bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Causal Model of Health‐Related Quality of Life in Thai Patients With Heart‐Failure
Authors: Krethong Phuangphaka , Jirapaet Veena , Jitpanya Chanokporn , Sloan Rebecca
Published: August 2008

Background: Heart failure is an increasing global health problem which adversely affects all aspects of a patient's health‐related quality of life (HRQOL).

Purpose: The hypothesized causal model of HRQOL in Thai heart‐failure patients was based on Wilson and Cleary's HRQOL conceptual model. We examined causal relationships among bio‐physiological status, symptoms, functional status, general health perception (GHP), and HRQOL shown in the model, and added an additional item–social support.

Methods: A stratified four‐stage random sampling method was used to obtain 422 heart‐failure patients 18 years of age and older who visited nine outpatient hospital clinics from five regions of Thailand including metropolitan Bangkok. In addition to the participants' personal medical records, research instruments consisted of a personal information questionnaire, the Enhancing Recovery in Coronary Heart Disease Social Support Instrument, Cardiac Symptom Survey, the New York Heart Association functional classification system, a 100‐mm horizontal visual analogue scale of GHP, and the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS and AMOS computer programs.

Results: The model fit well with the empirical data (χ2=19.87, df=13, p=0.10, GFI =0.99, and RMSEA=0.04). Symptom status was the most influential factor affecting HRQOL by both direct and indirect effects through functional status and GHP. Social support was the least influential factor affecting HRQOL. Social support had a negative direct effect on HRQOL, but had a positive indirect effect on HRQOL through symptom status and GHP.

Conclusions: HRQOL was affected by each variable proposed in our causal model of HRQOL in Thai heart‐failure patients. Symptom status had the strongest effect on HRQOL.

Clinical Relevance: A comprehensive symptom management and prevention program that includes the described health outcome measures could lead to improved HRQOL for Thai heart‐failure patients, and perhaps others.
Hospital Nurses' Perception of the Geriatric Nurse Practice Environment
Authors: Boltz Marie , Capezuti Elizabeth , Bowar‐Ferres Susan , Norman Robert , Secic Michelle , Kim Hongsoo , Fairchild Susan , Mezey Mathy , Fulmer Terry
Published: August 2008

Purpose: To test the relationship between nurses' perceptions of the geriatric nurse practice environment (GNPE) and perceptions of geriatric‐care delivery, and geriatric nursing knowledge.

Design: A secondary analysis of data collected by the New York University Hartford Institute Benchmarking Service staff using a retrospective, cross‐sectional, design.

Methods: Responses of 9,802 direct‐care registered nurses from 75 acute‐care hospitals in the US that administered the GIAP (Geriatric Institutional Assessment Profile) from January 1997 to December 2005 were analyzed using linear mixed effects modeling to explore associations between variables while controlling for potential covariates.

Findings: Controlling for hospital and nurse characteristics, a positive geriatric nurse practice environment was associated with positive geriatric care delivery (F=4,686, p<.0001) but not geriatric nursing knowledge. The independent contribution of all three dimensions of the geriatric nurse practice environment (resource availability, institutional values, and capacity for collaboration) influences care delivery for hospitalized older‐adult patients.

Conclusions: Organizational support for geriatric nursing is an important influence upon quality of geriatric care.

Clinical Relevance: Hospitals that utilize an organizational approach addressing the multifaceted nature of the GNPE are more likely to improve the hospital experience of older adults.
Creating a Healthy Workplace for New‐Generation Nurses
Authors: Lavoie‐Tremblay Mélanie , Wright David , Desforges Nicole , Gélinas Céline , Marchionni Caroline , Drevniok Ulrika
Published: August 2008

Purpose: To examine dimensions of the psychosocial work environment that influence the psychological health of new‐generation nurses.

Background: While much work has been done concerning the health of nurses in general, research on the relationship between the nursing work environment and the psychological well‐being of new‐generation nurses at the start of their careers is limited.

Design: A correlational descriptive design was used for this quantitative study. Survey data were collected from new nurses (N=309) whose names were obtained from a provincial licensing registry in Quebec, Canada.

Findings: Among new nurses, 43.4% stated that they have a high level of psychological distress. These nurses were significantly more likely to perceive an imbalance between effort expended on the job and rewards received, low decisional latitude, high psychological demands, high job strain, as well as low social support from colleagues and superiors (p ≤ 0.05).

Conclusions: Understanding the relationship between the work environment and health as experienced by new‐generation nurses is imperative for creating interventions to successfully recruit and retain these young nurses.

Clinical Relevance: Generation Y nurses in Quebec, faced with high levels of psychological distress because of their exposure to difficult nursing work environments, might leave the profession thereby exacerbating an already salient nursing shortage.
The Development of Advanced Nursing Practice Globally
Authors: Sheer Barbara , Wong Frances Kam Yuet
Published: August 2008

Purpose: To examine the development of advanced nursing practice globally.

Methods: Data were collected from documentary resources available in the International Nurse Practitioners/Advanced Practice Nurse Network (INP/APNN) of the International Council of Nurses. The areas examined were guided by the “key informant survey on advanced nursing practice self‐administered questionnaire.” Two core members of the INP/APNN who have rich experience in global advanced nursing development analyzed the data.
A total of 14 countries and three regions from five continents were included in the analyses. The development of advanced nursing practice in these areas is facilitated by a need for better access to care in a cost‐containment era and the enhancement of nursing education to postgraduate level. The mechanism for regulation of practice is in place in some countries.

Conclusions: Confirms the development of advanced practice in nursing is a global trend.

Clinical Relevance: APNs can improve global health with points to enhanced education in nursing and regulation of advanced practice.
A DNA‐Based Approach for the Forensic Identification of Asiatic Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus) in a Traditional Asian Medicine*
Authors: Peppin Lindsay , McEwing Ross , Carvalho Gary R. , Ogden Rob
Published: August 2008

Abstract: Attempts to prevent illegal trade in bile and gallbladders from Asiatic black bears,Ursus thibetanus, are hampered by difficulties associated with identifying such items. We extracted DNA from bile crystals of unknown species origin and generated partial cytochromeb(cytb) sequences using either universal primers (positioned in conserved regions of cytb), or primers designed on existingU. thibetanussequences (UT). Species origin was determined by aligning resolved sequences to reference sequence data. The universal primers were unsuitable forU. thibetanusidentification when multiple species templates were present in the samples. The UT primers amplifiedU. thibetanusDNA from all sample extracts, including those containing mixed species templates. The amplified fragment can distinguishU. thibetanusfrom the most closely related species,U. americanus, a distinct advantage of DNA sequencing over the methods currently used to analyze suspectedU. thibetanusbile.
Suicide by Blasting Caps: A Case Study of Rare Cranial Trauma*
Authors: Allaire Maria T. , Manhein Mary H.
Published: August 2008

Abstract: Suicide is a deliberate act of ending one’s life. Suicide by use of any explosive device, when not involved in a terrorist act, is quite rare in occurrence when compared with other methods routinely utilized. In this paper, we present to the medicolegal community a case of an adult male who committed suicide with blasting caps and the subsequent extensive damage to the cranial hard tissue. Although the cause and manner of death were relatively straightforward, consultation with forensic anthropologists was requested for an anthropological trauma assessment of the highly fragmented skull. After the skull was cleaned and reconstructed, the analysis revealed similarities between blasting cap trauma to the head and high velocity gunshot trauma to the head. Therefore, in a case where some evidence may have been removed or destroyed, forensic analysis involving trauma of this magnitude could result in a misinterpretation of the true mechanism responsible for the osseous damage. In this case, cooperation among the law enforcement agency, coroner’s investigators, the forensic pathologist, and forensic anthropologists provided a comprehensive death case analysis.
Utility of Immunoassay in Drug Screening in Skeletal Tissues: Sampling Considerations in Detection of Ketamine Exposure in Femoral Bone and Bone Marrow Following Acute Administration Using ELISA*
Authors: VandenBoer Trevor C. , Grummett Samuel A. , Watterson James H.
Published: August 2008

Abstract: Detection of ketamine exposure in skeletal tissues by automated enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and gas chromatography with electron capture detection (GC‐ECD) is described. Rats (n = 18) received 0, 15, 30, or 75 mg/kg ketamine hydrochloride acutely (i.p.), and were euthanized within 15 min or 1 h. Ketamine was extracted from ground femoral bone by methanolic incubation followed by liquid–liquid extraction (LLE), while marrow was homogenized in alkaline solution, and then underwent LLE. Extracts were analyzed by ELISA, and subsequently by GC‐ECD following derivatization with trifluoroacetic acid anhydride. The effect of tissue type (i.e., diaphyseal bone vs. epiphyseal bone vs. bone marrow) on the immunoassay response was examined through determination of binary classification test sensitivity (S) and measurement of the relative decrease in absorbance (%DA, drug‐positive tissues vs. drug‐free controls) in each tissue type. The %DA varied significantly between different tissues examined under a given dose condition, and generally decreased in the order marrow > epiphyseal bone > diaphyseal bone, at all dose levels examined. Measured S values for marrow, epiphyseal bone, and diaphyseal bone were 100%, 77%, and 23%, respectively (75 mg/kg dose). These results suggest that the type of skeletal tissue sampled and position sampled within a given bone (diaphyses vs. epiphyses) are important parameters in drug screening of skeletal tissues.
The Discrimination Potential of Ultraviolet‐Visible Spectrophotometry, Thin Layer Chromatography, and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy for the Forensic Analysis of Black and Blue Ballpoint Inks
Authors: Causin Valerio , Casamassima Rosario , Marega Carla , Maida Pietro , Schiavone Sergio , Marigo Antonio , Villari Antonino
Published: August 2008

Abstract:  The knowledge of the discriminating power of analytical techniques used for the differentiation of writing inks can be useful when interpreting results. Ultraviolet‐visible (UV‐VIS) spectrophotometry, thin layer chromatography (TLC), and diffuse reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) were used to examine a population of 21 black and 12 blue ballpoint writing inks. Based on corroborative results of these methods, the discrimination power for UV‐VIS, TLC, and FT‐IR was determined to be 100% and 98% for the black and blue inks, respectively. Generally, TLC and UV‐VIS can be used to differentiate the colorant components (i.e., dyes and some pigments) found in inks. As FT‐IR can be utilized to identify some of the noncolorant components, it was determined to be an excellent complementary technique that can be implemented into an analytical scheme for ink analysis.
Long‐term antidepressant treatment in bipolar disorder: meta‐analyses of benefits and risks
Authors: Ghaemi S. N. , Wingo A. P. , Filkowski M. A. , Baldessarini R. J.
Published: August 2008

Objective:  Long‐term antidepressant (AD) treatment for depression in bipolar disorder (BPD) patients is highly prevalent, but its benefits and risks remain uncertain, encouraging this meta‐analysis of available research.

Method:  We reviewed randomized controlled trials for BPD involving ≥6 months of treatment with AD ± mood stabilizer (MS) vs. placebo ± MS, using meta‐analyses to compare reported risks of new depression vs. mania.

Results:  In seven trials (350 BPD patients) involving 12 contrasts, long‐term treatments that included ADs yielded 27% lower risk of new depression vs. MS‐only or no treatment [pooled relative risk, RR = 0.73; 95% CI 0.55–0.97; number‐needed‐to‐treat (NNT) = 11], but 72% greater risk for new mania [RR = 1.72; 95% CI 1.23–2.41; number‐needed‐to‐harm (NNH) = 7]. Compared with giving an MS‐alone, adding an AD yielded neither major protection from depression (RR = 0.84; 95% CI 0.56–1.27; NNT = 16) nor substantial increase in risk of mania (RR = 1.37; 95% CI 0.81–2.33; NNH = 16).

Conclusion:  Long‐term adjunctive AD treatment was not superior to MS‐alone in BPD, further encouraging reliance on MSs as the cornerstone of prophylaxis.
Improvement of periodontal condition by probiotics with Lactobacillus salivarius WB21: a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Shimauchi Hidetoshi , Mayanagi Gen , Nakaya Seigo , Minamibuchi Maiko , Ito Yasuhiro , Yamaki Keiko , Hirata Haruhisa
Published: August 2008

Aim: This randomized clinical study was designed to evaluate the effect of probiotic intervention using lactobacilli on the periodontal condition of volunteers without severe periodontitis.

Material and Methods: Freeze‐dried Lactobacillus salivarius WB21 (WB21)‐containing tablets or a placebo were given to volunteers in a double‐blind randomized study. A total of 66 volunteers were finally enrolled and randomly assigned to receive tablets containing WB21 (6.7 × 108 CFU) with xylitol or xylitol alone (placebo) three times a day for 8 weeks. Periodontal clinical parameters and whole saliva samples were obtained at baseline (BL), 4 weeks, and the end of the interventional period (8 weeks). Salivary lactoferrin (Lf) levels were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Lactobacilli in saliva and plaque samples was detected by semi‐quantitative RT‐PCR using 16S rRNA primers.

Results: Periodontal clinical parameters were improved in both groups after an 8‐week intervention. Current smokers in the test group showed a significantly greater improvement of plaque index and probing pocket depth from BL when compared with those in the placebo group. Salivary Lf level was also significantly decreased in the test group smokers.

Conclusion: Our results indicate that probiotics could be useful in the improvement/maintenance of oral health in subjects at a high risk of periodontal disease.
Association of cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate levels in serum with periodontal status in older Japanese adults
Authors: Ishisaka Aiko , Ansai Toshihiro , Soh Inho , Inenaga Kiyotoshi , Awano Shuji , Yoshida Akihiro , Hamasaki Tomoko , Sonoki Kazuo , Takata Yutaka , Nishihara Tatsuji , Takehara Tadamichi
Published: August 2008

Background and Aim: The associations between periodontitis and stress‐related steroid hormone levels released by the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis are poorly understood. In this study, we examined the association between levels of the stress‐related steroid hormones cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone‐sulphate (DHEAS) and periodontitis in elderly subjects.

Methods: A total of 467 subjects participated in this study. Serum cortisol and DHEAS levels were determined, and a medical questionnaire regarding medical conditions and lifestyle was administered. In addition, clinical examinations including probing depth (PD), bleeding on probing (BOP), and clinical attachment loss (CAL) were conducted.

Results: The subjects were divided into tertiles on the basis of periodontitis severity. When the analysis was stratified by smoking status, we found that cortisol levels were significantly higher in those with severe CAL among subjects who had never smoked. Furthermore, multiple regression analysis showed that a higher level of cortisol was significantly associated with greater numbers of sites with severe CAL only in those who had never smoked, while a somewhat weaker association was also observed regarding cortisol/DHEAS ratio. In contrast, the level of DHEAS in serum was not associated with periodontitis.

Conclusion: There were significant associations between serum cortisol level, including cortisol/DHEAS ratio, and periodontitis severity in elderly subjects who had never smoked.
A correlation found between gold concentration in blood and patch test reactions in patients with coronary stents
Authors: Ekqvist Susanne , Svedman Cecilia , Lundh Thomas , Möller Halvon , Björk Jonas , Bruze Magnus
Published: August 2008

Background:  Patients with dental gold restorations are known to have a higher level of gold concentration in blood (B‐Au).

Objectives:  To further investigate, in a study on patients with intracoronary stents and contact allergy to metals, the gold and nickel release from stainless steel stent with (Au stent) and without (Ni stent) gold plating.

Method:  A total of 460 patients treated with stenting underwent patch testing with metals, and information on gold and nickel exposure and blood samples were collected. About 200 blood samples were randomly selected and the analysis of B‐Au and nickel concentration in blood (B‐Ni) was made using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

Results:  There was a correlation between the intensity of Au patch test reaction and B‐Au (P < 0.001). This correlation could not be seen between Ni patch test reaction and B‐Ni. A Au stent gave a fivefold higher B‐Au than a Ni stent.

Conclusions:  Gold is released from the Au stent and patients with a Au stent have a fivefold higher B‐Au than patients with an Ni stent. The patch test reactions for gold were correlated with B‐Au.
Effect of hand dermatitis on the total body burden of chromium after ferrous sulfate application in cement among cement workers
Authors: Chou Tzu‐Chieh , Chang Ho‐Yuan , Chen Chiou‐Jong , Yu Hsin‐Su , Wu Jyun‐De , Sheu Shiann‐Cherng , Shih Tung‐Sheng
Published: August 2008

Background:  Ferrous sulfate (FeSO4) added to cement has been used to reduce the prevalence of dermatitis in workers. However, the effect of dermatitis on the total uptake of chromium in cement with or without FeSO4 has not been previously explored.

Objective:  The objective of this study was to compare the urinary chromium levels before and after FeSO4 addition among cement workers with or without hand dermatitis.

Methods:  Thirty‐five male workers were recruited in this study for two consecutive years: 2003 without using FeSO4 and 2004 after adding FeSO4. Urinary chromium was used as a biomarker to estimate the total body burden of chromium.

Results:  Urinary chromium concentration showed significant decreases after FeSO4 was used, and a larger decrease of urinary chromium was observed in workers with hand dermatitis than for those without hand dermatitis. Moreover, a significant decrease of urinary chromium was observed in workers with hand dermatitis in both 2003 and 2004.

Conclusion:  FeSO4 decreases the total body burden of chromium, especially in workers with severe and continuous hand dermatitis.
The validity and reliability of the occupational contact dermatitis disease severity index
Authors: Curr Nathan , Dharmage Shyamali , Keegel Tessa , Lee Adriene , Saunders Helen , Nixon Rosemary
Published: August 2008

Background:  The occupational contact dermatitis disease severity index (ODDI) was designed to assess the severity and importantly the functional disability caused by occupational contact dermatitis (OCD) of the hands in patients attending our occupational dermatology clinic.

Objectives:  To investigate the accuracy of the ODDI.

Patients/Methods:  Of 205 patients, 95 were assessed as having OCD of the hands. Content validity was assessed by content mapping and expert opinion. Construct validity was examined through comparing the ODDI against global clinical dermatology severity assessment (GCDSA). Intraobserver reliability, interobserver reliability, internal consistency, acceptability and convenience were also assessed.

Results:  The ODDI was found to have content validity by the experts and was moderately correlated with GCDSA, supporting construct validity (Pearson’s r = 0.54; P ≤ 0.01). The ODDI was shown to be reliable with substantial agreement for both intraobserver reliability [intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = 0.62] and interobserver reliability (ICC = 0.75). Internal consistency within the ODDI was almost perfect (ICC = 0.94–0.99) and user survey showed the ODDI to be acceptable, easy and quick to use.

Conclusions:  The ODDI is a valid and reliable instrument to assess the severity and functional limitations caused by OCD, in patients who have had treatment or modified work duties, associated with some improvement of their dermatitis.
Bibliometrics, dermatology and contact dermatitis
Authors: Smith Derek R.
Published: August 2008

Although the fields of bibliometrics and citation analysis have existed for many years, relatively few studies have specifically focused on the dermatological literature. This article reviews citation‐based research in the dermatology journals, with a particular interest in manuscripts that have included Contact Dermatitis as part of their analysis. Overall, it can be seen that the rise of bibliometrics during the mid‐20th century and its subsequent application to dermatology has provided an interesting insight into the progression of research within our discipline. Further investigation of citation trends and top‐cited papers in skin research periodicals would certainly help complement the current body of knowledge.
Recruitment strategies for a hand dermatitis prevention programme in the food industry
Authors: Kaatz Martin , Ladermann Regina , Stadeler Martina , Fluhr Joachim Wilhelm , Elsner Peter , Bauer Andrea
Published: August 2008

Background:  An interdisciplinary ‘Skin Disease Prevention Programme (SDPP) in the baking, hotel, and catering industries’ was established. However, only 30% of the eligible employees suffering from occupational hand dermatitis (OHD) participated in the programme.

Objectives:  The aim of the present study was to increase the participation rate in the SDPP from 30% to 50% by specific recruitment strategies.

Patients/Methods:  Two hundred and twenty five baker and catering trade employees suffering from OHD were included in a prospective controlled intervention study. The employees were invited to take part in the SDPP using (i) a standard invitation letter (n = 40), (ii) a newly developed, personalized, and targeted invitation letter (n = 52), (iii) the new invitation letter and a case report (n = 75), and (iv) the new invitation letter, the case report, and the additional information (n = 58).

Results:  The commitment of the employees to join the SDPP increased significantly from 30% to 54% (P < 0.02) in the group receiving the new personalized targeted invitation letter. Neither the additional case report nor the supplementation with additional information concerning the SDPP did further increase the recruitment.

Conclusions:  The strategy to personalize and target the new invitation letter was successful to influence the employees’ commitment to participate in the SDPP.
Hydroxychloroquine‐induced hyperpigmentation: the staining pattern
Authors: Puri Puja K. , Lountzis Nektarios I. , Tyler William , Ferringer Tammie
Published: August 2008

We report two cases of hydroxychloroquine‐induced hyperpigmentation presenting in a 50‐year‐old Caucasian female (case 1) and a 78‐year‐old female (case 2), both receiving 400 mg per day. Case 1 had an arthritis predominant undifferentiated connective tissue disease, which was treated with hydroxychloroquine for 4–5 years. She presented with a mottled, reticulated macular gray pigmentation involving the upper back and shoulders. Case 2 had a history of systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, treated with hydroxychloroquine for 1.5 years. She presented to the hospital for treatment of constrictive cardiomyopathy and was noted to have a blue macular pigmentation involving the right temple. The biopsies from both patients showed superficial dermal, yellow‐brown, non‐refractile and coarsely granular pigment deposition. A Fontana‐Masson stain highlighted some of these granules, while the Perl’s iron stain was negative. Rare, previous reports of hyperpigmentation indicate the presence of both melanin and hemosiderin in patients being treated with antimalarial medication. To our knowledge, this staining pattern for hydroxychloroquine has not been previously reported in the literature and supports that hydroxychloroquine, in addition to chloroquine, binds to melanin.
Diel and seasonal changes in nutritional condition of the anadromous twaite shad Alosa fallax fallax (Lacépède, 1803) larvae
Authors: Esteves E. , Pina T. , Andrade J. P.
Published: August 2008

Abstract –  In this work we aim to study: (i) the diel and seasonal changes in nutritional condition, herein RNA/DNA ratios, of twaite shad (Alosa fallax fallax) larvae and (ii) the influence of environmental and biological covariates on those changes. Samples were collected in the River Mira (Portugal) from February 1998 to July 2000. The RNA/DNA ratios were significantly lower than average during dawn and dusk hours. This pattern can be attributed to: the absence of better‐fit specimens escaping the net; a nightly increase in the RNA content in response to circadian rhythm; and/or nucleic acids of prey items remaining in the gut of larvae during daylight. Thus, the time of day is important when examining RNA/DNA ratios of twaite shad. Generalised additive model of seasonal data showed that water temperature, freshwater pulses and/or turbidity largely contribute to create adequate environments. These might enhance the nutritional condition of twaite shad larvae during the period that they remain in the upper reaches of River Mira.
A familial analysis of aggressive periodontitis – clinical and genetic findings
Authors: Nibali L. , Donos N. , Brett P. M. , Parkar M. , Ellinas T. , Llorente M. , Griffiths G. S.
Published: August 2008

Background and Objective:  Family history is a primary diagnostic criterion for current classification of aggressive periodontitis (AgP). However, results of previous studies have shed controversy over the degree of familiarity of AgP and its possible inheritance mechanisms. The aims of this study were to estimate the percentage of affected relatives of AgP individuals, to analyse the disease phenotypes in relatives and to explore the distributions of genetic polymorphisms of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) in AgP patients and in diseased and healthy relatives.

Material and Methods:  Patients with AgP were clinically examined and asked to provide relatives for examination. First‐degree relatives were clinically and radiographically diagnosed. Blood samples were collected, DNA was extracted and analysis of single nucleotide polymorphisms of IL‐6 (at positions −174, −1363 and −1480) by polymerase chain reaction was performed in patients and relatives.

Results:  Fifty‐five AgP patients provided relatives for examination. A total of 100 first‐degree relatives were assessed and 10 of them (10%) were found to have AgP. All relatives diagnosed with AgP had the same disease as the corresponding proband (localized AgP/localized AgP or generalized AgP/generalized AgP). The same IL‐6 genotypes (−174 GG, −1480 CC) previously associated with AgP showed a tendency for association with AgP in relatives.

Conclusion:  This pilot study confirmed a relatively high risk for relatives of AgP patients to have AgP (10%). Genetic polymorphisms in the IL‐6 gene may have an impact in aetiopathogenesis. This study provides a sample size calculation for a novel study design using healthy relatives as control subjects.
The defensive role of lysozyme in human gingiva in inflammatory periodontal disease
Authors: Younes R. , Yousfi M. , Ghorra C. , Khalife S. , Igondjo‐Tchen‐Changotade S. , Willig C. , Senni K. , Charpiot P. , Naaman N. , Godeau G.
Published: August 2008

Background and Objective:  The presence of lysozyme in human gingiva has not previously been demonstrated. In this study, we looked for evidence for the potential role of lysozyme as a protector of gingival elastic fibres. The objective of this study was also to determine the ex vivo susceptibility to hydrolysis of gingival elastic fibres from patients with or without periodontal disease by human leukocyte elastase and by human cathepsin G.

Materials and Methods:  Using gingival tissue sections from eight control, 10 gingivitis and 10 periodontitis patients, we evaluated the area fraction occupied by gingival elastic fibres (after selective staining) by the use of automated image analysis. In the ex vivo experiments, serial tissue sections from four control, four gingivitis, four young periodontitis and four aged periodontitis patients were submitted to the action of human leukocyte elastase and cathepsin G, after which enzymatic activities were determined by image analysis. Indirect immunodetection of lysozyme was also done on tissue sections for all patients included in this study.

Results:  Large variations of the area fraction occupied by elastic fibres were observed in human gingiva from young and aged patients with and without periodontal disease. In control and gingivitis patients, leukocyte elastase and cathepsin G had high comparable elastin solubilizing activities. With young and aged periodontitis patients, the two serine proteinases had weak elastin solubilizing activities. Lysozyme appeared to be present at the periphery of gingival elastic fibres in periodontitis patients.

Conclusion:  Lysozyme can be considered an important natural protector of elastic fibres in pathological gingiva.
Oral mucositis in acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: analysis of 169 paediatric patients
Authors: Figliolia SLC , Oliveira DT , Pereira MC , Lauris JRP , Maurício AR , Oliveira DT , Mello de Andrea ML
Published: August 2008

Chemotherapy‐induced oral mucositis is a frequent therapeutic challenge in cancer patients. The purpose of this retrospective study was to estimate the prevalence and risk factors of oral mucositis in 169 acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) patients treated according to different chemotherapeutic trials at the Darcy Vargas Children’s Hospital from 1994 to 2005. Demographic data, clinical history, chemotherapeutic treatment and patients’ follow‐up were recorded. The association of oral mucositis with age, gender, leucocyte counts at diagnosis and treatment was assessed by the chi‐squared test and multivariate regression analysis. Seventy‐seven ALL patients (46%) developed oral mucositis during the treatment. Patient age (P = 0.33), gender (P = 0.08) and leucocyte counts at diagnosis (P = 0.34) showed no correlation with the occurrence of oral mucositis. Multivariate regression analysis showed a significant risk for oral mucositis (P = 0.009) for ALL patients treated according to the ALL‐BFM‐95 protocol. These results strongly suggest the greater stomatotoxic effect of the ALL‐BFM‐95 trial when compared with Brazilian trials. We concluded that chemotherapy‐induced oral mucositis should be systematically analysed prospectively in specialized centres for ALL treatment to establish the degree of toxicity of chemotherapeutic drugs and to improve the quality of life of patients based on more effective therapeutic and prophylactic approaches for prevention of its occurrence.
Relationship of smoking and smoking cessation with number of teeth present: JPHC Oral Health Study*
Authors: Yanagisawa T , Marugame T , Ohara S , Inoue M , Tsugane S , Kawaguchi Y
Published: August 2008

Background:  Smoking is associated with the number of teeth. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of number of teeth with smoking and smoking cessation.

Methods:  Subjects included 547 males aged between 55 and 75 years. Oral examinations were conducted in 2005. Smoking status information was collected from questionnaire surveys conducted in 1990, 1995, 2000, and 2005. The relationship between having more than eight missing teeth and smoking status was estimated with adjusted odds ratio.

Results:  Comparing with never smokers, odds ratios of having more than eight missing teeth among current and former smokers were 1.96 and 1.86, respectively. The odds ratios in those who had stopped smoking for ≤10 years was 3.02, and for those who had ceased smoking for 11–20 years was 2.66. In those who stopped smoking for 21 years or more, there was no increase in the odds ratio.

Conclusion:  Smoking had a positive association with the number of missing teeth and smoking cessation is beneficial for maintaining teeth. The odds of having more than eight missing teeth in those who had never smoked was equal to that of individuals who reported that they had stopped smoking for 21 years or more.
Imaging Changes during Therapy: Does it Matter?
Authors: Aubry J.‐F. , Pouliot J.
Published: August 2008

Recent developments in 3D X‐ray imaging have made available new tools for imaging patients in the treatment room. Several researchers in the radiation oncology community are recognizing that these imaging tools not only help to achieve better patient positioning, but also provide a wealth of information relative to the various changes that occur during the course of treatment. This article discusses some of the changes that are observed and what can be done to assess their importance. Two types of changes that can be observed with in‐room 3D imaging are considered: positioning changes and anatomical changes. Examples of such changes are given for head and neck and prostate patients. The different magnitudes of these changes are discussed first. Because the biological effect of radiation on anatomical structures is determined by dose, the importance of these changes is then considered through their dosimetric consequences. Early findings show that not all anatomical structures receive the dose that was intended during treatment planning. Because the convolution of positioning and anatomical changes is difficult to predict, the consequences of these changes is better evaluated on a case‐by‐case basis as a first step towards adaptive radiation therapy.
Langerhans cell histiocytosis in a premature baby presenting with skin‐isolated disease: case report and literature review
Authors: Aviner Shraga , Ronen Meir , London Daniel , Tobar Ana , Zangen Shmuel
Published: August 2008

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) in premature babies is extremely rare as is a vesicular skin rash, while gastrointestinal involvement is associated with a poor outcome. We report a case of LCH in a premature baby presented with isolated vesiculo‐papulo‐macular skin lesions and insidiously developed gastrointestinal symptoms, haematological and severe pulmonary involvement. We also reviewed a few cases of LCH in premature babies in the English language medical literature. LCH in preterm babies appears to be a severe systemic disease, usually lethal in‐utero or post delivery.

Conclusion: Careful observation should be applied to newborns with skin‐only Langerhans cell histiocytosis in order to identify in time progression to potentially fatal systemic disease.
From Translator to Laureate: Imagining the Medieval Author
Authors: Bale Anthony
Published: August 2008

Today we largely take it for granted that every text has an author, but what is understood by the term ‘author’ was very different in the Middle Ages. Medieval English ideas of authorship were many and varied, and show some key changes from the twelfth to the fifteenth centuries. In manuscript cultures, like England before the late fifteenth century, the author has little control over the repetition of his text; in many medieval vernacular texts the author is represented as a craftsman and translator rather than a visionary or virtuoso. Texts in manuscript were inherently open to rewriting and were often anonymous. The role and status of the author was interrogated by poets and scholars, often revealing a remarkably open sense of who, or what, an author could be. In the later medieval period, traditions of depicting real (Geoffrey Chaucer) and imagined (Sir John Mandeville) authors developed, signalling a growing trend of attaching an authorial identity to a text worth reading. The development of mysticism and affective religion brought further transformations in the role of the author, given the anxiety over who has the right and access to represent divine communication; this issue is raised inThe Cloud of UnknowingandThe Book of Margery Kempe, both of which play with conceits of anonymity. After Chaucer, in particular in the poetry of John Lydgate, we can identify the development of the English ‘laureate’ poet. In the early era of print, especially in the prologues of William Caxton, one discerns the emergence of an author, through the posthumous image of Chaucer, similar to that known today: not only a writer but also a creator, a celebrity and an authority.
Submembraneous microtubule cytoskeleton: regulation of microtubule assembly by heterotrimeric G proteins
Authors: Roychowdhury Sukla , Rasenick Mark M.
Published: August 2008

Heterotrimeric G proteins participate in signal transduction by transferring signals from cell surface receptors to intracellular effector molecules. G proteins also interact with microtubules and participate in microtubule‐dependent centrosome/chromosome movement during cell division, as well as neuronal differentiation. In recent years, significant progress has been made in our understanding of the biochemical/functional interactions between G protein subunits (α and βγ) and microtubules, and the molecular details emerging from these studies suggest that α and βγ subunits of G proteins interact with tubulin/microtubules to regulate the assembly/dynamics of microtubules, providing a novel mechanism for hormone‐ or neurotransmitter‐induced rapid remodeling of cytoskeleton, regulation of the mitotic spindle for centrosome/chromosome movements in cell division, and neuronal differentiation in which structural plasticity mediated by microtubules is important for appropriate synaptic connections and signal transmission.
Apolipoprotein E predisposes to obesity and related metabolic dysfunctions in mice
Authors: Karagiannides Iordanes , Abdou Rami , Tzortzopoulou Aikaterini , Voshol Peter J. , Kypreos Kyriakos E.
Published: August 2008

Obesity is a central feature of the metabolic syndrome and is associated with increased risk for insulin resistance and type II diabetes. Here, we investigated the contribution of human apoliprotein E3 and mouse apoliprotein E to the development of diet‐induced obesity in response to western‐type diet. Our data show that apolipoprotein E contributes to the development of obesity and other related metabolic disorders, and that human apolipoprotein E3 is more potent than mouse apolipoprotein E in promoting obesity in response to western‐type diet. Specifically, we found that apolipoprotein E3 knock‐in mice fed western‐type diet for 24 weeks became obese and developed hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, hyperleptinemia, glucose intolerance and insulin resistance that were more severe than in C57BL/6 mice. In contrast, apolipoprotein E‐deficient mice fed western‐type diet for the same period were resistant to diet‐induced obesity, had normal plasma glucose, leptin and insulin levels, and exhibited normal responses to glucose tolerance and insulin resistance tests. Furthermore, low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐deficient mice were more sensitive to the development of diet‐induced obesity and insulin resistance than apolipoprotein E‐deficient mice, but were still more resistant than C57BL/6 mice, raising the possibility that low‐density lipoprotein receptor mediates, at least in part, the effects of apolipoprotein E on obesity. Taken together, our findings suggest that, in addition to other previously identified mechanisms of obesity, apolipoprotein E and possibly the chylomicron pathway are also important contributors to the development of obesity and related metabolic dysfunctions in mice.
Phytosociological study of steppe vegetation in Mongolia
Authors: Cheng Yunxiang , Tsendeekhuu Tsagaanbandiin , Narantuya Naidan , Nakamura Toru
Published: August 2008

Using phytosociological methods, vegetation data were collected from 144 stands in seven areas across approximately 800 km, covering a large proportion of the east–west axis of the Mongolian steppe. Detrended correspondence analysis (DCA) was used to identify trends within the complete set of vegetation data from all 144 stands. We recognized four phytosociological plant communities and seven lower units, among which three of the communities (the Stipa baicalensis–Agropyron cristatum, Stipa grandis–Achnatherum sibiricum and Chamaerhodos erecta–Artemisia scoparia communities) may be considered valuable additions to the current classification system of Mongolian steppe by Hilbig (1995). Three lower units of the Stipa krylovii–Cleistogennes squarrosa community were identical with associations described by Hilbig (1990), which named typical sub‐association of Cymbario dahuricae–Stipetum krylovii, Cymbario dahuricae–Stipetum krylovii and Amygdalo pedunculatae–Spriaeetum aquilegifolia. The present floristic composition of the community types, which showed a high density of unpalatable species, suggests that intensive grazing has become a widespread problem across the entire Mongolian steppe. On the other hand, the first ordination axis of DCA was associated with land used for cultivation. The stands abandoned over 10 years had high scores on the first axis.
Evaluation of tissue culture response from mature seeds ofPanicumspp.
Authors: Seo Mi‐Suk , Takahara Manabu , Ebina Masumi , Takamizo Tadashi
Published: August 2008

The genusPanicumcontains important warm‐season forage grasses and species with potential as biomass crops. We selectedPanicumgenotypes with high response to tissue culture for genetic improvement. The highest frequency of callus induction from mature seed ofPanicum maximumcultivar Natsukaze was obtained on MS medium containing 4.0 mg L−12,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid and solidified with 0.3% Gelrite. We compared germination frequencies and callus induction capacities among 24 genotypes of 11Panicumspecies on this medium. Callus induction frequencies varied among genotypes. Those with high germination frequencies generally had high callus induction frequencies. On the other hand, especially inP. maximum, the callus induction ratio (callus induction frequency/germination frequency) depended on the reproductive mode and ploidy. The callus induction ratio of three sexual accessions ofP. maximumwere very low compared to apomictic accessions, and besides, a tetraploid sexual accession Noh PL1 had very low germination and callus induction frequencies. Callus induction and regeneration capacities were independent of each other. For shoot regeneration, we transferred callus derived from the 24 genotypes onto MS medium supplemented with 1.0 mg L−1kinetin and 0.4% Gelrite. Six of the genotypes regenerated plantlets. Among them,Panicum meyerianumproduced the highest shoot regeneration frequency of 61.6% and the maximum number of shoots callus−1in the shortest time. The callus ofP. meyerianumalso showed vigorous proliferation. We thus selected high‐response genotypes ofP. meyerianum.
Preparation of Hydrothermally Solidified Mesoporous Materials from Diatomaceous Earth for Moisture Control Application
Authors: Maeda Hirotaka , Kato Shingo , Ishida Emile H.
Published: August 2008

Mesoporous materials were prepared by hydrothermal treatment of a powder compact consisting of natural or calcined diatomaceous earth and slaked lime. Tobermorite formed after the hydrothermal process, leading to strength improvement. The structure tangled with each tobermorite particle, causing the formation of mesopores. The bending strength and mesopore volume of the hydrothermally solidified materials derived from calcined diatomaceous earth was much higher than those derived from natural diatomaceous earth. Impurities in the natural diatomaceous earth suppressed the crystallization and growth of tobermorite, which plays an important role in strength improvement and mesopore formation. Water vapor adsorption–desorption isotherms showed that the amount of adsorbed moisture on the two kinds of hydrothermally solidified materials was almost the same.
Field Evidence for Flow Reduction through a Zero‐Valent Iron Permeable Reactive Barrier
Authors: Johnson R.L. , Thoms R.B. , O’Brien Johnson R. , Krug T.
Published: August 2008

The combination of detailed multilevel ground water geochemistry samples, a natural‐gradient tracer test, minislug tests, and a numerical flow and transport model was used to examine flow through a zero‐valent iron permeable reactive barrier (PRB) installed to remove explosives from ground water. After 20 months of operation, the PRB continued to completely remove explosives from the ground water flowing through it. However, the data indicate that a portion of ground water flow was being diverted beneath the PRB. Ground water geochemistry was significantly altered by the PRB, and concentrations of some ions, including sulfate, carbonate, and calcium, were substantially reduced due to precipitation. Field data and numerical model results indicate that, after 20 months of operation, flow through the PRB was reduced to approximately one‐third of its expected value.
Mineral Precipitation Upgradient from a Zero‐Valent Iron Permeable Reactive Barrier
Authors: Johnson R.L. , Thoms R.B. , O’Brien Johnson R. , Nurmi J.T. , Tratnyek P.G.
Published: August 2008

Core samples taken from a zero‐valent iron permeable reactive barrier (ZVI PRB) at Cornhusker Army Ammunition Plant, Nebraska, were analyzed for physical and chemical characteristics. Precipitates containing iron and sulfide were present at much higher concentrations in native aquifer materials just upgradient of the PRB than in the PRB itself. Sulfur mass balance on core solids coupled with trends in ground water sulfate concentrations indicates that the average ground water flow after 20 months of PRB operation was approximately twenty fold less than the regional ground water velocity. Transport and reaction modeling of the aquifer PRB interface suggests that, at the calculated velocity, both iron and hydrogen could diffuse upgradient against ground water flow and thereby contribute to precipitation in the native aquifer materials. The initial hydraulic conductivity (K) of the native materials is less than that of the PRB and, given the observed precipitation in the upgradient native materials, it is likely that K reduction occurred upgradient to rather than within the PRB. Although not directly implicated, guar gum used during installation of the PRB is believed to have played a role in the precipitation and flow reduction processes by enhancing microbial activity.