achievement of the clinical procedure. The endodontic treatments were performed on 100 1st or 2nd molars, by undergraduate students. The survey involves fixed, variable, direct and indirect costs, and takes into consideration the reimbursements made by the French health care system. Findings indicate that all procedures show an appreciable deficit with a significant difference between initial treatment and retreatment. The analysis of the survey questionnaire findings enables us to offer some recommendations in the area of undergraduate education, as well.
A three‐year programme in oral diagnosis and treatment planning A model using an interdisciplinary teaching team
Authors: Moskona David , Kaplan Iiana , Leibovich Pnina , Notzer Netta , Begleiter Alfred
Published: January 2011

Diagnosis and treatment planning are considered to be the basis for successful clinical dentistry, however, these skills are difficult to teach and evaluate. At the Department of Diagnosis and Treatment Planning, Tel Aviv University Dental School, a 3‐year teaching programme has been developed. The goals of the programme are to teach a systematic pattern of data collection from history, clinical examination, imaging modalities and models, and to use this data to identify the patient's problems and to arrive at a final diagnosis, to develop a treatment plan, taking into account all relevant information, and to consult experts when needed, to train in case presentation, and to deal with peer response. The program includes 20 h of lectures and 30 h of exercises in the 4th year, developing at least 8 full treatment plans per student in the fifth year, a 1 30‐min weekly panel seminar during the final year, and a final integrative examination at the end of the 6th year.
Portfolio of qualifications: a tool for evaluating academic productivity at the Karolinska Institutet
Authors: Dahllöf Göran , Ekstrand Jan , Nordenström Jörgen
Published: January 2011

A Portfolio of Qualifications for academic appointments at the Karolinska Institutet has been developed to define more clearly the competence and qualifications which are given high priority for academic appointments at the Karolinska Institutet. The major fields of application are for new appointments and promotions, providing guidelines for the individual for improving his/her proficiency, and as a basis for determining individual salary rates. Four portfolios have been developed, a pedagogical, a clinical, a scientific, and a leadership, development and workplace relations portfolio. Attached to the portfolios are assessment forms. We consider the Qualifications Portfolio to be a reflection of changes in attitudes and values at the Karolinska Institutet. The system offers a method for the recognition of faculty productivity in different dimensions. This may be beneficial for the university in view of the increasing diversity and complexity of academic institutions. The Qualifications portfolio can be obtained from the world wide web, http:www.ki.semerit.se.html (in Swedish), http:www.ki.sekimerit.html (in English).
Development of an interactive multimedia‐CBT‐program for dental implantology and using tests of a program prototype
Authors: Schuhbeck Michael , Haßfeld Stefan , Koke Ulrich , Mühling Joachim
Published: January 2011

The aim of the study was the development of a teaching program for dental implantology designed to improve student education as well as further training in this area. Initially, the computer equipment of German dentists was evaluated. Then, the contents of a teaching program “implantology interactive” were defined. A fully functional program prototype was developed in cooperation with a medical publishing house. Subsequently, the program was tested and statistically evaluated by 70 dental students and 40 dentists for the purpose of quality assurance. The program received extremely positive ratings with regard to design and functionality. Furthermore, it was found to be clearly arranged and easy to comprehend. Even computer illiterate test persons had no problem working with the program. The biggest problem discovered during the test run was that 21% of the test persons lost their orientation while working with the program. The results of the study were used to optimize the program. For example, a graphic orientation tree was integrated, thereby improving the orientation within the program. The extremely positive reactions of the test persons leads us to expect that the introduced CBT‐project will be successful. The use of the program in the student education in the dental clinic in Heidelberg and a publication in a medical publishing house are to be expected in the near future.
The effect of surgical technique on lingual nerve damage during lower 3rd molar removal by dental students
Authors: Robinson P. P. , Loescher A. R. , Smith K. G.
Published: January 2011

We have previously shown that avoidance of lingual flap retraction with a Howarth periosteal elevator during lower 3rd molar removal, reduces the incidence of lingual nerve damage. In that study, the surgery was undertaken by qualified staff and we have now assessed the effect of revising the method taught to our junior undergraduate dental students. We evaluated the outcome of surgery undertaken by 2 consecutive years of students, each group being taught 1 of the 2 methods. A total of 200 patients requiring lower 3rd molar removal under local anaesthesia were included in the study. In year 1, the surgery included elevation of a lingual flap and insertion of a Howarth elevator adjacent to the lingual plate; in year 2 this part of the procedure was avoided by using a purely buccal approach. There were no significant differences between the levels of tooth eruption and types of impaction of the teeth removed in each year. Lingual sensory disturbance occurred in 3 patients in the ‘flap’ group (3.3%) and in 1 patient (0.9%) in the ‘no flap’ group. As this incidence is not significantly different in the 2 groups (P<0.4), we conclude that avoidance of lingual retraction by students undertaking lower 3rd molar removal does not appear to place the lingual nerve at greater risk. In view of the results of our previous study, we therefore advocate this method for use in undergraduate dental education.
Self‐perceived competency at graduation: a comparison of dental graduates from the Adelaide PBL curriculum and the Toronto traditional curriculum
Authors: Greenwood L. Frances , Townsend Grant C. , Wetherell John D. , Mullins Gerry A.
Published: January 2011

The first class to complete the new Adelaide problem‐based learning curriculum graduated in 1997. Their self‐perceived competence at graduation was assessed using a revised version of a questionnaire recently compiled and used in Toronto, and based on the global competencies for dental practice accepted in 1995 by all Canadian Faculties of Dentistry. 38 of the 45 Adelaide class members (84%) completed the survey, compared with 93/129 (72%) in Toronto, and their responses were largely similar to those of the Toronto students. At least 67% of the Adelaide and Toronto students felt well‐prepared in 34 of the 55 competencies. Most felt well‐prepared for the basic everyday items such as diagnosis, local anaesthesia and basic restorative, but less so for items that are not encountered as often in dental school, such as business matters, practice management, soft tissue biopsies and dentofacial trauma. Items showing significant differences between the 2 schools are discussed with reference to curricular and other dissimilarities in the schools, and some inferences are drawn about the importance of context to learning and feelings of competence.
Dental students' evaluation of 2 community‐oriented PBL modules
Authors: Pau A. K. H. , Collinson S. , Croucher R.
Published: January 2011

Objectives. To evaluate dental students' perception of 2 problem‐based learning (PBL) modules in Dental Public Health implemented within the context of a traditional formal curriculum.

Methods. 2 dental community modules were implemented with an 8‐month interval between them on the same group of dental undergraduates; the first in Term 2 and the second in Term 4 of a 5‐year 15‐term dental course. At the end of each module, a semi‐structured questionnaire was administered to evaluate the introductory lecture, the fieldwork activity and the organisation of the modules.

Results. In both modules, students reported gaining insight into the subject matter, skills in teamwork, making presentations and collecting data. Some students in the 1st module needed more time to fulfil their learning objectives and had difficulty in collecting data. In the 2nd module, students reported that they lacked motivation because of the place of the module within their timetable. Opinions differed about groupwork. The content of and interest generated by fieldwork activity was rated more positively in the 2nd module than the 1st. Less positively rated in the 2nd module was the introductory lecture and module organisation.

Conclusions. Implementing PBL within a traditional curriculum does not offer uniform outcomes for students. Optimum group size and adequate time are necessary if students are to benefit from PBL. A consistent and continuous PBL approach should be adopted rather than a sporadic one. Further research should establish the optimum balance between PBL and traditional approaches that would allow students to maximise the benefits of both and to identify those students best equipped to benefit from a ‘mixed economy’ of learning.
Specialisation in Dentistry in Europe – A review
Authors: Moss James P. , Orosz Mihaly , Bánóczy Jolan
Published: January 2011

In order to find out what branches of Dentistry are recognized across Europe as Dental specialties, a questionnaire was designed and sent to various Associations and groups across Europe. It contained 8 main questions covering the various specialties that were recognised or were to be recognised. Responses were obtained from 27 countries, 15 EU member states and 12 non member states. The results from the questionnaire indicated that there was a broad agreement on many of the questions, but a considerable variety of opinions. There seems to be a desire to harmonize standards across Europe for the benefit of the profession and the public.
A large‐scale multi‐technique approach identifies forty‐nine new players of keratinocyte terminal differentiation in human epidermis
Authors: Mattiuzzo Nicolas R. , Toulza Eve , Jonca Nathalie , Serre Guy , Guerrin Marina
Published: January 2011

Abstract:  At the latest stage of terminal differentiation in the epidermis, granular keratinocytes (GKs) undergo cornification, a programmed cell death required for the establishment of a functional skin barrier. A complex genetic regulatory network orchestrates the underlying biochemical modifications, but very few transcription factors specific to this programme have been identified to date. Here, we describe a large‐scale, multi‐technique approach performed on cells purified from normal human epidermis, primarily focusing on the identification of regulators. We combined data from microarray analysis of cell fractions enriched in GKs or basal keratinocytes, from an expressed sequence tag (EST) library built from GKs and from an in silico promoter analysis of 52 differentiation‐associated genes. Among 3576 genes potentially expressed in GK, 298 candidates were selected, and half were directly profiled for the first time in the different layers of the epidermis by quantitative real‐time PCR. Forty‐nine genes upregulated during terminal differentiation, associated with numerous function of GK including lipid synthesis and secretion, were identified. Of 94 transcription factors detected, 37 were found to be either positively or negatively regulated, suggesting their involvement as regulators of gene expression in the GKs. These results largely extend the number of genes known as involved in the latest step of the terminal differentiation of human epidermis as well as the number of transcription factors known to control the expression of these genes.
Taxonomic versus allometric constraints on non‐linear interaction strengths
Authors: Rall Björn Christian , Kalinkat Gregor , Ott David , Vucic‐Pestic Olivera , Brose Ulrich
Published: January 2011

Recently, the importance of body mass and allometric scaling for the structure and dynamics of ecological networks has been highlighted in several ground‐breaking studies. However, advances in the understanding of generalities across ecosystem types are impeded to a considerable extent by a methodological dichotomy contrasting a considerable portion of marine ecology on the one hand opposite to traditional community ecology on the other hand. Many marine ecologists are bound to the taxonomy‐neglecting size spectrum approach when describing and analysing community patterns. In contrast, the mindset of the other school is focused on taxonomies according to the Linnean system at the cost of obscuring information due to applying species or population averages of body masses and other traits. Following other pioneering studies, we addressed this lingering gap, and studied non‐linear interaction strengths (i.e. functional responses) between two taxonomically‐distinct terrestrial arthropod predators (centipedes and spiders) of varying individual body masses and their prey. We fitted three non‐linear functional response models to the data: (1) a taxonomic model not accounting for variance in body masses amongst predator individuals, (2) an allometric model ignoring taxonomic differences between predator individuals, and (3) a combined model including body mass and taxonomic effects. Ranked according to their AICs, the combined model performs better than the allometric model, which provides a superior fit to the data than the taxonomic model. These results strongly indicate that the body masses of predator and prey individuals were responsible for most of the variation in non‐linear interaction strengths. Taxonomy explained some specific patterns in allometric exponents between groups and revealed mechanistic insights in predation efficiencies. Reconciling quantitative allometric models as employed by the marine size‐spectrum approach with taxonomic information may thus yield quantitative results that are generalized across ecosystem types and taxonomic groups. Using these quantitative models as novel null models should also strengthen subsequent taxonomic analyses.
Thermal sensory and pain thresholds in the tongue and chin change with age, but are not altered in burning mouth syndrome
Authors: Kaplan Ilana , Levin Tali , Papoiu Alexandru D. P. , Patel Nishel , Patel Tejesh , Calderon Shlomo , Littner Mark , McGlone Francis , Yosipovitch Gil
Published: January 2011

Background: Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a chronic orofacial pain syndrome that occurs in middle‐aged and postmenopausal women and poses a therapeutic challenge to dermatologists and dentists. It has been suggested previously that BMS is a small‐fiber neuropathy.

Aims: This study was designed to examine thermal sensory and pain thresholds in the oral mucosa and chin, both innervated by the trigeminal nerve, in patients with BMS, as well as in healthy controls. In addition, the study proposed to examine whether there are any differences in oral thermal and pain sensations between the advanced age group, where BMS is prevalent and a younger group.

Results: Thermal and pain thresholds of BMS patients did not differ significantly from those of healthy subjects. An increased threshold to thermal warmth and a decreased threshold for cold sensation for the tongue and chin were noted in the group over 50 years in comparison with younger subjects, indicating a decreased sensitivity to thermal stimuli. The group over 50 years of age displayed an increased sensitivity to cold pain and a decreased sensitivity to hot pain in the tongue (compared with the chin).

Conclusion: BMS patients do not demonstrate alterations in thermal and pain detection, thus failing to support a true small nerve neuropathy in this condition.
Cannabinoid Receptor and N‐acyl Phosphatidylethanolamine Phospholipase D—Evidence for Altered Expression in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Zhang Hua , Hilton David A. , Hanemann C. Oliver , Zajicek John
Published: January 2011

Cannabinoids have been shown to have a beneficial effect in both animal models of multiple sclerosis (MS) and human disease, although the mechanisms of action are unclear. We examined expression of the major cannabinoid receptors [(CBRs) cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2)] and a key enzyme involved in synthesis of the endocannabinoid anandamide [N‐acyl phosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase D (NAPE‐PLD)] in autopsy brain samples from patients with MS. CB1 was expressed in neurons, injured axons, oligodendrocytes, macrophages/microglia, some astrocytes, endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells and pericytes. CB2 and NAPE‐PLD were localized to cerebral endothelial cells, pericytes, smooth muscle cells, astrocytes and macrophages/microglia. NAPE‐PLD immunoreactivity was also seen in neurons. Endothelial CB2 expression was greatest in chronic inactive plaques, and in areas was seen in segments of endothelium where the endothelial expression of adhesion molecules (VCAM‐1 and ICAM‐1) was focally undetectable, and was often expressed in areas of blood–brain barrier damage. Vascular density was increased in chronic active plaques and normal‐appearing white matter compared with controls. These data support findings from animal models which suggest a role for the endocannabinoid system in the MS, particularly in the regulation of endothelial leukocyte adhesion and the cellular response to injury.
Role of steaming and Toasting on the Odor, Protein Characteristics of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Flour, and Product Quality
Authors: Ravi R. , Ajila C.M. , Rao U.J.S. Prasada
Published: January 2011

Abstract:  Proteins play an important role in imparting functional attributes like texture and shape, which determine the sensory quality of the foods. Boondi, a deep fried product from chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) flour dispersion, is a popular snack food in India. Chickpea dhal (splits) or flour was subjected to various processing conditions like steaming and toasting, to determine their effect on the chickpea flour protein characteristics and on the product quality. Dhal and flour subjected to different heat treatments showed differences in their odor profiles. The SDS‐PAGE of sodium phosphate buffer extracts of steamed dhal or flour showed that the high molecular weight (HMW) proteins of 66 to 100 kDa that were present in the untreated dhal were found to be absent in steamed dhal extracts. However, SDS buffer extracts on SDS‐PAGE of these steamed samples did not show any difference between untreated and thermally treated dhal samples. Phosphate buffer extracts of the thermally treated flours were subjected to gel filtration chromatography and the results indicated that the HMW protein fraction content decreased significantly in the treated dhal or flour samples compared to control. Boondi prepared from the thermally treated dhal samples resulted in the loss of spherical shape of boondi. Thus, the results indicate that thermal treatment of chickpea dhal and flour influence changes in protein characteristics, the sensory profile and quality of boondi.
Beer Volatile Analysis: Optimization of HS/SPME Coupled to GC/MS/FID
Authors: Charry‐Parra Gustavo , DeJesus‐Echevarria Maritza , Perez Fernando J.
Published: January 2011

Abstract:  A powerful technique was developed for the identification and quantification of 9 volatile compounds of beer, using headspace solid phase micro‐extraction (HS/SPME) and gas chromatograph coupled to a mass spectrometer and a flame ionization detector (GC/MS/FID). Optimized parameters included type of fiber, desorption time, and exposure time. Optimization was achieved with standard solutions of the target compounds. All samples were analyzed in triplicate. An exposure time of 45 min with PDMS fiber in the sample headspace was enough to reach equilibrium of the phases. A desorption time of 15 min in the gas chromatograph injector was enough for the fiber to desorb the target compounds. It was found that less polar compounds were more readily absorbed by the fiber (for example, isoamyl acetate) than more polar compounds (for example, acetaldehyde), under the extraction conditions, due to the nature of the fiber. Extraction conditions are important criteria to perform a good quantification of volatile compounds. Concentrations found in sampled beer, for the compounds of interest, ranged between 0.32 and 41.7 ppm. Results show that the reproducibility of the technique depends on the compounds. Esters have higher values (RSD mean value 5.05%) than higher alcohols (RSD mean value 2.5%) and aldehydes (RSD 3.7%). The simplicity of the validated methodology enables its use as a regular quality control procedure for beer flavor analysis.

Practical Application:  This study describes a technique successfully used to identify and quantify volatiles of interest in beer that can be used for quality control purposes under normal brewery production conditions. The technique uses a gas chromatograph coupled to a mass spectrometer with a flame ionization detector.
Subclinical mastitis and associated risk factors on dairy farms in New South Wales
Authors: Plozza K , Lievaart JJ , Potts G , Barkema HW
Published: January 2011

Objective To determine the current prevalence of subclinical mastitis (SCM) and associated risk factors on dairy farms in New South Wales.

Methodology A survey was sent to 382 dairy farmers to acquire information on the relevant risk factors associated with SCM.

Results The average herd prevalence of SCM among the 189 respondents (response rate 49.5%) was 29%. Farmers who had herds with a low prevalence (<20% cows with individual somatic cell count (ISCC) >2 × 105 cells/mL) more frequently wore gloves during milking (26% vs 62%), used individual paper towels for udder preparation (16% vs 62%), fed cows directly after milking (47% vs 87%) and more frequently treated cows with high ISCC (69% vs 80%) than farmers who had herds with a high prevalence of SCM (>30% cows with ISCC >2 × 105 cells/mL). The latter more often used selective dry cow therapy (52% vs 24%), compared with low prevalence herds.

Conclusion The prevalence of SCM in this cross‐sectional study is comparable or lower than reported in other studies from North America and the European Union. The outcome provides a benchmark for the current focus of the NSW dairy industry on the management practices associated with a low prevalence of SCM, such as wearing gloves, using paper towels and feeding cows directly after milking.
Neuroangiostrongyliasis and other parasites in tawny frogmouths (Podargus strigoides) in south‐eastern Queensland
Authors: Gelis S , Spratt DM , Raidal SR
Published: January 2011

The neurological, clinical and pathological findings and endoparasites in 10 wild tawny frogmouths (Podargus strigoides) presented to the Australian Wildlife Hospital in Beerwah, Queensland during a 28‐day period in May 2009 are reported. Affected birds had a history of being found in poor body condition on the ground and unable to fly. Clinical examination revealed paresis with variable but generally weakened deep pain responses, withdrawal reflexes and an inability to perch. Severely affected birds that failed to respond to anti‐inflammatory, antibiotic and anthelmintic treatments all had larval Angiostrongylus cantonensis in the brain and or spinal cord, with occasional larvae found in the visceral organs. Other parasites detected included the liver fluke, Brachylecithum podargi, the intestinal nematode, Allodapa suctoria, an unidentified species of Trichostrongylus and unidentified cestodes. Gametocytes of Leucocytozoon sp. were found in peripheral blood smears and low numbers of microfilariae were found in histological sections of various blood vessels of several birds. However, no adult filarioids were recovered. Unidentified subcutaneous mites were identified in the connective tissue of the thoracic inlet. Attempts to treat two birds with ivermectin or oxfendazole–praziquantel were unsuccessful, but a third bird treated with a combination of steroidal and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory therapy followed by moxidectin steadily recovered, such that by 6 weeks post presentation its ability to perch, grasp, fly and judge distances was considered normal and it was subsequently released.
Diastereoselective Self‐aggregation of Synthetic 3‐(1‐Hydroxyethyl)‐bacteriopyrochlophyll‐a as a Novel Photosynthetic Antenna Model Absorbing Near the Infrared Region¶
Authors: Kunieda Michio , Mizoguchi Tadashi , Tamiaki Hitoshi
Published: January 2011

3‐Deacetyl‐3‐(l‐hydroxyethyl) bacteriopyrochlorophyll‐a (1), 7, 8‐dihydrobacteriochlorophyll‐d possessing 8‐ethyl, 12‐methyl and 174‐phytyl groups, was prepared by modifying naturally occurring bacteriochlorophyll‐a. The synthetic 31‐epimers were separated by high‐performance liquid chromotagraphy, and the absolute configuration at the 31‐position was determined by derivatization of 1 to a structurally determined chlorin. A dichloromethane solution of 31‐R‐1 or 31S‐1 was diluted with a 1000‐fold volume of cyclohexane to give self‐aggregation species absorbing light at a near‐infrared (NIR) region (<910 nm). The resulting Qy maximum in 31R‐1 was 860 nm and redshifted by 2170 cm−1 from the monomeric one, whereas epimeric 31S‐1 showed a less redshifted peak at ca 800 nm, with a small dimeric band around 740 nm. Such visible spectra indicated that 31R/S‐1 formed different supramolecular structures in the self‐aggregates. In contrast, self‐aggregation of the 7, 8‐dehydro‐compound 2, bacteriochlorophyll‐dp, found in natural antennas of photosynthetic green bacteria showed much smaller diastereomeric control. The self‐aggregates of 31R‐1 absorbing light in the NIR region would be models of intrinsic membranous light‐harvesting complexes 1 in photosynthetic purple bacteria as well as extramembranous antennas in green bacteria.
Multichannel Flash Spectroscopy of the Reaction Centers of Wild‐type and Mutant Rhodobacter sphaeroides: BacteriochlorophyllB‐mediated Interaction Between the Carotenoid Triplet and the Special Pair¶†
Authors: Arellano Juan B. , Melø Thor Bernt , Fyfe Paul K. , Cogdell Richard J. , Naqvi K. Razi
Published: January 2011

Multichannel flash spectroscopy (with microsecond time resolution) has been applied to carotenoid (Car)‐containing and Car‐less reaction centers (RC) of Rhodobacter sphaeroides with a view to investigate the interaction between the Car and its neighboring pigments at room temperature. Under neutral redox potential conditions, where the primary quinone acceptor (QA) is oxidized, the light‐induced spectral changes in the 350–1000 nm region are attributed to the photochemical oxidation of the special pair (denoted here as P870), the generation of P870+QA−, and the attendant electrochromism of adjacent chromophores. A bathochromic shift of <1 nm in the visible absorption region of Car reveals the sensitivity of Car to the P870 photooxidation. Under low redox potential conditions, where QA is reduced, P870 triplets (P870†) are formed. The time‐resolved triplet‐minus‐singlet (TmS) spectrum of Car‐less RC shows a deep bleaching at 870 nm, which belongs to P ‡870, and additional (but smaller) bleaching at 800 nm; the entire spectrum decays at the same rate (with a lifetime of about 50 μs). The bleaching at 800 nm arises from the pigment interaction between P870† and the accessory bacteriochlorophylls on A and B branches (BA, B). In Car containing RC, the TmS spectra of Car are accompanied by two smaller, negative signals—a sharp peak at 809 ± 2 nm and a broad band at 870 nm—which decay at the same rate as the TmS spectrum of Car (ca 10 μs). The former is ascribed to the perturbation, by Car†, of the absorption spectrum of BB; the latter, to the TmS spectrum of P870†, a species that appears to be in approximate thermal equilibrium with Car†. These assignments are consistent with the absorption‐detected magnetic resonance spectra obtained by other workers at low temperatures.
‘A Closet or a Secret Field’: Horace, Protestant Devotion and British Retirement Poetry
Authors: EDSON MICHAEL
Published: January 2011

Contrary to studies that link British poems celebrating rural retirement with the Latin poetry of Horace, this essay argues that such poems equally reflect the influence of Protestant devotional writing and ritual. Retirement poetry not only appears in religious guidebooks and collections of devotional verse but also shares much of the rhetoric characterising devotional writing of the period. The essay also stresses the importance of taking into account audience, context and function when categorising eighteenth‐century poetry as secular or religious. An appendix lists over 300 retirement poems published in the British Isles between 1690 and 1830.