bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
X‐linked hereditary motor sensory neuropathy (type 1) presenting with a stroke‐like episode
Authors: ANAND GEETHA , MAHESHWARI NITIN , ROBERTS DAVID , PADENIYA ANURUDDHA , HAMILTON‐AYERS MICHELE , VAN DER KNAAP MARJO , FRATTER CARL , JAYAWANT SANDEEP
Published: May 2010

X‐linked hereditary motor sensory neuropathy type 1 (CMTX 1) is caused by mutation in the GJB1 gene that codes for the connexin 32 protein. Central nervous system involvement with or without white matter changes on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has rarely been reported in this condition. We report the case of a 7‐year‐old, previously well male who presented with a stroke‐like episode that manifested as left hemiparesis and dysphasia. An initial brain MRI showed white matter signal changes affecting the corpus callosum and periventricular areas with a posterior predominance. Our patient made a complete clinical recovery in 36 hours. Clinical examination at this stage showed no evidence of a peripheral neuropathy. A repeat brain MRI 6 weeks later showed almost complete resolution of the changes seen initially. Subsequent investigations showed a Val177Ala mutation in the GJB1 gene. This mutation has so far not been described in the Caucasian population and has been only described once before. Electrophysiological studies showed a mixed demyelinating and axonal sensorimotor neuropathy in keeping with CMTX 1. Five months after the initial presentation our patient developed clinical evidence of a peripheral neuropathy in the form of absent ankle reflexes, weak dorsiflexors, and evertors of both feet.
nNOSα and nNOSβ localization to aggresome‐like inclusions is dependent on HSP90 activity
Authors: Corso‐Díaz Ximena , Krukoff Teresa L.
Published: May 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 114, 864–872.

Nitric oxide (NO) is a highly reactive gas that participates in many physiological processes including neuroplasticity and neuronal survival. In brain neurons, NO is produced by two variants of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), nNOSα and nNOSβ. The activity of nNOSα is tightly regulated at the transcriptional and post‐transcriptional levels. Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) regulates nNOSα activity by facilitating heme insertion into the nNOSα monomer, resulting in increased NO production. HSP90 also regulates nNOSα degradation through the proteasome pathway. Here, we show in vitro that inhibition of HSP90 with geldanamycin increases nNOS mobility and induces formation of aggresome‐like inclusions containing both nNOSα and nNOSβ in primary cortical neurons. We also report the formation of endogenous nNOS‐containing aggresome‐like inclusions in healthy, untreated, mature primary cortical neurons. We propose that nNOS aggregation may be an additional mechanism for regulating nNOS activity, as has been proposed for inducible nitric oxide synthase. These findings reveal a new role for HSP90 in regulating nNOS sub‐cellular localization and underscore the complexity of nNOS regulatory mechanisms.
Migratory connectivity in a declining bird species: using feather isotopes to inform demographic modelling
Authors: Reichlin Thomas S. , Hobson Keith A. , Wassenaar Leonard I. , Schaub Michael , Tolkmitt Dirk , Becker Detlef , Jenni Lukas , Arlettaz Raphaël
Published: May 2010

Aim  Conservation programmes for endangered migratory species or populations require locating and evaluating breeding, stopover and wintering areas. We used multiple stable isotopes in two endangered European populations of wrynecks, Jynx torquilla L., to locate wintering regions and assess the degree of migratory connectivity between breeding and wintering populations.

Location  Switzerland and Germany.

Methods  We analysed stable nitrogen (δ15N), carbon (δ13C) and hydrogen (δD) isotopes from wing feathers from two populations of wrynecks to infer their wintering origins and to assess the strength of migratory connectivity. We tested whether variation in feather isotopic values within the Swiss population was affected by bird age and collection year and then considered differences in isotopic values between the two breeding populations. We used isotopic values of summer‐ and winter‐grown feathers to estimate seasonal distributions. Finally, we calculated a species‐specific δD discrimination factor between feathers and mean annual δD values to assign winter‐grown feathers to origin.

Results  Bird age and collection year caused substantial isotopic variation in winter‐grown feathers, which may be because of annually variable weather conditions, movements of birds among wintering sites and/or reflect asynchronous moulting or selection pressure. The large isotopic variance in winter‐grown feathers nevertheless suggested low migratory connectivity for each breeding population, with partially overlapping wintering regions for the two populations.

Main conclusions  Isotopic variance in winter‐grown feathers of two breeding populations of wrynecks and their geographical assignment point to defined, albeit overlapping, wintering areas, suggesting both leapfrog migration and low migratory connectivity. On this basis, integrative demographic models can be built looking at seasonal survival patterns with links to local environmental conditions on both breeding and wintering grounds, which may elucidate causes of declines in migratory bird species.
The production of hybrids with high ecological amplitude between exoticSpartina densifloraand nativeS. maritimain the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Castillo J. M. , Ayres D. R. , Leira‐Doce P. , Bailey J. , Blum M. , Strong D. R. , Luque T. , Figueroa E.
Published: May 2010

Aim Hybridization is a common and potent mechanism of plant evolution that has the potential to be evolutionary significant in its own right, and hybrids are common between invasive and native congeneric species. Our aims were to document the existence and nature of newSpartinahybrids arising between introducedSpartina densifloraand nativeS. maritimain tidal marshes of the Iberian Peninsula, to examine the actual and potential range of hybrids in the intertidal zone, and to analyse the seed set of hybrids.

Location South‐West Iberian Peninsula.

Methods Hybrids were characterized using chloroplast and nuclear DNA, and ploidy assessments. The ecological tolerance of the hybrids was studied using vegetation surveys and transplant experiments.

Results We found that both parental species have been seed parents to hybrids and that all hybrids had an additive pattern of species‐specific nuclear markers consistent with F1hybrids. Hybrid chromosome numbers varied between 2n = ca. 65 and 2n = ca. 94–97, whileS. maritimahad 2n = ca. 60 andS. densiflorahad 2n = ca. 70. Hybrids grew in three discrete locations along the intertidal zone but were capable of growing throughout the ranges of both parental species in transplanted gardens, and in most cases, grew better than the parental species. While the potential exists for the origination of another invasiveSpartinahybrid species, thus far hybrid plants are not fertile, limiting their ability to invade and spread.

Main conclusions We recommend the eradication of all of the currently quite limited hybrid cordgrass and to fight theS. densiflorainvasion in the Iberian Peninsula to prevent the origination of a new invasive allopolyploidSpartinaspecies.
The Global Competition for Wild Fish Resources between Livestock and Aquaculture
Authors: Tveterås Sigbjørn , Tveterås Ragnar
Published: May 2010

Aquaculture satisfies a growing global demand for fish but also consumes an increasing share of the world’s wild fish resources. This has led to a concern that increased aquaculture production poses a threat to the sustainability of capture fisheries. We use a shrinkage estimator to estimate fishmeal demand from countries with different make‐up of meat and farmed salmon production. Although we are not able to identify structural differences between these sectors, the empirical results show that fishmeal demand is price inelastic. Technological change, however, is reducing fishmeal usage in feeds, suggesting that strong demand pressure on pelagic fish resources targeted for fishmeal is a temporary phenomenon.
The Effects of Multiple Health and Nutrition Labels on Consumer Food Choices
Authors: Barreiro‐Hurle Jesús , Gracia Azucena , De‐Magistris Tiziana
Published: May 2010

Consumers face an increasing availability of information on health and nutritional aspects of foods, especially on food package labels. Previous research has identified that this information is positively valued, but the effect of presenting several items of information simultaneously is not well understood. We conduct a choice experiment to identify the effects of multiple health and nutrition information labels for two products representing a healthy and less healthy food choice. Although our consumers attach positive utility to most of the individual labels evaluated here, the simultaneous presence of more than one label only has positive impact on utility in one of nine possible cases. Therefore, promotion of multiple labels should not be considered beneficial a priori either from a regulatory or business perspective. In addition, results show that consumers show a higher willingness to pay for nutrition and health labels for less healthy products.
The P–T evolution of ultra high temperature garnet‐bearing ultramafic rocks from the Saxonian Granulitgebirge Core Complex, Bohemian Massif
Authors: SCHMÄDICKE E. , GOSE J. , WILL T. M.
Published: May 2010

Garnet‐bearing ultramafic rocks (GBUR) enclosed in granulite or high‐grade gneiss are rare, yet typical constituents of alpine‐type collisional orogens. The Bohemian Massif of the European Variscides is exceptional for the occurrence of a large variety of mantle‐derived rocks, including GBUR (garnet peridotite and garnet pyroxenite). GBUR occur in several metamorphic units belonging to both the Saxothuringian and the Moldanubian zones of the Bohemian Massif. The northernmost outcrops of GBUR in the Bohemian Massif are situated in the Saxonian Granulitgebirge Core Complex in the Saxothuringian zone and are the subject of this study. Thermobarometric results and exsolution textures imply that the Granulitgebirge GBUR belong to the ultra high temperature group of peridotites. They experienced a decompression‐cooling path being constrained by the following four stages: (i) ∼1300–1400 °C and 32 kbar, (ii) 1000–1050 °C and 26 kbar, (iii) 900–940 °C and 22 kbar, and (iv) 860 °C and 12–13 kbar. Occasional layers of garnet pyroxenite within GBUR lenses are interpreted as high pressure cumulates that crystallized at 32–36 kbar by cooling below 1400 °C. The GBUR were most probably derived from upwelling asthenosphere and came in contact with crustal granulite at ∼60 km depth. Slab break‐off is suggested here as the most probable cause for: (i) asthenosphere upwelling and cooling of the latter as well as (ii) ultra high temperature granulite facies metamorphism of the crustal host rocks. The Granulitgebirge‐type peridotite is very similar to the Mohelno‐type peridotite from the Gföhl unit, Moldanubian zone, in the southern part of the Bohemian Massif. In contrast, peridotite from the adjacent Erzgebirge (also within the Saxothuringian zone) is derived from the subcontinental mantle and much resembles the Nove Dvory‐type peridotite from the Gföhl unit (Moldanubian zone). The fact that the Saxothuringian and Moldanubian zones host the same types of mantle rocks (asthenospheric and lithospheric) of the same metamorphic ages suggests that the classic distinction into the Saxothuringian and Moldanubian zones cannot be supported, at least as far as high‐grade units hosting GBUR are concerned.
Predisposition to epilepsy—Does the ABCB1 gene play a role?
Authors: Nurmohamed Laila , Garcia‐Bournissen Facundo , Buono Russell J. , Shannon Michael W. , Finkelstein Yaron
Published: May 2010

We performed a meta‐analysis to evaluate the association between ABCB1 C3435T polymorphisms and the prevalence of epilepsy, including all relevant human studies (until June 2009), in which patients with or without epilepsy had undergone genotyping for the ABCB1 gene. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated using a random effects model. We identified 9 case–control studies that included a total of 3,996 patients (2,454 with epilepsy and 1,542 nonepileptic subjects). No association was found between ABCB1 C3435T polymorphisms and the risk of having epilepsy (odds ratio 1.07, 95% confidence interval 0.76–1.51; p = 0.34). ABCB1 genotyping for epileptic patients is not warranted.
Surgical treatment of patients with drug‐resistant hypermotor seizures
Authors: Tao Yu , Guojun Zhang , Yuping Wang , Lixin Cai , Wei Du , Yongjie Li
Published: May 2010

Purpose:  To describe the clinical, electrophysiologic, neuroradiologic, and histologic findings in our patients with drug‐resistant hypermotor seizures (HMSs) and to evaluate the outcome of their surgical treatment.

Methods:  Twenty‐three patients were identified by criteria for drug‐resistant HMS. Surgical treatment and presurgical evaluation modalities including semiology, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), interictal/ictal scalp video‐EEG (electroencephalography), and intracranial recording were analyzed retrospectively.

Results:  The common seizure frequency of 60–300 per month was observed among 15 patients. Sixteen patients (69.6%) experienced auras such as fear and palpitation. Marked agitation was observed in 12 patients and mild agitation in 11 patients. Groaning/shouting and asymmetric posturing were common accompanying symptoms. Asymmetric posturing was observed more often in patients with mild agitation than in those with marked agitation (p = 0.027). MRI detected focal abnormalities in six patients. Intracranial recording was conducted in 16 patients. The origins of seizures were localized in mesial frontal cortex in four patients, dorsolateral frontal cortex in four patients, and mesial temporal cortex in two patients. The epileptogenic zones (EZs) were resected from the frontal lobe in 21 patients and from the temporal lobe in 2 patients. The follow‐up ranged from 12–60 months. Seventeen patients (73.9%) had been seizure‐free, 11 of whom had presented with marked agitation (11 of 12) and 6 with mild agitation (6 of 11) (p = 0.069). Histologic examinations demonstrated focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) in 18 patients.

Discussion:  The HMSs can originate from both the mesial and dorsolateral frontal cortex, and occasionally from the temporal lobe. Patients with drug‐resistant HMSs should be recommended for resective surgical treatment.
Intrinsic activation of GABAA receptors suppresses epileptiform activity in the cerebral cortex of immature mice
Authors: Richter Daniel , Luhmann Heiko J. , Kilb Werner
Published: May 2010

Purpose:  Activation of ionotropic γ‐aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) receptors induces in immature neocortical neurons a membrane depolarization that may contribute to the higher epilepsy susceptibility in newborns. To elucidate whether depolarizing GABAergic responses enhance or attenuate epileptiform activity in the immature neocortex, we investigated the effect of agonists, antagonists, and positive modulators of GABAA receptors on epileptiform activity.

Methods:  We performed in vitro field potential recordings on isolated whole neocortex preparations and whole cell recordings of identified pyramidal neurons in 400‐μm slices of immature (postnatal day 1–7) mice. Epileptiform activity was induced by low Mg2+ solutions with or without 50–100 μm 4‐aminopyridine.

Results:  Bath application of GABA (3–100 μm, in the presence of tiagabine) attenuated epileptiform activity. The GABA transporter isoform 1 (GAT‐1) inhibitor tiagabine (30 μm) and the GAT‐2/3 specific inhibitor SNAP 5114 (40 μm) reduced the frequency of epileptiform activity. The benzodiazepines midazolam (0.2 μm) and zolpidem (0.5 μm) as well as the barbiturate phenobarbital (30 μm) slightly attenuated epileptiform activity. Continuous bath application of the GABAergic antagonist gabazine (SR‐95531, 2–3 μm) or picrotoxin (15 μm) induced epileptiform discharges.

Discussion:  These results demonstrate, that (1) the activation or positive modulation of GABAA receptors attenuates epileptiform activity, (2) GABAA antagonists mediate a disinhibition, and (3) GABA uptake contributes to the regulation of extracellular GABA in immature neocortex. We conclude from these findings that a constant inhibition via GABAA receptors is required to suppress epileptiform activity already in the immature neocortex.
Serotonin reuptake inhibitors are associated with reduced severity of ictal hypoxemia in medically refractory partial epilepsy
Authors: Bateman Lisa M. , Li Chin‐Shang , Lin Tzu‐Chun , Seyal Masud
Published: May 2010

Ictal respiratory dysfunction occurs in patients with epilepsy and may contribute to sudden unexplained death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Fluoxetine reverses respiratory arrest in a mouse model of epilepsy, suggesting that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may reduce ictal respiratory dysfunction. Video–electroencephalography (EEG) and pulse oximetry data from 496 seizures in 73 consecutive patients with partial epilepsy was reviewed, including 87 seizures in 16 patients taking SSRIs (SSRI+) and 409 seizures in 57 patients not taking SSRIs (SSRI−). The proportion of ictal‐related oxygen desaturation <85% with partial seizures without secondary convulsions in SSRI+ patients was reduced relative to SSRI− patients (p = 0.011). There was no statistically significant difference in ictal oxygen desaturation for secondarily generalized convulsions. SSRIs are associated with reduced likelihood of ictal oxygen desaturation in patients with partial seizures.
Epilepsy in Rett syndrome—The experience of a National Rett Center
Authors: Nissenkorn Andreea , Gak Eva , Vecsler Manuela , Reznik Haia , Menascu Shay , Ben Zeev Bruria
Published: May 2010

Purpose:  Rett syndrome (RTT), an X‐linked, dominant neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in the methyl‐CpG‐binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene, presents with acquired microcephaly, autistic regression, hand usage loss, and stereotypies. Epilepsy is frequent and has been reported to correlate with mutation type, general disease severity, and BDNF polymorphism. Our purpose was a comprehensive description of epilepsy features and course in RTT.

Methods:  Retrospective review of charts and electroencephalography (EEG) studies in 97 patients with RTT.

Results:  Seventy‐two percent of patients had epilepsy, appearing at a median age of 3 years. According to age of onset, we divided patients into three groups: 6 with early epileptic variant (0–1 year), 42 with early epilepsy (1–5 years), and 20 with late epilepsy (after 5 years). Early epileptic variant had severe seizure types in the first year of life, followed by a typical RTT picture; all were MECP2 negative. Early epilepsy and late epilepsy groups were similar with respect to Rett‐related symptoms, but seizures were better controlled in the second group (p < 0.05). Epileptiform activity appeared earlier and was more confluent in the early epilepsy group, including nine patients with electrical status epilepticus during sleep (ESES) versus one in the late epilepsy group (p < 0.05). No correlation was found between epilepsy onset or severity and genotype. BDNF val/met polymorphism correlated with earlier onset of seizures (p < 0.05).

Discussion:  Epilepsy appears earlier than described previously, frequently during the regression stage. Early age of onset predicts a more severe course of seizures. ESES is common among those with early onset epilepsy. BDNF polymorphism was the only genetic correlate with seizure onset, whereas MECP2 mutation type and location did not influence epilepsy.
Significance of lateralization of upper limb automatisms in temporal lobe epilepsy: A quantitative movement analysis
Authors: Mirzadjanova Zulfiya , Peters Astrid S. , Rémi Jan , Bilgin Candaş , Silva Cunha Joao P. , Noachtar Soheyl
Published: May 2010

Purpose:  To evaluate the significance of lateralization of ictal upper limb automatisms in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE).

Methods:  Ictal upper limb automatisms of 28 patients with temporal lobe epilepsy were quantified. Duration of automatisms in relation to total seizure duration, movement speed, extent, length, and predominant frequencies of the movements were analyzed for both upper extremities separately and compared to the lateralization of the epileptogenic temporal lobe.

Results:  Predominantly ipsilateral upper limb automatisms were more common (n = 19) than predominantly contralateral automatisms (n = 9). The duration of ictal ipsilateral upper limb automatisms was significantly longer than the duration of contralateral automatisms (ipsilateral automatisms: 29 of 86 s total seizure duration; contralateral automatisms: 19 of 110 s total seizure duration; p = 0.048). Patients with ipsilateral upper limb automatisms had more often exclusively unitemporal interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) (84.2%) than patients with contralateral automatisms (11.1%; p < 0.001). The positive predictive value (PPV) of the combination of these parameters is 84.2%. Excellent surgical seizure outcome was better in patients with ipsilateral upper limb automatisms (77.8%) compared to those with contralateral automatisms (20%) (p = 0.09). The quantitative analysis of movement extent, average speed, maximum speed, and repetition rate of ipsilateral and contralateral upper limb automatisms did not show any statistically significant difference in this patient sample.

Conclusion:  The lateralization of upper limb automatisms in TLE has a good lateralizing value if the lateralization of IEDs were also taken into consideration.
Insight Into the Relationship Between Impulsivity and Substance Abuse From Studies Using Animal Models
Authors: Winstanley Catharine A. , Olausson Peter , Taylor Jane R. , Jentsch J. David
Published: May 2010

Drug use disorders are often accompanied by deficits in the capacity to efficiently process reward‐related information and to monitor, suppress, or override reward‐controlled behavior when goals are in conflict with aversive or immediate outcomes. This emerging deficit in behavioral flexibility and impulse control may be a central component of the progression to addiction, as behavior becomes increasingly driven by drugs and drug‐associated cues at the expense of more advantageous activities. Understanding how neural mechanisms implicated in impulse control are affected by addictive drugs may therefore prove a useful strategy in the search for new treatment options. Animal models of impulsivity and addiction could make a significant contribution to this endeavor. Here, some of the more common behavioral paradigms used to measure different aspects of impulsivity across species are outlined, and the importance of the response to reward‐paired cues in such paradigms is discussed. Naturally occurring differences in forms of impulsivity have been found to be predictive of future drug self‐administration, but drug exposure can also increase impulsive responding. Such data are in keeping with the suggestion that impulsivity may contribute to multiple stages within the spiral of addiction. From a neurobiological perspective, converging evidence from rat, monkey, and human studies suggest that compromised functioning within the orbitofrontal cortex may critically contribute to the cognitive sequelae of drug abuse. Changes in gene transcription and protein expression within this region may provide insight into the mechanism underlying drug‐induced cortical hypofunction, reflecting new molecular targets for the treatment of uncontrolled drug‐seeking and drug‐taking behavior.
Prompting in CALL: A Longitudinal Study of Learner Uptake
Authors: HEIFT TRUDE
Published: May 2010

This research presents a longitudinal study of learner uptake in a computer‐assisted language learning (CALL) environment. Over the course of 3 semesters, 10 second language learners of German at a Canadian university used an online, parser‐based CALL program that, for the purpose of this research, provided 2 different types of feedback of varying degrees of specificity: Metalinguistic explanations (ME) and metalinguistic clues (MC). Results indicate that feedback specificity affects learner uptake in different ways. Cross‐sectionally, the study reveals significant differences in learner uptake for the 2 more advanced courses, German 103 and 201, whereas for the introductory course, German 102, no significant difference for the 2 feedback types and their effect on learner uptake was found. Results of the longitudinal data indicate that there is a significant increase in learner uptake from German 102 to 201 for the error‐specific feedback (ME), whereas learner uptake for the generic feedback type (MC) varies insignificantly across the 3 courses. Finally, the study shows a significant impact of the 2 feedback types on learner uptake independent of error type (grammar and spelling).
Nonreentrant Supraventricular Tachycardia Misdiagnosed as Inappropriate Sinus Tachycardia
Authors: BHATT ADVAY G. , MONAHAN KEVIN M.
Published: May 2010

We report a case of a woman with incessant palpitations initially misdiagnosed as inappropriate sinus tachycardia that proved refractory to β‐blockers. At the time of electrophysiologic testing, a sustained narrow‐complex tachycardia with a 1:2 atrioventricular relationship was repeatedly initiated by a posterior fascicle depolarization induced by means of a timed ventricular extrastimulus. The tachycardia was repeatedly terminated with a timed atrial extrastimulus, which excluded junctional bigeminy and confirmed the diagnosis of nonreentrant supraventricular tachycardia. Catheter ablation of the slow pathway eliminated dual‐pathway conduction and tachycardia. (PACE 2011; 34:e70–e73)
Diatomaceous Earth as a Pozzolan in the Fabrication of an Alkali‐Activated Fine‐Aggregate Limestone Concrete
Authors: Miller Sean A. , Sakulich Aaron R. , Barsoum Michel W. , Jud Sierra Eva
Published: May 2010

Two concretes—with Ca/Si ratios of 0.28 and 1.75 fabricated by cementing a fine‐limestone aggregate with a mixture of lime, diatomaceous earth, and water—were compared with ones made with pure lime and a hydraulic lime product, containing ∼11 wt% naturally occurring reactive silica. When the Ca/Si ratio in the cementing phase was 0.28, compressive strengths of ∼6.5 MPa after 30 days and ∼7 MPa after 180 days were achieved by curing the samples in closed containers or in 100% relative humidity. When allowed to dry, however, these samples lost roughly half their compressive strength in 7 days. Increasing the Ca/Si ratio to 1.75 solved the drying problems. The resulting compressive strengths, however, after 180 days, were reduced to 5 MPa. Characterization of the various cementing phases formed in the different samples by X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis showed the formation of two, somewhat competing, cementing reactions: C–S–H gel formation which results in early strength gains, and the recarbonation of portlandite, which results in longer term strength enhancements.
Sol–Gel Processing of Bi2Ti2O7and Bi2Ti4O11Films with Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Kidchob Tongjit , Malfatti Luca , Marongiu Daniela , Enzo Stefano , Innocenzi Plinio
Published: May 2010

A new sol–gel synthesis based on chloride compounds as precursors has been used to prepare bismuth titanate (BT) films. The films have been deposited by dip‐coating and fired at different temperatures in air; they remain amorphous up to 500°C, and crystallize into the pyrochloric cubic phase Bi2Ti2O7between 600° and 700°C while at higher temperatures of firing the stable Bi2Ti4O11monoclinic phase is formed. The films have been characterized by X‐ray diffraction analysis at gracing incidence, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, ellipsometric spectroscopy, UV–visible absorption, and atomic force microscopy. The photocatalytic properties of the films have been evaluated by exposing a methyl orange solution containing the BT films to UV light. The test has shown that the Bi2Ti2O7films have a higher activity in comparison with reference anatase titania films.
Nanostructured Forsterite Coating Strengthens Porous Hydroxyapatite for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Emadi Rahmatollah , Tavangarian Fariborz , Esfahani Saied Iman Roohani , Sheikhhosseini Adel , Kharaziha Mahshid
Published: May 2010

Many attempts have been focused on preparing highly porous scaffolds with appropriate mechanical strength. This paper has developed a new route to enhance the compressive strength of porous hydroxyapatite (HA) scaffold (porosity: ∼83%, mean pore size: ∼740 μm). Briefly, this route included a nanostructure coating of forsterite (Mg2SiO4) on struts of porous HA. The coating microstructure consisted of the grains with the range between 35 and 80 nm and nanosize pores that could be detected by scanning electron microscopy observation. This simple method improved the compressive strength of highly porous HA from 0.12 to 1.61 MPa. The scaffolds obtained provided a good mechanical support while maintaining bioactivity, and hence they could be used as tissue engineering scaffolds for low‐load‐bearing applications.
Percolation in Radioactive‐Waste Glass Melt with RuO2
Authors: Ogawa Toru
Published: May 2010

Molten glass containing ruthenium dioxide (RuO2) particles develops electronic conduction, which leads to an unstable operation of the Joule‐heated melter for the radioactive waste vitrification. The percolation behavior of molten glass–RuO2 composites was examined by noting their hierarchical formation process. A low percolation threshold <1 vol% was reasonably reproduced by assuming the packing of “soft” RuO2 rods in the primary aggregate, and by applying Bruggeman's effective medium approximation for the higher aggregates and their clusters.
Effects of CaTiO3 and SrTiO3 Additions on the Microstructure and Microwave Dielectric Properties of Ultra‐Low‐Fire TeO2 Ceramics
Authors: Wang Sea‐Fue , Huang Chi‐Yuen , Liu Yen‐Ling
Published: May 2010

In this study, microwave dielectric ceramics of TeO2 with various amounts of CaTiO3 and SrTiO3 were prepared. The densification, microstructural evolution, and dielectric properties of the ultra‐low‐fire ceramic composites were characterized. Three phases including TeO2, TiTe3O8, and CaTe2O5 or SrTe2O5 were observed in the CaTiO3‐ or SrTiO3‐added TeO2 system. Eutectic reactions of the CaTe2O5–TeO2 and SrTe2O5–TeO2 systems occurred at 650° and 590°C, respectively, enhancing the densification through liquid‐phase sintering. The X‐ray diffraction observations were confirmed as the Raman spectra located at 450–520 and 780–820 cm−1 corresponded, respectively, to TiTe3O8 and CaTe2O5 or SrTe2O5. The densification temperatures of TeO2–CaTiO3 ceramics ranged from 630° to 670°C depending on the CaTiO3 content, while all TeO2–SrTiO3 ceramics were densified at 610°C. TeO2–10 wt% CaTiO3 and TeO2–15 wt% SrTiO3 ceramics were found to sustain best performance in CaTe2O5–TeO2 and SrTe2O5–TeO2 systems. They showed the following major microwave dielectric properties: ɛr≈28.6, Q×f≈15 600 GHz, and τf≈−3.24 ppm/°C, and ɛr≈28.7, Q×f≈12 400 GHz, and τf≈−3.81 ppm/°C, respectively.
Microstructure and Relaxor Behavior of Dense Fine‐Grain FeTiTaO6 Ceramics
Authors: Shi Yun , Hou Yu‐Dong , Wang Chao , Ge Hai‐Yan , Zhu Man‐Kang
Published: May 2010

A new type of FeTiTaO6 ceramics with a high density was synthesized by the solid‐state method. X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy patterns indicate that the specimens exhibit a rutile structure and the mean particle size was about 200–300 nm. The heterovalent substitutions of Fe3+ and Ta5+ at Ti4+ site drive the incipient ferroelectric to the relaxor behavior, and a strong dispersion of the maximum dielectric permittivity appears around Tm, which shifts towards higher temperatures with the increasing frequency. The variation of Tm with frequency follows the Vogel–Fulcher relationship well, wherein Ea=0.068 eV, Tf=508 K, and f0=109 Hz. These results indicate that the nonperovskite‐type FeTiTaO6 ceramic is a promising candidate for lead‐free relaxor ferroelectrics in practical applications.
High‐Performance Porous Nanostructured Ceramics
Authors: Perko Sebastjan , Dakskobler Ales , Kosmac Tomaz
Published: May 2010

Nanostructured materials were designed to produce high‐strength porous Y‐TZP ceramics. Materials were prepared using homoaggregation resulting in a homogeneous distribution of nanosized particles attached to the surface of submicrometer‐sized particles. After slip casting, green pellets were biscuit sintered at various temperatures in an ambient air atmosphere. The flexural strength of nanostructured ceramics substantially increased from 190 to 430 MPa in a narrow density range between 58% and 60% of theoretical density. This value is approximately two times higher than that obtained with dry‐pressed biscuit‐sintered Y‐TZP ceramics exhibiting similar fractional density.
Cricothyrotomy Technique Using Gum Elastic Bougie Is Faster Than Standard Technique: A Study of Emergency Medicine Residents and Medical Students in an Animal Lab
Authors: Hill Chandler , Reardon Robert , Joing Scott , Falvey Dan , Miner James
Published: May 2010

Objectives:  The objective was to compare time to completion, failure rate, and subjective difficulty of a new cricothyrotomy technique to the standard technique. The new bougie‐assisted cricothyrotomy technique (BACT) is similar to the rapid four‐step technique (RFST), but a bougie and endotracheal tube are inserted rather than a Shiley tracheostomy tube.

Methods:  This was a randomized controlled trail conducted on domestic sheep. During a 3‐month period inexperienced residents or students were randomized to perform cricothyrotomy on anesthetized sheep using either the standard technique or the BACT. Operators were trained with an educational video before the procedure. Time to successful cricothyrotomy was recorded. The resident or student was then asked to rate the difficulty of the procedure on a five‐point scale from 1 (very easy) to 5 (very difficult).

Results:  Twenty‐one residents and students were included in the study: 11 in the standard group and 10 in the BACT group. Compared to the standard technique, the BACT was significantly faster with a median time of 67 seconds (interquartile range [IQR] = 55–82) versus 149 seconds (IQR = 111–201) for the standard technique (p = 0.002). The BACT was also rated easier to perform (median = 2, IQR = 1–3) than the standard technique (median = 3, IQR = 2–4; p = 0.04). The failure rate was 1/10 for the BACT compared to 3/11 for the standard method (p = NS).

Conclusions:  This study demonstrates that the BACT is faster than the standard technique and has a similar failure rate when performed by inexperienced providers on anesthetized sheep.

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2010; 17:666–669 © 2010 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine
The recolonization hypothesis in a full‐mouth or multiple‐session treatment protocol: a blinded, randomized clinical trial
Authors: Zijnge Vincent , Meijer Henriette F. , Lie Mady‐Ann , Tromp Jan A. H. , Degener John E. , Harmsen Hermie J. M. , Abbas Frank
Published: May 2010

Zijnge V, Meijer HF, Lie MA, Tromp JAH, Degener JE, Harmsen HJM, Abbas F: The recolonization hypothesis in a full‐mouth or multiple‐session treatment protocol: a blinded, randomized clinical trial. J Clin Peridontol 2010; 37: 518–525. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01562.x.

Aim: To test recolonization of periodontal lesions after full‐mouth scaling and root planing (FM‐SRP) or multiple session‐SRP (MS‐SRP) in a randomized clinical trial and whether FM‐SRP and MS‐SRP result in different clinical outcomes.

Materials and Methods: Thirty‐nine subjects were randomly assigned to FM‐SRP or MS‐SRP groups. At baseline and after 3 months, probing pocket depth (PPD), plaque index (PlI) and bleeding on probing (BoP) were recorded. At baseline, immediately after treatment, after 1, 2, 7, 14 and 90 days, paper point samples from a single site from the maxillary right quadrant were collected for microbiological analysis of five putative pathogens by polymerase chain reaction.

Results: FM‐SRP and MS‐SRP resulted in significant reductions in PPD, BoP and PlI and the overall detection frequencies of the five species after 3 months without significant differences between treatments. Compared with MS‐SRP, FM‐SRP resulted in less recolonization of the five species, significantly for Treponema denticola, in the tested sites.

Conclusion: FM‐SRP and MS‐SRP result in overall clinically and microbiologically comparable outcomes where recolonization of periodontal lesions may be better prevented by FM‐SRP.
Salivary MMP‐8, TIMP‐1, and ICTP as markers of advanced periodontitis
Authors: Gursoy Ulvi Kahraman , Könönen Eija , Pradhan‐Palikhe Pratikshya , Tervahartiala Taina , Pussinen Pirkko J. , Suominen‐Taipale Liisa , Sorsa Timo
Published: May 2010

Gursoy UK, Könönen E, Pradhan‐Palikhe P, Tervahartiala T, Pussinen PJ, Suominen‐Taipale L, Sorsa T. Salivary MMP‐8, TIMP‐1, and ICTP as markers of advanced periodontitis. J Clin Periodontol 2010; 37: 487–493. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01563.x.

Aim: Salivary matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐8 and ‐14, tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase (TIMP)‐1, and pyridinoline cross‐linked carboxyterminal telopeptide of type I collagen (ICTP) were analysed aiming to detect potential markers of advanced periodontitis in saliva. In addition, we compared two MMP‐8 detection methods, a time‐resolved immunofluorometric assay (IFMA) and an enzyme‐linked immunoassay (ELISA), to differentiate periodontitis subjects from controls.

Material and Methods: Concentrations of MMP‐8, MMP‐14, TIMP‐1, and ICTP were analysed from salivary specimens of 165 subjects, including 84 subjects having at least 14 teeth with periodontal pocket (pocket depth 4 mm) and 81 subjects without pocket depth as their controls.

Results: Salivary MMP‐8 detection by IFMA differentiated periodontitis subjects from controls more strongly than by ELISA. Salivary MMP‐8, TIMP‐1, and ICTP concentrations were higher in periodontitis subjects than those in controls. When only smokers were included in the analysis these differences were lost. The MMP‐8/TIMP‐1 ratio and the combination of MMP‐8 and ICTP differentiated periodontitis and control groups even in smoker subjects.

Conclusion: Salivary MMP‐8, TIMP‐1, ICTP, and especially their ratios and combinations are potential candidates in the detection of advanced periodontitis. Differentiating periodontitis and control subjects with salivary MMP‐8 detection is dependent on the selected techniques.
Periodontal disease progression and glycaemic control among Gullah African Americans with type‐2 diabetes
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Dipankar , Marlow Nicole M. , Fernandes Jyotika K. , Leite Renata S.
Published: May 2010

Bandyopadhyay D, Marlow NM, Fernandes JK, Leite RS: Periodontal disease progression and glycaemic control among Gullah African Americans with type‐2 diabetes. J Clin Periodontol 2010; 37: 501–509. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01564.x.

Aim: To evaluate associations between glycaemic control and periodontitis progression among Gullah African Americans with type‐2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Materials and Methods: From an ongoing clinical trial among T2DM Gullah, we extracted a cohort previously in a cross‐sectional study (N=88). Time from baseline (previous study) to follow‐up (trial enrollment, before treatment interventions) ranged 1.93–4.08 years [mean=2.99, standard deviation (SD)=0.36]. We evaluated tooth site‐level periodontitis progression [clinical attachment loss (CAL) worsening of 2 mm, periodontal probing depth (PPD) increases of 2 mm and bleeding on probing (BOP) from none to present] by glycaemic control status (well‐controlled=HbA1c<7%, poorly‐controlled=HbA1c7%) using multivariable generalized estimating equations logistic regression, nesting tooth sites/person.

Results: Poorly‐controlled T2DM (68.18%) was more prevalent than well‐controlled T2DM (31.82%). Proportions of tooth sites/person with CAL progression between baseline and follow‐up ranged 0.00–0.59 (mean=0.12, SD=0.12), while PPD and BOP progression ranged 0.00–0.44 (mean=0.09, SD=0.11) and 0.00–0.96 (mean=0.24, SD=0.18), respectively. Site‐level PPD at baseline was a significant effect modifier of associations between poorly‐controlled T2DM and site‐level CAL and PPD progression [adjusted odds ratios (OR) according to poorly‐controlled T2DM among PPD at baseline=3, 5 and 7 mm, respectively: CAL progression=1.93, 2.64, and 3.62, PPD progression=1.98, 2.76, and 3.84; p<0.05 for all]. Odds of site‐level BOP progression were increased (OR=1.24) for poorly‐controlled T2DM, yet the results were not significant (p=0.32).

Conclusions: These findings from a distinct, homogenous population further support the clinical relevance of identifying patients with poor glycaemic control and periodontitis, particularly among those with disparities for both diseases.
Tooth‐related risk factors for periodontal disease in community‐dwelling elderly people
Authors: Hirotomi Toshinobu , Yoshihara Akihiro , Ogawa Hiroshi , Miyazaki Hideo
Published: May 2010

Hirotomi T, Yoshihara A, Ogawa H, Miyazaki H. Tooth‐related risk factors for periodontal disease in community‐dwelling elderly people. J Clin Periodontol 2010; 37: 494–500. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01565.x.

Objective: While most previous epidemiological studies have focused on subject‐level risk factors for periodontal destruction, tooth‐related factors have not been fully explored. The purpose of this study was to evaluate both tooth‐related and subject‐related factors affecting periodontal disease progression using a two‐level multilevel model.

Material and Methods: A longitudinal survey over a period of 10 years was carried out on 286 community‐dwelling elderly subjects aged 70 years at baseline. Clinical attachment level (CAL) was measured at six sites per tooth on all teeth present and periodontal disease progression was defined as CAL3 mm.

Results: Periodontal disease progression was found in 79% of the subjects and most frequently in maxillary molars. Multilevel logistic regressions revealed that subjects wearing removable dentures were significantly at risk for periodontal disease progression. Abutment teeth for removable/fixed dentures were also significantly more likely to suffer periodontal breakdown. Furthermore, the following tooth‐related variables were found to be possible risk factors for periodontal disease progression: maxillary and multirooted teeth.

Conclusion: Multirooted teeth and abutments for a fixed denture were possible risk factors for periodontal disease progression.
Influence of defect dimensions on periodontal wound healing/regeneration in intrabony defects following implantation of a bovine bone biomaterial and provisions for guided tissue regeneration: an experimental study in the dog
Authors: Stavropoulos Andreas , Wikesjö Ulf M. E.
Published: May 2010

Stavropoulos A, Wikesjö UME. Influence of defect dimensions on periodontal wound healing/regeneration in intrabony defects following implantation of a bovine bone biomaterial and provisions for guided tissue regeneration: an experimental study in the dog. J Clin Periodontol 2010; 37: 534–543. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01566.x.

Objective: To evaluate the influence of defect dimensions on periodontal wound healing/regeneration in intrabony defects following implantation of a deproteinized bovine bone/collagen matrix under provisions for guided tissue regeneration.

Material and Methods: Contra‐lateral one‐wall intrabony [6 × 6 mm (wide/deep) versus 4 × 4 mm (narrow/shallow)] periodontal defects were surgically created at the edentulated mesial aspect of the mandibular first molars in three Labradors, i.e., three defects in each category. The defects were implanted with the bovine bone/collagen matrix and covered with a collagen membrane. Histologic/histometric analysis followed an 18‐month healing interval.

Results: New cementum encompassed the entire intrabony component in both wide/deep (5.6 ± 0.5 mm) and narrow/shallow (4.2 ± 0.1 mm) defects; bone formation amounted to 5.6 ± 0.6 and 4.0 ± 0.8 mm, respectively. Mineralized bone encompassed 57.5%versus 65% and the bone biomaterial 11.6%versus 13.1% of the defect space. A periodontal ligament with a width and composition similar to that of the resident periodontal ligament encompassing the entire aspect of the defects was observed. Root resorption/ankylosis was rare.

Conclusions: Both wide/deep and narrow/shallow intrabony defects showed a substantial potential for periodontal regeneration in this pre‐clinical model. The contribution of the bovine bone/collagen matrix and guided tissue regeneration to this regenerative potential is not clear.
Healing of two and three wall intrabony periodontal defects following treatment with an enamel matrix derivative combined with autogenous bone
Authors: Yilmaz Selcuc , Cakar Gokser , Yildirim Burak , Sculean Anton
Published: May 2010

Yilmaz S, Cakar G, Yildirim B, Sculean A. Healing of two and three wall intrabony periodontal defects following treatment with an enamel matrix derivative combined with autogenous bone. J Clin Periodontol 2010; 37: 544–550. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01567.x.

Background: There are still limited data on the outcomes of regenerative periodontal surgery using a combination of an enamel matrix protein derivative (EMD) and autogenous bone (AB).

Aim: To evaluate the healing of deep intrabony defects treated with either a combination EMD+AB or EMD alone.

Materials and Methods: Forty patients with advanced chronic periodontitis, with one deep intrabony defect, were randomly treated with either EMD+AB (test) or EMD (control). Clinical assessments were performed at baseline and at 1 year after treatment. The primary outcome variable was relative attachment level (RAL).

Results: Healing was uneventful in all patients. The test sites showed a reduction in the mean probing pocket depth (PPD) of 5.6 ± 0.9 mm (p<0.001), a gain in the mean RAL of 4.2 ± 1.1 mm (p<0.001) and a gain in the mean probing bone level (PBL) of 3.9 ± 1.0 mm (p<0.001). The control group displayed a mean PPD reduction of 4.6 ± 0.4 mm (p<0.001), a mean RAL gain of 3.4 ± 0.8 mm (p<0.001) and a mean PBL gain of 2.8 ± 0.8 mm (p<0.001). RAL gains of 4 mm were measured in 90% of the test defects and in 55% of the controls. PBL gains of 4 mm were obtained in 85% of the test defects and in 25% of the control ones. The test treatment resulted in statistically higher PPD reductions, RAL gains and PBL gains compared with the control (p<0.01).

Conclusions: Within their limits, the present results indicate that: (i) at 1 year after surgery, both therapies resulted in statistically significant clinical improvements compared with baseline and (ii) although the combination of EMD+AB resulted in statistically significant higher soft and hard tissue improvements compared with treatment with EMD, the clinical relevance of this finding is unclear.