bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interleukin‐8 and β‐glucuronidase in gingival crevicular fluid
Authors: Chung R.M. , Grbic J.T. , Lamster I.B.
Published: December 2005

Abstract Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) play a critical role in the host's response to the subgingival microflora. Interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) is a potent chemotactic and activating factor for PMN. In this study, the presence of IL‐8 in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) was examined in relation to the PMN indicator β‐glucuronidase (βG), as well as clinical parameters of chronic inflammatory periodontal disease. Data was obtained from 30 patients with periodontitis and 14 healthy controls. For the control group, GCF and clinical data were obtained only once. For the periodontitis patients, clinical data and GCF samples were collected prior to treatment, and GCF samples were again collected 2 weeks after scaling and root planing. Comparing control and periodontitis patients prior to treatment, IL‐8 concentration was lower in the patients with periodontitis. Scaling and root planing resulted in either an increase or a decrease in total IL‐8 and IL‐8 concentration GCF. A reduction in total IL‐8 or IL–8 concentration was accompanied by a corresponding reduction in βG activity. An increase in total IL‐8 or IL‐8 concentration after scaling and root planing was associated with an increase in βG activity in some patients and a reduction in βG activity in other patients. The periodontitis patients who did not demonstrate a linkage between IL‐8 and βG activity in GCF were those individuals with the highest βG activity prior to treatment. As elevated βG activity in GCF has been associated with an increased risk for probing attachment loss, the absence of a direct relationship between IL‐8 in GCF and PMN recruitment into the gingival crevice may characterize individuals at risk for progression of periodontitis.
Vigabatrin‐induced gingival overgrowth
Authors: Katz Joseph , Givol Navot , Chaushu Gavriel , Taicher Shlomo , Shemer Joshua
Published: December 2005

Abstract Vigabatrin is a relatively new medication used in the treatment of epilepsia. The present report concerns the use of vigabatrin by a 19‐year‐old woman. The patient manifested marked gingival overgrowth compatible clinically and histologically with the overgrowth induced by phenytoin, cyclosporine and calcium channel blockers. This is the 1st report of vigabatrin‐induced gingival overgrowth. Clinicians should be aware of similar lesions in patients using new anticonvulsants.
In vitro effect of the Sensonic™ toothbrush on Treponema denticola
Authors: Blanco Valerie L. , Cobb Charles M. , Williams Karen B. , Manch‐Citron Jean N.
Published: December 2005

The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the effects of the Sensonic, Oral‐B Braun mechanical and Oral‐B manual toothbrushes upon the morphology and cellular integrity of Treponema denticola. This spirochete was chosen because of its frequent isolation from active lesions of inflammatory periodontal disease and its pathogenic potential. T. denticola, strain ATCC 33421, was grown in an anaerobic nitrogen rich atmosphere in enhanced 1186 mycoplasma broth. 160, 5‐ml aliquots of cultured microbes were assigned to 1 of 3 brushing treatment groups and a control group. Samples were further divided into 4 groups of 10 samples each and assigned to one of 4 brushing exposure times: 15, 30, 45, and 60 seconds. After treatment, 0.2 ml of each sample was applied to a millipore filter and examined by SEM. Intact microbes were counted from 10 non‐overlapping fields at 4500X. Remaining treated samples were pelleted and examined by TEM. A statistically significant reduction of intact microbes for the Sensonic treatment group at each exposure time was found when compared to Oral‐B Braun. Oral‐B manual, and non‐treated controls. TEM examination of Sensonic treated samples revealed separation of the outer membrane at lower exposure times and only cellular debris after exposures of 45 and 60 s. These results suggest that exposure to the sonic frequency generated by the Sensonic toothbrush is capable of severely disrupting the structural integrity of T. denticola.
The effect of SRP on the clinical and microbiological parameters of periodontal diseases
Authors: Haffajee A. D. , Cugini M. A. , Dibart S. , Smith C. , Kent R. L. , Socransky S. S.
Published: December 2005

The purpose of the present investigation was to examine the effect of SRP on clinical and microbiological parameters in 57 subjects with adult periodontitis (mean age 47± 11 years). Subjects were monitored clinically and micro‐biologically prior to and 3, 6 and 9 months after full‐mouth SRP under local anaesthesia. Clinical assessments of plaque, redness, suppuration, BOP, pocket depth and attachment level were made at 6 sites per tooth. The means of duplicate attachment level measurements taken at each visit were used to assess change between visits. Clinical data were averaged within each subject and then averaged across subjects for each visit. Subgingival piaque samples were taken from the mesial aspect of each tooth and the presence and levels of 40 subgingival taxa were determined using whole genomic DNA probes and checkerboard DNA‐DNA hybridization. The mean levels and % of sites colonized by each species (prevalence) was computed for each subject at each visit. Differences in clinical and microbiological parameters before and after SRP were sought using the Wilcoxon signed ranks test or the Quade test for more than 2 visits. Overall, there was a mean gain in attachment level of 0.11±0.23 mm (range –0.53 to 0.64 mm) 3 months post‐therapy. There was a significant decrease in the % of sites exhibiting gingival redness (68 to 57%) and BOP (58 to 52%) as well as a mean (±SEM) pocket depth (3.3±0.06 to 3.1 ±0.05 mm). Sites with pre‐therapy pocket depths of <4 mm showed a non‐significant increase in pocket depth and attachment level. 4–6 mm pockets showed a significant decrease in pocket depth and a non‐significant gain in attachment post‐therapy, while 6 mm pockets showed a significant decrease in pocket depth and attachment level measurements post‐therapy. Significant clinical improvements were seen in subjects who had never smoked or were past smokers but not in current smokers. Mean prevalences and levels of P. gangivalis, T. denticola and B. forsythus were significantly reduced after SRP. while A. viscosus showed a significant increase in mean levels. The mean decrease in prevalence of P. gingivalis was similar at all pocket depth categories, while B. forsythus decreased more at shallow and intermediate pockets and A. viscosus increased most at deep sites, P. gingivalis, B. forsythus and T. denticola were equally prevalent among current, past and never smokers pre‐therapy, decreased significantly post‐SRP in never and past smokers but increased in current smokers. Clinical improvement post‐SRP was accompanied by a modest change in the subgingival microbiota, primarily a reduction in P. gingivalis, B. forsythus and T. denticola, suggesting potential targets for therapy and indicating that radical alterations in the subgingival microbiota may not be necessary or desirable in many patients.
In vitro accuracy and reproducibility of automated and conventional periodontal probes
Authors: Samuel E. D. , Griffiths G. S. , Petrie A.
Published: December 2005

The aim of this study was to investigate the accuracy and reproducibility of experienced and inexperienced examiners using 3 automated periodontal probes (Florida Pocket Probe, Florida Disk Probe, Peri Probe) in comparison with 3 conventional periodontal probes (Marquis, Williams and EN‐15 probes. Test blocks of aluminium had 30 holes of diameter 1.10 mm and depths ranging from 2.75 to 10.0 mm. machined with a tolerance of ±0.01 mm. 8 experienced examiners and 8 inexperienced examiners were selected to perform duplicate measurements on the blocks over 6 visits using each of the, 6 probes. 1 automated and 1 conventional probe were used at each examination. The % accuracy and reproducibility for each of the duplicate measurements was calculated and analysed using Friedman 2‐way analysis of variance and the Wilcoxon matched pairs test. On average, all probes showed high reproducibility, with the Florida Disk Probe, the Florida Pocket Probe and the Williams probe ranked best and the other 3 probes were less reproducible. On average, all probes showed a high degree of accuracy, automated probes were ranked best and were significantly better than conventional probes. Experience had little effect on reproducibility. with only the Peri Probe showing significant differences at the 5% level between the groups. Experience appeared to be more important for accuracy, as experienced examiners were more accurate than inexperienced examiners, with significant differences at the 5% level for the EN‐15. Florida Disk Probe and Peri Probe. However, inexperienced examiners were significantly more accurate using the Williams probe. This in vitro study has shown that automated probes offer increased accuracy over conventional probes and the Florida Pocket and disk probes compare well with conventional probes for reproducibility.
Assessment of the effect of an oscillating/rotating electric toothbrush on oral health A 12‐month longitudinal study
Authors: Ainamo J. , Xie Q. , Ainamo A. , Kallio P.
Published: December 2005

Abstract The aim of this 12‐month parallel design controlled clinical trial was to assess the effect of the Braun Oral‐B Plak Control electric toothbrush on supra‐gingival plaque and gingival health, and to compare it with a conventional soft manual toothbrush (Jordan). A total of 111 patients aged between 20 and 63 years, from a general population, with bleeding on probing at 30% or more of all sites examined were entered into the study. At baseline, immediately after periodontal examination, all volunteers received a thorough scaling of their teeth. Volunteers in both groups were told to brush their teeth for 2 min 2× a day. Oral hygiene instruction was given at the start of the study and was not repeated. At 3, 6 and 12 months, assessments were carried out by a single clinician who was not aware which group the volunteers belonged to. Analysis of results demonstrated that over the 12 months of the study, the Braun Oral‐B Plak Control was significantly more effective in improving gingival health than the manual toothbrush. There was, however, no difference between the 2 groups in terms of plaque removal, with the number of sites with visible plaque decreasing by a similar amount in both groups. In conclusion, results indicate that the Braun Oral‐B Plak Control toothbrush is safe and more effective than a manual toothbrush in improving gingival health.
Assessment of in vitro interleukin‐2‐producing capacity of peripheral blood lymphocytes from patients with periodontitis.
Authors: Tkahashi Keiso , Akutsu Isao , Arai Hideo , Sato Nobuhiko , Nagai Atsushi , Kurihara Hidemi , Murayma Yoji
Published: December 2005

Abstract In this cross‐sectional study, we assessed the in vitro interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) producing capacity of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and lymphocytes from patients with different forms of periodontitis. 45 patients (12 with localised early onset periodontitis (LEOP), 20 with generalised early onset periodontitis (GEOP), and 13 with adult periodontitis (AP), and 20 periodontally healthy subjects (HS), participated in this study. PBMC and lymphocytes were isolated from the subjects and their cells were stimulated with an anti‐CD3 monoclonal antibody (anti‐CD3 MoAb) and the secreted IL‐2 levels in the culture were bioassayed. No significant differences could be found in IL‐2 producing activity of PBMC between the patients and HS group. There was wide interindividual variation and high and low “IL‐2 producers” were noted. We found a LEOP patient who was a high producer of IL‐2 (>mean+8 SD) and 2 LEOP patients and a HS who were low producers of IL‐2 (<mean‐ 1.5 SD) with their lymphocytes. Incidentally, the HS became a LEOP patient during 2 years after this study. The low IL‐2 producing activity of their PBMC and lymphocytes against anti‐CD3 MoAb could not be overcome by stimulation with phorbol myristate acetate and ionomycin. Thus, we found high and low IL‐2 producing capacity by PBMC and lymphocytes in certain subjects and these subjects may be useful models in assessing the rôle of systemic IL‐2 productivity associated with their progression of periodontal disease.
Tooth mobility and periodontal Disease
Authors: Glargia M. , Lindhe J.
Published: December 2005

Abstract Tooth mobility (TM) is an important feature of periodontal disease. This is evidenced by the large number of devices and methods of TM assessment that have been developed and tested. TM had been considered and investigated as an indirect measure of the functional condition of the periodontium as well as possible aggravating co‐factor for periodontal disease.
Guidelines for the design and conduct of clinical trials on dentine hypersensitivity*
Authors: Holland G. R. , Narhi M. N. , Addy M. , Gangarosa L. , Orchardson R.
Published: December 2005

Abstract Clinical trials on dentine hypersensitivity have been numerous and protocols varied. To date there is little consensus as to the conduct of studies on this poorly‐understood yet common and painful dental condition. A committee of interested persons from academia and industry was convened to discuss the subject of clinical trials on dentine hypersensitivity and a consensus report is presented. A double‐blind randomized parallel groups design is recommended, although cross‐over designs may be used for the preliminary screening of agents. Subjects may have multiple sites scored. Sample size will be determined by estimating the variability in the study population, the effect to be detected and the power of the statistical test to be used. Subject selection is based on a clinical diagnosis of dentine hypersensitivity, excluding those with conflicting characteristics such as currently‐active medical or dental therapy. The vestibular surfaces of incisors, cuspids and bicuspids are preferred as sites to be tested. A range of sensitivity levels should be included. Tactile, cold and evaporative air stimuli should be applied. Negative and benchmark controls should be incorporated. Most trials should last 8 weeks. Sensitivity may be assessed either in terms of the stimulus intensity required to evoke pain or the subjective evaluation of pain produced by a stimulus using a visual analog or other appropriate scale. The subject's overall assessment may be determined by questionnaire. Outcomes should be expressed in terms of clinically significant changes in symptoms. Follow‐up evaluation is required to determine the persistence of changes. At least 2 independent trials should be conducted before a product receives approval.
Effect of triclosan on the subgingival microbiota of periodontitis‐susceptible subjects
Authors: Rosling B. , Dahlé G. , Volpe A. , Furuichi Y. , Ramberg P. , Lindhe J.
Published: December 2005

Abstract The present study evaluated the long‐term effect of (i) meticulous self‐performed, supragingival plaque control and (ii) the use of a triclosan/copolymer containing dentifrice in adult subjects susceptible to destructive periodontitis. 40 individuals were recruited into the trial. 3‐5 years prior to the baseline examination, they had all been treated by nonsurgical means‐ for advanced periodontal disease. During the subsequent maintenance phase, all subjects had at different time intervals exhibited sites with recurrent periodontitis. At a baseline examination. 6 surfaces per tooth were examined regarding bleeding on probing, probing pocket depth, and probing attachment level. The deepest pocket site in each quadrant (i.e. 4 sites per subject) was selected and samples of the subgingival bacteria were taken. At baseline, all volunteers received detailed information on proper oral hygiene techniques. This information was repeated on an individual need basis during the course of the subsequent 36‐months. No professional subgingival therapy was delivered between the baseline and the 36‐month examinations. The subjects were randomly distributed into 2 equal groups of 20 individuals each, 1 test and 1 control group. The members of the test group were supplied with a fluoridated dentifrice containing triclosan/copolymer (Total®. Colgate), while the controls received a corresponding dentifrice but without triclosan/copolymer. The findings demonstrated that in subjects with advanced and recurrent periodontitis, carefully practiced supragingival plaque control had some effects on the subgingival microbiota, but also that this was insufficient to prevent disease progression. In a corresponding group of subjects, however, who used a triclosan/copolymer dentifrice, the subgingival microbiota was reduced in both quantitative and qualitative terms and recurrent periodontitis was almost entirely prevented.
Subgingival temperature: relation to gingival crevicular fluid enzymes, cytokines, and subgingival plaque micro‐organisms
Authors: Wolff Larry F. , Koller Nancy J. , Smith Quenton T. , Mathur Ambika , Aeppli Dorothee
Published: December 2005

Abstract There have been no reports on the relationship of subgingival temperature to specific gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) components. Therefore, the purpose of this cross‐sectional study was to determine whether there was any relationship between subgingival temperature and GCF levels of neutrophil elastase (NE), myeloperoxidase (MPO), beta‐glucuronidase (BG), interleukin‐1 α (IL‐l), and interferon α (IFN). Furthermore, another objective was to confirm an association of subgingival temperature with clinical parameters and specific subgingival plaque micro‐organisms as has been reported earlier. 27 human subjects each having healthy (n=50), gingivitis (n=59) and periodontitis (n=53) sites were evaluated. The plaque index (PI), subgingival temperature, probing depth, attachment loss, bleeding index and gingival index were measured. GCF was sampled following the measurement of the PI and removal of the supragingival plaque. GCF samples were assayed for the enzymes NE, BG, MPO and the cytokines IFN‐α and IL‐1 α. A sterile Gracey curette was utilized at each sampled site to collect subgingival plaque. The plaque samples were evaluated using an immuno‐assay. Subgingival temperature was found to directly correlate with all clinical parameters (p<0.001). Significant, albeit not large, correlations were found between subgingival temperature and NE (r= 0.35, p<0.001), MPO (r= 0.26, p<0.001)and BG (r= 0.23, p<0.01). Temperature was found to correlate positively with E. corrodens (r= 0.33, p<0.02) and F. nucleatum (r= 0.25, p<0.05) but not with P. intermedia (r= 0.02, p= 0.9), P. gingivalis (r= 0, 20, p=0.1) and A. actinomycetemcomitans (r=0.01, p0.9). In conclusion, subgingival temperature is correlated with the GCF enzymes, NE, MPO and BG as well as the clinical parameters and specific plaque micro‐organisms associated with periodontal disease.
Dentine hypersensitivity and the placebo response
Authors: West N. X. , Addy M. , Jackson R. J. , Ridge D. B.
Published: December 2005

Abstract A considerable number of varied agents are apparently effective in the treatment of dentine hypersensitivity. In particular, the literature supports the efficacy of strontium, potassium and fluoride containing toothpastes. This study was a double‐blind, randomised, parallel group comparison of three products, namely strontium‐ and potassium‐based desensitising toothpastes both containing fluoride, and a conventional fluoride toothpaste. A total of 131 subjects entered a 4‐week wash‐in phase using the conventional fluoride toothpaste, of whom 120 entered a 6‐week treatment phase. Sensitive teeth were evaluated at wash‐in baseline, treatment baseline and after 2 and 6 weeks use of the treatment pastes. Dentine hypersensitivity was assessed with tactile and cold air stimuli together with an overall subjective assessment. Analysis of the findings was performed using non‐parametric statistical methods. Of the original 120 subjects, 112 completed the trial. All 3 toothpaste groups showed reductions in sensitivity over the 6 weeks; however, no significant differences were found between the three products at any given time. Interestingly, there was no significant change in sensitivity between wash‐in baseline and treatment baseline for the cold air stimulus with the fluoride‐only‐based paste. However, for the group using the same fluoride toothpaste, there was significant improvement between wash‐in baseline and week 6, and treatment baseline and week 6 for this stimulus, suggesting a substantial placebo effect occurred. There is a need for further investigation of a wash‐in period and examination of the placebo effect when evaluating dentine hypersensitivity trials.
Inhibition of experimental gingivitis in beagle dogs with topical salivary histatins
Authors: Paquette D. W. , Waters G. S. , Stefanidou V. L. , Lawrence H. P. , Friden P. M. , O'Connor S. M. , Sperati J. D. , Oppenheim F. G. , Hutchens L. H. , Williams R. C.
Published: December 2005

Abstract Histatins, histidine‐rich proteins found within parotid and submandibular secretions, are a novel class of endogenous peptides with antimicrobial properties. This masked, randomized, placebo‐controlled preclinical investigation examined the effect of 3 topical histatins on the development of plaque and gingivitis in beagle dogs. 16, female, 1‐year‐old beagles were brought to optimal gingival health by mechanical scaling and polishing followed by rigorous daily tooth brushing. At the conclusion of this pretreatment period, dogs were randomly divided into 4 groups for the application of test formulations, and were placed on a plaque‐promoting diet, Test agents included 3 synthetic salivary histatins (histatin 5, P‐113 and P‐113D) which were incorporated in hydroxypropyl methylcellulose gel at a concentration of 0.125%, and a placebo, or negative control, which was the gel vehicle alone. Throughout the 10‐week treatment period, test formulations (2.0 ml) were applied 2xdaily to all premolar teeth using a Monojet syringe. Plaque formation and gingival inflammation were assessed using the plaque (PI) and gingival (GI) indices on days 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, 42, 56 and 70. Furthermore, bleeding to probing was recorded as a percent of sites (%BOP) and according to the modified sulcus bleeding index (mSBI). Comparisons among groups and between group pairs (active versus placebo) were made with Kruskal‐Wallis tests with the average of data over the interval, days 14–42, being the primary focus of the analysis. From baseline to day 7, all groups expressed similar indices. Thereafter, overall significant differences among the groups were noted at day 42 for PI, at days 21, 28, 42 and 70 for GI, and at days 14 and 28 for %BOP (p<0.05). In particular, beagles treated with P‐113 demonstrated significantly lower PI scores at day 42 (p<0.05), significantly lower GI scores from days 21 through 42 (<0.05), and significantly lower %BOP scores at days 14 and 28 (p<0.05) compared to beagles treated with placebo. Beagles treated with P‐113D exhibited significantly lower GI at day 42 compared to the placebo (p<0.05). For the primary analysis conducted over the midtreatment interval (days 14–42), significant differences were detected for all parameters except mSBI (p<0.05). Accordingly, significantly lower PI scores were found for P‐113, lower GI scores for P‐113 and P‐113D, and lower %BOP for P‐113 and P‐113D compared to placebo (p<0.05). These data indicate that in the beagle model, salivary histatins, P‐113 and P‐113D, topically applied, can significantly reduce clinical signs of plaque formation and gingival inflammation.
A combined surgical and orthodontic treatment of class III furcations
Authors: Mayer Thomas , Basdra Efthimia K.
Published: December 2005

Abstract Oral hygiene in furcation defects of upper molars is difficult to achieve. In this case report, a combined surgical and orthodontic treatment procedure is presented to facilitate access and plaque control in furcation areas of upper molars with class‐III furcation defects. After endodontic treatment and root resection in an upper 1st molar, the remaining mesiobuccal and palatal roots were separated and aligned orthodontically within the dental arch, as one‐rooted teeth. The new morphological position of the roots greatly facilitated oral hygiene and may offer a better long‐term prognosis.
Release and activation of human neutrophil matrix metallo‐ and serine proteinases during phagocytosis of Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Treponema denticola
Authors: Ding Yanll , Haapasalo Markus , Kerosuo Eero , Lounatmaa Kari , Kotiranta Anja , Sorsa Timo
Published: December 2005

Abstract The phagocytic ingestion of reference strains and clinical isolates of Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Treponema denticola by polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) and the concomitant release of PMN granule proteinases were studied by specific functional and immunological assays. PMNs were incubated with the microorganisms anaerobically at H'C for indicated lime periods. The suspensions and pellets were used for phagocytic ingestion assay and electron microscopic study, respectively. The supernatants were used for the measurements of the amounts and activities of the released PMN enzymes including PMN gelatinase (MMP‐9), collagenase (MMP‐8), serine proteases (elastase and cathepsin G), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Both fluorescence microscopy and transmission electron microscopy showed that F. nucleatum, P. gingivalis and T. denticola were ingested by the PMNs in comparable numbers. However, measurements of the enzymes released from the triggered PMNs revealed major differences among the three species. High amount of elastase was released from the PMNs triggered by F. nucleatum, but not by P. gingivalis or T. denticola. The treatment of PMNs with P. gingivalis whole cells resulted in the release of gelatinase partly in the 82 kD active form, suggesting proteolytic activation of the degranulated 92 kD pro MMP‐9. The 82 kD active form of gelatinase was not detected upon triggering the PMNs with F. nucleatum and T. denticola. The PMN‐bacteria interaction did not result in release of LDH from triggered PMNs indicating the proteinase release was not due to the PMN cell death. The results show that the susceptibilities of the 3 potentially periodontopathogenic microorganisms. F. nucleatum, P. gingivalis and T. denticola to phagocytic ingestion are not directly related to the amounts and activities of PMN enzymes released during the bacteria‐PMN interactions. As PMN degranulation is considered as one of the major pathogenic mechanisms in periodontitis, the observed differences among the microorganisms may be important virulence characteristics of these species.
Citric acid demineralization of cementum and dentin: the effect of the storage medium
Authors: Hawkins Christopher , Sterrett John D. , Russell Carl
Published: December 2005

Abstract The purpose of this study was to see if the root surface topography of teeth, stored in saline and subsequently treated with citric acid, differred from the root surface topography of teeth that were treated immediately upon extraction. 12 freshly extracted adult human permanent teeth, with proximal surfaces free of caries and periodontal disease, were treated in succession. The crowns were removed at the level of periodontal attachment, the teeth sectioned buccallingually and a treatment area deligniated on each proximal section. The treatment area of 6 teeth was root planed to expose dentin (D) and scaled to remove adherent tissue and leave a cementum surfaces (C) on the other 6 teeth. A coronalapical groove down the middle of the treatment area divided it into approximately equal parts or experimental regions. One proximal section of each tooth was placed in physiologic saline (S) and treated after 6 weeks of storage while the other proximal section was freshly treated (F). Treatment consisted of applying a 30% citric acid (CA) solution (pH= 1.60) for 5 min. Cotton pellets soaked in the citric acid solution were placed (P) on one half of the experimental area and heavily burnished (B) on the other half. Treatment areas were subsequently prepared for scanning electron microscopy analysis. Assessment was made of (i) the % of surface area tufted, (ii) fibril tufting depth (0–3) and (iii) fibril tufting density (1–3). Similarities were found in the data for both storage methods (F and S) across each application technique (P or B) and each tooth surface (D or C) with respect to the (i) % area tufted and (ii) frequency distribution of tufting depth scores. As for the application techniques, the data for burnishing was greater than placed across each storage method (F or S) and each tooth surface (D or C) for the same two parameters. The results of the study indicated that 6‐week physiologic saline storage does not affect root surface demineralization by citric acid, as assessed by SEM.
Infrared radiation induces the p53 signaling pathway: role in infrared prevention of ultraviolet B toxicity
Authors: Frank Sandra , Menezes Salatiel , Lebreton‐De Coster Corinne , Oster Michèle , Dubertret Louis , Coulomb Bernard
Published: December 2005

Abstract:  We have previously observed that preirradiation with naturally occurring doses of near‐infrared (IR) protects normal human dermal fibroblasts from ultraviolet (UV) cytotoxicity in vitro. This effect was observed in temperature‐controlled conditions, without heat shock protein (Hsp72‐70) induction. Moreover, IR inhibited UVB‐induced apoptosis by modulating the Bcl2/Bax balance, pointing to a role of p53. Here, we show for the first time that p53‐deficient SaOs cells are not protected from UVB cytotoxicity by IR preirradiation, suggesting that the response to IR is p53‐dependent. Thus, we investigated the effect of IR on the p53 signaling pathway. Normal human dermal fibroblasts exposed in vitro to IR accumulated p53 protein, involving p53 stabilization and phosphorylation of serine 15 (Ser15) and Ser20. IR‐induced p53 accumulation correlated with increased expression of p21 and GADD45, showing that IR also stimulates p53 transcriptional activity. By modulating UVB‐induced targets of the p53 signaling pathway, IR irradiation appears to anticipate the UVB response and to prepare cells to better resist subsequent UV‐induced stress. This is reinforced by the fact that IR preirradiation reduces the formation of UVB‐induced thymine dimers.
Syntaxin 9 is Enriched in Skin Hair Follicle Epithelium and Interacts With the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor
Authors: Wang Ya , Foo Ling Yann , Guo Ke , Gan Bin Qi , Zeng Qi , Hong Wanjin , Tang Bor Luen
Published: December 2005

We describe a novel syntaxin family member, syntaxin 9 (Syn 9), which does not possess a typical C‐terminal hydrophobic tail anchor. Syn 9 has, however, a Q‐SNARE domain and an overall homology to syntaxins (with the highest overall homology with mammalian syntaxin 11). Syn 9 is enriched in some epithelial cells, particularly that of the stomach lining and the skin. At the skin, it is found in the epidermal layers as well as structures associated with hair follicles. A biochemical interaction screen revealed that Syn 9 interacts specifically with the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor. Overexpression of Syn 9 perturbed EGF receptor endocytosis but does not appear to affect the internalization of the transferrin receptor. Syn 9 may therefore have a role in EGF receptor transport and signaling in certain epithelial cell types.
Fine mapping of a sedative‐hypnotic drug withdrawal locus on mouse chromosome 11
Authors: Hood H. M. , Metten P. , Crabbe J. C. , Buck K. J.
Published: December 2005

We have established that there is a considerable amount of common genetic influence on physiological dependence and associated withdrawal from sedative‐hypnotic drugs including alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates and inhalants. We previously mapped two loci responsible for 12 and 9% of the genetic variance in acute alcohol and pentobarbital withdrawal convulsion liability in mice, respectively, to an approximately 28‐cM interval of proximal chromosome 11. Here, we narrow the position of these two loci to a 3‐cM interval (8.8 Mb, containing 34 known and predicted genes) using haplotype analysis. These include genes encoding four subunits of the GABAAreceptor, which is implicated as a pivotal component in sedative‐hypnotic dependence and withdrawal. We report that the DBA/2J mouse strain, which exhibits severe withdrawal from sedative‐hypnotic drugs, encodes a unique GABAAreceptor γ2 subunit variant compared with other standard inbred strains including the genetically similar DBA/1J strain. We also demonstrate that withdrawal from zolpidem, a benzodiazepine receptor agonist selective for α1 subunit containing GABAAreceptors, is influenced by a chromosome 11 locus, suggesting that the same locus (gene) influences risk of alcohol, benzodiazepine and barbiturate withdrawal. Our results, together with recent knockout studies, point to the GABAAreceptor γ2 subunit gene (Gabrg2) as a promising candidate gene to underlie phenotypic differences in sedative‐hypnotic physiological dependence and associated withdrawal episodes.
A genetic screen for behavioral mutations that perturb dopaminergic homeostasis in mice
Authors: Speca D. J. , Rabbee N. , Chihara D. , Speed T. P. , Peterson A. S.
Published: December 2005

Disruption of dopaminergic (DA) systems is thought to play a central role in the addictive process and in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Although inheritance plays an important role in the predisposition to these disorders, the genetic basis of this is not well understood. To provide additional insight, we have performed a modifier screen in mice designed to identify mutations that perturb DA homeostasis. With a genetic background sensitized by a mutation in the dopamine transporter (DAT), we used random chemical mutagenesis and screened for mutant mice with locomotor abnormalities. Four mutant lines were identified with quantitatively elevated levels of locomotor activity. Mapping of mutations in these lines identified two loci that alter activity only when dopamine levels are elevated by a DAT mutation and thus would only have been uncovered by this type of approach. One of these quantitative trait loci behaves as an enhancer of DA neurotransmission, whereas the other may act as a suppressor. In addition, we also identified three loci which are not dependent on the sensitized background but which also contribute to the overall locomotor phenotype.
Selected line difference in sensitivity to a GABAergic neurosteroid during ethanol withdrawal
Authors: Finn D. A. , Douglass A. D. , Beadles‐Bohling A. S. , Tanchuck M. A. , Long S. L. , Crabbe J. C.
Published: December 2005

The neurosteroid allopregnanolone (ALLO) is a potent positive modulator of γ‐aminobutyric acidA(GABAA) receptors. Earlier work indicates that sensitivity to the anticonvulsant effect of ALLO was enhanced during ethanol (EtOH) withdrawal in rats and in C57BL/6 mice, an inbred strain with mild EtOH withdrawal. In contrast, ALLO sensitivity was reduced during EtOH withdrawal in DBA/2 mice, an inbred strain with severe EtOH withdrawal. Thus, the present studies examined ALLO sensitivity during EtOH withdrawal in another animal model of EtOH withdrawal severity, the Withdrawal Seizure‐Prone (WSP) and Withdrawal Seizure‐Resistant (WSR) selected lines. Male mice were exposed to EtOH vapor or air for 72 h. During peak withdrawal, animals were injected with ALLO [0, 3.2, 5, 10 or 17 mg/kg, intraperitoneally (i.p.)] and tested for their sensitivity to the anticonvulsant effect. In separate studies, potentiation of GABA‐stimulated chloride uptake by ALLO (10 nmto 10 µm) was assessed in microsacs prepared from mouse brain mice during peak withdrawal. Notably, WSP mice were cross‐tolerant to the anticonvulsant effect of ALLO during EtOH withdrawal (i.e. significant decrease in the efficacy of ALLO) when compared with values in air‐exposed mice. In contrast, sensitivity to the anticonvulsant effect of ALLO was unchanged during EtOH withdrawal in the WSR line. Functional sensitivity of GABAAreceptors to ALLO was significantly decreased during EtOH withdrawal in WSP mice in a manner consistent with the change in behavioral sensitivity to ALLO. These findings suggest that mice selectively bred for differences in EtOH withdrawal severity are differentially sensitive to ALLO during EtOH withdrawal.
Tight regulation of transgene expression by tetracycline‐dependent activator and repressor in brain
Authors: Uchida S. , Sakai S. , Furuichi T. , Hosoda H. , Toyota K. , Ishii T. , Kitamoto A. , Sekine M. , Koike K. , Masushige S. , Murphy G. , Silva A. J. , Kida S.
Published: December 2005

Methods to temporally and spatially regulate gene mutations will provide a powerful strategy to investigate gene function in the brain. To develop these methods, we have established a tightly regulated system for transgene expression in the forebrain using both a tetracycline (Tc)‐dependent transcription activator (rtTA) and a repressor (TetR‐Kruppel‐associated box). In this system, the repressor binds to the Tc‐responsive element (TRE) in the absence of doxycycline (Dox), leading to the repression of leaky activation of TRE‐mediated transcription caused by weak binding of rtTA to TRE. Upon Dox administration, only the activator binds to TRE and activates transcription. We tested this system in cultured cells by bicistronically expressing both the regulators using an internal ribosome entry site (IRES). In COS‐1, HeLa and SHSY5Y cells, leaky transcription activation led by rtTA in the absence of Dox was repressed without decreasing the level of activated transcription in the presence of Dox. Using this system, transgenic mice were produced that express both the regulators using IRES in the forebrain under the control of the αCaMKII promoter and were bred with transgenic mice carrying the TRE‐dependent reporter transgene. In reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction and in situ hybridization analyses of the forebrain in adult double transgenic mice, the treatment of Dox induces reporter mRNA expression, which was not detected before the treatment and after the withdraw of Dox following the treatment. These results indicate that this system allows the tight regulation of transgene expression in a Dox‐dependent fashion in the forebrain and will be useful in investigating gene function in the brain.
Sp1 and NFκB pathways are regulated in brain in response to acute and chronic ethanol
Authors: Rulten S. L. , Ripley T. L. , Hunt C. L. , Stephens D. N. , Mayne L. V.
Published: December 2005

DNA microarray analysis was used to identify candidate ethanol‐regulated genes, as a first step towards exploring how transcriptional changes might lead to ethanol‐induced changes in behaviour. Mice were treated with a single acute intraperitoneal ethanol dose and DNA microarray analysis performed on midbrain 2 h posttreatment. We predicted that if ethanol‐regulated genes contribute towards behaviour, then constitutive variation in brain expression levels may also contribute to strain‐specific differences in ethanol‐related behaviour of inbred mouse strains. On the basis of this assumption, we interrogated the BXD inbred strain phenotype database and the U74Av2 MAS5 brain expression database using the WebQTL tool (http://www.genenetwork.org/) and correlated ethanol‐related behaviours to expression levels. Constitutive expression levels of 70/90 candidate genes, identified from the DNA microarray analysis, varied significantly between inbred strains and correlated significantly with strain‐specific differences in ethanol‐related behaviours. These genes were then mapped onto biochemical pathways using Stratagene's PathwayAssistsoftware. This analysis identified the transcription factor Sp1 and NFκB pathways in the acute response to ethanol. Ethanol regulation of Sp1 transcription was conserved between humans and mouse. As predicted, downstream targets of Sp1 were also ethanol regulated. NFκBia, an important regulator of NFκB function and Rela, an NFκB‐binding partner, were both regulated by ethanol. Expression of both Sp1 and NFκBiα were also downregulated following chronic ethanol treatment. As Sp1 and NFκB are implicated in plasticity and behaviour, our data suggest a role for these transcription factors in the long‐term behavioural adaptations to ethanol.
Early genomics of learning and memory: a review
Authors: Paratore S. , Alessi E. , Coffa S. , Torrisi A. , Mastrobuono F. , Cavallaro S.
Published: December 2005

The characterization of the molecular mechanisms whereby our brain codes, stores and retrieves memories remains a fundamental puzzle in neuroscience. Despite the knowledge that memory storage involves gene induction, the identification and characterization of the effector genes has remained elusive. The completion of the Human Genome Project and a variety of new technologies are revolutionizing the way these mechanisms can be explored. This review will examine how a genomic approach can be used to dissect and analyze the complex dynamic interactions involved in gene regulation during learning and memory. This innovative approach is providing information on a new class of genes associated with learning and memory in health and disease and is elucidating new molecular targets and pathways whose pharmacological modulation may allow new therapeutic approaches for improving cognition.
Self‐Injury and Präder–Willi Syndrome
Authors: Buono Stephano , Palmigiano Maria , Scannella Fabio , Occhipinti Paola , Greco Donatella
Published: December 2005

Abstract  Präder–Willi syndrome (PWS) is predominantly a genetic disorder resulting from the absence of normally active paternally expressed genes from the 15q11–q13 chromosome region. The principal characteristics are developmental psychomotor delay, generalized hypotonia, intellectual delay, behavioral and emotional problems, hyperphagia, and consequent obesity. There are frequent problems in the emotional affective sphere, with significant emotional instability, irascibility, scarce tolerance to frustrations, rigidity of thoughts, repetitive behaviors, and self‐injury. This study evaluated self‐injurious behaviors (SIBs) prevalent among persons with PWS, by their localization in relation to different degrees of intellectual disability, and their evolution in time by using a specially designed interview questionnaire with families and providers. The subjects were drawn from referrals to the Diagnostic and Rehabilitation Departments of the OASI Institute, Troina, Italy and consisted of the 15 known persons with PWS (7 males; 8 females) residing in Sicily (Italy). SIBs were found in 73% of the subjects, and the body areas most affected were hands, arms, and legs. The most frequent SIB observed was skin‐picking (64%). Our data substantially agree with what has been reported in the literature, although we found slightly lower rates of SIBs in the Sicilian sample.
Cleavage of focal adhesion proteins and PKCδ during lovastatin‐induced apoptosis in spontaneously immortalized rat brain neuroblasts
Authors: González‐Fernández Lauro , Cerezo‐Guisado Maria Isabel , Langmesser Sonja , Bragado Maria Julia , Lorenzo Maria Jesús , García‐Marín Luis Jesús
Published: December 2005

We have previously shown that lovastatin induces apoptosis in spontaneously immortalized rat brain neuroblasts. Focal adhesion proteins and protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ) have been implicated in the regulation of apoptosis. We found that lovastatin exposure induced focal adhesion kinase, Crk‐associated substrate (p130Cas), PKCδ cleavage and caspase‐3 activation in a concentration‐dependent manner. Lovastatin effects were fully prevented by mevalonate. The cleavage of p130Cas was almost completely inhibited by z‐DEVD‐fmk, a specific caspase‐3 inhibitor, and z‐VAD‐fmk, a broad spectrum caspase inhibitor, indicating that cleavage is mediated by caspase‐3. In contrast, the lovastatin‐induced cleavage of PKCδ was only blocked by z‐VAD‐fmk suggesting that PKCδ cleavage is caspase‐dependent but caspase‐3‐independent. Additionally, z‐VAD‐fmk partially prevented lovastatin‐induced neuroblast apoptosis. The present data show that lovastatin may induce neuroblast apoptosis by both caspase‐dependent and independent pathways. These findings may suggest that the caspase‐dependent component leading to the neuroblast cell death is likely to involve the cleavage of focal adhesion proteins and PKCδ, which may be partially responsible for some biochemical features of neuroblast apoptosis induced by lovastatin.
The Penile Vasculature in Systemic Sclerosis: A Duplex Ultrasound Study
Authors: Aversa Antonio , Proietti Michele , Bruzziches Roberto , Salsano Felice , Spera Giovanni
Published: December 2005

Introduction

Systemic sclerosis is a connective tissue disease characterized by Raynaud's phenomenon, degenerative changes and vascular lesions in the presence of thickened, sclerotic skin lesions determined by cellular proliferation, and excess of extracellular matrix production. The role of ultrasound in the investigation of penile pathology is well established as vasculogenic impotence accounts for more than 30% out of overall causes.

Aim

In this article, we report for the first time the extent of penile vascular damage in a series of 15 sclerodermic patients (mean age 47 ± 12.5 SD) under current treatment for their disease irrespective of their sexual dysfunction complaints.

Methods

After disease classification (mean duration of disease 7.2 ± 5.1 years), all patients were interviewed about the presence or absence of erectile dysfunction (ED) by using the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) questionnaire, and then blood flow velocity in the cavernous artery following standardized pharmacostimulation was determined with Duplex ultrasonography along with the intima media thickness (IMT) of the common carotid artery, a valid index for atherosclerosis.

Results

Mean SHIM scores revealed the presence of moderate-to-severe ED (mean 13.3 ± 6.3). Interestingly, in all patients diffuse hyperechoic “spots” inside the corpora cavernosa along with thickening of the tunica albuginea were found. Severely impaired mean peak systolic velocities (20.2 ± 5.5 cm/second) in the presence of mild venous leakage as expressed by mean end diastolic velocities (4.6 ± 2.9 cm/second) were found along with normal IMT (0.065 ± 0.010 cm) and acceleration time (92.3 ± 32.7 cm/second).

Conclusion

Penile fibrosis almost invariably occurs in sclerodermic patients and this determines incomplete penile arterial and smooth muscle cell relaxation and ED despite the absence of indirect signs of early atherosclerosis, that is, abnormal IMT and acceleration time.