bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The placebo mystique: Implications for clinical trial methodology
Authors: Clifford Vanessa
Published: February 2011

Aim:  The World Medical Association Declaration of Helsinki states that the use of a placebo in a clinical trial can only be justified ethically when no proven active treatment is available as a comparison. Despite this, placebos remain a popular choice as controls in clinical trials. Recent literature reviews have suggested that reliance on placebos may, in part, be because of methodological misconceptions about the need for placebos to control for the ‘placebo effect’. This study aimed to assess doctors' understanding of the requirements for placebo use in clinical trials.

Methods:  Two hundred doctors working in tertiary hospitals in Melbourne, Australia were surveyed in regards to their understanding of the role of the placebo and placebo effects in clinical trials. There was a 72% response rate. Doctors were specifically asked if a placebo was required in a randomised clinical trial, in preference to another form of control, to control for the ‘placebo effect’.

Results:  The majority of respondents (62%) incorrectly believed that placebos are essential to control for the ‘placebo effect’ in a randomised clinical trial.

Conclusions:  Misconceptions about the methodological requirement for placebos in randomised controlled trials may influence researcher decisions to use placebo controls in unethical situations.
Non‐attendance to the paediatric clinics in a Malaysian tertiary hospital: A sizeable problem and identification of an efficacious intervention
Authors: Jamil Mohammad Tamim , Ismail Nik Zainal Abidin Nik , Zulkifli Azman Bin , Majid Noorizan Abdul , Van Rostenberghe Hans
Published: February 2011

Aim:  To determine the rate, causes and risk factors of non‐attendance to the paediatric clinic in a tertiary hospital in Malaysia and to determine the efficacy of one telephone call to confirm a new appointment.

Methods:  For all non‐attending patients, during a 2‐month period, a pro forma was filled up based on patients' records. During a phone call, additional questions were asked, and a new appointment was offered.

Results:  Of 1563 patients who had an appointment, 497 (31.8%) were non‐attendees. Weather conditions, the sub‐specialty and timing (morning or afternoon) had a significant effect on non‐attendance. Forgetfulness was the main cause. Only 160 patients could be successfully contacted. Among the contactable patients, 55 already had an appointment, and 10 had reasons not to get a new appointment. Of the 95 remaining patients, 73 (76.8%) attended the new appointment.

Conclusion:  The non‐attendance rate was high. One telephone call had a reasonable efficacy for the contactable patients, but because a high number of patients were not contactable, overall effectiveness was poor.
Shining D' light on chronic kidney disease: Mechanisms that may underpin the cardiovascular benefit of vitamin D
Authors: PETCHEY WILLIAM G , JOHNSON DAVID W , ISBEL NICOLE M
Published: February 2011

Hypovitaminosis D is a significant health‐care burden worldwide, particularly in susceptible populations such as those with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Recent epidemiological studies have identified that both higher serum vitamin D concentrations and use of vitamin D supplements may confer a survival benefit both in terms of all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality. There is potential to investigate this inexpensive therapy for the CKD population, which suffers excessive cardiovascular events, although the mechanisms explaining this link have yet to be fully elucidated. This review discusses potential mechanisms identified in the basic science literature that may provide important insights into how vitamin D may orchestrate a change in cardiovascular risk profile through such diverse mechanisms as inflammation, atherogenesis, glucose homeostasis, vascular calcification, renin‐angiotensin regulation and alterations in cardiac physiology. Where available, the clinical translation of these concepts to intervention trials in the CKD population will be reviewed.
Interventional radiology of pleural diseases
Authors: MATIN TAHREEMA N. , GLEESON FERGUS V.
Published: February 2011

Image‐guided pleural procedures are important in both the diagnosis and management of pleural disease. Pleural aspiration, biopsy and drainage are all proven to be safer and more efficacious using image guidance. The aim of this article is to review common image‐guided pleural techniques and the evidence base for their application in clinical practice.
Virulence quenching with a prenylated isoflavanone renders the Malagasy legume Dalbergia pervillei resistant to Rhodococcus fascians
Authors: Rajaonson Sanda , Vandeputte Olivier M. , Vereecke Danny , Kiendrebeogo Martin , Ralambofetra Eliane , Stévigny Caroline , Duez Pierre , Rabemanantsoa Christian , Mol Adeline , Diallo Billo , Baucher Marie , El Jaziri Mondher
Published: February 2011

The phytopathogenic Actinomycete Rhodococcus fascians induces leafy galls on a wide range of hosts, causing major economical losses in the ornamentals industry. Although differences in the responsivity occur within species, no plant tested so far could be considered resistant to R. fascians strain D188 infection. Here, we observed that members of the genus Dalbergia, which belong to the Fabaceae, did not develop leafy galls when challenged with R. fascians and we set out to unravel the mechanism of this recalcitrance. Whereas organic extracts of Dalbergia tissues exhibited toxicity towards the bacteria, more importantly, dichloromethane bark extracts inhibited the induction of bacterial virulence gene expression without any apparent loss of viability, illustrating that resistance is likely multifactorial. The virulence quencher was identified as a new prenylated isoflavanone, termed perbergin, and specifically targeted the AttR regulon (a LysR‐type transcriptional regulator) which is imperative for the switch of R. fascians from an epiphytic to a pathogenic lifestyle. The mode of action of perbergin demonstrated that just like in Gram‐negative host–microbe interactions, also in Gram‐positive phytopathogens autoregulation is being targeted by the plant as an efficient means of defence. Moreover, the identification of perbergin opens the path to disease control in affected nurseries.
DEPLOYMENT AND EVALUATION OF SELFPLANNER, AN AUTOMATED INDIVIDUAL TASK MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Authors: Refanidis Ioannis , Alexiadis Anastasios
Published: February 2011

This article presents SelfPlanner, a deployed Web‐based intelligent calendar application that helps a user schedule in time and space her individual tasks. Contrary to other intelligent calendar assistants that concentrate on automating meeting scheduling, SelfPlanner emphasizes on scheduling individual tasks and events, leaving meeting arrangement for external handling. The two key features of SelfPlanner, also critical factors for its potential broader adoption, are problem modeling and user interface. SelfPlanner supports simple, interruptible and flexible periodic tasks, arbitrary temporal domains, constraints over the parts of an interruptible task, binary constraints between tasks and preferences over their temporal domains, location references, classes of locations, time zones, etc. As for user interface, SelfPlanner integrates with Google Calendar and a Google Maps based application, whereas it introduces an innovative way to define temporal domains, based on a combination of user‐defined reusable templates and manual editing. The core of the system is based on the Squeaky Wheel Optimization algorithm, with efficient domain‐dependent heuristics. The article is accompanied with an extensive evaluation of the system, comprising an analytic and an exploratory part. Evaluation results are very promising and suggest that SelfPlanner constitutes a step toward the next generation of intelligent calendar applications.
MONITORING ELDERLY PEOPLE WITH THE ROBOCARE DOMESTIC ENVIRONMENT: INTERACTION SYNTHESIS AND USER EVALUATION
Authors: Cesta Amedeo , Cortellessa Gabriella , Rasconi Riccardo , Pecora Federico , Scopelliti Massimiliano , Tiberio Lorenza
Published: February 2011

This article describes aspects of a fully implemented artificial intelligence (AI) system that integrates multiple intelligent components to actively assist an elderly person at home. Specifically, we describe how constraint‐based scheduling technology is used to actively monitor a pattern of activities executed by the person and how detected temporal constraint violations are used to trigger meaningful and contextualized proactive interactions. This article also presents a psychological evaluation of the system focusing on elderly people's attitudes, in which system acceptability, perceived utility, interaction modality, and emotional response are considered.
MrSPOCK—STEPS IN DEVELOPING AN END‐TO‐END SPACE APPLICATION
Authors: Cesta Amedeo , Cortellessa Gabriella , Fratini Simone , Oddi Angelo
Published: February 2011

This article elaborates around a recent effort to build a planning system that helps human mission planning in a space mission. Specifically, the article describes the steps that brought us to develop MrSPOCK, the MARS EXPRESS Science Plan Opportunities Coordination Kit, a tool for supporting long‐term planning in the MARS EXPRESS mission of the European Space Agency. In showing our effort for creating MrSPOCK, we will underscore the key ingredients for developing complete applications and how they are connected to a stable line of research on planning and scheduling with timelines.
Creative Cities and Regions: The Case for Local Economic Diversity
Authors: Desrochers Pierre , Leppälä Samuli
Published: February 2011

In their recent discussion of the Richard Florida and Jane Jacobs‐inspired ‘creative cities’ policy literature, Hospers and Pen argue that despite increasingly more effective ‘space shrinking’ technologies, cities remain among the most suitable locations for creative activities of all types. This paper supplements their contribution by documenting more concretely how economically diversified cities provide a fertile environment for the discovery and development of new technological combinations. In doing so, we try to illustrate how a better understanding of the linkages between creativity and urban agglomeration would benefit from a multidisciplinary approach that studies both phenomena simultaneously.
IMPACT OF EXPANDING BIO‐FUEL CONSUMPTION ON HOUSEHOLD INCOME OF FARMERS IN THAILAND: UTILIZING THE COMPUTABLE GENERAL EQUILIBRIUM MODEL
Authors: Okiyama Mitsuru , Tokunaga Suminori
Published: February 2011

We have selected Thailand, which has set ethanol and bio‐diesel as priority alternative energy sources, and made measurements using the Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) model to identify how policies for promoting and popularizing bio‐fuels have favorably contributed to farmers’ income. The results have revealed that in the case of bio‐fuels as domestic goods and exports, the growth rate of farming household income is 3% to 5% higher than the income of other households. If the bio‐fuel industry can be developed from fossil fuels substituting into the bio‐fuel export sector, farmer household income will increase even more. The disparity among income brackets and regions will further narrow. In addition, the negative effects on agriculture food processing industries will remain small. If the Thai government can carry out its bio‐fuel usage promotion policies as planned, it is possible to use the bio‐fuel industry to reduce income disparity.
The Instructor Element of GIS Instruction at US Colleges and Universities
Authors: Fagin Todd D. , Wikle Thomas A.
Published: February 2011

Over the last two decades, higher education has made substantial investments in GIS education through equipment and software purchases, upgrades to teaching facilities, and the creation of innovative academic programs such as certificates and degrees. However, comparatively less attention and fewer resources have been directed towards what might be called the “instructor element” of GIS instruction. In this article we look at the preparation and ongoing professional development of GIS educators through a survey of 270 individuals teaching GIS at US colleges and universities. Along with assessing the education and professional background of GIS instructors, we evaluate their perceptions concerning the importance of various GIS subject areas. Our findings demonstrate considerable breadth in the range of education and experience held by faculty members who are presently teaching GIS courses. In evaluating the importance placed on GIS teaching elements, we found little variation among individuals according to their institution type or educational attainment. However, significant differences in the perceived importance of GIS teaching areas were found across disciplinary areas.
Alternative Areal Decompositions: An Empirical Study
Authors: Lee Ickjai , Breitkreutz David
Published: February 2011

This article compares area data representation with several areal decomposition alternatives in order to determine any improvement to efficiency at the expense of accuracy. This article utilizes the Voronoi diagram as an underlying base data model, combines polygon partitioning and the Voronoi diagram to provide several alternative hybrid areal decompositions, and empirically examines the efficiency and effectiveness performance of these alternatives for popular GIS operations: geometrical, topological and reclassification operations. Experimental results reveal that most areal decomposition alternatives are likely to produce significant benefits in time efficiency while generating different levels of accuracy.
Automatic Representation of Geographical Data from a Semantic Point of View through a New Ontology and Classification Techniques
Authors: Fonseca Rainer Larin , Llano Eduardo Garea
Published: February 2011

Providing Geographical Information Systems with mechanisms for processing geo‐data based on their semantics may help to solve problems like heterogeneity. This is because GIS could process geo‐data focusing on their meaning and not on their syntax and/or structure. An important aspect for achieving these objectives is the establishment of an automatic means of correspondence between geo‐data and their conceptualization in Higher Levels Ontologies (HLO). In this article, a new type of Ontology is proposed (Data‐Representation Ontology (DRO)). This Ontology describes the semantic embedded in geo‐data, which cannot be represented in current types of Ontologies. Across this Ontology, heterogeneous geographical data can be integrated in the semantic space contributing positively to the development of solutions for the problems of interoperability between heterogeneous systems. Likewise, we propose a new method for the automatic generation of the DRO and its interrelationships with HLO, based on pattern classification techniques. The experiments show that once the DRO is generated, the classifier can classify all data correctly. Thus, these data are semantically enriched. Moreover, this article shows how the topological relationships can enrich the semantics in the generated Ontology and increase the effectiveness of spatial analysis.
Optimal Routefinding with Unlimited Possible Directions of Movement
Authors: Dean Denis J.
Published: February 2011

Finding optimal paths through raster databases is limited by the very nature of the raster data itself. This limitation restricts the possible directions of movement through the database from the infinite possibilities found in the real world to a finite number of possibilities defined by the cell‐to‐cell movement that characterizes raster databases. A Triangulated Irregular Network (TIN)‐based alternative optimization model that allows unlimited possible directions of movement is presented. While not without its own limitations, this new approach offers a viable alternative to raster‐based optimal routefinding.
Creating sustainable relationships using the strengths, opportunities, aspirations and results framework, trust, and environmentalism: a research‐based case study
Authors: Sprangel Joseph , Stavros Jacqueline , Cole Matthew
Published: February 2011

New forms of organization development are moving from a classical diagnostic perspective to a dialogic perspective. This move includes a focus on exploring positive states of organizing, shared aspirations, and the design of preferred futures as key outcomes of a strategic change process. Training and development that applies the elements of the strengths, opportunities, aspirations and results (SOAR) framework allows for stakeholders to engage in a dialogue that represents the whole system, and builds trust and environmental management systems that can positively impact supplier performance. In this study, we examined the interrelationship between the SOAR framework, trust, environmental management systems, and supplier performance in respect of 71 program managers and customers from the Hass TCM Group, the largest chemical management services provider in North America.

Hypothesis testing was carried out using correlation analysis, multiple linear regression, correlation analysis and Sobel's test for mediation. Our results support a combined framework in which the SOAR framework can be used to build trust and pro‐environmental behaviors to train suppliers to develop collaborative relationships with customers.
Parental care does not vary with age‐dependent plumage in male Saffron Finches Sicalis flaveola
Authors: PALMERIO ANDRÉS G. , MASSONI VIVIANA
Published: February 2011

The status signalling hypothesis states that conspicuous male plumage varies among males and serves as an honest signal of male quality and competitive ability. We expected immature‐plumaged males of the Saffron Finch Sicalis flaveola to feed their incubating mates and nestlings and remove faecal sacs at lower rates than those of mature‐plumaged males. We also predicted that females paired with immature‐plumaged males would compensate for their mates’ lower contribution. We found no differences in either feeding rates or sanitation rates between immature‐ and mature‐plumaged males. Similarly, females mated to immature‐ and mature‐plumaged males fed nestlings at equivalent rates. Apparently, male plumage colour and age are not reliable signals of the ability of a male Saffron Finch to provide for his mate and offspring.
Anti‐Jesuit patriotic absolutism: Robert Filmer and French ideas (c. 1580–1630)
Authors: CUTTICA CESARE
Published: February 2011

This article examines the patriarchalist ideas of Robert Filmer (1588–1653) under a new light, both conceptually and contextually. Against the grain of mainstream historiography whereby Filmer is a quintessentially English character on the stage of seventeenth‐century political thinking, the article studies Filmerian doctrines as part of a wider European framework of political theories. Thus, they present Patriarcha (1620s) as the elucidation of themes conceptualized in early modern France in reaction to Jesuit ideas. In particular, the treatise's patriarchalism is analysed in relation to the language used by French absolutists such as Pierre de Belloy, François Le Jay, Jean Bédé to reject the opinions of Bellarmine and Suarez. Together with attacking the theory of papal deposing power and justifications of tyrannicide, Belloy, Le Jay and Bédé argued in favour of absolute puissance so as to protect national kingship against all forms of external political allegiance. In so doing, they represented the monarch as pater patriae. By way of a detailed textual analysis, it is here claimed that it was precisely this paradigm of political reflection – for which the author resorts to the category of patriotic absolutism – that Filmer adopted to depict Adamite sovereignty and oppose his many adversaries in Patriarcha.
Risk of Circuit Infection in Septic Patients on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Müller Thomas , Lubnow Matthias , Philipp Alois , Schneider‐Brachert Wulf , Camboni Daniele , Schmid Christof , Lehle Karla
Published: February 2011

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is the ultimate treatment option to improve gas exchange and decrease the aggressiveness of mechanical ventilation in septic patients with uncontrolled severe lung failure. However, potential microbiological colonization of the artificial surfaces of membrane oxygenator (MO) remains a critical issue in patients with bacteremia. The current study investigates the risk of MO infection in 10 consecutive septic patients on long‐term treatment with ECMO. The flushing fluids of all investigated MOs were sterile. After incubation with nutrient solution for 14 days in one MO Enterococci spp. were isolated. In the patient concerned, a diffuse, unaccountable bleeding diathesis had developed, which stopped after exchange of the MO. Analysis of clinical parameters showed that D dimers had increased and fibrinogen levels had decreased before exchange of this MO, but standard markers of infection had remained unremarkable. In conclusion, circuit infection may be a potential cause for unexplained clinical deterioration of patients on ECMO, which therefore should be considered as an indication for exchange of the device.
Use of Skin Stretchers to Elongate a Peninsular Thoracodorsal Axial Pattern Flap for Antebrachial Wound Closure in a Dog
Authors: Holt David E. , Runge Jeffrey
Published: February 2011

Objective: To describe preoperative use of skin stretchers to elongate a peninsular thoracodorsal axial pattern flap to close a large antebrachial wound on a dog.

Study Design: Case report.

Animals: A 21 kg, 7‐year‐old, male intact mixed breed dog.

Methods: Two skin stretchers were applied to the site of the thoracodorsal axial pattern flap 4 days before surgery. The elastic cables connecting the adhesive pads were tightened daily to increase the skin available for a peninsular thoracodorsal axial pattern flap, which was created and rotated 180° to cover an antebrachial defect to a level 2 cm proximal to the carpus.

Results: The entire flap survived; there was a small amount of incisional separation at the distal margin of the flap that healed without further treatment.

Conclusion: Preoperative skin stretching provided additional skin for the axial pattern flap used.
Symptomatic parvovirus B19 infection caused by blood component transfusion
Authors: Satake Masahiro , Hoshi Yuji , Taira Rikizo , Momose Shun‐ya , Hino Satoru , Tadokoro Kenji
Published: February 2011

BACKGROUND: Although a risk of transfusion‐transmitted human parvovirus B19V (TT‐B19V) infection has been a concern, there have been very few reports of clinically relevant TT‐B19V caused by the transfusion of a B19V‐containing blood component. It has therefore been a matter of debate whether a universal B19V screening with an appropriate sensitivity is required.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Through the Japanese Red Cross hemovigilance system, clinical reports on possible TT‐B19V were collected from 1999 to 2008, during which B19V donor screening (sensitivity, 1010 IU/mL) was conducted and repository blood samples from donors were available.

RESULTS: Eight patients with TT‐B19V caused by component transfusion have been identified. Four patients developed sustained anemia and pure red blood cell (RBC) aplasia and one patient developed pancytopenia. The underlying diseases in these five patients were either hematologic malignancy or hemolytic diseases. The viral loads of the responsible components for these cases ranged from 103 to 108 IU/mL. Two patients who underwent surgical treatment without any hematologic disorder exhibited only moderate symptoms. The B19V DNA sequence identity between a patient and the linked blood donor was confirmed in five of the eight patients. All of the components responsible for the eight cases were positive for anti‐B19V immunoglobulin (Ig)M.

CONCLUSION: Vulnerability to serious B19V‐related hematologic disorders depended on the patient's underlying disease state of an enhanced erythropoiesis, not on the viral load of the component transfused. To prevent clinically relevant TT‐B19V, a strategy is suggested in which patients at risk of acquiring RBC aplasia or pancytopenia are targeted.
Formation of Hydroxyapatite Whiskers by Hydrothermal Homogeneous Precipitation Using Acetamide
Authors: Zhang Hongquan , Darvell Brian W.
Published: February 2011

Well‐crystallized, compositionally homogeneous HA whiskers with uniform morphology and high aspect ratio were successfully prepared by hydrothermal homogeneous precipitation from aqueous solution using acetamide (AA). The product had a mean length of 116 μm and an aspect ratio of 102. The nucleation and crystal growth of such whiskers were studied by quenching the solution from various temperatures. It was found that the nuclei could be formed at about 120°C, while stable and well‐grown whisker‐like precipitation only occurred above 140°C. The product had the same crystallographic characteristics as normal HA crystals. No other phase than HA was detected. Compared with widely used wet chemical routes, the slow hydrolysis of AA provided a stable and continuous growth environment with a low degree of supersaturation, facilitating rapid growth of long HA whiskers directly from a hydrothermal solution, free of any interference from other phases. The whiskers showed spiral growth, with preferential c‐axis orientation.
Precursor Homogeneity and Crystallization Effects in Chemical Solution Deposition‐Derived Alkaline Niobate Thin Films
Authors: Röscher Mark , Tappertzhofen Stefan , Schneller Theodor
Published: February 2011

Chemical solution deposition‐derived potassium niobate and sodium niobate thin films have been prepared under protective atmosphere using an alkoxide approach. A profound dependency of the quality and homogeneity of the resulting thin films on the preparation of the alkaline precursor has been found. In addition to this, an additional increase in microstructure homogeneity for the significantly more sensitive potassium niobate system is obtainable if the precursor solution is further stabilized by acetylacetone although ambient humidity is already strongly suppressed. The observed behavior is attributed to the stabilization of the heterometallic complex in the precursor solution until film deposition commenced. Further on, the crystallization pathway of the respective alkaline niobate thin films has been evaluated and indication of crystallization through a metastable phase has been provided which seems to play a key role in orientation control. Finally, the temperature dependency of the lattice parameter spacing for potassium niobate and sodium niobate thin films has been presented and evidence of a strong substrate‐induced lattice deformation has been given.
How do implant surface characteristics influence peri‐implant disease?
Authors: Renvert Stefan , Polyzois Ioannis , Claffey Noel
Published: February 2011

Renvert S, Polyzois I, Claffey N. How do implant surface characteristics influence peri‐implant disease? J Clin Periodontol 2011; 38 (Suppl. 11): 214–222. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01661.x.

Objectives: To review the literature on how implant surface characteristics influence peri‐implant disease.

Material and Methods: A search of PubMed and The Cochrane Library of the Cochrane Collaboration (CENTRAL) as well as a hand search of articles were conducted. Publications and articles accepted for publication up to March 2010 were included.

Results: Thirteen studies were selected for the review. Human studies: To date, few studies have investigated if such differences occur. Limited data suggest that smooth surfaces may be less affected by peri‐implantitis than rough surface implants. Animal studies: In ligature‐induced peri‐implantitis studies, no difference between surfaces has been reported. In a spontaneous progression model of peri‐implantitis, there was a suggestion that the progression was more pronounced at implants with a porous anodized surface.

Conclusion: The current review revealed that only a few studies provided data on how implant surfaces influence peri‐implant disease. Based on the limited data available, there is no evidence that implant surface characteristics can have a significant effect on the initiation of peri‐implantitis.
Antimicrobial peptides and periodontal disease
Authors: Gorr Sven‐Ulrik , Abdolhosseini Mahsa
Published: February 2011

Gorr S‐U, Abdolhosseini M. Antimicrobial peptides and periodontal disease. J Clin Periodontol 2011; 38 (Suppl. 11): 126–141. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01664.x.

Aims: The goal of this review is to identify the antimicrobial proteins in the oral fluids, saliva and gingival crevicular fluid and identify functional families and candidates for antibacterial treatment.

Results: Periodontal biofilms initiate a cascade of inflammatory and immune processes that lead to the destruction of gingival tissues and ultimately alveolar bone loss and tooth loss. Treatment of periodontal disease with conventional antibiotics does not appear to be effective in the absence of mechanical debridement. An alternative treatment may be found in antimicrobial peptides and proteins, which can be bactericidal and anti‐inflammatory and block the inflammatory effects of bacterial toxins. The peptides have co‐evolved with oral bacteria, which have not developed significant peptide resistance. Over 45 antibacterial proteins are found in human saliva and gingival crevicular fluid. The proteins and peptides belong to several different functional families and offer broad protection from invading microbes. Several antimicrobial peptides and proteins (AMPs) serve as templates for the development of therapeutic peptides and peptide mimetics, although to date none have demonstrated efficacy in human trials.

Conclusions: Existing and newly identified AMPs may be developed for therapeutic use in periodontal disease or can serve as templates for peptide and peptide mimetics with improved therapeutic indices.
The characteristics of biofilms in peri‐implant disease
Authors: Mombelli Andrea , Décaillet Fabien
Published: February 2011

Mombelli A, Décaillet F. The characteristics of biofilms in peri‐implant disease. J Clin Periodontol 2011; 38 (Suppl. 11): 203–213. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01666.x.

Aim: To describe the microbiota associated with peri‐implant disease, with a specific emphasis on the differential diagnosis of the condition.

Material and Methods: The potentially relevant literature was preliminarily assessed via scoping searches to find the most appropriate search terms and the most efficient Boolean search algorithm. We identified 29 reports on subjects with osseointegrated implants, with a pathological condition compatible with the definition of “peri‐implant disease”, and reporting microbiological data from samples taken in affected sites.

Results and Conclusions: In most studies bacterial samples were obtained by methods that destroy the three‐dimensional structure of the biofilm. The samples therefore describe mixtures of bacteria from unspecified districts of biofilm associated with peri‐implant diseases. Analyses of such samples with various methods indicate that peri‐implant disease maybe viewed as a mixed anaerobic infection. In most cases the composition of the flora is similar to the subgingival flora of chronic periodontitis that is dominated by Gram‐negative bacteria. Peri‐implant infections may occasionally be linked to a different microbiota, including high numbers of peptostreptococci or staphylococci. Beneficial effects of mechanical and chemical interventions to disrupt the peri‐implant biofilm demonstrate that microorganisms are involved in the disease process, even if they may not always be the origin of the condition.
How has neutrophil research improved our understanding of periodontal pathogenesis?
Authors: Nussbaum Gabriel , Shapira Lior
Published: February 2011

Nussbaum G, Shapira L: How has neutrophil research improved our understanding of periodontal pathogenesis? J Clin Periodontol 2011; 38 (Suppl. 11): 49–59. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01678.x.

Background: Neutrophils are the predominant cells responsible for host defence against bacterial infection. Loss of neutrophil defence, due either to deficient number or function, strongly predisposes to bacterial infections such as periodontitis. Yet, the neutrophil oxidative and proteolytic arsenal has also been implicated in perpetrating periodontal tissue damage in periodontitis.

Aim: In this review, we focus on recent developments that shed light on these two aspects of neutrophil function in periodontitis.

Methods: Primary search: using PubMed search for “neutophil”, “periodontal”, and “periodontitis”. Secondary search: using references from the articles found in the first stage.

Results: Early histological studies showed that infiltrating neutrophils form a wall of cells abutting the junctional epithelium in periodontal inflammatory lesions. The chronic standoff between these neutrophils and the bacterial community suggests that bacterial evasion of neutrophil clearance is a major characteristic of periodontitis. Indeed, not all functional neutrophil deficiencies increase the risk of periodontitis, an observation that points the way towards identification of particular anti‐bacterial pathways essential for protection against periodontal pathogens. The net result in the majority of periodontitis patients who exhibit normal neutrophil number and function, is that neutrophils accumulate in the periodontal tissue where they are available to participate in tissue destruction. Diminished neutrophil clearance further contributes to the persistence of activated neutrophils in the periodontal tissue.

Conclusions: Data on the role of neutrophils in the pathogenesis of periodontitis are mixed. Neutrophils are a critical arm of the defence against periodontitis, but bacterial evasion of the neutrophil microbicidal machinery coupled with delayed neutrophil apoptosis may transform the neutrophil from defender to perpetrator. At this stage of knowledge, attempts to induce host modulation through neutrophil suppression or activation are premature.
Has the use of molecular methods for the characterization of the human oral microbiome changed our understanding of the role of bacteria in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease?
Authors: Wade William Geoffrey
Published: February 2011

Wade WG. Has the use of molecular methods for the characterization of the human oral microbiome changed our understanding of the role of bacteria in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease?J Clin Periodontol 2011; 38 (Suppl. 11): 7–16. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01679.x

Background: Only around half of oral bacteria can be grown in the laboratory using conventional culture methods. Molecular methods based on 16S rRNA gene sequence are now available and are being used to characterize the periodontal microbiota in its entirety.

Aim: This review describes the cultural characterization of the oral and periodontal microbiotas and explores the influence of the additional data now available from culture‐independent molecular analyses on current thinking on the role of bacteria in periodontitis.

Results: Culture‐independent molecular analysis of the periodontal microbiota has shown it to be far more diverse than previously thought. A number of species including some that have yet to be cultured are as strongly associated with disease as those organisms traditionally regarded as periodontal pathogens. Sequencing of bacterial genomes has revealed a high degree of intra‐specific genetic diversity.

Conclusions: The use of molecular methods for the characterization of the periodontal microbiome has greatly expanded the range of bacterial species known to colonize this habitat. Understanding the interactions between the human host and its commensal bacterial community at the functional level is a priority.
What can we learn about biofilm/host interactions from the study of inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Indriolo Amedeo , Greco Salvatore , Ravelli Paolo , Fagiuoli Stefano
Published: February 2011

Indriolo A, Greco S, Ravelli P, Fagiuoli S. What can we learn about biofilm/host interactions from the study of inflammatory bowel disease. J Clin Periodontol 2011; 38 (Suppl. 11): 36–43. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01680.x.

Objectives: The aim of this review was to evaluate possible common pathogenic pathways and risk factors in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and periodontitis.

Materials and Methods: A MEDLINE–PubMed research was conducted.

Results: The pathogenesis of both diseases is multi‐factorial leading to a substantial defect of the mucosal barrier, deregulation of the immune response and chronic inflammation of the mucosa. Environmental factors, particularly bacteria, are key factors in the pathogenesis of both diseases. Genetic predisposition is a key factor in the IBD pathogenesis, while a clear role of genetics in the pathogenesis of periodontitis is still unclear. The immune response in IBD is mediated by T lymphocytes as a consequence of a genetic trait associated with T‐cell deregulation. On the other hand, in periodontitis plasma cells and lymphocytes are the predominant cells in the chronic inflammatory lesion, with the presence of B cells being proportionally larger than T cells.

Conclusion: IBD and periodontitis share several factors in their aetiology and pathogenesis, although they also have distinct characteristics.
Host‐response: understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms of host‐microbial interactions – Consensus of the Seventh European Workshop on Periodontology
Authors: Kinane Denis F. , Preshaw Philip M. , Loos Bruno G. ,   on Behalf of Working Group 2 of the Seventh European Workshop on Periodontology (in alphabetical order)
Published: February 2011

Background: Major challenges in periodontology include understanding the pathophysiology, the interplay between various components of the host response, parallels with other diseases and identifying biomarkers of the disease.

Objectives: Four reviews were compiled with the aim of better understanding: (1) the role of polymorphic nuclear leucocytes (PMNs), i.e. neutrophils; (2) the function of cytokine networks in the host response; (3) whether parallels exist with rheumatoid arthritis (RA); and (4) whether useful biomarkers currently exist to help in the management of periodontal disease.

Material and Methods: Based on the focused questions, electronic and manual searches were conducted for human, animal and cellular studies on the above topics.

Results: Papers fulfilling the inclusion criteria were selected and reviews were written and reviewed and corrected before the academy meeting to produce consensus statements.

Conclusion: The following consensus statements were produced. PMNs are important in the pathophysiology of periodontal disease but there is limited evidence on their much quoted destructive potential. Cytokine networks are enormously complex and we are really at the beginning of understanding their role in the disease process. RA has both similarities and marked differences to periodontal disease although the existing utilization of anti‐cytokine therapies and other molecules in its treatment may have importance in periodontal disease therapy. Biomarkers for periodontal disease have yet to be completely defined but the ratio of receptor activator of NF‐κB ligand to osteoprotegerin appears to be a biomarker test with utility for detecting bone destruction.
Egg size and its relationship with fecundity, newborn length and female size in Cuban poeciliid fishes (Teleostei: Cyprinodontiformes)
Authors: Ponce de León José L. , Rodríguez Rodet , Acosta Martín , Uribe Mari C.
Published: February 2011

Abstract –  This study describes the relationship between egg size (ES) and brood size (BS), newborn length (NL) and female total length (FTL) in ten species of Cuban poeciliids. Variability and the level of association among variables are analysed and comparisons of ES among species established. Egg size has the lowest variability among the analysed variables and in most species is not correlated with BS, when the effect of FTL is controlled. Cuban poeciliids, thought to be primarily lecithotrophic, can be separated in two groups according to ES, NL and BS relative to FTL. One such group inhabits mountain streams and produces large eggs and small broods. The other group is distributed in lowland wetlands and produces small eggs and large broods. In Cuban poeciliids, ES and NL are highly correlated, which suggests adaptive value for ES.
Impact of WWOX alterations on p73, ΔNp73, p53, cell proliferation and DNA ploidy in salivary gland neoplasms
Authors: Gomes CC , Diniz MG , Oliveira CS , Tavassoli M , Odell EW , Gomez RS , De Marco L
Published: February 2011

Oral Diseases
17, 564–571

Objective:  WWOX gene is altered in a variety of neoplasms. Wwox is pro‐apoptotic through interaction with p73 and may be involved in chromosomal stability by interaction with p73 and p53. The aims of this study were to characterize WWOX transcription, methylation status and immunoexpression in salivary neoplasms and to determine whether these were associated with p73, p53, cell proliferation and DNA ploidy.

Materials and Methods:  Seven malignant and 21 benign fresh salivary neoplasms were included. WWOX expression was determined by RT‐PCR and sequencing of transcripts, quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry. Methylation‐specific PCR was used to assess the methylation of its first exon. For p73, ΔNp73, p53 and ki67 immunohistochemistry and ploidy analysis, 29 malignant samples from archives were included.

Results:  No consistent pattern of WWOX exon 1 methylation was found, but aberrant and novel transcripts were observed in 17/28 neoplasms; 55% of tumours showed reduced WWOX RNA. WWOX RNA levels were associated with p53 immunopositivity. Immunohistochemical Wwox expression did not correlate with methylation status, p53 or p73 expression or proliferation. p73, proliferation and DNA ploidy were associated with malignant phenotype.

Conclusion:  Aberrant WWOX transcription and decreased expression are frequent in salivary neoplasms and WWOX transcription is associated with p53 staining.
Sexual Functioning in Male Survivors of Lymphoma: A Systematic Review (CME)
Authors: Arden-Close Emily , Eiser Christine , Pacey Allan
Published: February 2011

Introduction

The lymphomas (Hodgkin's lymphoma [HL] and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma [NHL]) are among the most common cancers affecting men under 45 years. Survival rates are now excellent, but treatment is associated with a number of side effects including sexual dysfunction with potential implications for compromised quality of life (QoL).

Aims

To address the (i) prevalence of sexual dysfunction among lymphoma survivors relative to the general population, survivors of other cancers, and in survivors of HL and NHL; and (ii) relationships between sexual functioning and disease and treatment, demographic, and psychological variables.

Methods

Inclusion criteria were quantitative studies that focused on adult male survivors of lymphoma and included a comparison group and presented results separately for HL and NHL. Standardized systematic searches were used. Information about design, sample size, age, time since diagnosis, type of treatment, comparison group, measures, and findings were extracted from eligible studies.

Results

Ten articles met the inclusion criteria, of which, nine included patients with HL only, and one included patients with HL or NHL. Sexual function was compromised relative to the general population, better than testicular cancer survivors, and worse than leukemia survivors. Depression was consistently associated with sexual dysfunction. There was evidence that chemotherapy, relapse, reduced testosterone levels, older age at survey, and worse physical QoL were associated with worse sexual function.

Conclusions

Conclusions are limited by methodological issues including lack of utilization of standardized measures of sexual function and longitudinal research. Even so, there is evidence of sexual dysfunction among lymphoma survivors. Clinicians need to be sensitive to these issues. Future longitudinal work is necessary to determine the likelihood of recovery.
Idiosyncratic Heart Rate Response in Men During Sexual Arousal
Authors: Rowland David L. , Crawford Sara B.
Published: February 2011

Introduction

Heart rate, sensitive to sympathetic activation, is known to change during sexual arousal and therefore may be a useful tool for investigating psychosomatic differences between sexually functional and dysfunctional men. However, heart rate during arousal also tends to be highly variable across individual men, making its predictability based on group patterns relatively poor.

Aim

We wanted to determine whether individual men show idiosyncratic heart rate patterns during sexual arousal, that is, whether they exhibit consistent patterns across similar (though not identical) stimulus situations.

Main Outcome Measure

Agreement between heart rates under the two conditions, visual sexual stimulation (VSS) and VSS+vibrotactile (VIB), was assessed using the concordance correlation coefficient (CCC).

Methods

Thirty-eight men, 25 of whom were diagnosed with premature ejaculation (PE), were monitored for penile response and heart rate under two similar (though not identical) conditions: a 9-minute erotic video (VSS), then a 9-minute erotic video combined with vibrotactile penile stimulation (VSS+VIB).

Results

CCC for men with PE was 0.65; for the sexually functional comparison group, CCC was 0.82. For both groups combined, CCC was 0.71. For all groupings, the CCC was relatively high, indicating agreement in heart rate from one session to the next within individual men.

Conclusions

Despite high intersubject variation in heart rate patterns, individual men show signature heart rates across similar sexual stimulus sessions. Such stereotypy helps explain previous inconsistent findings and may also serve as a marker for the effectiveness of treatments designed to improve ejaculatory control in men with PE.
Chemical Sympathectomy of Interscapular Brown Adipose Tissue
Authors: Thureson‐Klein ÅSa , Lagercrantz Hugo , Barnard Tudor
Published: February 2011

Adult non‐cold adapted rats were injected with 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA) or saline and their interscapular brown adipose tissue (BAT) was removed after appropriate periods of time. Fluorescence histo‐chemistry of control BAT demonstrated the presence of an extensive network of varicose fibers among the adipocytes and at the blood vessels. This was confirmed by electron microscopy which a!so revealed large and small dense core vesicles sparsely distributed in axons and terminals indicating the presence of noradren‐aline (NA). After 6‐OHDA injection the fluorescence from varicosities was abolished both among the adipocytes and at the vessels. Thus, chemical sympathectomy was more effective than surgical‐ or immuno‐sympathectomy, which spare the innervation of adipocytes. Parallelling the disappearance of fluorescence was a significant decrease of measurable NA. During recovery the extractable NA increased before the reappearance of fluorescent varicosities. This could be explained by transmitter accumulation in the nerve‐trunks within the tissue, which, in general, appeared unaffected by 6‐OHDA. A large number of cells with a strong yellowish fluorescence distributed through the BAT was unaffected by 6‐OHDA. There was no evidence for the presence of intrinsic ganglia.