bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Soybean Cyst Nematode on Henbit (Lamium amplexicaule) and Purple Deadnettle (Lamium purpureum)
Authors: Creech J. Earl , Webb Jared S. , Young Bryan G. , Bond Jason P. , Harrison S Kent , Ferris Virginia R. , Faghihi Jamal , Westphal Andreas , Johnson William G.
Published: December 2007

A survey of seven production fields in Indiana, Illinois, and Ohio was conducted to assess henbit and purple deadnettle growth and soybean cyst nematode (SCN) development and reproduction on these weeds. Autumn and spring growth of purple deadnettle and henbit was influenced by location within each state. In general, winter annual weeds were larger in size and reached maturity earlier in the spring at the southern sample sites than those in the north. All growth stages of SCN were found to be associated with henbit and purple deadnettle at both autumn and spring sample timings. SCN juveniles were generally found infecting roots at highest abundance in the spring. SCN cyst and egg production also were widespread and occurred to a much higher degree during the autumn than the spring developmental period. The results of this survey indicate that management tactics designed to minimize the potential for SCN reproduction on winter annual weeds would probably be most effective if conducted in the autumn, when the majority of SCN reproduction occurred. However, spring populations of winter annual weeds that harbor SCN juveniles might facilitate additional SCN reproduction and population increase if the weeds are not controlled in a timely manner prior to planting.
Effect of Nitrogen Rates and Weed Control Treatments on Maize Yield and Associated Weeds in Sandy Soils
Authors: Abouziena Hussein F. , El-Karmany M. F. , Singh Megh , Sharma S. D.
Published: December 2007

The effect of N levels, weed control treatments, and their interaction on maize yield and weed growth in sandy soils is not completely understood. Therefore, field experiments were conducted during 2005 and 2006 to determine if management can improve maize competitiveness with weeds, and thus achieve the yield potential of maize in sandy soils. The experiment included three N levels (300, 338, and 375 kg/ha) and five weed control treatments, e.g., hand hoeing twice, hand hoeing three times, fluroxypr + hoeing once, hoeing once + bispyribac-Na, and a nonweeded check. N rates affected dry weight of weeds growing with maize except with large crabgrass. Biomass of common purslane, considered a nitrophilous species, was increased by all N levels. Weeds were controlled by all treatments compared with the nontreated check; however, herbicide treatments were not superior to hand-hoeing treatments. Using more N favored growth and yield of maize more than weeds. Adding N fertilizer also improved most yield parameters. Highest grain yield of maize resulted at 375 kg/ha N. All weed control treatments improved grain yield two- to threefold compared with the nonweeded check. The interaction between N rates and weed control treatments had significant effects on dry biomass of common purslane and barnyardgrass, as well as grain index and biological yield parameters of maize. Grain yields were improved with fluroxypyr applied 2 wk after sowing (WAS) maize followed by one hand hoeing 6 WAS or hoeing at 3 WAS followed by bispyribac-Na applied 6 WAS. However, highest yields were obtained by hoeing early during the growing season.
Histologic Results From a Human Implant Retrieved Due to Fracture 5 Years After Insertion in a Sinus Augmented With Anorganic Bovine Bone
Authors: Iezzi Giovanna , Scarano Antonio , Mangano Carlo , Cirotti Bruno , Piattelli Adriano
Published: December 2007

Background: Little is known about the healing pattern and the osseointegration processes at the interface of implants placed into different grafting materials in man. Anorganic bovine bone (ABB) is a xenogenic material with a high biocompatibility and osteoconductivity.

Methods: A 47‐year‐old patient underwent a monolateral sinus‐augmentation procedure using 100% ABB. Two titanium dental implants were inserted at the same time as the grafting procedure. After 6 months, a fixed prosthetic restoration was placed. After a 5‐year loading period, the distal implant fractured, and the implant was removed with a 5‐mm trephine bur.

Results: At low magnification, in the peri‐implant bone in the grafted area, many particles of ABB were still present. Bone was always interposed between the ABB particles and the metal surface, and in no case were the graft particles in contact with the implant. No acute or chronic inflammatory cell infiltrate or foreign body reactions were present around the particles or at the bone–implant interface. The tissues around the implant were composed of 40% ± 2.4% bone, 12% ± 2.9% ABB particles, and 50% ± 6.2% marrow spaces. The percentage of bone‐to‐implant contact was 48.6% ± 3.7%.

Conclusions: A high percentage (∼50%) of direct contact between bone and implant, without the interposition of graft material particles, was present. ABB had enabled implant integration to take place, which had remained stable for 5 years.
Five‐Year Clinical Evaluation of Short Dental Implants Placed in Posterior Areas: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Anitua Eduardo , Orive Gorka , Aguirre José Javier , Andía Isabel
Published: December 2007

Background: The aims of this study were to evaluate the long‐term survival rates of short dental implants in posterior areas and to analyze the influence of different factors on implant survival.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study design was used. A total of 293 subjects received 532 short implants between 2001 and 2004. All implants were placed by two experienced surgeons, and rehabilitations were done by three prosthodontists. Each implant failure was analyzed carefully. The potential influence of demographic factors, clinical factors, surgery‐dependent factors, and prosthetic variables on implant survival was studied. Implant survival was analyzed using a life‐table analysis (Wilcoxon [Gehan] test).

Results: The overall survival rates of short implants were 99.2% and 98.7% for the implant‐ and subject‐based analyses, respectively. The mean follow‐up period was 31 ± 12.3 months. Two of 532 implants were lost during the observation period. None of the variables studied were statistically associated with implant failure.

Conclusion: Treatment with short implants can be considered safe and predictable if used under strict clinical protocols.
Altered Gene Expression Levels of Matrix Metalloproteinases and Their Inhibitors in Periodontitis‐Affected Gingival Tissue
Authors: Kubota Takehiko , Itagaki Manami , Hoshino Chika , Nagata Masaki , Morozumi Toshiya , Kobayashi Tetsuo , Takagi Ritsuo , Yoshie Hiromasa
Published: December 2007

Background: The balance between the degradation and synthesis of extracellular matrix determines periodontal attachment levels and alveolar bone matrix concentration in periodontal diseases. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are known to degrade periodontal ligamental attachment and bone matrix proteins. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of different expression levels of MMPs and their inhibitors, the tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs), in periodontitis.

Methods: Sixteen inflamed gingival tissue samples from subjects with generalized chronic periodontitis and 14 control tissue samples from systemically and periodontally healthy subjects were evaluated. The total RNA was extracted, and the transcript levels for MMP‐1, −3, −9, and −13 and TIMP‐1, −2, −3, and −4 relative to β‐actin were determined by quantitative real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction.

Results: Gene transcript levels for MMP‐1 and TIMP‐4 were significantly higher in periodontitis‐affected gingival tissues (P <0.05). MMP‐3, −9, and −13 and TIMP‐1 mRNAs also were elevated in periodontitis; however, the difference was not statistically significant. TIMP‐2 and −3 mRNA levels were similar in healthy and diseased gingivae. The ratios of MMP‐1/TIMP‐2 (P <0.01), MMP‐3/TIMP‐2 (P <0.05), MMP‐9/TIMP‐2 (P <0.05), and MMP‐1/TIMP‐3 (P <0.01) from periodontitis lesions were significantly higher than those in the control tissues.

Conclusions: Upregulated MMP expression and an increased MMP/TIMP ratio indicate that a potential imbalance between degradation and synthesis of extracellular matrix persists in periodontitis‐affected gingival tissues. This process may be responsible for increased tissue breakdown in periodontitis.
Correlation Between Salivary and Serum Markers of Bone Turnover in Osteopenic Rats
Authors: Pellegrini Gretel G. , Gonzales Chaves Macarena , Somoza Julia C. , Friedman Silvia M. , Zeni Susana N.
Published: December 2007

Background: Previously, we measured bone alkaline phosphatase (b‐ALP) and terminal C‐telopeptide of collagen type I (CTX) in saliva. The present longitudinal experimental study sought to determine whether salivary concentrations of b‐ALP and CTX have the same response as in serum samples under different conditions: normal, increased, and reduced bone remodeling.

Methods: Thirty rats were ovariectomized (OVX) to induce osteopenia 60 days after surgery, and 10 rats were sham operated. Then, the rats were divided into four groups and treated as follows for 45 days: group 1 (G1) = SHAM + vehicle; group 2 (G2) = OVX + 8 μg olpadronate (OPD)/100 g of body weight; group 3 (G3) = OVX + 4 μg OPD/100 g of body weight; and group 4 (G4) = OVX + vehicle. Saliva and serum CTX and b‐ALP were determined at 60 days (baseline) and at 75 days (T75). Lumbar spine and proximal tibia bone mineral density (BMD) was determined using dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry at baseline and at 105 days.

Results: SHAM baseline and T75 salivary b‐ALP and CTX levels correlated with serum concentrations (P <0.01 and P <0.004, respectively). A correlation was observed between saliva and serum concentrations of b‐ALP and CTX in OVX at baseline (P <0.0001 and P <0.004, respectively). Baseline salivary b‐ALP and CTX levels were lower in SHAM animals compared to OVX groups (P <0.01). After treatment, T75 saliva and serum CTX remained higher in G4 compared to G1 (P <0.05), was lower in G2 than in G1 (P <0.01) and G3 (P <0.01), and was similar in G1 and G3. Changes in BMD were the result of variations in salivary CTX levels due to OPD treatment (P <0.05).

Conclusions: Saliva determinations may prove to be practical and reliable for the detection of systemic signs of increased bone remodeling, particularly in cases involving pediatric, obese, and elderly patients, and in screening large populations. Moreover, saliva CTX may be one of the best candidate markers to detect the activity and severity of periodontal disease.
Intake of Dairy Products and Periodontal Disease: The Hisayama Study
Authors: Shimazaki Yoshihiro , Shirota Tomoko , Uchida Kazuhiro , Yonemoto Koji , Kiyohara Yutaka , Iida Mitsuo , Saito Toshiyuki , Yamashita Yoshihisa
Published: December 2007

Background: A previous study showed the relationship between the intake of dairy products and periodontitis, but the types of dairy products that confer a benefit on periodontal health status have not been determined.

Methods: We analyzed 942 subjects aged 40 to 79 years as part of a comprehensive health examination of Hisayama Town, Fukuoka, Japan. Probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment loss (CAL) were used as the periodontal parameters. The dietary survey was conducted using a semiquantitative food frequency method. We examined the relationship between the intake of dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and lactic acid foods (yogurt and lactic acid drinks), and periodontal condition.

Results: The daily intake of lactic acid foods in subjects with generalized deep PD or severe CAL was significantly lower than that in subjects with localized deep PD or slight CAL. In multivariate linear regression analysis, the increased intake of lactic acid foods was associated significantly with lower mean PD (P = 0.002) and lower mean CAL (P = 0.003). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, the subjects eating ≥55 g lactic acid foods per day had a significantly lower prevalence of deep PD and severe CAL compared to those not eating these foods after adjusting for confounding variables; the odds ratios for generalized deep PD and severe CAL were 0.40 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.23 to 0.70) and 0.50 (95% CI: 0.29 to 0.87), respectively.

Conclusion: The routine intake of lactic acid foods may have a beneficial effect on periodontal disease.
Appearance of Multidrug‐Resistant Opportunistic Bacteria on the Gingiva During Leukemia Treatment
Authors: Soga Yoshihiko , Saito Takashi , Nishimura Fusanori , Ishimaru Fumihiko , Mineshiba Junji , Mineshiba Fumi , Takaya Hirokazu , Sato Hideaki , Kudo Chieko , Kokeguchi Susumu , Fujii Nobuharu , Tanimoto Mitsune , Takashiba Shogo
Published: December 2007

Background: Dentists generally recognize the importance of periodontal treatment in patients with leukemia, with the most attention paid to preventing the development of odontogenic infection. For physicians, the worst type of infection is one caused by multidrug‐resistant bacteria. Here, we report a patient with an abnormal increase in multidrug‐resistant opportunistic bacteria in the gingiva during hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT).

Methods: A 53‐year‐old woman receiving HCT for leukemia had an insufficient blood cell count for invasive periodontal treatment before HCT. Even brushing caused difficulties with hemostasis. Therefore, frequent pocket irrigation and local minocycline administration were performed.

Results: The multidrug‐resistant opportunistic bacterium Stenotrophomonas maltophilia was detected first in phlegm 2 days before HCT, and it was detected in a gingival smear and a blood sample 7 and 11 days after HCT, respectively. The patient developed sepsis on day 11 and died 14 days after HCT. Frequent irrigation and local antibiotic application were ineffective against S. maltophilia on the gingiva. Inflammatory gingiva without scaling and root planing showed bleeding tendency, and this interfered with the eradication of this bacterium.

Conclusions: The gingiva in patients undergoing leukemia treatment acts as sites of proliferation and reservoirs for multidrug‐resistant opportunistic bacteria. Severe systemic infection by multidrug‐resistant bacteria in such patients with leukemia also may involve the gingiva. To prevent abnormal increases in such bacteria on the gingiva, scaling and/or root planing before chemotherapy, which reduces bleeding on brushing during the neutropenic period caused by chemotherapy, may contribute to infection control in such patients, although it was impossible in this case.
Presence and Significance of Interleukin‐1 Polymorphism in Patients Who Present With Acute Coronary Syndrome, Angina, and Chronic Periodontitis: An Epidemiologic Pilot Study
Authors: Goteiner David , Ashmen Robert , Lehrman Neal , Janal Malvin N. , Eskin Barnet
Published: December 2007

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine whether acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and angina patients have a greater prevalence of interleukin (IL)‐1 polymorphism at the time of hospital admission than groups without ACS or angina.

Methods: A total of 106 patients hospitalized with ACS or angina were compared to a group of 1,959 individuals tested for susceptibility to periodontitis by profiling the IL‐1 gene. Blood collected upon admission was analyzed by polymerase chain reaction amplification and gel electrophoresis to determine IL‐1 polymorphism. A questionnaire was completed to assess home care and periodontal symptoms. Hospital and dental records were assessed for inclusion in the study, and dental records were analyzed for radiographic bone loss and dental history.

Results: ACS/angina patients with severe radiographic bone loss demonstrated an increase in IL‐1–positive polymorphism (P = 0.06). If patients were ≥60 years of age, the prevalence of the positive gene was enriched (P = 0.009) with IL‐1α+4845T increasing significantly (P = 0.015).

Conclusions: For patients ≥60 years of age, there was a statistically significant correlation between ACS/angina and IL‐1 polymorphism. Patients with ACS or angina were more likely to evidence a positive IL‐1 polymorphism and severe periodontitis.
The Periodontitis and Vascular Events (PAVE) Pilot Study: Recruitment, Retention, and Community Care Controls
Authors: Couper David J. , Beck James D. , Falkner Karen L. , Graham Susan P. , Grossi Sara G. , Gunsolley John C. , Madden Theresa , Maupome Gerardo , Offenbacher Steven , Stewart Dawn D. , Trevisan Maurizio , Van Dyke Thomas E. , Genco Robert J.
Published: December 2007

Background: Population‐based clinical and laboratory studies have reported findings providing support for a possible relationship between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease. The Periodontitis and Vascular Events (PAVE) pilot study was conducted to investigate the feasibility of a randomized secondary prevention trial to test whether treatment of periodontal disease reduces the risk for cardiovascular disease.

Methods: Five clinical centers recruited participants who had documented coronary heart disease and met study criteria for periodontal disease. Eligible participants were randomized to receive periodontal therapy provided by the study or community dental care. Follow‐up telephone calls and clinic visits were planned to alternate at 3‐month intervals after randomization, with all participants followed until at least the 6‐month clinic visit. Participants were followed for adverse events and periodontal and cardiovascular outcomes.

Results: A total of 303 participants were randomized. Recruitment that involved active participation of a cardiologist with responsibility for the patients worked best among the strategies used. Of those who had not withdrawn, 93% completed the 6‐month contact. During follow‐up, 11% of the 152 subjects in the community dental care group reported receiving periodontal therapy outside of the study.

Conclusions: If appropriate recruitment strategies are used, this pilot study demonstrated that it is feasible to conduct a secondary prevention trial of periodontal therapy in patients who have had coronary heart disease. If a community dental care group is used, sample size estimation needs to take into account that a non‐trivial proportion of participants in this group may receive periodontal therapy outside of the study.
The Periodontitis and Vascular Events (PAVE) Pilot Study: Adverse Events
Authors: Beck James D. , Couper David J. , Falkner Karen L. , Graham Susan P. , Grossi Sara G. , Gunsolley John C. , Madden Theresa , Maupome Gerardo , Offenbacher Steven , Stewart Dawn D. , Trevisan Maurizio , Van Dyke Thomas E. , Genco Robert J.
Published: December 2007

Background: During the last 15 years, a substantial number of population‐based, clinical, laboratory, and animal studies have been published that reported findings on the relationship between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease. The Periodontitis and Vascular Events (PAVE) pilot study was conducted to investigate the feasibility of a randomized secondary prevention trial to test whether treatment of periodontal disease reduces the risk for cardiovascular disease. This article describes the occurrence of adverse events during the pilot study.

Methods: The PAVE pilot study was a multicenter, randomized trial comparing periodontal therapy to community dental care. Baseline and follow‐up clinic visits included a periodontal examination; blood, subgingival plaque, and crevicular fluid specimen collection; and medical and dental histories. Telephone follow‐up contacts were scheduled to occur 3 months after randomization and every 6 months thereafter to assess adverse events or endpoints.

Results: Cardiovascular adverse events occurred with similar frequency (23 versus 24 [P = 0.85] in the community control and the treatment groups, respectively). There were 15 serious adverse events (SAEs) with a non‐significantly higher percentage occurring in the community care group (6.6% versus 3.3%; P = 0.19). A time‐to‐event analysis of patterns of SAEs indicated that subjects in the periodontal therapy group tended to be less likely to experience an SAE over the entire 25 months of the study.

Conclusion: For those individuals who remained in the study, it appears that provision of periodontal scaling and root planing treatment to individuals with heart disease resulted in a similar pattern of adverse events as seen in the community care group, which also received some treatment.
Diagnostic Pathways and Clinical Significance of Desquamative Gingivitis
Authors: Lo Russo Lucio , Fedele Stefano , Guiglia Rosario , Ciavarella Domenico , Lo Muzio Lorenzo , Gallo Pio , Di Liberto Chiara , Campisi Giuseppina
Published: December 2007

The term desquamative gingivitis (DG) refers to a clinical manifestation that can be caused by several disorders. Many of them are immunologically mediated; in addition to the oral cavity, they can affect extraoral mucocutaneous sites, e.g., larynx, conjunctiva, esophagus, nasal and genital mucosa, and the skin. The degree of oral, periodontal, and systemic involvement determines the overall morbidity and, sometimes, the mortality of these disorders. We comprehensively review disorders commonly associated with DG and highlight diagnostic pathways, guidelines for differential diagnosis, and oral, periodontal, and systemic implications. More rare conditions are reviewed as well. Mucous membrane pemphigoid, oral lichen planus, and pemphigus vulgaris are responsible for the majority of cases of DG. In addition, other uncommon disorders should be considered. Accurate clinical, histologic, and serologic investigations are often required to differentiate among DG‐associated disorders, provide adequate therapy, and improve the prognosis of patients.
Combining Host Modulation and Topical Antimicrobial Therapy in the Management of Moderate to Severe Periodontitis: A Randomized Multicenter Trial
Authors: Novak M. John , Dawson Dolphus R. , Magnusson Ingvar , Karpinia Katherine , Polson Alan , Polson Anne , Ryan Maria E. , Ciancio Sebastian , Drisko Connie H. , Kinane Denis , Powala Christopher , Bradshaw Mark
Published: December 2007

Background: Previous studies showed that host modulation therapy (HMT) or topical antimicrobial therapy (TAT) provided significant adjunctive benefits to scaling and root planing (SRP) in the treatment of chronic periodontitis (CP). The purpose of this study was to evaluate a combination therapy involving SRP, HMT, and TAT in the treatment of moderate to severe CP.

Methods: A 6‐month, randomized, multicenter, placebo‐controlled, examiner‐masked study was undertaken to evaluate the clinical usefulness of a combination treatment of systemically delivered doxycycline hyclate (HMT; 20 mg, twice a day) plus locally delivered doxycycline hyclate gel (TAT; 10%, in pockets ≥5 mm) in combination with SRP versus SRP plus placebo. Clinical outcomes included mean changes in probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), bleeding on probing (BOP), and gingival index (GI) at baseline and at 3 and 6 months.

Results: In 171 subjects, combination therapy provided significantly greater clinical benefits than control therapy for all clinical measures at 3 and 6 months. In moderate CP (PD of 4 to 6 mm), combination therapy provided significant benefits over control for PD (3 and 6 months: P <0.01), CAL (3 months: P <0.01; 6 months: P <0.03), BOP (3 months: P <0.02; 6 months: P <0.05), and GI (3 months: P <0.01; 6 months: P <0.03). In severe CP (PD ≥7 mm), combination therapy provided significant benefits over control for PD (3 and 6 months: P <0.01), CAL (3 months: P <0.01; 6 months: P <0.02), BOP (3 months: P <0.01; 6 months: P >0.05), and GI (3 months: P <0.01; 6 months: P <0.01).

Conclusion: Combination therapy, including SRP, HMT, and TAT, provided significantly greater clinical benefits than SRP alone in the treatment of moderate to severe CP.
Detection of Helicobacter pylori by Polymerase Chain Reaction in the Subgingival Biofilm and Saliva of Non‐Dyspeptic Periodontal Patients
Authors: Souto Renata , Colombo Ana Paula Vieira
Published: December 2007

Background: Helicobacter pylori has been associated with the development of peptic ulcers and gastric cancer. Although the oral cavity may be a source of transmission, it is unknown whether it acts as a permanent reservoir for this bacterium, particularly in the presence of periodontal disease. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of H. pylori by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in the subgingival biofilm and saliva of subjects with periodontitis.

Methods: Samples were obtained from 56 periodontally healthy subjects and 169 subjects with chronic periodontitis. DNA was extracted from the samples, and the detection of H. pylori was carried out by PCR using the JW22/23 primers.

Results: In general, H. pylori was detected in 24% of all samples evaluated. A significantly higher prevalence of H. pylori was observed in subgingival biofilm samples (33.3%) compared to saliva samples (20%) (P <0.05). H. pylori was detected significantly more often in the saliva and subgingival samples from subjects with periodontitis (23.5% and 50%, respectively) compared to samples from periodontally healthy subjects (7.3% and 11.4%, respectively; P <0.05).

Conclusion: H. pylori was detected frequently in the oral microbiota of subjects with periodontitis, suggesting that periodontal pocketing and inflammation may favor the colonization by this species.
Exophytic Mass of the Gingiva as the First Manifestation of Metastatic Pulmonary Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Pozzi Elena C. Ferrazzini , Altermatt Hans Jörg , Rees Terry D. , Bornstein Michael M.
Published: December 2007

Background: Metastasis of a malignant tumor to the oral cavity is rare, but it can be the first manifestation of a primary tumor.

Methods: The clinicopathologic features of a gingival metastasis originating from lung adenocarcinoma in a female patient are described. A 57‐year‐old woman showed a rapidly growing, painless, exophytic mass in the left mandibular gingiva. The whole lesion was excised, and histologic and immunohistochemical analyses were performed.

Results: The histopathologic sections showed a proliferation of poorly differentiated spindle and pleomorphic cells. Because the differentiation between carcinoma and sarcoma of spindle cell tumors was difficult, additional immunohistochemical evaluation was performed. The intraoral healing after tumor removal was uneventful. The discrepancy between the histopathologic results and the clinical findings led to a thorough examination by the patient's physician. Finally, a biopsy of the lungs confirmed a poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma with multiple metastases, including the oral cavity.

Conclusions: An exophytic lesion on the gingiva can be the first sign of metastatic adenocarcinoma to the oral mucosa. This case emphasizes that even apparently benign‐looking gingival lesions in anamnestically healthy patients need to be examined histopathologically.
Clinical Outcome of Narrow Diameter Implants: A Retrospective Study of 510 Implants
Authors: Degidi Marco , Piattelli Adriano , Carinci Francesco
Published: December 2007

Background: Narrow diameter implants ([NDIs]; diameter <3.75 mm) are a potential solution for specific clinical situations such as reduced interradicular bone, thin alveolar crest, and replacement of teeth with small cervical diameter. NDIs have been available in clinical practice since the 1990s, but only a few studies have analyzed their clinical outcome.

Methods: From November 1996 to February 2004, 237 patients were selected, and 510 NDIs were inserted. Implant diameter ranged from 3.0 to 3.5 mm, multiple implant systems were used, and 255 implants were restored immediately without loading (IRWL). No statistical differences were detected among the studied variables. Consequently, marginal bone loss (MBL) was considered an indicator of the success rate (SCR) to evaluate the effect of several host‐, surgery‐, and implant‐related factors. A general linear model (GLM) was used to detect those variables statistically associated with MBL.

Results: Only three of 510 implants were lost (survival rate [SRR] = 99.4%), and no differences were detected among the studied variables. On the contrary, the GLM showed that delayed loading and longer (>13 mm) and larger (3.4 and 3.5 mm) NDIs reduced MBL.

Conclusions: NDIs have a high SRR and SCR, similar to those reported in previous studies of regular diameter implants. Moreover, IRWL of NDIs is a reliable procedure, although a slightly higher bone resorption is reported compared to delayed loading. No implant fractures were detected in the present series.
Effects of Cyclosporin, Phenytoin, and Nifedipine on the Synthesis and Degradation of Gingival Collagen in Tufted Capuchin Monkeys (Cebus apella): Histochemical and MMP‐1 and −2 and Collagen I Gene Expression Analyses
Authors: Kanno Cláudia M. , Oliveira José A. , Garcia José F. , Castro Alvimar L. , Crivelini Marcelo M.
Published: December 2007

Background: The purpose of this experimental study was to evaluate the collagen fiber distribution histologically after phenytoin, cyclosporin, or nifedipine therapy and to correlate it with collagen I and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐1 and −2 gene expression levels.

Methods: Gingival samples from the canine area were obtained from 12 male monkeys (Cebus apella). The mesial part of each sample was assessed by reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction, whereas the distal part was processed histologically for picrosirius red and hematoxylin and eosin stainings, as well as for collagen IV immunostaining. One week after the first biopsy, the animals were assigned to three groups that received daily oral dosages of cyclosporin, phenytoin, or nifedipine for 120 days. Additional gingival samples were obtained on days 52 and 120 of treatment from two animals from each group on the opposite sides from the first biopsies.

Results: Picrosirius red staining showed a predominance of mature collagen fibers in the control group. Conversely, there was an enlargement of areas occupied by immature collagen fibers in all groups at days 52 and 120, which was not uniform over each section. There was a general trend to lower levels of MMP‐1 gene expression on day 52 and increased levels on day 120. Phenytoin led to increased levels of MMP‐2 and collagen I gene expression on day 120, whereas the opposite was observed in the nifedipine group.

Conclusion: Cyclosporin, phenytoin, and nifedipine led to phased and drug‐related gene expression patterns, resulting in impaired collagen metabolism, despite the lack of prominent clinical signs.
The Effect of a Selective Cyclooxygenase‐2 Inhibitor (Celecoxib) on Chronic Periodontitis
Authors: Yen C. Alec , Damoulis Petros D. , Stark Paul C. , Hibberd Patricia L. , Singh Medha , Papas Athena S.
Published: December 2007

Background: Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory agents inhibit the production of cyclooxygenase (COX) products and can attenuate bone loss. In this double‐masked, placebo‐controlled, randomized clinical trial, the efficacy of celecoxib (COX‐2 inhibitor) was evaluated in conjunction with scaling and root planing (SRP) in subjects with chronic periodontitis (CP).

Methods: A total of 131 subjects were randomized to receive SRP and either celecoxib (200 mg) or placebo every day for 6 months. Clinical outcomes were assessed every 3 months for 12 months as mean changes from baseline. Primary efficacy parameters included clinical attachment level (CAL) and probing depth (PD). Secondary outcomes included percentages of tooth sites with CAL loss or gain ≥2 mm, changes in bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque index, and mobility. Prior to analysis, tooth sites were grouped based on baseline PD as shallow (1 to 3 mm), moderate (4 to 6 mm), or deep (≥7 mm).

Results: Mean PD reduction and CAL gain were greater in the celecoxib group, primarily in moderate and deep sites, throughout the study (PD: 3.84 mm versus 2.06 mm, P <0.001; CAL: 3.74 mm versus 1.43 mm, P <0.0001 for deep sites at 12 months). The celecoxib group also exhibited a greater percentage of sites with ≥2 mm CAL gain and fewer sites with ≥2 mm CAL loss. Both groups showed improved plaque control and BOP scores. Demographic, social, and behavioral factors did not affect treatment outcomes.

Conclusions: Celecoxib can be an effective adjunctive treatment to SRP to reduce progressive attachment loss in subjects with CP. Its beneficiary effect persisted even at 6 months postadministration. However, given the increased cardiovascular risks associated with the use of this drug, close patient supervision and strict adherence to dosage and administration guidelines established by the Unites States Food and Drug Administration are of paramount importance.
The Association Between Gingival Crevicular Fluid TGF‐β1 Levels and Periodontal Status in HIV‐1+ Patients
Authors: Alpagot T. , Konopka K. , Bhattacharyya M. , Gebremedhin S. , Düzgüneş N.
Published: December 2007

Background: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between transforming growth factor‐beta 1 (TGF‐β1) in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and the periodontal status of subjects who were positive for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐1.

Methods: Medical and demographic variables, including age, cigarette smoking, CD4 cell count, and viral load values, were recorded. At the baseline and 6‐month visits, gingival index (GI), plaque index, bleeding on probing, probing depth (PD), and attachment loss (AL) were recorded, and GCF samples were taken with paper strips from three periodontitis sites (GI >0; PD ≥5 mm; AL ≥3 mm), three gingivitis sites (GI >0; PD ≤3 mm; AL = 0), and two healthy sites (GI = 0; PD ≤3 mm; AL ≤2 mm) in 25 subjects who were HIV‐1+. GCF TGF‐β1 levels were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays. A statistical software package was used to analyze the data.

Results: The mean amounts of GCF TGF‐β1 were greater in gingivitis and periodontitis sites than in healthy sites (P <0.0001). GCF levels of TGF‐β1 correlated with PD, AL, age, smoking pack‐years, CD4 cell count, and viral load at the baseline and 6‐month visits (0.0001 < P <0.05). An active site was defined as a site that had ≥2 mm new AL during the 6‐month study period. An active patient was defined as a patient who had one or more active site(s) during the study period. Repeated‐measures analysis of 18 active sites versus 182 inactive sites indicated that GCF TGF‐β1 levels were higher in active sites than in inactive sites (P <0.0001). Eleven of the 25 study subjects had active sites at the end of the 6‐month study period. The mean GCF TGF‐β1 level and the mean AL and PD for these 11 active subjects were higher than for the 14 inactive subjects (P <0.0001).

Conclusion: In subjects who are HIV‐1+, sites with high GCF levels of TGF‐β1 are at significantly greater risk for the progression of established periodontitis.
The Impact of Prosthetic Design on the Stability, Marginal Bone Loss, Peri‐Implant Sulcus Fluid Volume, and Nitric Oxide Metabolism of Conventionally Loaded Endosseous Dental Implants: A 12‐Month Clinical Study
Authors: Tözüm Tolga F. , Güncü Güliz N. , Yamalik Nermin , Turkyilmaz Ilser , Güncü M. Baris
Published: December 2007

Background: Further clarification of the early and late response of peri‐implant tissues to surgical insertion and loading of dental implants and the potential associations among the various implant‐related measures are likely to improve the evaluation/monitoring of implant sites. Thus, analyses were made of the volume and nitric oxide (NO) profile of peri‐implant sulcus fluid (PISF), implant stability, and marginal bone level in relation to different prosthetic designs.

Methods: Seven totally edentulous subjects and 11 partially edentulous subjects were included. Resonance frequency analysis (RFA), marginal bone level measurements, PISF volume, and spectrophotometrically determined nitrite levels were analyzed comparatively at conventionally loaded (CL) implant sites and at implants with removable prostheses (RP; N = 14) and fixed prostheses (FP; N = 11) for a period of 12 months.

Results: At implant sites with RP, PISF volume decreased gradually and its lowest level occurred at the end of the experimental period. The PISF nitrite content increased until 6 months and was followed by a significant decrease at 12 months. Compared to baseline, RFA values exhibited a significant decrease at 1 and 3 months. Marginal bone level was significantly lower at all follow‐up visits compared to baseline. More volumetric fluctuations of PISF was noted at implant sites with FP. The PISF nitrite content had decreased, compared to baseline, at 6, 9, and 12 months. A general stability was observed for RFA. The marginal bone loss observed at 6 months was followed by a gain at 12 months. An inverse relationship was noted between RFA values and marginal bone levels.

Conclusion: The prosthetic design particularly seems to affect the NO metabolism around CL implants, whereas it does not seem to have any impact on the stability of dental implants.
Inflammatory Responses of Gingival Epithelial Cells Stimulated With Porphyromonas gingivalis Vesicles Are Inhibited by Hop‐Associated Polyphenols
Authors: Kou Yurong , Inaba Hiroaki , Kato Takahiro , Tagashira Motoyuki , Honma Daiki , Kanda Tomomasa , Ohtake Yasuyuki , Amano Atsuo
Published: December 2007

Background: Periodontitis is induced by an imbalance between bacterial virulence and host defense ability. Porphyromonas gingivalis, a predominant periodontal pathogen, triggers a series of host inflammatory responses that aggravate the destruction of periodontium. Thus, anti‐inflammatory reagents are considered desirable for effective periodontal therapy. In the present study, we examined the inhibitory effects of hop bract polyphenol (HBP) on cellular inflammatory responses induced by P. gingivalis membrane vesicles.

Methods: Immortalized human gingival epithelial cells were stimulated with P. gingivalis membrane vesicles, and the effects of HBP on mRNA expression of cyclooxygenase (COX)‐2, interleukin (IL)‐6 and −8, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐1 and −3 were examined using real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction.

Results: HBP inhibited the mRNA expression of COX‐2, IL‐6 and −8, and MMP‐1 and −3 in a dose‐dependent manner, whereas epigallocatechin gallate (a control polyphenol) inhibited COX‐2 mRNA expression only. Following further fractionation of HBP to identify the effective components, 2‐[(2‐methylpropanoyl)‐phloroglucinol]1‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (MPPG) was identified as a significant anti‐inflammatory element that completely inhibited the inflammatory mRNA induction. Kaempferol 3‐O‐β‐glucopyranoside (astragalin) also was found to have anti‐inflammatory effects.

Conclusions: HBP is suggested to be a potent inhibitor of cellular inflammatory responses induced by P. gingivalis vesicles. Further, MPPG and astragalin, identified here as effective components of HBP, also may be useful for the prevention and/or attenuation of periodontitis.
Effects of replacing different proportions of barley grain by barley fibre on performance of dairy bulls
Authors: HUUSKONEN A. , KHALILI H. , JOKI-TOKOLA E.
Published: December 2007

The objective of the present experiment was to study the effects of partial replacement of barley grain with barley fibre (BF) on animal performance, carcass traits and diet digestibility of growing dairy bulls. The feeding experiment comprised 20 Finnish Ayrshire bulls and 12 Holstein-Friesian bulls, and four treatments (8 bulls per treatment). There were four diets with two offered at stage 1 (from the initiation of the study to 450 kg live weight) and four at stage 2 (from 450 kg live weight to slaughter). The control diet (BF0) included grass silage (460 g kg1 dry matter) and barley grain (540), BF25 diet included grass silage (460), barley grain (405) and BF (135), BF50 diet included grass silage (460), barley grain (270) and BF (270), and BF75 diet included grass silage (460), barley grain (135) and BF (405). At stage 1 there were only two treatments (BF0 and BF50) and at stage 2, all four treatments were included. All bulls were fed total mixed ration ad libitum. The mean initial live weight of the bulls was 261 kg and the mean final live weight 650 kg. At stage 1 there were no significant treatment differences in dry matter, energy or protein intakes or in live weight gain. At stage 2, replacing barley grain with BF led to a linear decrease of daily live weight gain (P < 0.05) and a linearly reduced feed conversion (kg dry matter kg1 live weight gain) (P < 0.05). The apparent digestibility of the organic matter and neutral detergent fibre decreased linearly with increasing BF supplementation (P < 0.001). The dressing proportion and the carcass fat score decreased linearly (P < 0.05) with partial replacement of barley grain with BF. On carcass conformation, treatment had a significant (P < 0.05) quadratic effect: the BF25 and BF50 diets were classified highest. The results indicate that 50% of barley starch can be replaced with BF without affecting growth, but feed efficiency factors may decrease when barley starch is replaced with BF. At 75% replacement, feed intake was reduced, which resulted in a lower energy intake and reduced level of performance.;
Analysis of urban water cycle considering water reuse options
Authors: Lee J. , Pak G. , Yoo C. , Yoon J.
Published: December 2007

Water cycle analysis was performed for Gunja basin located in metropolitan Seoul using Aquacycle model in order to assess the problems of urban water cycle. From the water cycle analysis of Gunja basin, it was found that 75% of total rainfall occurred in the form of surface runoff, and groundwater recharge only accounted for about 7%. This suggests serious distortion of water cycle which can be attributed to urbanization. Feasibility analysis of reuse scenarios such as rainwater use and wastewater reuse was then performed to examine their influences on improving the water cycle. From the analysis of water reuse options, it was shown that imported water supply savings of 13% can be achieved through rainwater use, and water supply savings of 31% through wastewater reuse.
Development and drought drive a holistic national stakeholder approach to water efficiency in the UK
Authors: Turton P. , Westcott R.
Published: December 2007

The prospect of the population increasing by 10% by 2021 in the relatively dry southeast of England and the current drought have galvanised the government into establishing a Water Saving Group (WSG). The WSG is structured to build on and exploit a strong foundation of knowledge and experience of water efficiency developed over the last fifteen years. The paper expands on how the WSG is driving water efficiency and the part each stakeholder is taking in promoting water efficiency. The paper examines the importance of collaborations between the numerous organisations with a stake in the water industry of England and Wales and how different water efficiency challenges have been or might be resolved. To describe how the complex institutional structures in the UK interact to an international audience and highlight progress has lead the authors to consider actions by Leaders, Activists and Society.
Household water use: a Portuguese field study
Authors: Vieira P. , Almeida M. do C. , Baptista J.M. , Ribeiro R.
Published: December 2007

Household water use structure can vary significantly depending on several factors like personal habits, socio-economic, cultural and climatic conditions. In the absence of Portuguese data on domestic water consumption, a field study was carried out in order to obtain information that could help support the definition of water conservation measures within the scope of the Portuguese National Program for the Efficient Use of Water. The paper describes the methodology and results obtained in this study, which involved approximately 100 participants that made a characterization of their appliances and detailed recordings of all water uses. Results allowed for the determination of average values of usage duration and frequency for each appliance, total volume consumed per water appliance and per capita water consumption. In terms of consumption structure, it was found that showering and bathing were the main components (36±13%) followed by taps (29±10%) and toilet flushing (21±7%).
Analysis of the failure behaviour of drinking water pipelines
Authors: Gangl G. , Fuchs-Hanusch D. , Stadlober E. , Kauch P.
Published: December 2007

According to national standards, water utilities have to guarantee the supply of water to their consumers in appropriate quality, quantity and pressure. Therefore, foresighted rehabilitation planning is necessary. In some cases the buried water supply system is more than 100 years old but still in use. The aging process of the material derived from failures can be noticed by the water utilities in the daily operation, where several factors influence the lifetime expectancy. It is nearly impossible to predict the first failure, but if a failure occurs caused by aging processes, the following failure can be described statistically. The decisions whether a pipe-section should stay in use and be repaired locally or be replaced can be supported by statistical analyses.
A methodology to estimate economically optimal replacement time interval of water distribution pipes
Authors: Park Suwan , Kim Jung Wook , Newland Agbenowosi , Jun Hwandon
Published: December 2007

In this paper a systematic methodology is developed to estimate economically optimal replacement time interval of a water distribution pipe using the proportional hazards modeling approach. To maximize the full potential of the proportional hazards model (PHM) the pipes in a case study area are redefined so that the pipes have consistent internal and external characteristics along their newly defined lengths. The survival functions of the PHMs are constructed for the six ordered survival time groups of cast iron 6 inch pipes in the area and subsequently used to estimate the intervals of future failure times of a pipe. The recorded and predicted future failure time intervals are used to model the trend of pipe failure using the General Pipe Break Prediction Model (GPBM). The equivalence relationship between the GPBM and the threshold break rate of a pipe is used to estimate the economically optimal replacement time interval of a pipe.
Charting a new course for water—is black water reuse sustainable?
Authors: Hurlimann A. , Hes D. , Othman M. , Grant T.
Published: December 2007

The world is facing a water crisis, and Australia is no exception. New regimes for the supply, use, and delivery of water are needed to ensure a sustainable water future. Black water reuse through ‘sewer mining’ or onsite treatment, proposes to be one initiative that may possibly offer a viable and sustainable alternative approach to water provision in many contexts. However, despite the potential benefits of black water reuse, its feasibility is not yet fully understood. In particular, there is much uncertainty surrounding the following issues: (1) community acceptance, (2) policy complexities, (3) performance impacts of these localised systems, and (4) environmental balance over the full life cycle. This paper outlines research needs surrounding black water reuse with a focus on these four major issues. The paper presents a research agenda to address these important issues. This research agenda involves two Australian commercial case studies: the Council House 2 building in Melbourne, and the Bendigo Bank building in Bendigo.