bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iloprost inhalation redistributes pulmonary perfusion and decreases arterial oxygenation in healthy volunteers
Authors: RIMEIKA D. , SANCHEZ‐CRESPO A. , NYREN S. , LINDAHL S. G. E. , WIKLUND C. U.
Published: July 2009

Background: Previous studies have shown that ventilation–perfusion matching is improved in the prone as compared with that in the supine position. Regional differences in the regulation of vascular tone may explain this. We have recently demonstrated higher production of nitric oxide in dorsal compared with ventral human lung tissue. The purpose of the present study was to investigate regional differences in actions by another vasoactive mediator, namely prostacyclin. The effects on gas exchange and regional pulmonary perfusion in different body positions were investigated at increased prostacyclin levels by inhalation of a synthetic prostacyclin analogue and decreased prostacyclin levels by unselective cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibition.

Methods: In 19 volunteers, regional pulmonary perfusion in the prone and supine position was assessed by single photon emission computed tomography using 99mTc macro‐aggregated albumin before and after inhalation of iloprost, a stable prostacyclin analogue, or an intravenous infusion of a non‐selective COX inhibitor, diclofenac. In addition, gas distribution was assessed in seven subjects using 99mTc‐labelled ultra‐fine carbon particles before and after iloprost inhalation in the supine position.

Results: Iloprost inhalation decreased arterial PaO2 in both prone (from 14.2±0.5 to 11.7±1.7 kPa, P<0.01) and supine (from 13.7±1.4 to 10.9±2.1 kPa, P<0.01) positions.

Iloprost inhalation redistributed lung perfusion from non‐dependent to dependent lung regions in both prone and supine positions, while ventilation in the supine position was distributed in the opposite direction. No significant effects of non‐selective COX inhibition were found in this study.

Conclusions: Iloprost inhalation decreases arterial oxygenation and results in a more gravity‐dependent pulmonary perfusion in both supine and prone positions in healthy humans.
Sevoflurane and propofol depolarize mitochondria in rat and human cerebrocortical synaptosomes by different mechanisms
Authors: BAINS R. , MOE M. C. , VINJE M. L. , BERG‐JOHNSEN J.
Published: July 2009

Background and objectives: The mitochondrial membrane potential drives the main functions of the mitochondria. Sevoflurane depolarizes neural mitochondria. There is still, however, limited information concerning the effect of anaesthetics on neural mitochondria in humans. The effect of sevoflurane and propofol on the intracellular Ca2+ concentration [Ca2+]i and the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) was therefore compared in rat and human synaptosomes, and the changes were related to interventions in the electron transport chain.

Methods: Synaptosomes from rat and human cerebral cortex were loaded with the fluorescent probes fura‐2 ([Ca2+]i) and JC‐1 (ΔΨm) before exposure to sevoflurane 1 and 2 minimum alveolar concentration (MAC), and propofol 30 and 100 μM. The effect on the electron transport chain was investigated by blocking complex V.

Results: Sevoflurane and propofol decreased ΔΨm in rat synaptosomes in a dose‐dependent manner, and to the same extent by equipotent doses. Inhibition of complex V enhanced the depolarizing effect of sevoflurane 2 MAC, but not of propofol 100 μM. Neither sevoflurane nor propofol affected [Ca2+]i significantly. Sevoflurane and propofol decreased ΔΨm in human synaptosomes to the same extent as in the rat experiments.

Conclusions: Sevoflurane and propofol at equipotent doses depolarize the mitochondria in rat and human nerve terminals to the same extent. The depolarizing effect of propofol on Ψm was more rapid in onset than that of sevoflurane. Whereas sevoflurane inhibits the respiratory chain sufficiently to cause ATP synthase reversal, the depolarizing effect of propofol seems to be related to inhibition of the respiratory chain from complex I to V.
Relationship between stroke volume, cardiac output and filling of the heart during tilt
Authors: BUNDGAARD‐NIELSEN M. , SØRENSEN H. , DALSGAARD M. , RASMUSSEN P. , SECHER N. H.
Published: July 2009

Background: Cardiac function curves are widely accepted to apply to humans but are not established for the entire range of filling of the heart that can be elicited during head‐up (HUT) and head‐down tilt (HDT), taken to represent minimal and maximal physiological filling of the heart, respectively. With the supine resting position as a reference, we assessed stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO) and filling of the heart during graded tilt to evaluate whether SV and CO are maintained during an assumed maximal physiological filling of the heart elicited by 90° HDT in healthy resting humans.

Methods: In 26 subjects, central blood volume was manipulated with graded tilt from 60° HUT to 90° HDT. We measured SV, CO (Finometer®) and cardiac filling by echocardiography of the left ventricular end‐diastolic volume (LVEDV; n=12).

Results: From supine rest to 60° HUT, SV and CO decreased 23 ml [confidence intervals (CI): 16–30; P<0.001; 23%] and 0.9 l/min (0.4–1.4; P<0.0001; 14%), respectively, but neither SV nor CO changed during HDT up to 70°. However, during 90° HDT, SV decreased 12 ml (CI: 6–19; P<0.0001; 12%), with an increase of 21 ml (9–33; P=0.002; 16%) in LVEDV because HR increased 3 bpm and CO decreased 0.5 l/min (ns).

Conclusion: This study confirmed that SV and CO are maximal in resting, supine, healthy humans and decrease during HUT. However, 90° HDT was associated with increased LVEDV and induced a reduction in SV.
Effects of Chloroformic Extracts from Washed and Unwashed Papaya Seeds (Carica papaya) on the Sperm Concentration of Dogs
Authors: Ortega‐Pacheco A , Jiménez‐Coello M , Gutiérrez‐Blanco E , Acosta‐Viana KY , Guzmán‐Marín E , Zavala‐Sánchez MA , Montalvo‐Beltrán NE , Pérez‐Gutiérrez MS
Published: July 2009

Contents

Papaya seeds (Carica papaya Linn) have been found to have a significant effect on sperm characteristics in some mammals, including humans, but no studies have investigated the effects on dogs. In the present study, a significant decrease in sperm concentration was observed in a group of dogs treated with extracts from washed papaya seeds, but no decrease was observed in the group of dogs treated with non‐washed seeds. An important effect of extract components from washed seeds such as fatty acids is probably involved in the reduction of sperm production because of Sertoli cell damage, as has been suggested for langur monkeys. Dilution of the active components in the non‐washed papaya seeds or interference with some of the components may reduce the expected effect on spermatogenesis. This first report on the effects of a chloroformic extract of papaya seeds in dogs suggests that an increased dose is necessary to achieve azoospermia.
Diagnostic spectrum of congenital hypothyroidism in Turkish children
Authors: Tamam Müge , Adalet Isık , Bakır Barış , Türkmen Cüneyt , Darendeliler Feyza , Baş Firdevs , Sanlı Yasemin , Kuyumcu Serkan
Published: July 2009

Background:  Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is classified as transient or permanent. Transient CH can be treated with short‐term thyroxine replacement therapy or followed up without therapy, whereas lifelong thyroxine replacement is needed in permanent CH. Determination of the underlying etiology is essential for determination of follow‐up strategy. The purpose of the present study was therefore to assess the role of color Doppler ultrasonography (CDU) in etiologic diagnosis of CH together with radionuclide method and grayscale ultrasonography (GSU).

Methods:  A total of 182 patients (83 female, 99 male) were evaluated. To determine etiologic diagnosis, the patients underwent a free T4 (fT4), thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) and urinary iodine level measurement, and thyroid scintigraphy, perchlorate discharge test, CDU, and GSU.

Results:  Fifty‐four patients had transient and 97 had permanent CH. Isolated hyperthyrotropinemia was diagnosed in 31 patients. Transient CH was due to iodine deficiency in 22 and excess iodine in 13 patients. In 97 patients with permanent CH, ectopia was present in 32 patients and agenesis of the thyroid gland was found in 22 patients, while 43 were diagnosed with dyshormonogenesis. In the ectopia group, GSU failed to detect ectopic tissues in all cases, whereas CDU was successful in determining the presence of ectopic thyroid in 20 cases. The sensitivity of CDU was 80% in determining ectopic tissue.

Conclusion:  To determine etiologic diagnosis, radionuclide methods and sonographic modalities should be assessed together. The gold standard in the diagnosis of ectopic thyroid tissue is thyroid scintigraphy. CDU may be a major supportive diagnostic tool in the evaluation of ectopic thyroid gland.
Parental rights and medical decisions
Authors: DARE TIM
Published: July 2009

Most countries grant parents rebuttable legal rights to make treatment decisions on behalf of their young children, creating a presumption in favor of parental rights. This article identifies and provides a preliminary assessment of a perhaps surprising variety of arguments for the presumption in favor of this parental right. The arguments considered include those flowing from ideas that parents are motivated by their child’s best interests; that they have privileged insight into their child’s preferences and capacities; that parental support has clinical significance and may be contingent upon respect for the presumption; that parents and families typically bear the burden of treatment decisions; that parents’ views often have a religious basis; that it would be improper to override parents’ wishes other than in conditions of complete certainty; and that parents have ‘natural authority’ over their children. It is unlikely that this is an exhaustive list of the arguments that could be offered in favor of the presumption, and the treatment in the paper is brief. Nevertheless, it is hoped that enough is said to suggest that it is harder to defend the presumption than we might have supposed.
SOCIAL STATUS IN ECONOMIC THEORY
Authors: Truyts Tom
Published: July 2009

Abstract Social distinction or status is an important motivation of human behaviour. This paper provides a selective survey of recent advances in the economic analysis of the origins and consequences of social status concerns. First, a selection of empirical research from a variety of scientific disciplines is discussed to underpin the further theoretical analysis. I then consider the origins and determinants of tastes for status, discuss the endogenous derivation of such preferences for relative standing and assess the different formalizations of these preferences. Subsequently, the consequences of preferences for status are studied for a variety of problems and settings. The last section discusses a number of implications of status concerns for normative economics and public policy.
Aid for Trade in Developing Countries: Complex Linkages for Real Effectiveness*
Authors: Huchet‐Bourdon Marilyne , Lipchitz Anna , Rousson Audrey
Published: July 2009

Abstract:  Aid for trade is intended to support the integration of developing countries into the world trading system. Although this form of aid is being hailed as a promising new development tool, it lacks the strategic dimension that it needs if it is to be truly effective and fulfill donors' policy commitments. From a theoretical perspective, this paper presents the various aid‐for‐trade categories and analyzes the linkages between foreign direct investment, aid for trade and development. It also presents a typology of trade‐related needs for a panel of countries, to serve as a guide for donors in formulating their aid supply strategies. This typology reveals a number of disparities between countries and regions, as well as a low level of regional integration. Trade‐related needs are particularly significant in West Africa and East Africa, and substantial in the infrastructure sector. This paper also stresses the importance of refining the formulation of actual demand by beneficiaries, structuring the aid supply in accordance with donors' specific areas of expertise and enhancing coordination among the various stakeholders, both public and private. Lastly, further trade liberalization will not by itself suffice to generate strong growth and improve the geographical and sectoral distribution of foreign direct investment. Factors such as political stability, the business climate, physical infrastructure, institutions and human capital also play a fundamental role. Of particular importance is the coherence of trade, sectoral, macroeconomic and tax policies, not only within each country and region but also between industrialized and developing countries.
Rethinking Industrial Policy for Low Income Countries
Authors: Wade Robert H.
Published: July 2009

Abstract:  The governments of low income countries should be giving more attention to ‘industrial policy’ than they and the aid donors have given in the past quarter century. (‘Industrial policy’ means any sectorally or activity‐targeted interventions, including in agriculture and services.) The first step is to discard the common assumption that industrial policy is about ‘picking winners’. The second step is to realize that industrial policy can be done ‘big’ or ‘small’, and by ‘leading the market’ or by ‘following the market’. It can be tailored to the available resources and state capacity. The third step is to see that the key issues of industrial policy are less to do with ‘what activities should be encouraged?’, or ‘what sorts of policy instruments are best?’, and more to do with, ‘how do we organize a process of discovery of sensible objectives and policies?’, and ‘how do we organize a constant nudging of producers to upgrade, diversify, link up with foreign firms?’ (where the nudging effort has to be targeted at some activities and sectors more than others). The paper illustrates with East Asian examples. One of the good effects of the current global crisis is that it has shaken confidence in the virtues of lightly regulated markets and free capital movements, and opened the way to a less ideologically charged debate about the role of the state in development—in which thinking is not precluded by easy jeers like ‘governments can't pick winners’ or ‘maybe the East Asians can do it but you can’t, so you have nothing to learn about industrial policy from them’.
Localized Ectopic Expression of Dpp Receptors in a Drosophila Embryo
Authors: Lander A. D. , Nie Q. , Wan F. Y. M. , Zhang Y.‐T.
Published: July 2009

Receptor‐mediated bone morphogeneric protein (BMP) degradation has been seen to play an important role in allowing for the formation of relatively stable morphogen signaling patterns. To the extent that receptors act as a “sink” for BMPs, one would predict that the localized over‐expression of signaling receptors would cause a net flux of freely diffusing BMPs toward the ectopic, i.e., abnormally high concentration, receptor site. One possible consequence would be a depression of BMP signaling in adjacent areas because less BMPs are now available for binding with the same normal concentration of receptors at the adjacent areas. However, recent experiments designed to examine this possible effect were inconclusive. In this paper, we investigate the possibility of depression of BMP signaling outside the area of elevated receptor level in a Drosophila embryo by modeling mathematically the basic biological processes at work in terms of a system of nonlinear reaction‐diffusion equations with spatially varying (and possibly discontinuous) system properties. The steady‐state signaling morphogen gradient is investigated by the method of matched asymptotic expansions and by numerical simulations.
Serine 209 resides within a putative p38(MAPK) consensus motif and regulates monoamine oxidase‐A activity
Authors: Cao Xia , Rui Lewei , Pennington Paul R. , Chlan‐Fourney Jennifer , Jiang Zhongjian , Wei Zelan , Li Xin‐Min , Edmondson Dale E. , Mousseau Darrell D.
Published: July 2009

The p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade as well as the enzyme monoamine oxidase‐A (MAO‐A) have both been associated with oxidative stress. We observed that the specific inhibition of the p38(MAPK) protein [using either a chemical inhibitor or a dominant‐negative p38(MAPK) clone] selectively induces MAO‐A activity and MAO‐A‐sensitive toxicity in several neuronal cell lines, including primary cortical neurons. Over‐expression of a constitutively active p38(MAPK) results in the phosphorylation of the MAO‐A protein and inhibition of MAO‐A activity. The MAO‐A(Ser209Glu) phosphomimic – bearing a targeted substitution within a putative p38(MAPK) consensus motif – is neither active nor neurotoxic. In contrast, the MAO‐A(Ser209Ala) variant (mimics dephosphorylation) does not associate with p38(MAPK), and is both very active and very toxic. Substitution of the homologous serine in the MAO‐B isoform, i.e. Ser200, with either Glu or Ala does not affect the catalytic activity of the corresponding over‐expressed proteins. These combined in vitro data strongly suggest a direct p38(MAPK)‐dependent inhibition of MAO‐A function. Based on published observations, this endogenous means of selectively regulating MAO‐A function could provide for an adaptive response to oxidative stress associated with disorders as diverse as depression, reperfusion/ischemia, and the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.
Lipid modification in type 2 diabetes: the role of LDL and HDL
Authors: Vergès Bruno
Published: July 2009

Patients with type 2 diabetes feature important modification of both low density lipoprotein (LDL) and high density lipoprotein particles which are likely to play an important role in the development of atherosclerosis. Although plasma LDL cholesterol level is usually normal in type 2 diabetic patients, LDLs show a significant increase in their plasma residence time which may promote cholesterol deposition in the arterial wall. Moreover, important qualitative abnormalities of LDLs, potentially atherogenic, are observed in type 2 diabetic patients: small dense, triglyceride‐rich, LDL particles (known as subclass B), oxidized LDL and glycated LDL. All these qualitative modification of LDLs amplify the atherosclerotic process.

Plasma high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is decreased in type 2 diabetes related to increased catabolism of HDL particles. One of the mechanism responsible for increased catabolism of HDLs is hypertriglyceridemia, promoting through cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) the transfer of triglycerides (TG) to HDL leading to the formation of TG‐rich HDLs which are very good substrates for hepatic lipase, enzyme in charge of HDLs catabolism. The reduction in plasma adiponectin level, observed in type 2 diabetes may be another mechanism involved in the diminution of HDL cholesterol. Furthermore, qualitative abnormalities of HDLs are described in type 2 diabetes: enrichment in triglycerides and glycation, which may impair HDL‐mediated cholesterol efflux and reverse cholesterol transport. In addition to their role in reverse cholesterol transport, HDLs usually show antioxidative, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐thrombotic and endothelium‐dependent vasorelaxant effects. It has been shown that HDLs from patients with type 2 diabetes have a significant reduction in their antioxidative and endothelium‐dependent vasorelaxant properties.
Robust multi‐objective optimization for water distribution system design using a meta‐metaheuristic
Authors: Raad Darian , Sinske Alexander , Van Vuuren Jan
Published: July 2009

The design of an urban water distribution system (WDS) is a challenging problem involving multiple objectives. The goal of robust multi‐objective optimization for WDS design is to find the set of solutions which embodies an acceptable trade‐off between system cost and reliability, so that the ideal solution may be selected for a given budget. In addition to satisfying consumer needs, a system must be built to accommodate multiple demand loading conditions, withstand component failures and allow surplus capacity for growth. In a developmental setting, WDS robustness becomes even more crucial, owing to the limited availability of resources, especially for maintenance. Recent optimization studies have achieved success using multi‐objective evolutionary algorithms, such as the Non‐dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA‐II). However, the multi‐objective design of a large WDS within a reasonable timeframe remains a formidable problem, owing to the extremely high computational complexity of the problem. In this paper, a meta‐algorithm called AMALGAM is applied for the first time to WDS design. AMALGAM uses multiple metaheuristics simultaneously in an attempt to improve optimization performance. Additionally, a Jumping‐gene Genetic Algorithm (NSGA‐II‐JG) is also applied for the first time to WDS design. These two algorithms were tested against some other metaheuristics (including NSGA‐II and a new greedy algorithm) with respect to a number of benchmark systems documented in the literature, and AMALGAM demonstrated the best performance overall, while NSGA‐II‐JG fared worse than the ordinary NSGA‐II. Large cost savings and reliability improvements are demonstrated for a real WDS developmental case study in South Africa.
CHANGES IN THE METAL CONTENT OF HUMAN HAIR DURING DIAGENESIS FROM 500 YEARS, EXPOSURE TO GLACIAL AND AQUEOUS ENVIRONMENTS
Authors: KEMPSON I. M. , SKINNER W. M. , MARTIN R. R.
Published: July 2009

Scanning electron microscopy, inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy and time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry have been used to examine the extent and possible mechanisms by which the metal content of human hair is altered by exposure to aqueous environments. The results, using both modern hair and samples from 500‐year‐old hair associated with glacier‐entombed remains, show that the metal content has been altered sufficiently so that the interpretation of the metal signature in terms of diet or disease is problematic. While endogenous information is difficult to glean from these data, interesting observations have been made of possible early stages of mineral authigenic deposition. The chemistry of the outer hair surface was found to be consistent with deposition of Fe and Al silicates, as well as other mineral phases. The ancient hair was analysed at the root region and included a comparison of the internal versus external composition to assist in identifying the diagenetic processes.
Vegetation Restoration and Its Effects on Carbon Balance in Guangdong Province, China
Authors: Peng Shao‐Lin , Hou Yu‐Ping , Chen Bao‐Ming
Published: July 2009

The significance of the regional carbon (C) balance of vegetation restoration to global change was studied in Guangdong Province, one of the most populated provinces in China. The percentage of the province in forestland cover increased steadily from 26.23% in 1979 to 50.11% in 1998 owing to restoration of forests. During this period, the area increase in the conifer forest was 424.83 × 104 ha, whereas the area in broad‐leaved, mixed, and other forests increased by 68.82 × 104, 18.94 × 104, and 60.46 × 104 ha, respectively. C sequestration by forest soils from 1979 to 1998 was 389.36 Mt, equivalent to 1.43 Pg fixed carbon dioxide (CO2). The total annual CO2 sequestration by forests and the soils was 118.05 Mt, which was about half of the annual CO2 emission in Guangdong. The role of forest management and restoration in improving the carbon balance is discussed.
Effects of Native and Non‐Native Grassland Plant Communities on Breeding Passerine Birds: Implications for Restoration of Northwest Bunchgrass Prairie
Authors: Kennedy Patricia L. , DeBano Sandra J. , Bartuszevige Anne M. , Lueders Andrea S.
Published: July 2009

One common problem encountered when restoring grasslands is the prominence of non‐native plant species. It is unclear what effect non‐native plants have on habitat quality of grassland passerines, which are among the most imperiled groups of birds. In 2004 and 2005, we compared patterns of avian reproduction and the mechanisms that might influence those patterns across a gradient of 13 grasslands in the Zumwalt Prairie in northeastern Oregon that vary in the degree of non‐native plant cover (0.9–53.4%). We monitored the fate of 201 nests of all the breeding species in these pastures and found no association of percent non‐native cover with nest densities, clutch size, productivity, nest survival, and nestling size. Regardless of the degree of non‐native cover, birds primarily fed on Coleoptera, Orthoptera, and Araneae. But as percent non‐native cover in the pastures increased, Orthoptera made up a greater proportion of diet and Coleoptera made up a smaller proportion. These diet switches were not the result of changes in terrestrial invertebrate abundance but may be related to decreases in percent bare ground associated with increasing cover of non‐native vegetation. Measures of nest crypticity were not associated with cover of non‐native vegetation, suggesting that predation risk may not increase with increased cover of non‐native vegetation. Thus, the study results show that increased non‐native cover is not associated with reduced food supplies or increased predation risk for nesting birds, supporting the growing body of evidence that grasslands with a mix of native and non‐native vegetation can provide suitable habitat for native grassland breeding birds.
European Nature Conservation and Restoration Policy—Problems and Perspectives
Authors: Keulartz Jozef
Published: July 2009

The implementation of Natura 2000 has met with considerable resistance from farmers, fishermen, foresters, and other local residents in most European Union Member States. In response to the rural protest, the majority of governments have gradually abandoned their centralist, top‐down approach and increasingly switched over to methods of participatory and interactive policy‐making. However, this “democratisation” of European nature conservation policy is not without its problems and pitfalls. The inclusion of an ever‐growing group of stakeholders with different and often diverging interests, ideas, views, and values will more often than not lead to conflicts over the future of nature and the landscape. The causes and consequences of these conflicts need to be examined to improve the policy process.
Survival and complication rates of implant‐supported fixed partial dentures with cantilevers: a systematic review
Authors: Zurdo José , Romão Cristina , Wennström Jan L.
Published: July 2009

Objective: The objective of the present systematic review was to analyze the potential effect of incorporation of cantilever extensions on the survival rate of implant‐supported fixed partial dental prostheses (FPDPs) and the incidence of technical and biological complications, as reported in longitudinal studies with at least 5 years of follow‐up.

Methods: A MEDLINE search was conducted up to and including November 2008 for longitudinal studies with a mean follow‐up period of at least 5 years. Two reviewers performed screening and data abstraction independently. Prosthesis‐based data on survival/failure rate, technical complications (prosthesis‐related problems, implant loss) and biological complications (marginal bone loss) were analyzed.

Results: The search provided 103 titles with abstract. Full‐text analysis was performed of 12 articles, out of which three were finally included. Two of the studies had a prospective or retrospective case–control design, whereas the third was a prospective cohort study. The 5‐year survival rate of cantilever FPDPs varied between 89.9% and 92.7% (weighted mean 91.9%), with implant fracture as the main cause for failures. The corresponding survival rate for FPDPs without cantilever extensions was 96.3–96.2% (weighted mean 95.8%).

Technical complications related to the supra‐constructions in the three included studies were reported to occur at a frequency of 13–26% (weighted mean 20.3%) for cantilever FPDPs compared with 0–12% (9.7%) for non‐cantilever FPDPs. The most common complications were minor porcelain fractures and bridge‐screw loosening.

For cantilever FPDPs, the 5‐year event‐free survival rate varied between 66.7% and 79.2% (weighted mean 71.7%) and between 83.1% and 96.3% (weighted mean 85.9%) for non‐cantilever FPDPs.

No statistically significant differences were reported with regard to peri‐implant bone‐level change between the two prosthetic groups, either at the prosthesis or at the implant level.

Conclusion: Data on implant‐supported FPDPs with cantilever extensions are limited and therefore survival and complication rates should be interpreted with caution. The incorporation of cantilevers into implant‐borne prostheses may be associated with a higher incidence of minor technical complications.
Clinical outcomes of sinus floor augmentation for implant placement using autogenous bone or bone substitutes: a systematic review
Authors: Nkenke Emeka , Stelzle Florian
Published: July 2009

Background: To date, there are still no clear cut guidelines for the use of autogenous bone or bone substitutes.

Aim: The aim of the present review was to analyze the current literature in order to determine whether there are advantages of using autogenous bone (AB) over bone substitutes (BS) in sinus floor augmentation. The focused question was: is AB superior to BS for sinus floor augmentation in partially dentate or edentulous patients in terms of implant survival, patient morbidity, sinusitis, graft loss, costs, and risk of disease transmission?

Materials and methods: The analysis was limited to titanium implants with modified surfaces placed in sites with 6 mm of residual bone height and a lateral wall approach to the sinus. A literature search was performed for human studies focusing on sinus floor augmentation.

Results: Twenty‐one articles were included in the review. The highest level of evidence consisted of prospective cohort studies. A descriptive analysis of the constructed evidence tables indicated that the type of graft did not seem to be associated with the success of the procedure, its complications, or implant survival. Length of healing period, simultaneous implant placement or a staged approach or the height of the residual alveolar crest, sinusitis or graft loss did not modify the lack of effect of graft material on the outcomes. Three studies documented that there was donor site morbidity present after the harvest of AB. When iliac crest bone was harvested this sometimes required hospitalization and surgery under general anesthesia. Moreover, bone harvest extended the operating time. The assessment of disease transmission by BS was not a topic of any of the included articles.

Discussion and Conclusion: The retrieved evidence provides a low level of support for selection of AB or a bone substitute. Clear reasons could not be identified that should prompt the clinician to prefer AB or BS.
Clinical outcomes of GBR procedures to correct peri‐implant dehiscences and fenestrations: a systematic review
Authors: Chiapasco Matteo , Zaniboni Marco
Published: July 2009

Objective: To analyze the clinical outcomes of endosseous implants following guided bone regeneration (GBR) procedures to correct dehiscence/fenestration defects associated with implant placement.

Methods/Search strategy: A Medline search was performed for human studies published in English focusing on GBR procedures for the correction of dehiscence/fenestration defects associated with the placement of screw‐shaped titanium implants. The selected studies had to include at least 10 consecutively treated patients with a minimum follow‐up of 12 months after the start of prosthetic loading. The clinical outcomes in terms of the complication rate of the GBR procedure, implant survival, and stability of marginal soft tissues around implants were evaluated.

Results: Seven publications were included in this review. A total of 238 patients received 374 implants. Defects were treated with resorbable or non‐resorbable membranes, in association with or without graft materials. Patients were followed for 1–10 years after the start of prosthetic loading. In the postoperative period, 20% of the non‐resorbable membranes and 5% of the resorbable ones underwent exposure/infection. However, in the majority of cases, a complete or an almost complete coverage of the initial defect was obtained. The overall survival rate of implants, irrespective of the type of membrane and grafting materials, was 95.7% (range: 84.7–100%). No significant modifications of probing depth and/or variation of clinical attachment level around implants were observed during the follow‐up period.

Conclusion: Despite the favorable results obtained, it was difficult to draw a significant conclusion as far as the more reliable grafting material and membrane barrier for the correction of dehiscence/fenestration defects are concerned, due to the limited sample of patients and the wide variety of grafting materials and membranes, used alone or in combination. Moreover, due to the lack of randomized clinical trials, it was impossible to demonstrate that such augmentation procedures are actually needed to allow the long‐term survival of implants.
Re‐osseointegration on previously contaminated surfaces: a systematic review
Authors: Renvert Stefan , Polyzois Ioannis , Maguire Rory
Published: July 2009

Objectives: The aim of this review was to search the literature for the existing evidence of re‐osseointegration after treatment of peri‐implantitis at contaminated implant surfaces.

Material and Methods: A search of PubMed as well as additional hand search of articles were conducted. Publications and articles accepted for publication up to November 2008 were included.

Results: A total of 25 animal studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria for this review. Access surgery with closed healing has been observed to positively influence the rate of re‐osseointegration when compared with non‐surgical decontamination of the implant surface with open healing. Open debridement including surface decontamination may result in re‐osseointegration and this integration was more pronounced on rougher than on smooth implant surfaces. The adjunctive use of regenerative procedures resulted in varying amounts of re‐osseointegration.

Conclusions: Re‐osseointegration is possible to obtain on a previously contaminated implant surface and can occur in experimentally induced peri‐implantitis defects following therapy. The amount of re‐osseointegration, varied considerably within and between studies. Implant surface characteristics may influence the degree of re‐osseointegration. Surface decontamination alone can not achieve substantial re‐osseointegration on a previously contaminated implant surface. No method predictably accomplished complete resolution of the peri‐implant defect.
A systematic review of the performance of ceramic and metal implant abutments supporting fixed implant reconstructions
Authors: Sailer Irena , Philipp Alexander , Zembic Anja , Pjetursson Bjarni E. , Hämmerle Christoph H. F. , Zwahlen Marcel
Published: July 2009

Objectives: The objective of this systematic review was to assess the 5‐year survival rates and incidences of complications associated with ceramic abutments and to compare them with those of metal abutments.

Methods: An electronic Medline search complemented by manual searching was conducted to identify randomized‐controlled clinical trials, and prospective and retrospective studies providing information on ceramic and metal abutments with a mean follow‐up time of at least 3 years. Patients had to have been examined clinically at the follow‐up visit. Assessment of the identified studies and data abstraction was performed independently by three reviewers. Failure rates were analyzed using standard and random‐effects Poisson regression models to obtain summary estimates of 5‐year survival proportions.

Results: Twenty‐nine clinical and 22 laboratory studies were selected from an initial yield of 7136 titles and data were extracted. The estimated 5‐year survival rate of ceramic abutments was 99.1% [95% confidence interval (CI): 93.8–99.9%] and 97.4% (95% CI: 96–98.3%) for metal abutments. The estimated cumulative incidence of technical complications after 5 years was 6.9% (95% CI: 3.5–13.4%) for ceramic abutments and 15.9% (95% CI: 11.6–21.5%) for metal abutments. Abutment screw loosening was the most frequent technical problem, occurring at an estimated cumulative incidence after 5 years of 5.1% (95% CI: 3.3–7.7%). All‐ceramic crowns supported by ceramic abutments exhibited similar annual fracture rates as metal–ceramic crowns supported by metal abutments. The cumulative incidence of biological complications after 5 years was estimated at 5.2% (95% CI: 0.4–52%) for ceramic and 7.7% (95% CI: 4.7–12.5%) for metal abutments. Esthetic complications tended to be more frequent at metal abutments. A meta‐analysis of the laboratory data was impossible due to the non‐standardized test methods of the studies included.

Conclusion: The 5‐year survival rates estimated from annual failure rates appeared to be similar for ceramic and metal abutments. The information included in this review did not provide evidence for differences of the technical and biological outcomes of ceramic and metal abutments. However, the information for ceramic abutments was limited in the number of studies and abutments analyzed as well as the accrued follow‐up time. Standardized methods for the analysis of abutment strength are needed.
Reticular erythematous mucinosis – (REM syndrome) in twins
Authors: Fühler Maren , Ottmann Karl , Tronnier Michael
Published: July 2009

We present female twins with reticular erythematous mucinosis (REM syndrome). Remarkably, the lesions developed in both sisters almost at the same time in the same locations after UV exposure. Reports of familial manifestations of REM syndrome are very rare and an association to a distinct HLA constellation has not been proven. Our report clearly suggests a genetic predisposition.
Land degradation: A global perspective
Authors: Conacher Arthur
Published: July 2009

Land degradation has a long history and is on the increase. It has adverse consequences for people's economies, health and well‐being, and for ecosystems, and it is causally linked to population growth and inappropriate land‐use practices. It is an urban as well as a rural problem. Solutions require an integrated, geographical approach. Otherwise, some problems may be ignored and others created inadvertently.
Changes in the age of New Zealand farmers: Problems for the future?
Authors: Fairweather John , Mulet‐Marquis Stephanie
Published: July 2009

Earlier research shows that between 1971 and 1981, the number of farmers in New Zealand increased and their average age decreased, whereas between 1981 and 1991, the opposite trend occurred. This article addresses the issue of change in the average age of farmers since 1991 using recent census data. It reviews the difficulties in obtaining good data and describes the adjustments need to be made to obtain a consistent data series from 1971 to 2006. The long‐term trend for increasing age of farmers and farm workers continues. This demographic aspect of farm structural change is then discussed in terms of the sustainability of farming by reference to productivity and potential problems with succession.
Experience‐induced Malleability in Neural Encoding of Pitch, Timbre, and Timing
Authors: Kraus Nina , Skoe Erika , Parbery‐Clark Alexandra , Ashley Richard
Published: July 2009

Speech and music are highly complex signals that have many shared acoustic features. Pitch, Timbre, and Timing can be used as overarching perceptual categories for describing these shared properties. The acoustic cues contributing to these percepts also have distinct subcortical representations which can be selectively enhanced or degraded in different populations. Musically trained subjects are found to have enhanced subcortical representations of pitch, timbre, and timing. The effects of musical experience on subcortical auditory processing are pervasive and extend beyond music to the domains of language and emotion. The sensory malleability of the neural encoding of pitch, timbre, and timing can be affected by lifelong experience and short‐term training. This conceptual framework and supporting data can be applied to consider sensory learning of speech and music through a hearing aid or cochlear implant.
The Role of the Basal Ganglia in Beat Perception
Authors: Grahn Jessica A.
Published: July 2009

Perception of musical rhythms is culturally universal. Despite this special status, relatively little is known about the neurobiology of rhythm perception, particularly with respect to beat processing. Findings are presented here from a series of studies that have specifically examined the neural basis of beat perception, using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and studying patients with Parkinson's disease. fMRI data indicate that novel beat‐based sequences robustly activate the basal ganglia when compared to irregular, nonbeat sequences. Furthermore, although most healthy participants find it much easier to discriminate changes in beat‐based sequences compared to irregular sequences, Parkinson's disease patients fail to show the same degree of benefit. Taken together, these data suggest that the basal ganglia are performing a crucial function in beat processing. The results of an additional fMRI study indicate that the role of the basal ganglia is strongly linked to internal generation of the beat. Basal ganglia activity is greater when participants listen to rhythms in which internal generation of the beat is required, as opposed to rhythms with strongly externally cued beats. Functional connectivity between part of the basal ganglia (the putamen) and cortical motor areas (premotor and supplementary motor areas) is also higher during perception of beat rhythms compared to nonbeat rhythms. Increased connectivity between cortical motor and auditory areas is found in those with musical training. The findings from these converging methods strongly implicate the basal ganglia in processing a regular beat, particularly when internal generation of the beat is required.
Emotional Power of Music in Patients with Memory Disorders
Authors: Samson Séverine , Dellacherie Delphine , Platel Hervé
Published: July 2009

By adapting methods of cognitive psychology to neuropsychology, we examined memory and familiarity abilities in music in relation to emotion. First we present data illustrating how the emotional content of stimuli influences memory for music. Second, we discuss recent findings obtained in patients with two different brain disorders (medically intractable epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease) that show relatively spared memory performance for music, despite severe verbal memory disorders. Studies on musical memory and its relation to emotion open up paths for new strategies in cognitive rehabilitation and reinstate the importance of examining interactions between cognitive and clinical neurosciences.
Singing Proficiency in the Majority
Authors: Dalla Bella Simone , Berkowska Magdalena
Published: July 2009

Recent evidence indicates that the majority of occasional singers can carry a tune. For example, when asked to sing a well‐known song (e.g., “Happy Birthday”), nonmusicians performing at a slow tempo are as proficient as professional singers. Yet, some occasional singers are poor singers, mostly in the pitch domain, and sometimes despite not having impoverished perception. Poor singing is not a monolithic deficit, but is likely to be characterized by a diversity of singing “phenotypes.” Here we systematically examined singing proficiency in a group of occasional singers, with the goal of characterizing the different patterns of poor singing. Participants sang three well‐known melodies (e.g., “Jingle Bells”) at a natural tempo and at a slow tempo, as indicated by a metronome. For each rendition, we computed objective measures of pitch and time accuracy with an acoustical method. The results confirmed previous observations that the majority of occasional singers can sing in tune and in time. Moreover, singing at a slow tempo after the target melody to be imitated was presented with a metronome improved pitch and time accuracy. In general, poor singers were mostly impaired on the pitch dimension, although various patterns of impairment emerged. Pitch accuracy or time accuracy could be selectively impaired; moreover, absolute measures of singing proficiency (pitch or tempo transposition) dissociated from relative measures of proficiency (pitch intervals, relative duration). These patterns of dissociations point to a multicomponent system underlying proficient singing that fractionates as a result of a developmental anomaly.
Neural Reorganization Underlies Improvement in Stroke‐induced Motor Dysfunction by Music‐supported Therapy
Authors: Altenmüller E. , Marco‐Pallares J. , Münte T. F. , Schneider S.
Published: July 2009

Motor impairments are common after stroke, but efficacious therapies for these dysfunctions are scarce. By extending an earlier study on the effects of music‐supported therapy, behavioral indices of motor function as well as electrophysiological measures were obtained before and after a series of therapy sessions to assess whether this new treatment leads to neural reorganization and motor recovery in patients after stroke. The study group comprised 32 stroke patients in a large rehabilitation hospital; they had moderately impaired motor function and no previous musical experience. Over a period of 3 weeks, these patients received 15 sessions of music‐supported therapy using a manualized step‐by‐step approach. For comparison 30 additional patients received standard rehabilitation procedures. Fine as well as gross motor skills were trained by using either a MIDI‐piano or electronic drum pads programmed to emit piano tones. Motor functions were assessed by an extensive test battery. In addition, we studied event‐related desynchronization/synchronization and coherences from all 62 patients performing self‐paced movements of the index finger (MIDI‐piano) and of the whole arm (drum pads). Results showed that music‐supported therapy yielded significant improvement in fine as well as gross motor skills with respect to speed, precision, and smoothness of movements. Neurophysiological data showed a more pronounced event‐related desynchronization before movement onset and a more pronounced coherence in the music‐supported therapy group in the post‐training assessment, whereas almost no differences were observed in the control group. Thus we see that music‐supported therapy leads to marked improvements of motor function after stroke and that these are accompanied by electrophysiological changes indicative of a better cortical connectivity and improved activation of the motor cortex.
Neurologic Music Therapy Improves Executive Function and Emotional Adjustment in Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation
Authors: Thaut Michael H. , Gardiner James C. , Holmberg Dawn , Horwitz Javan , Kent Luanne , Andrews Garrett , Donelan Beth , McIntosh Gerald R.
Published: July 2009

This study examined the immediate effects of neurologic music therapy (NMT) on cognitive functioning and emotional adjustment with brain‐injured persons. Four treatment sessions were held, during which participants were given a pre‐test, participated in 30 min of NMT that focused on one aspect of rehabilitation (attention, memory, executive function, or emotional adjustment), which was followed by post‐testing. Control participants engaged in a pre‐test, 30 min of rest, and then a post‐test. Treatment participants showed improvement in executive function and overall emotional adjustment, and lessening of depression, sensation seeking, and anxiety. Control participants improved in emotional adjustment and lessening of hostility, but showed decreases in measures of memory, positive affect, and sensation seeking.