bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk factors for RhD immunisation despite antenatal and postnatal anti‐D prophylaxis
Authors: Koelewijn JM , de Haas M , Vrijkotte TGM , van der Schoot CE , Bonsel GJ
Published: June 2009

Objective  To identify risk factors for Rhesus D (RhD) immunisation in pregnancy, despite adequate antenatal and postnatal anti‐D prophylaxis in the previous pregnancy. To generate evidence for improved primary prevention by extra administration of anti‐D Ig in the presence of a risk factor.

Design  Case–control study.

Setting  Nation‐wide evaluation of the Dutch antenatal anti‐D‐prophylaxis programme.

Population  Cases: 42 RhD‐immunised parae‐1, recognised by first‐trimester routine red cell antibody screening in their current pregnancy, who received antenatal and postnatal anti‐D Ig prophylaxis (gifts of 1000 iu) in their first pregnancy. Controls: 339 parae‐1 without red cell antibodies.

Methods  Data were collected via obstetric care workers and/or personal interviews with women.

Main outcome measure  Significant risk factors for RhD immunisation in multivariate analysis.

Results  Independent risk factors were non‐spontaneous delivery (assisted vaginal delivery or caesarean section) (OR 2.23; 95% CI:1.04–4.74), postmaturity (≥42 weeks of completed gestation: OR 3.07; 95% CI:1.02–9.02), pregnancy‐related red blood cell transfusion (OR 3.51; 95% CI:0.97–12.7 and age (OR 0.89/year; 95% CI:0.80–0.98). In 43% of cases, none of the categorical risk factors was present.

Conclusions  In at least half of the failures of anti‐D Ig prophylaxis, a condition related to increased fetomaternal haemorrhage (FMH) and/or insufficient anti‐D Ig levels was observed. Hence, RhD immunisation may be further reduced by strict compliance to guidelines concerning determination of FMH and accordingly adjusted anti‐D Ig prophylaxis, or by routine administration of extra anti‐D Ig after a non‐spontaneous delivery and/or a complicated or prolonged third stage of labour.
The value of customised centiles in assessing perinatal mortality risk associated with parity and maternal size
Authors: Gardosi J , Clausson B , Francis A
Published: June 2009

Objective  We wanted to compare customised and population standards for defining smallness for gestational age (SGA) in the assessment of perinatal mortality risk associated with parity and maternal size.

Design  Population‐based cohort study.

Setting  Sweden.

Population  Swedish Birth Registry database 1992–1995 with 354 205 complete records.

Method  Coefficients were derived and applied to determine SGA by the fully customised method, or by adjustment for fetal sex only, and using the same fetal weight standard.

Main outcome measure  Perinatal deaths and rates of small for gestational age (SGA) babies within subgroups stratified by parity, body mass index (BMI) and maternal size within the BMI range of 20.0–24.9.

Results  Perinatal mortality rates (PMR) had a U‐shaped distribution in parity groups, increased proportionately with maternal BMI, and had no association with maternal size within the normal BMI range. For each of these subgroups, SGA rates determined by the customised method showed strong association with the PMR. In contrast, SGA based on uncustomised, population‐based centiles had poor correlation with perinatal mortality. The increased perinatal mortality risk in pregnancies of obese mothers was associated with an increased risk of SGA using customised centiles, and a decreased risk of SGA using population‐based centiles.

Conclusion  The use of customised centiles to determine SGA improves the identification of pregnancies which are at increased risk of perinatal death.
Love of Nurse Plants is Not Enough for Restoring Oak Forests in a Seasonally Dry Tropical Environment
Authors: Badano Ernesto I. , Pérez Delfina , Vergara Carlos H.
Published: June 2009

The highest concentration of oak species in the world occurs in Mexico, but human activities have strongly degraded these oak forests. Mexican oaks have high economic, social, and cultural value, and restoring these forests is of paramount importance for the people of Mexico. Here, we propose a method for restoring oak forests using native shrubs that colonize degraded areas as nurse plants for oak seedlings. To test the viability of this proposal, seedling transplant experiments were performed in a degraded area near a protected oak forest relict. Two pioneer shrubs were identified as potential nurse species:Mimosa luisanaandSeneciosp. The target oak species wasQuercus castanea. Oak seedlings were located beneath the canopies of both shrubs and in the surrounding area without shrub cover. Water is a limiting resource for oak establishment in seasonally dry environments; therefore, we included irrigation systems in our experimental design to determine whether the combination of nurse plants plus watering led to higher rate of survival than the presence of nurse species alone. Seedling survival without watering was less than 20% both beneath nurse species and in the surrounding habitat. When water was supplied, survival rate beneath nurse species increased up to 58% while survival in the surrounding habitat did not differ from that observed in treatments without watering. Our results indicate that survival rate of oak seedlings is increased by the presence of nurse plants only when water is supplied. This suggests that restoration of oak forests in these degraded areas requires both nurse plants and watering.
Developing Native Multispecies Sod: An Alternative Rehabilitation Method for Disturbed Lands
Authors: Stott Lance V. , Dougher Tracy A. O. , Rew Lisa J.
Published: June 2009

Natural and anthropogenic disturbance provides a mechanism for resetting the species assemblage within natural communities. Following anthropogenic disturbance particularly, there are generally more weedy species. Restoration of ecosystem structure and function in disturbed areas could aid in the control of these undesirable species. Attempts to re‐establish vegetation via direct sowing, hydroseeding, drill seeding, imprinting or plugging of either native or non‐native species can be effective, but can result in increased erosion and weed proliferation prior to desirable cover of the intended species. The use of native species for rehabilitation can be preferable because non‐native species are often less suited to the local environment and can pose a threat to the integrity of adjacent ecosystems. Native multispecies sod could become a useful rehabilitation tool, but research is needed to determine which species to use and the appropriate number of species to include. Mixtures of 4–7 native species were grown for 7 months, and clipped dry biomass, species percent abundance, and total ground cover were assessed over time in order to determine the suitability of 20 native species for sod production. Despite differences between mixtures at some harvests, all mixtures established and produced similar biomass by the end of the study. Final percent cover varied widely among species; 16 of the 20 species increased significantly over the course of production. Differences in total ground cover between mixtures were explained by the growth of the particular species rather than any synergistic effect of species diversity.
An Investigation into the Effect of Soil and Vegetation on the Successful Creation of a Hay Meadow on a Clay‐Capped Landfill
Authors: Carrington Lindsay P. , Diaz Anita
Published: June 2009

This paper investigates the effect that manipulation of soil and vegetation conditions has on plant community development during attempts to create neutral hay meadow communities on a clay‐capped landfill in Somerset, United Kingdom. The objectives are (1) to determine the effect of manipulation of soil and vegetation on the development of the target plant community, (2) to identify whether these treatments had an effect on edaphic factors (physical and chemical properties, earthworm populations), and (3) to establish which, if any, of these edaphic parameters are underlying factors in determining the vascular plant community composition. In 2001 a commercial hay meadow seed mix was sown on three substrate treatments: (i) bare clay, (ii) a mixture of topsoil and compost ameliorant in equal proportions, and (iii) over naturally colonized vegetation. Plant community development and edaphic factors were monitored between 2001 and 2007. Although initially the presence of ameliorant promoted germination and growth of seeded species, after 2004 nonseeded competitive grasses dominated the sward. Where ameliorant was removed the target community continued to develop proving this to be the most successful treatment. This was found to be a due to suppression of competition fromElytrigia repens(Common couch), which grew most abundantly on soils with high organic matter and high soil water levels within the soil. Contrary to previous research,Trifolium repens(white clover) was not found to reduce forb diversity in this study. No evidence was found of earthworm abundance affecting plant community development.
Does Channel Incision Affect In‐stream Habitat? Examining the Effects of Multiple Geomorphic Variables on Fish Habitat
Authors: Duncan William W. , Goodloe Robin B. , Meyer Judy L. , Prowell Eric S.
Published: June 2009

Incised river channels are dynamic components of fluvial systems, represent geomorphic degradation, and are encountered worldwide. Ecological effects of incision can be far‐reaching, affecting habitat availability and channel processes. Although incision can reflect habitat degradation, some studies suggest that important in‐stream habitats do not differ with the degree of incision. Therefore, we tested whether in‐stream habitat variables that are important to imperiled fishes differ in river reaches with varying degrees of incision. Because incision (measured using entrenchment ratio) had no discernable effect on in‐stream habitat characteristics (i.e., proportion fines, gravel, cobble, and macrophyte occurrence and length), we expanded our analysis to assess the effects of 29 additional geomorphic variables on in‐stream habitat. These analyses indicated that bank height, bed mobility, D84, cross‐sectional area, bankfull width, and wetted perimeter accounted for 42% of macrophyte occurrence and 64% of macrophyte length variance. Postflood surveys indicated that macrophyte occurrence on cobble declined as bank height and bed mobility increased, and sediment size decreased, suggesting that sediment size and bed mobility have a stronger influence on in‐stream habitat than incision. Although channel incision often indicates environmental degradation, important aspects of habitat are not described by this measurement. Strategies that depend on incision to identify restoration sites may have limited habitat benefits in Southeastern Piedmont streams and rivers. Instead, landscape or shoal‐scale restoration approaches that increase coarse sediment proportions may increase macrophyte occurrence, length, and persistence. Sediment budgets that identify coarse and fine sediment sources and transport may be useful to prioritize restoration approaches.
Plant Community Biomass Shifts in Response to Mowing and Fencing in Invaded Oak Meadows with Non‐Native Grasses and Abundant Ungulates
Authors: Gonzales Emily K. , Clements David R.
Published: June 2009

Many herbaceous meadows are dominated by competitive non‐native grasses and subject to ungulate herbivory, ecological processes that shift the proportional biomass of plant groups in the community. Predicting the outcome of restoration is complicated because herbivory and competition can interact. We examined the relationship between herbivory by native black‐tailed deer and domestic sheep and dominance of non‐native grasses in Garry oak meadows, one of North America's most endangered habitat types. A 3‐year factorial experiment tested the effects of mowing and fencing on plant community biomass, categorized into eight groups by geographic origin (native/non‐native), growth form (annual/perennial), and plant type (forb/grass). To test if the rarity of native plant groups was related to herbivory, we estimated ungulate foraging preferences for each plant group. Mowing and fencing treatments interacted for annual and perennial non‐native grasses. Dominance was shifted from non‐native to native grasses only when both mowing and fencing were applied. Fencing increased the total biomass, whereas mowing had no overall effect; however, fencing alone did not affect any individual plant group. Mowing shifted dominance from grasses to forbs, although both native and non‐native forbs benefited from the increased light availability. We also noted that herbivore fecal pellet densities were greatest in the spring, which coincided with the peak season of their preferred plant group, native perennial forbs. Overall, applying both mowing and fencing was the most effective restoration treatment to increase native plant groups and biomass.
Worsening of Left Ventricular End‐Systolic Volume and Mitral Regurgitation without Increase in Left Ventricular Dyssynchrony on Acute Interruption of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Kuppahally Suman S. , Fowler Michael B. , Vagelos Randall , Wang Paul , Al‐Ahmad Amin , Paloma Allan , Liang David
Published: June 2009

Background: Responders to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) have greater left ventricular (LV) dyssynchrony than nonresponders prior to CRT. Aim: We conducted this study to see whether the long term responders have more worsening of LV dyssynchrony and LV function on acute interruption of CRT. Materials and Methods: We identified 22 responders and 13 nonresponders who received CRT as per standard criteria for 23.73 ± 7.9 months (median 24.5 months). We assessed the acute change in LV function, mitral regurgitation (MR) and compared LV dyssynchrony in CRT on and off modes. Results: On turning off CRT, there was no significant worsening of LV dyssynchrony in both responders and nonresponders. The dyssynchrony measurements by SPWMD, TDI and 3D echocardiography did not correlate significantly. LVESV increased (p = 0.02) and MR (p = 0.01) worsened in CRT‐off mode in responders only without significant change in LVEF or LV dimensions. Discussion and Conclusion: In long‐term responders to CRT, there is alteration in the function of remodeled LV with acute interruption of CRT, without significant worsening of LV dyssynchrony. The role of different echocardiographic parameters in the assessment of LV dyssynchrony remains controversial. Even after long‐term CRT reversely remodels the LV, the therapy needs to be continued uninterrupted for sustained benefits.
The Effect of Dobutamine without and with L‐Arginine on Arterial Compliance in Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Lagudis Sofia , Yamada Alice Tatsuko , Vieira Marcelo Luiz Campos , Medeiros Caio Cesar Jorge , Mansur Alfredo José , Lage Silvia G.
Published: June 2009

The effect of dobutamine on carotid and brachial arteries compliance and the association of L‐arginine as a potential nitric oxide pathway restorer were evaluated in patients with heart failure. Twenty‐seven outpatients participated. Drugs used for the treatment of heart failure were withheld at least 24 hours before the study. The carotid and brachial artery diameters and hemodynamic variables were evaluated by ultrasonography and Doppler in baseline conditions, with dobutamine, with flow‐mediated dilatation (FMD), and with placebo or L‐arginine alone and associated with dobutamine. There was a significant increase in carotid peak blood flow with dobutamine when compared with that at baseline (P = 0.0001) or with L‐arginine or placebo (P = 0.0001 and P = 0.0001, respectively), with increase of the cardiac index (P = 0.0001). Dobutamine did not increase carotid arterial compliance. FMD significantly increased the brachial peak blood flow (P = 0.0022) and the artery diameter (P = 0.0001). Dobutamine did not change the brachial artery diameter. Brachial peak blood flow was increased with dobutamine alone or associated with placebo or L‐arginine comparing with L‐arginine or placebo alone (P = 0.0168 and P = 0.0140, respectively), but was not increased compared with that at baseline. L‐arginine infusion was not associated with changes in carotid, brachial, or in the cardiac index. We concluded that dobutamine increased carotid peak blood flow in patients with heart failure, although without changing the arterial compliance. The FMD of brachial artery was maintained, while brachial artery response to dobutamine infusion was less reliable. The carotid artery may be under the direct influence of the heart, while the brachial artery may be under predominant local control.
Effect of Extreme Exercise on Myocardial Function as Assessed by Tissue Doppler Imaging
Authors: Aslani Amir , Babaee Bigi Mohammad Ali , Moaref Ali Reza , Aslani Arsalan
Published: June 2009

Background: Response of the human heart to exercise has been studied extensively, but little information is available on the effects of exhaustive exercise on cardiac performance. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of severe prolong exercise on both left and right ventricular performance. To maximize the sensitivity of our study we used tissue Doppler imaging. Methods: Participants in army ranger training program were invited to participate in this prospective study. All patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography using tissue Doppler imaging before and after Ranger training program. Results: A total of 45 consecutive male rangers who completed 8 weeks of training were included in this study. Peak systolic myocardial velocity (S) decreased significantly after training (12.46 ± 0.54 vs. 9.93 ± 0.45 cm/s; P < 0.001). In the right ventricle, tissue Doppler measures of systolic and early diastolic function decreased significantly after training compared to pretraining values. Conclusion: In conclusion, very strenuous prolonged exercise may result in depressed left ventricular contractile function. This raises the possibility of cardiac fatigue.
Chronic Cigarette Smoking Affects Left and Right Ventricular Long‐Axis Function in Healthy Young Subjects: A Doppler Myocardial Imaging Study
Authors: Eroglu Elif , Aydin Sinan , Yalniz Firat , Kalkan Ali Kemal , Bayrak Fatih , Degertekin Muzaffer
Published: June 2009

Objective: Cigarette smoking is one of the major risk factors for coronary artery disease. However, chronic smoking has additional cardiac adverse effects independent of coronary atherosclerosis. We assessed the possible effects of chronic smoking on left and right ventricular (LV, RV) long‐axis function using Doppler myocardial imaging (DMI). Methods: Forty otherwise healthy smokers (mean age = 26±3 years) and 40 age‐matched nonsmoking controls enrolled. Standard echocardiography protocol was followed by DMI. Peak systolic (VS), early (VE) and late diastolic (VA) velocities, peak systolic strain (S), and strain rate (SR) were measured from septal, lateral, and RV free walls. Results: The baseline characteristics of two groups were similar. There were significant differences regarding Doppler myocardial velocity, S, and SR indices. Septal VE (P < 0.04), S (P < 0.0001) and SR (P < 0.02) were significantly reduced in smokers. For both lateral and RV free wall, VS (P < 0.003, P < 0.002, respectively), VE (P < 0.0001, P < 0.002, respectively), S (P < 0.0001 for both), and SR (P < 0.0001, P < 0.002, respectively) were significantly reduced in smokers. There were significant correlations between the amount of smoking and septal, lateral, and RV free wall S and SR. Conclusions: Chronic cigarette smoking causes alterations in long‐axis systolic and diastolic functions of right and left ventricles in healthy young subjects. These changes can be accurately detected with Doppler myocardial velocity and SR imaging.
Clinical effectiveness of photodynamic therapy in the treatment of periodontitis
Authors: Polansky Raoul , Haas Michael , Heschl Alexander , Wimmer Gernot
Published: June 2009

Aim: A randomized‐controlled clinical pilot trial was designed to evaluate photodynamic therapy (PDT) for its bactericidal potential and clinical effect in the treatment of periodontitis.

Material and Methods: Fifty‐eight subjects with chronic periodontitis were included. Each subject exhibited at least three active periodontal pockets 5 mm or deeper, bleeding on probing and the presence of Porphyromonas gingivalis. Subjects were randomly assigned to a control group treated by subgingival ultrasound only or to a study group additionally treated by PDT. Baseline clinical values of gingival index, bleeding on probing, probing pocket depths and clinical attachment levels were recorded and re‐evaluated 90 days later. Pathogen screening for P. gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia and Treponema denticola was conducted at baseline as well as 10, 42 and 90 days after treatment.

Results: P. gingivalis was significantly reduced in both groups (laser group: p=0.020; control group: p=0.042). No significant reductions of T. forsythia and T. denticola were observed in either group. For the microbial parameters, no significant difference was found between the laser and the control group. All clinical parameters were significantly reduced in both groups after treatment. The mean probing pocket depths decreased from 5.79 to 4.55 mm in the laser group and from 5.54 to 4.51 in the control group. The intergroup difference was not significant (p=0.82). Bleeding on probing was reduced from 100% evaluated at baseline to 47% in the laser group and 59% in the control group. The intergroup difference was not significant (p=0.28). No significant differences were observed in any other parameters.

Conclusion: Application of a single cycle of PDT was not effective as an adjunct to ultrasonic periodontal treatment. There were no extra reductions in pocket depths and bleeding on probing. With regard to eradicating bacteria, however, there are no additional effects as compared with conventional treatment alone.
Periodontal wound healing/regeneration following implantation of recombinant human growth/differentiation factor‐5 (rhGDF‐5) in an absorbable collagen sponge carrier into one‐wall intrabony defects in dogs: a dose‐range study
Authors: Kim Tae‐Gyun , Wikesjö Ulf M. E. , Cho Kyoo‐Sung , Chai Jung‐Kiu , Pippig Susanne D. , Siedler Michael , Kim Chong‐Kwan
Published: June 2009

Aim: Recombinant human growth/differentiation factor‐5 (rhGDF‐5) is being evaluated as a candidate therapy in support of periodontal regeneration. The objective of this study was to evaluate cementum and alveolar bone formation, and aberrant healing events following surgical implantation of rhGDF‐5 in an absorbable collagen sponge (ACS) carrier using an established periodontal defect model.

Materials and Methods: Bilateral 4 × 5 mm (width × depth), one‐wall, critical‐size, intrabony periodontal defects were surgically created at the mandibular second and fourth pre‐molar teeth in 15 Beagle dogs. Five animals received 1 μg/defect and five animals 20 μg/defect rhGDF‐5 in unilateral defect sites. Contralateral sites received treatments reported elsewhere. Five animals received rhGDF‐5/ACS with 0 (buffer control) and 100 μg/defect rhGDF‐5 in contralateral defect sites. The animals were euthanized at 8 weeks post‐surgery for histologic and histometric evaluation.

Results: Surgical implantation of rhGDF‐5 stimulated significant periodontal regeneration. Cementum formation was significantly enhanced in sites implanted with rhGDF‐5 (1 and 100 μg) compared with control (p<0.05). Similarly, bone formation height was significantly greater in sites receiving rhGDF‐5 (1 and 100 μg) compared with control (p<0.05). There were no significant or remarkable differences in bone and cementum formation within the selected dose interval (1, 20 and 100 μg rhGDF‐5). None of the control or the rhGDF‐5 sites exhibited root resorption, ankylosis, or other aberrant tissue reactions.

Conclusion: Surgical implantation of rhGDF‐5/ACS may be used safely to support periodontal wound healing/regeneration in intrabony periodontal defects without complications.
A new method to assess and measure palatal masticatory mucosa by cone‐beam computerized tomography
Authors: Barriviera Maurício , Duarte Wagner Rodrigues , Januário Alessandro Lourenço , Faber Jorge , Bezerra Ana Cristina Barreto
Published: June 2009

Aim: The aim of this study was to apply a novel method to obtain high‐quality images by cone‐beam computerized tomography (CBCT) that consistently allowed the determination of the dimensions of the palatal mucosa.

Materials and Methods: Thirty‐one patients participated in this study. At the time of the CBCT scanning, the patients wore a plastic lip retractor and wooden spatulas to retract soft tissues away from the teeth and gingiva. The thickness of the palatal mucosa was obtained at forty different locations on each patient.

Results: Retraction of the lips and cheek allowed a clear observation and measurements of the thickness of the palatal masticatory mucosa. The average thickness of the palatal mucosa was 2.92 mm in the canine area, 3.11 mm at the first pre‐molar, 3.28 mm at the second pre‐molar, 2.89 mm at the first molar and 3.15 mm at the second molar. Statistical differences were observed at different ages and heights of measurements.

Conclusions: A new non‐invasive method to consistently obtain high‐quality images of the palatal masticatory mucosa is described. Measurements of this mucosa could be obtained at different locations on the palate.
Evaluation of nano‐technology‐modified zirconia oral implants: a study in rabbits
Authors: Lee Jaebum , Sieweke Janet H. , Rodriguez Nancy A. , Schüpbach Peter , Lindström Håkan , Susin Cristiano , Wikesjö Ulf M. E.
Published: June 2009

Objective: The objective of this study was to screen candidate nano‐technology‐modified, micro‐structured zirconia implant surfaces relative to local bone formation and osseointegration.

Materials and Methods: Proprietary nano‐technology surface‐modified (calcium phosphate: CaP) micro‐structured zirconia implants (A and C), control micro‐structured zirconia implants (ZiUnite™), and titanium porous oxide implants (TiUnite™) were implanted into the femoral condyle in 40 adult male New Zealand White rabbits. Each animal received one implant in each hind leg; thus, 20 animals received A and C implants and 20 animals received ZiUnite™ and TiUnite™ implants in contralateral hind legs. Ten animals/group were euthanized at weeks 3 and 6 when biopsies of the implant sites were processed for histometric analysis using digital photomicrographs produced using backscatter scanning electron microscopy.

Results: The TiUnite™ surface demonstrated significantly greater bone–implant contact (BIC) (77.6±2.6%) compared with the A (64.6±3.6%) and C (62.2±3.1%) surfaces at 3 weeks (p<0.05). Numerical differences between ZiUnite™ (70.5±3.1%) and A and C surfaces did not reach statistical significance (p>0.05). Similarly, there were non‐significant differences between the TiUnite™ and the ZiUnite™ surfaces (p>0.05). At 6 weeks, there were no significant differences in BIC between the TiUnite™ (67.1±4.2%), ZiUnite™ (69.7±5.7%), A (68.6±1.9%), and C (64.5±4.1%) surfaces (p>0.05).

Conclusion: TiUnite™ and ZiUnite™ implant surfaces exhibit high levels of osseointegration that, in this model, confirm their advanced osteoconductive properties. Addition of CaP nano‐technology to the ZiUnite™ surface does not enhance the already advanced osteoconductivity displayed by the TiUnite™ and ZiUnite™ implant surfaces.
Tooth loss and cognitive impairment
Authors: Grabe Hans Joergen , Schwahn Christian , Völzke Henry , Spitzer Carsten , Freyberger Harald Juergen , John Ulrich , Mundt Thorsten , Biffar Reiner , Kocher Thomas
Published: June 2009

Objectives: Chronic subclinical inflammation may elevate the risk of cognitive impairment. Periodontitis is associated with subclinical inflammation and accounts in part for tooth loss. The hypothesis was tested that periodontitis and tooth loss as a proxy of chronic periodontitis is associated with cognitive impairment in the elderly.

Subjects and Methods: The population‐based Study of Health in Pomerania comprises 1336 subjects (60–79 years). Cognitive impairment was assessed with the Mini‐Mental Status Examination (MMSE). Tobit regression analyses were adjusted for potential confounders.

Results: A decreased number of teeth was associated with lower MMSE scores in females (p<0.001) and males (p=0.007) in age‐adjusted models. In the fully adjusted models, tooth loss was associated with cognitive impairment in females (p=0.002) but not in males (p=0.825).

Conclusions: A significant association between tooth loss and cognitive impairment was found in females that was not accounted for by potential confounders. Former periodontitis may account for this association as periodontitis was frequently the cause for tooth extractions.
A randomized clinical trial of autologous platelet‐rich plasma in the treatment of mandibular degree II furcation defects
Authors: Pradeep Avani Rangaraju , Pai Sujatha , Garg Garima , Devi Prapulla , Shetty Sharath Kumara
Published: June 2009

Aim: A combined technique using a platelet‐rich plasma (PRP)/bovine porous bone mineral/guided tissue regeneration membrane was found to be an effective modality for the treatment of mandibular grade II furcation defects. To elucidate the role played by each component, the present randomized, double‐blind study is designed to evaluate the effectiveness of autologous PRP alone in the treatment of mandibular degree II furcation defects compared with open flap debridement (OFD).

Material and Methods: Using a split‐mouth design, 40 mandibular degree II furcation defects were treated either with autologous PRP or OFD. Plaque index, sulcus bleeding index, vertical probing depth, relative vertical and horizontal clinical attachment level and gingival marginal level were recorded at baseline and 6 months post‐operatively. Vertical and horizontal defect depths were also recorded using spiral computed tomography.

Results: A statistically significant difference was observed in all the clinical and radiographic parameters at the sites treated with PRP as compared with those with OFD. However, all the furcation defects retained their degree II status.

Conclusion: Despite a significant improvement, lack of complete closure of furcation defects implies a limited role of autologous PRP as a regenerative material in the treatment of furcation defects, necessitating further long‐term studies.
Periodontal health and lateral lower lip piercings: a split‐mouth cross‐sectional study
Authors: Vilchez‐Perez Miguel Angel , Angeles Fuster‐Torres Ma , Figueiredo Rui , Valmaseda‐Castellón Eduard , Gay‐Escoda Cosme
Published: June 2009

Aim: To assess periodontal health of individuals with a lateral lower lip piercing and describe associated periodontal, dental and mucosal complications.

Material and Methods: A split‐mouth study was performed in a sample of 50 patients with a lateral lower lip piercing who attended the Periodontal Pathology and Surgery Unit of the Dental School of the University of Barcelona. The patients underwent periodontal, dental and mucosal examination on both the piercing and the control sides.

Results: Piercing users were predominantly women (78%), with a mean age of 21.3 years (SD=4.4). The amounts of keratinized and attached gingiva were significantly lower on the piercing side, and the prevalence of gingival recession was higher (p=0.012). The canine and first bicuspid teeth were the most affected. Tooth fractures and cracks were more frequent on the piercing side (20%) when compared with the control (4%). Mucosal alterations were found in seven patients.

Conclusions: The use of lateral lower lip piercings enhances gingival recession and reduces the amounts of keratinized and attached gingiva. These ornaments are also associated with tooth fractures and cracks.
Posttranscriptional regulation of pineal melatonin synthesis in Octodon degus
Authors: Lee Soo Jung , Liu Tiecheng , Chattoraj Asamanja , Zhang Samantha L. , Wang Lijun , Lee Theresa M. , Wang Michael M. , Borjigin Jimo
Published: June 2009

Abstract:  Small laboratory animals have provided significant information about melatonin regulation, yet most of these organisms are nocturnal and regulate melatonin synthesis by mechanisms that diverge from those of humans. For example, in all rodents examined, melatonin secretion occurs with a time lag of several hours after the onset of darkness; in addition, arylalkylamine N‐acetyltransferase (AANAT), the key enzyme in melatonin synthesis, displays dynamic transcriptional activation specifically at night in all rodents studied to date. In ungulates and primates including humans, on the other hand, melatonin secretion occurs immediately during the early night and is controlled by circadian posttranscriptional regulation of AANAT. We hypothesize that the diurnal Octodon degus (an Hystricognath rodent) could serve as an improved experimental model for studies of human melatonin regulation. To test this, we monitored melatonin production in degus using pineal microdialysis and characterized the regulation of melatonin synthesis by analyzing degu Aanat. Degu pineal melatonin rises with little latency at night, as in ungulates and primates. In addition, degu Aanat mRNA expression displays no detectable diurnal variation, suggesting that, like ungulates and primates, melatonin in this species is regulated by a posttranscriptional mechanism. Compared with AANAT from all rodents examined to date, the predicted amino acid sequence of degu AANAT is phylogenetically more closely related to ungulate and primate AANAT. These data suggest that Octodon degus may provide an ideal model system for laboratory investigation of mechanisms of melatonin synthesis and secretion in diurnal mammals.
Cyanobacteria contain a structural homologue of the Hfq protein with altered RNA‐binding properties
Authors: Bøggild Andreas , Overgaard Martin , Valentin‐Hansen Poul , Brodersen Ditlev E.
Published: June 2009

Hfq proteins are common in many species of enterobacteria, where they participate in RNA folding and translational regulation through pairing of small RNAs and messenger RNAs. Hfq proteins share the distinctive Sm fold, and form ring‐shaped structures similar to those of the Sm/Lsm proteins regulating mRNA turnover in eukaryotes. However, bacterial Hfq proteins are homohexameric, whereas eukaryotic Sm/Lsm proteins are heteroheptameric. Recently, Hfq proteins with poor sequence conservation were identified in archaea and cyanobacteria. In this article, we describe crystal structures of the Hfq proteins from the cyanobacteria Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 and Anabaena PCC 7120 at 1.3 and 2.3 Å resolution, respectively, and show that they retain the classic Sm fold despite low sequence conservation. In addition, the intersubunit contacts and RNA‐binding site are divergent, and we show biochemically that the proteins bind very weakly to known Escherichia coli Hfq target RNAs in vitro. Moreover, when expressed in E. coli, the proteins cannot mediate Hfq‐dependent RNA regulation. It therefore appears that the cyanobacterial proteins constitute a specialized subfamily of Hfq proteins that bind relatively weakly to A/U‐rich tracks of regulatory RNAs. The results have implications for our understanding of the evolution of the Sm fold and the Hfq proteins in the bacterial kingdom in general.

Structured digital abstract

MINT‐7101375: Ana‐Hfq (uniprotkb:Q8YVD1) and Ana‐Hfq (uniprotkb: Q8YVD1) physically interact (MI:0915) by x‐ray crystallography (MI:0114)

MINT‐7101369: Syn‐Hfq (uniprotkb:P74112) and Syn‐Hfq (uniprotkb: P74112) physically interact (MI:0915) by x‐ray crystallography (MI:0114)
Identification of structural determinants for inhibition strength and specificity of wheat xylanase inhibitors TAXI‐IA and TAXI‐IIA
Authors: Pollet Annick , Sansen Stefaan , Raedschelders Gert , Gebruers Kurt , Rabijns Anja , Delcour Jan A. , Courtin Christophe M.
Published: June 2009

Triticum aestivum xylanase inhibitor (TAXI)‐type inhibitors are active against microbial xylanases from glycoside hydrolase family 11, but the inhibition strength and the specificity towards different xylanases differ between TAXI isoforms. Mutational and biochemical analyses of TAXI‐I, TAXI‐IIA and Bacillus subtilis xylanase A showed that inhibition strength and specificity depend on the identity of only a few key residues of inhibitor and xylanase [Fierens K et al. (2005) FEBS J272, 5872–5882; Raedschelders G et al. (2005) Biochem Biophys Res Commun335, 512–522; Sørensen JF & Sibbesen O (2006) Protein Eng Des Sel19, 205–210; Bourgois TM et al. (2007) J Biotechnol130, 95–105]. Crystallographic analysis of the structures of TAXI‐IA and TAXI‐IIA in complex with glycoside hydrolase family 11 B. subtilis xylanase A now provides a substantial explanation for these observations and a detailed insight into the structural determinants for inhibition strength and specificity. Structures of the xylanase–inhibitor complexes show that inhibition is established by loop interactions with active‐site residues and substrate‐mimicking contacts in the binding subsites. The interaction of residues Leu292 of TAXI‐IA and Pro294 of TAXI‐IIA with the −2 glycon subsite of the xylanase is shown to be critical for both inhibition strength and specificity. Also, detailed analysis of the interaction interfaces of the complexes illustrates that the inhibition strength of TAXI is related to the presence of an aspartate or asparagine residue adjacent to the acid/base catalyst of the xylanase, and therefore to the pH optimum of the xylanase. The lower the pH optimum of the xylanase, the stronger will be the interaction between enzyme and inhibitor, and the stronger the resulting inhibition.

Structured digital abstract

MINT‐7101869: BSX (uniprotkb:P18429) and TAXI‐IA (uniprotkb:Q8H0K8) bind (MI:0407) by x‐ray crystallography (MI:0114)

MINT‐7101880: BSX (uniprotkb:P18429) and TAXI‐IIA (uniprotkb:Q53IQ4) bind (MI:0407) by x‐ray crystallography (MI:0114)
Social Issues Among Children With High or Intermediate Imperforate Anus: A Proxy Perspective
Authors: Nisell Margret , Igl Wilmar , Öjmyr‐Joelsson Maria , Frenckner Björn , Rydelius Per‐Anders , Christensson Kyllike
Published: June 2009

PROBLEM:  Children with imperforate anus (IA) may be psychosocially affected.

METHODS:  Parents of children with IA and parents in two comparison groups rated their children using a study‐specific questionnaire and the Competence Scales in the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Teachers rated Academic and Adaptive Functioning Scales in the Teacher's Report Form (TRF).

FINDINGS:  School items were rated favorably by the fathers of children with IA, and mothers reported less expression of their children's will. Children with IA were socially competent according to CBCL, although they received lower ratings on the TRF.

CONCLUSIONS:  Psychosocial issues seem to be challenging for children with IA, and this needs attention in care management.
Biopsychosocial Approach to Treating Self‐Injurious Behaviors: An Adolescent Case Study
Authors: Askew Mary , Byrne Mary W.
Published: June 2009

TOPIC:  Self‐injurious behaviors (SIBs) are a common coping mechanism in the adolescent population. A marked increase in SIB has been seen in recent years, yet effective treatment remains elusive.

PURPOSE:  This study aims to review current theoretical perspectives and treatment options that reflect a biopsychosocial framework.

SOURCES:  Selected multidisciplinary literature related to SIB.

CONCLUSIONS:  A 6‐month multidisciplinary approach targeting the unique physical, emotional, and social needs of a 14‐year‐old girl in residential treatment led to the complete cessation of SIB.
Relationship between Autonomic Nervous System Activity and Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: An Analysis of Heart Rate Variability in Men with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms
Authors: KIM Il Han , CHOI Jong Bo , KIM Se Joong , KIM Young Soo , KIM Joon Chul , LEE Jeong Gu
Published: June 2009

Objectives: Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are common, but their etiology and mechanism remain unclear. We believe that changes in autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity may be contributory because the lower urinary tract is regulated through the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. Heart rate variability (HRV) is a tool by which autonomic nervous function can be measured; therefore, we measured and compared parameters of heart rate variability between men with LUTS and asymptomatic subjects.

Methods: We studied 35 men with LUTS (mean age 50.5 ± 14.9 years) and 110 asymptomatic male volunteers who had requested a health check up (mean age 49.5 ± 5.19 years) from July 2006 to June 2008. HRV is known to be a useful tool for evaluating ANS activity, and we measured and compared HRV in the resting state.

Results: The standard deviation of the N‐N interval (SDNN) and total power (TP) for patients with LUTS revealed no significant differences from those in the control group. On frequency domain analysis, there was evidence of decreased high frequency (HF) in patients with LUTS (P < 0.05), but there were no significant differences in other parameters, such as heart rate, square root of the mean squared differences of successive N‐N intervals (RMSSD), very low frequency (VLF), low frequency (LF), or LF/HF ratio.

Conclusion: Patients with LUTS exhibited different HRV parameters compared with asymptomatic controls. Their decreased HF indicated that they may have had an imbalance in the autonomic nervous system.
Efficacy of Propiverine in Improving Symptoms and Quality of Life in Female Patients with Wet Overactive Bladder
Authors: KOMATSU Tomonori , GOTOH Momokazu , FUNAHASHI Yasuhito , MATSUKAWA Yoshihisa , SASSA Naoto , KATO Kumiko , KATO Masashi , HATTORI Ryohei
Published: June 2009

Objectives: The present prospective study was conducted to assess the effects of propiverine hydrochloride in improving symptoms and quality of life (QoL) in female patients with wet OAB.

Methods: Propiverine was administered orally for 8 weeks to 58 female patients who had urgency incontinence. Prior to administration, and at 4 and 8 weeks after administration, symptoms and QoL of the patients were assessed using a micturition diary, the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire‐Short Form (ICIQ‐SF), and the King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ). In addition, the relationships between changes in frequency of urinary incontinence or amount of urine leakage following treatment and changes in each domain of the KHQ were investigated by multiple regression analysis.

Results: After administration of propiverine, the mean numbers of daily micturitions, incontinence episodes, and urgency episodes assessed on the basis of the micturition diary significantly improved in comparison to the baseline: from 11.7 to 9.6 for daily micturitions, from 2.8 to 1.1 for incontinence episodes, and from 5.9 to 2.3 for urgency episodes in 8 weeks. The mean of the ICIQ‐SF total scores significantly decreased, from 8.4 to 4.6 points at 4 weeks and to 3.6 points at 8 weeks. The mean scores for three individual items in the ICIQ‐SF, namely, frequency of incontinence episodes, amount of leakage, and impact on everyday life also significantly improved. The KHQ scores significantly improved at both 4 and 8 weeks post‐administration in all domains except personal relationships. In the multiple regression analysis, improvement in frequency of incontinence was significantly related to the domain of severity measure of the KHQ, while improvement in amount of leakage was significantly related to the domains of general health perception and social limitations.

Conclusion: Propiverine hydrochloride contributed to improvements not only in symptoms but also in QoL in female patients with wet OAB.
TWIST DEFORMATIONS OF NEWTON–HOOKE HOPF ALGEBRAS
Authors: DASZKIEWICZ MARCIN
Published: June 2009

We construct five new quantum Newton–Hooke Hopf algebras with the use of Abelian twist procedure. Further we demonstrate that the corresponding deformed spacetimes with quantum space and classical time are periodic or expanding in time.
AXIONIC EXTENSIONS OF THE SUPERSYMMETRIC STANDARD MODEL
Authors: MA ERNEST
Published: June 2009

The Supersymmetric Standard Model is a benchmark theoretical framework for particle physics, yet it suffers from a number of deficiencies, the main one among which is the strong CP problem. Solving this with an axion in the context of selected new particles, it is shown in three examples that other problems go away automatically as well, resulting in (-)L and (-)3B conservation, viable combination of two dark-matter candidates, successful baryogenesis, seesaw neutrino masses, and verifiable experimental consequences at the TeV energy scale.
DECISION TREE WITH BETTER CLASS PROBABILITY ESTIMATION
Authors: JIANG LIANGXIAO , LI CHAOQUN , CAI ZHIHUA
Published: June 2009

Traditionally, the performance of a classifier is measured by its classification accuracy or error rate. In fact, probability-based classifiers also produce the class probability estimation (the probability that a test instance belongs to the predicted class). This information is often ignored in classification, as long as the class with the highest class probability estimation is identical to the actual class. In many data mining applications, however, classification accuracy and error rate are not enough. For example, in direct marketing, we often need to deploy different promotion strategies to customers with different likelihood (class probability) of buying some products. Thus, accurate class probability estimations are often required to make optimal decisions. In this paper, we firstly review some state-of-the-art probability-based classifiers and empirically investigate their class probability estimation performance. From our experimental results, we can draw a conclusion: C4.4 is an attractive algorithm for class probability estimation. Then, we present a locally weighted version of C4.4 to scale up its class probability estimation performance by combining locally weighted learning with C4.4. We call our improved algorithm locally weighted C4.4, simply LWC4.4. We experimentally test LWC4.4 using the whole 36 UCI data sets selected by Weka. The experimental results show that LWC4.4 significantly outperforms C4.4 in terms of class probability estimation.
CLASSIFICATION OF IMBALANCED DATA: A REVIEW
Authors: SUN YANMIN , WONG ANDREW K. C. , KAMEL MOHAMED S.
Published: June 2009

Classification of data with imbalanced class distribution has encountered a significant drawback of the performance attainable by most standard classifier learning algorithms which assume a relatively balanced class distribution and equal misclassification costs. This paper provides a review of the classification of imbalanced data regarding: the application domains; the nature of the problem; the learning difficulties with standard classifier learning algorithms; the learning objectives and evaluation measures; the reported research solutions; and the class imbalance problem in the presence of multiple classes.
SPARSE, THIN AND OTHER SUBSETS OF GROUPS
Authors: LUTSENKO Ie. , PROTASOV I. V.
Published: June 2009

We introduce some new types of "small" subsets of a group: sparse, k-sparse, thin, k-thin, almost thin subsets. We study the interrelations between these types and apply the obtained results to the Stone–Čech compactification βG of a discrete group G.
THE FREE AMPLE MONOID
Authors: FOUNTAIN JOHN , GOMES GRACINDA M. S. , GOULD VICTORIA
Published: June 2009

We show that the free weakly E-ample monoid on a set X is a full submonoid of the free inverse monoid FIM(X) on X. Consequently, it is ample, and so coincides with both the free weakly ample and the free ample monoid FAM(X) on X. We introduce the notion of a semidirect product Y*T of a monoid T acting doubly on a semilattice Y with identity. We argue that the free monoid X* acts doubly on the semilattice [Formula: see text] of idempotents of FIM(X) and that FAM(X) is embedded in [Formula: see text]. Finally we show that every weakly E-ample monoid has a proper ample cover.