bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The spatialities of Europeanisation: territory, government and power in ‘EUrope’
Authors: Clark Julian , Jones Alun
Published: June 2008

Europeanisation is now widely researched in the social sciences, but a geographical contribution to these debates is lacking. Yet Europeanisation's myriad socialisation and learning processes have been configured over centuries by territorial propinquity and sites of government and power, with construction and projection of these continent‐wide processes by political elites integral to nation building and latterly European integration, that is the building of ‘EUrope’. We argue here that an examination of the under‐researched scales and spaces of Europeanisation can furnish a more encompassing geographical understanding of this multifaceted suite of processes, and help address lacunae in contemporary social science accounts on Europeanisation's origins and contemporary manifestations under the imprimatur of European integration.
Determinants of Voter Support for a Five‐Year Ban on the Cultivation of Genetically Modified Crops in Switzerland
Authors: Schläpfer Felix
Published: June 2008

While much effort has been devoted to estimating market premiums for non‐genetically modified (GM) food, the results of such research are largely silent about the preferences for the public good aspects, or externalities, of GM food production. For public goods, the closest substitute of private consumption decisions is voting on referenda. In November 2005, 55.7% of 2 million Swiss voters approved a five‐year moratorium (ban) on the commercial cultivation of GM plants in Switzerland. The present study examines how individual voting decisions were determined by: (i) socioeconomic characteristics; (ii) political preference/ideology; and (iii) agreement with a series of arguments in favour and against the use of GM plants in Swiss agriculture. The analysis is based on the data of the regular voter survey undertaken after the national‐level voting in Switzerland. The results suggest that current concerns about the use of genetically engineered plants in agriculture may not automatically decrease with higher levels of education/knowledge and generational change. Furthermore, analysis of voter motives suggests that public support for a ban on GM crops may be even larger in other countries, where industrial interests in crop biotechnology are less pronounced.
Childhood absence epilepsy: Behavioral, cognitive, and linguistic comorbidities
Authors: Caplan Rochelle , Siddarth Prabha , Stahl Lesley , Lanphier Erin , Vona Pamela , Gurbani Suresh , Koh Susan , Sankar Raman , Shields W. Donald
Published: June 2008

Purpose: Evidence for a poor psychiatric, social, and vocational adult outcome in childhood absence epilepsy (CAE) suggests long‐term unmet mental health, social, and vocational needs. This cross‐sectional study examined behavioral/emotional, cognitive, and linguistic comorbidities as well as their correlates in children with CAE.

Methods: Sixty‐nine CAE children aged 9.6 (SD = 2.49) years and 103 age‐ and gender‐matched normal children had semistructured psychiatric interviews, as well as cognitive and linguistic testing. Parents provided demographic, seizure‐related, and behavioral information on their children through a semi‐structured psychiatric interview and the child behavior checklist (CBCL).

Results: Compared to the normal group, 25% of the CAE children had subtle cognitive deficits, 43% linguistic difficulties, 61% a psychiatric diagnosis, particularly attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety disorders, and 30% clinically relevant CBCL broad band scores. The most frequent CBCL narrow band factor scores in the clinical/borderline range were attention and somatic complaints, followed by social and thought problems. Duration of illness, seizure frequency, and antiepileptic drug (AED) treatment were related to the severity of the cognitive, linguistic, and psychiatric comorbidities. Only 23% of the CAE subjects had intervention for these problems.

Conclusions: The high rate of impaired behavior, emotions, cognition, and language and low intervention rate should alert clinicians to the need for early identification and treatment of children with CAE, particularly those with longer duration of illness, uncontrolled seizures, and AED treatment.
Extratemporal ictal clinical features in hippocampal sclerosis: Their relationship to the degree of hippocampal volume loss and to the outcome of temporal lobectomy
Authors: Borelli Paolo , Shorvon Simon D. , Stevens John M. , Smith Shelagh J. , Scott Catherine A. , Walker Matthew C.
Published: June 2008

Summary

Purpose:Since extratemporal clinical features in patients with unilateral hippocampal sclerosis (HS) are likely to indicate aberrant ictal spread or a more extensive epileptogenic zone, we asked whether such features are associated with more severe HS and a worse outcome following temporal lobectomy.

Patients and methods:We reviewed all patients (174) who had undergone temporal lobectomy for histologically proven unilateral HS related temporal lobe epilepsy between 1997–2005 atthe National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery. We divided patients into those with severe HS (side‐to‐side ratio < 0.6) and those with mild HS (side‐to‐side ratio > 0.75). We examined all seizures recorded on electroencephalography (EEG) video telemetry in these patients for clinical features of temporal lobe epilepsy. The postsurgical outcome was classified using the Engel classification at the time of follow up (median 4.7 years, range 1–9 years).

Results:Patients (28 out 39) with severe HS had atypical features compared to 7 out of 27 in the mild HS [Chi square (χ2) test, p = 0.0013]. The mean number of atypical clinical features was 2.2 in the severe HS group and 0.62 in the mild HS group (Mann Whitney U Test, p < 0.001). The percentage of postsurgery seizure freedom (class 1 Engel classification) was 87%, and there was no significant effect of the presence of atypical clinical features.

Conclusions:This study shows that atypical (extratemporal) clinical features tend to occur more frequently in patients with severe HS and do not correlate with worse surgical outcome.
Posterior cortex epilepsy secondary to ulegyria: Is it a surgically remediable syndrome?
Authors: Usui Naotaka , Mihara Tadahiro , Baba Koichi , Matsuda Kazumi , Tottori Takayasu , Umeoka Shuichi , Nakamura Fumihiro , Terada Kiyohito , Usui Keiko , Inoue Yushi
Published: June 2008

Purpose:  To examine whether surgery is indicated for posterior cortex epilepsy secondary to ulegyria.

Patients and methods:  Ten patients who underwent surgery for posterior cortex epilepsy with ulegyria and were followed for more than 2 years were included. All patients underwent comprehensive presurgical evaluations. Five patients underwent intracranial electroencephalography (EEG) studies. The posterior cortex including the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) lesion was resected in all patients. Postoperative follow‐up period was 2–12 (mean 6) years.

Results:  Nine patients had a history of perinatal distress including asphyxia and prolonged labor. Age at seizure onset was 5–11 years, except one patient. Three patients had visual field defects preoperatively. Ulegyria was unilateral in four patients and bilateral but unilateral‐predominant in six patients. In most of the cases, the lesions were in the posterior cerebral artery area or the watershed area between middle cerebral and posterior cerebral arteries. In four of five patients who underwent intracranial EEG, seizure onset zones extended outside the lesions. Postoperative seizure outcome was Engel's class I in seven cases, and class III in three cases. Three of four patients whose seizure onset zones were not completely resected achieved class I outcome. Four of six patients with bilateral lesions achieved class I outcome.

Conclusion:  Ulegyria due to perinatal distress is considered to be a major cause of posterior cortex epilepsy. Long‐term postoperative seizure outcome is favorable. Resection of MRI lesion is important for seizure relief. Bilateral lesions should not be excluded from surgical indication. The usefulness of intracranial EEG may be limited.
Children With Heavy Prenatal Alcohol Exposure Demonstrate Deficits on Multiple Measures of Concept Formation
Authors: McGee Christie L. , Schonfeld Amy M. , Roebuck‐Spencer Tresa M. , Riley Edward P. , Mattson Sarah N.
Published: June 2008

Background:  Children with heavy prenatal alcohol exposure have documented impairments in executive functioning (EF). One component of EF, concept formation, has not been well studied in this group.

Methods:  Children (8 to 18 years) with histories of heavy prenatal alcohol exposure, with and without fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), were compared to typically developing controls on 2 measures of concept formation and conceptual set shifting: the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test and the Card Sorting Test from the Delis–Kaplan Executive Functioning System. In addition to between‐group comparisons, performance relative to overall intellectual functioning was examined.

Results:  Children with histories of heavy prenatal alcohol exposure showed impairment on both tests of concept formation compared to non‐exposed controls. These deficits included difficulty generating and verbalizing concepts, increased error rates and perseverative responses, and poorer response to feedback. However, in comparison to controls, alcohol‐exposed children performed better on measures of concept formation than predicted by their overall IQ scores. Exploratory analyses suggest that this may be due to differences in how the measures relate at different IQ levels and may not be specific to prenatal alcohol exposure.

Conclusions:  Deficits in concept formation and conceptual set shifting were observed in alcohol‐exposed children with or without the diagnosis of FAS and in the absence of mental retardation. These deficits likely impact problem solving skills and adaptive functioning and have implications for therapeutic interventions in this population.
Social Recovery Model: An 8‐Year Investigation of Adolescent 12‐Step Group Involvement Following Inpatient Treatment
Authors: Kelly John F. , Brown Sandra A. , Abrantes Ana , Kahler Christopher W. , Myers Mark
Published: June 2008

Background:  Despite widespread use of 12‐step treatment approaches and referrals to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) by youth providers, little is known about the significance of these organizations in youth addiction recovery. Furthermore, existing evidence is based mostly on short‐term follow‐up and is limited methodologically.

Methods:  Adolescent inpatients (n = 160; mean age = 16, 40% female) were followed at 6‐months, and at 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 years posttreatment. Time‐lagged, generalized estimating equations modeled treatment outcome in relation to AA/NA attendance controlling for static and time‐varying covariates. Robust regression (locally weighted scatterplot smoothing) explored dose–response thresholds of AA/NA attendance on outcome.

Results:  The AA/NA attendance was common and intensive early posttreatment, but declined sharply and steadily over the 8‐year period. Patients with greater addiction severity and those who believed that they could not use substances in moderation were more likely to attend. Despite declining attendance, the effects related to AA/NA remained significant and consistent. Greater early participation was associated with better long‐term outcomes.

Conclusions:  Even though many youth discontinue AA/NA over time, attendees appear to benefit, and more severely substance‐involved youth attend most. Successful early posttreatment engagement of youth in abstinence‐supportive social contexts, such as AA/NA, may have long‐term implications for alcohol and drug involvement into young adulthood.
The Potential to Determine a Postmortem Submersion Interval Based on Algal/Diatom Diversity on Decomposing Mammalian Carcasses in Brackish Ponds in Delaware*
Authors: Zimmerman Kathryn A. , Wallace John R.
Published: June 2008

Abstract:  Recently botanical evidence has been studied to determine if it is useful in forensic investigations. This study was performed to examine stillborn piglet decomposition in a brackish water environment and to semi‐quantitatively document stages of decomposition, degree day accumulation per stage as well as the algal/diatom diversity useful in determining a postmortem submersion interval (PMSI). Piglets and ceramic tiles were submerged in brackish ponds and sampled on a regular basis to document algal diversity and succession between substrates and stages of decomposition. Significantly greater weight was lost from piglet carcasses during the early floating and advanced floating decay stages. Seasonal effects were observed in degree‐day accumulations. Diatom diversity was significantly greater on piglet carcasses compared to tile substrates. Algal diversity decreased over time on the piglet carcasses as well as the stage of decomposition. A significant relationship and strong correlation between algal diversity found on the piglet substrate with time was observed. Our results indicate that more research is needed to examine the potential to use diatoms in not only determining manner of death but also the duration of time (PMSI) a victim may have been immersed in an aquatic environment.
Sex Discrimination Potential of Buccolingual and Mesiodistal Tooth Dimensions
Authors: Acharya Ashith B. , Mainali Sneedha
Published: June 2008

Abstract:  Tooth crown dimensions are reasonably accurate predictors of sex and are useful adjuncts in sex assessment. This study explores the utility of buccolingual (BL) and mesiodistal (MD) measurements in sex differentiation when used independently. BL and MD measurements of 28 teeth (third molars excluded) were obtained from a group of 53 Nepalese subjects (22 women and 31 men) aged 19–28 years. Stepwise discriminant analyses were undertaken separately for both types of tooth crown variables and their accuracy in sex classification compared with one another. MD dimensions had recognizably greater accuracy (77.4–83%) in sex identification than BL measurements (62.3–64.2%)—results that are consistent with previous reports. However, the accuracy of MD variables is not high enough to warrant their exclusive use in odontometric sex assessment—higher accuracy levels have been obtained when both types of dimensions were used concurrently, implying that BL variables contribute to sex assessment to some extent. Hence, it is inferred that optimal results in dental sex assessment are obtained when both MD and BL variables are used together.
CC Chemokine ligand 17 in periodontal diseases: expression in diseased tissues and production by human gingival fibroblasts
Authors: Hosokawa Y. , Hosokawa I. , Ozaki K. , Nakae H. , Matsuo T.
Published: June 2008

Background and Objective:  It has been reported that T helper 2 (Th2) cells are related to exacerbation of periodontal disease. However, it is uncertain how the migration of Th2 cells is controlled. In this study, we examined the expression of CC chemokine ligand 17 (CCL17), which is a Th2 chemokine, in periodontal tissues. Moreover, we investigated the effects of cytokines and toll‐like receptor (TLR) ligands on the production of CCL17 by human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs).

Material and Methods:  We used immunohistochemistry and reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) to detect CCL17 in periodontal tissues. HGFs were exposed to cytokines and TLR ligands. Expression of CCL17 was examined by RT‐PCR and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. We used signal transduction inhibitors in some experiments.

Results:  Both CCL17 and its receptor, CC chemokine receptor 4 (CCR4), were expressed in diseased periodontal tissues. A combination of tumour necrosis factor α (TNF‐α) and interleukin (IL)‐4/IL‐13 increased CCL17 expression. Moreover, treatment of HGFs with a low dose of interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) in combination with TNF‐α and IL‐4 or IL‐13 had synergistic effects on the production of CCL17, whereas a high dose of IFN‐γ inhibited CCL17 production. Furthermore, Escherichia coli (E. coli) lipopolysaccharide (TLR4 ligand) and Pam3CSK4 (TLR2 ligand) inhibited CCL17 production by TNF‐α + IL‐4‐stimulated HGFs, while CpG DNA (TLR9 ligand) enhanced TNF‐α + IL‐4 induced‐CCL17 production by HGFs. Furthermore, a c‐Jun NH2 terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor, a phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase (PI3K) inhibitor and a nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB) inhibitor inhibited CCL17 production by HGFs.

Conclusion:  These results suggest that the CCL17 produced by HGFs may be involved in the migration of Th2 cells into inflamed tissues, and provide evidence that CCL17 production is controlled by cytokines and TLR ligands in periodontal disease.
Endoplasmic Reticulum Quality Control and the Unfolded Protein Response: Insights from Plants
Authors: Vitale Alessandro , Boston Rebecca S.
Published: June 2008

Protein quality control (QC) within the endoplasmic reticulum and the related unfolded protein response (UPR) pathway of signal transduction are major regulators of the secretory pathway, which is involved in virtually any aspect of development and reproduction. The study of plant‐specific processes such as pathogen response, seed development and the synthesis of seed storage proteins and of particular toxins is providing novel insights, with potential implications for the general recognition events and mechanisms of action of QC and UPR.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Testis Specific Lactate Dehydrogenase as Target for Immunoliposomes
Authors: Dutta Ranjna C. , Goldberg Erwin
Published: June 2008

Problem  Is it possible to deliver therapeutic agents to testis through specific targeting?

Method of study  Immunoliposomes are designed by incorporating antibodies to lactate dehydrogenase‐C4 (LDH‐C4), which is the product of a testis specific gene. Their targeting and delivering ability is investigated in vitro and in vivo.

Results  It is observed that LDHC4‐immunoliposomes are able to discriminate and recognize antigens on spermatozoa and testes both in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion  Specific targeting through LDH‐C4 appears to be a feasible strategy for delivering therapeutic as well as anti‐spermatogenic agents to testis.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: An Efficient Optimized Method for Isolation of Villous Trophoblast Cells from Human Early Pregnancy Placenta Suitable for Functional and Molecular Studies
Authors: Stenqvist Ann‐Christin , Chen Ting , Hedlund Malin , Dimova Tanya , Nagaeva Olga , Kjellberg Lennart , Innala Eva , Mincheva‐Nilsson Lucia
Published: June 2008

Problem  The uniqueness of the human placenta cannot be replaced by animal models. In vitro studies are compulsory to elucidate the biology of human placenta and require isolation and purification of villous trophoblasts, which can be used in molecular and functional studies. Constant improvement in the isolation technique is required to obtain a high yield of pure trophoblast cells with high viability and well preserved morphology.

Method of study  Optimized isolation procedure for human villous trophoblasts based on mild enzymatic treatment, Percoll gradient centrifugation and additional purification step involving positive or negative immunoselection on magnetic beads is described.

Results  A simple and effective isolation protocol gave a reasonably high yield of villous trophoblast cells with high purity and viability, and excellent morphology as assessed by flow cytometry and electron microscopy.

Conclusion  This protocol provides an efficient, optimized method for isolation and enrichment of villous trophoblast cells, suitable for phenotypic, ultrastructural, molecular and functional analyses and for establishment of primary cultures.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Immunophenotype of Peripheral T Lymphocytes, NK Cells and Expression of CD69 Activation Marker in Patients with Recurrent Spontaneous Abortions, During the Mid‐Luteal Phase
Authors: Prado‐Drayer Aramilena , Teppa José , Sánchez Pedro , Camejo María Isabel
Published: June 2008

Problem  Determination of subpopulations of T lymphocytes, natural killer (NK) and activation status, in peripheral blood during the mid‐luteal phase from patients with unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA).

Method of study  Peripheral blood samples from non‐pregnant women with RSA and normal multiparous were taken and evaluated for subpopulations of T lymphocytes: CD4, CD8, (‘naive‐like’ and ‘memory‐like’), TCR receptor (αβ and γδ), activation status by CD69+surface or intracellular/CD3+, and NK cells (CD16+/CD56dim/CD3−, CD16+/CD56 bright/CD3−, CD69+surface or intracellular/CD56+/CD3− cells).

Results  The evaluation of T lymphocytes only showed an increase in the expression of CD69 (surface and intracellular) in the RSA group. Additionally, we observed an increase in the total NK cells, CD56+ NK cells percentages, CD56dim NK cells and CD69 NK cells in RSA group.

Conclusion  These observations support the concept that immunological activation of T lymphocytes and NK cells could be involved in peripheral blood during the mid‐luteal phase in patients with unexplained RSA.
ABSTRACTS: 10 Low doses of trilostane fail to induce abortion during early gestation in mice and ewes
Authors: Solano ME , Parker V , Camous S , Sandra O , Douglas AJ , Arck PC
Published: June 2008

Problem:  Progesterone plays a central role during the maintenance of pregnancy. Our study aims to develop two hypoprogesteronic animal models using the 3beta‐HSD inhibitor trilostane during early pregnancy.

Material and Methods:  Trilostane or vehicle was injected s.c. in DBA/2J‐CBA/J female mice (4.5‐8.5 dpc) or in ewes (5‐16 day of pregnancy). Progesterone serum levels were assayed (mouse: 13.5 dpc; ewe: day 16). The resorption rate (RR), number of implantation sites (IS, mouse) or development of the conceptus (sheep) were analyzed.

Results:  Between trilostane‐treated or control females progesterone levels did not differ in the mouse but, as expected, progesterone did not rise in the sheep model. Nevertheless, ovine conceptus development was not morphologically affected nor IS or RR in the mouse model.

Conclusions:  our data suggest that trilostane dose was insufficient to affect the reproductive success in our animal models. A more thorough analysis is currently undertaken in order to better characterize the phenotypes.
ABSTRACTS: 11 Effect of an immune stress on prolactin secretion in early pregnancy
Authors: Parker VJ , Douglas AJ
Published: June 2008

Problem:  Stress in early pregnancy has been linked to increased abortion rates. Immune stress in early pregnancy inhibits progesterone secretion in mice. As prolactin both mediates implantation and drives progesterone secretion, we hypothesised that stress would decrease prolactin secretion in early pregnancy.

Material and Methods:  Lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 12.5μg intraperitoneally) as an immune stress or vehicle were administered to day 5.5 early pregnant and virgin c57/Bl6J mice. They were killed by decapitation 60, 120 or 240 min later and trunk blood was collected and analysed for prolactin concentration (ELISA); corticosterone was also analysed (RIA).

Results:  LPS significantly decreased prolactin concentration in early pregnancy (P<0.001, 2‐way ANOVA); however, there was no significant difference in the virgin groups. In contrast, LPS significantly elevated corticosterone concentration in all groups (P<0.001, 2‐way ANOVA), confirming activation of the hypothalamo‐pituitary‐adrenal stress axis.

Conclusions:  Stress decreased prolactin secretion during early pregnancy, and might explain stress‐disrupted implantation and progesterone secretion.
ABSTRACTS: 12 The complement component C1q: A novel angiogenic factor?
Authors: Bossi Fleur , Rizzi Lucia , Munot Carine , Berton Stefania , Lorenzetto Erica , Baldassarre Gustavo , Frankenne Francis , Tedesco Francesco
Published: June 2008

Aim:  Decidual endothelial cells are able to synthesize C1q and express surface‐bound C1q under physiological conditions. Since decidua is a site of active angiogenesis, we sought to ascertain whether C1q could play a role in this process.

Material and Methods:  To confirm our hypothesis we used different approaches such as permeability, cell migration and proliferation assay, besides wound healing and aortic ring assay.

Results:  C1q acts as a permeabilizing factor inducing the FITC‐BSA leakage through a monolayer of endothelial cells (ECs). Next, we found that C1q was able to promote motility of ECs in a wound healing assay, and to recruit ECs acting as a chemotactic factor, furthermore C1q was also found to have an additional effect on EC inducing cell proliferation. To confirm and extend these data, we used the rat aortic ring assay to evaluate the ex vivo effect of C1q.

Conclusion:  Based on our findings, we propose that C1q exerts unexpected proangiogenic effects.
ABSTRACTS: 2 Mouse PAI‐1 promotes placentation by increasing foetal and maternal angiogenesis
Authors: Labied S , Munaut C , Blacher S , Coqué N , Sandra O , Noël A , Carmeliet P , Foidart J‐M , Frankenne F
Published: June 2008

Introduction:  Murine placentation is associated with trophoblast cells invasion of the maternal endometrium and extensive maternal and foetal angiogenesis. Both processes involve proteases‐dependent extracellular matrix remodelling. Among the protease inhibitors, plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) is transiently produced by spongiotrophoblasts and trophoblast giant cells at days 10.5‐11.5 day post‐coitum (dpc). Although accumulating evidence demonstrates the key role of PA‐1 in pathological angiogenesis, its function during placental vascularisation remains to be elucidated. PAI‐1 knockout mice are fertile and the litter sizes are normal. We have therefore analysed the consequence of PAI‐1 deficiency on murine placentation.

Material and Methods:  We have studied the possible role of PAI‐1 by quantitating the placental vessel density, the relative thickness of the labyrinth, decidua and spongiotrophoblast at day 10.5, 12.5 and 14.5 dpc in mice deficient for PAI‐1 or in control mice. An original method of computer‐assisted image analysis allowed us to quantify alterations of several placental compartments identified with specific monoclonal antibodies (keratin, desmin, fibrinogen and MECA‐32). To investigate the differentially expressed genes, we performed laser capture microdissection (LCM), followed by genome‐wide expression profiling using high‐density oligonucleotides microarray analysis (GeneChip Mouse Genome 430 2.0 Array, Affymetrix). Data were analysed using Ingenuity Pathways Analysis (Ingenuity Systems®, http://www.ingenuity.com).

Results:  At 10.5 and 12.5 dpc, an abnormal placental morphology was observed in both labyrinth and spongiotrophoblast layers in PAI‐1‐/‐ mice. Lack of PAI‐1 resulted in a transient decreased maternal and fetal vascularisation of the placenta that caused (1) an enhancement in the decidua/labyrinth and labyrinth/spongiotrophoblast thickness ratios, (2) a significant increase of trophoblast density. Normalization of placental morphology occurred by day 14.5 dpc in PAI‐1 deficient mice. Statistical analysis of microarrays revealed 706 genes differentially expressed between PAI‐1 deficient and normal mice in the labyrinth zone at 10.5 dpc. At 14.5 dpc, only 205 genes are differentially expressed. Using Ingenuity Pathways Analysis, most of those genes were found to be associated to lipid metabolism, cellular growth and proliferation.

Conclusion:  Despite a transient PAI‐1 requirement for optimal placental angiogenesis, this gene does not appear to be essential for trophoblast invasion and placentation.
ABSTRACTS: 3 Development of an in vitro model for human embryo implantation and progesterone regulation
Authors: Lalitkumar Sujata , Lalitkumar PGL , Meng ChunXia , Gemzell‐Danielsson Kristina
Published: June 2008

Aim:  Develop an in vitro 3D‐model for human embryo implantation on receptive endometrial construct.

Material and Methods:  Three‐dimensional in vitro endometrial construct (n=12) was developed by culturing isolated human endometrial stromal cells in collagen matrix overlaid with epithelial cells. After priming hormonally, human blastocysts were placed and cultured in alpha‐medium. Attachment of embryo was confirmed using cytokeratin‐7 and expression of endometrial receptivity markers using immunohistochemistry. Antiprogestin mifepristone was used to test implantation and receptivity.

Results:  Embryos attached to receptive endometrial construct. Epithelial and stromal cells of endometrial construct expressed ER‐α, ER‐β, PR‐(A+B), PR‐B, VEGF, LIF, IL‐1beta and COX‐2. Epithelial cells expressed AR, integrinαVβ3 and MUC1. Mifepristone inhibited blastocyst attachment, up‐regulated epithelial ER‐β, PR‐B; down regulated stromal VEGF, MUC1 and integrin αVβ3 as observed in vivo.

Conclusion:  An in vitro human embryo implantation model, regulated by progesterone was developed and tested. This could be further used to understand molecular basis of human embryo implantation.
ABSTRACTS: 4 Modulation of maturation and function of dendritic cells by female sex steroid hormones
Authors: Segerer SE , Müller N , Van Den Brandt J , Kapp M , Dietl J , Reichardt HM , Rieger L , Kämmerer U
Published: June 2008

Problem:  Pregnancy represents an exclusive situation in which the immune and the endocrine system cooperate to prevent rejection of the embryo by the maternal immune system. While immature dendritic cells (iDC) in the early pregnancy decidua presumably contribute to the establishment of peripheral tolerance, hormones like estradiol (E2), progesterone (Prog) and bHCG are candidates that could direct the differentiation of DCs into a tolerance‐inducing phenotype.

Methods and Results:  To test this hypothesis we generated iDCs from peripheral‐blood‐monocytes and exposed them to E2, Prog, bHCG and Dexamethasone (Dex) as control. Surprisingly, E2, Prog and bHCG upregulated the expression of HLA‐DR, CD 40, CD 83 and CD 86. Visualization of the F‐actin cytoskeleton confirmed these observations. In contrast, the T‐cell stimulatory capacity of DCs was reduced after E2, Prog and bHCG exposure.

Conclusion:  These findings suggest that E2, Prog and bHCG interfere with selected aspects of DC maturation and may thereby help preventing activation of allogenic T‐cells by the embryo.
ABSTRACTS: 5 In vivo gene delivery of the murine uterus: what and why?
Authors: Rodde N , Munaut C , Prince S , Olivier F , Bellemin AL , Chaouat G , Sandra O
Published: June 2008

Problem:  The in vivo gene delivery offers an alternative for affecting the expression of genes without deriving transgenic animals. In order to investigate the biological functions of genes during implantation, the in vivo transfection of the murine uterus was assessed using a non‐cationic agent.

Material and Methods:  Various routes of administration were tested using complexes of JetPEI (Polyplus‐Transfection) and pEGFPluc plasmid injected into mice. The luciferase activity was quantified and the GFP cell localisation was investigated in the uterus. The consequences of the injections on the pregnancy were estimated.

Results:  The efficiency of the in vivo transfection in the uterus as well the type of transfected cells depends on the route of injection. No apparent effect was seen on the pregnancy outcome.

Conclusion:  Investigating the function of a gene during implantation in the mouse appears feasible using the jetPEI‐based method ofgene delivery. Targeted analyses of specific genes are in progress.
ABSTRACTS: 7 Study of uterine spiral arteries during implantation window in women with normal fertility or implantation failure
Authors: Mona Rahmati , Carine Munaut , Valerie Seravin , Sylvie Dubanchet , Corinne Morvan , Gerard Chaouat , Nathalie Lédée
Published: June 2008

Problem:  Vascular remodelling and angiogenesis are essential for effective human implantation. Clinical tests measuring plasmatic angiogenic factors tend to predict complications of impaired implantation; however, the role of these factors in the endometrium at the time of implantation is not established and has been investigated.

Material and Methods:  On patients with normal fertility or implantation failures, we performed pelvic 3‐D ultrasound and endometrial biopsy during mid‐luteal phase. Endometrial volume, resistance of uterine arteries and sub endometrial blood flow were quantified by ultrasound. For each biopsy, one sample was used for histological dating, CD56+ count, morphological study of vessels and immunohistochemistry (VEGF, VEGF‐R1, VEGF‐R2). Another sample underwent RNA extraction and RT‐PCR (angiogenic factors).

Results:  We noticed that our data (morphology, immunohistochemistry, profile of pro‐angiogenic expression) tend to be different between our two groups.

Conclusion:  These results may help establishing new criteria to define optimum uterine receptivity.
ABSTRACTS: 8 Identifying the receptor‐binding part of PIBF
Authors: Halasz Melinda , Polgar Beata , Kozma Noemi , Berta Gergely , Toth Gabor , Szekeres‐Bartho Julia
Published: June 2008

Problem:  The PIBF1‐gene contains 18 exons and encodes a protein of 757 aminoacid residues with an 89‐kDa molecular mass. We aimed to identify the receptor‐binding region of the molecule, by its ability to activate signal transduction via JAK1/STAT6‐pathway in peripheral lymphocytes.

Materials and Methods:  Recombinant PIBF constructs and small synthetic PIBF analogues representing different regions of the molecule were designed. EMSA was performed to detect nuclear translocation of STAT6‐dimers while intracellular STAT6‐phosphorylation was tested by Western blotting. PIBF‐receptor binding ability of the selected analogue was confirmed by confocal microscopy.

Results:  Nuclear translocation of STAT6‐dimers was induced by PN1(exons 2‐3‐4), PN3(exons 8‐9), PN5(exons 3‐14‐15‐16) constructs. Peptide‐5 (in PN1) and 8 (in PN3‐4) were capable to activate STAT6‐phosphorylation. BodipyFL‐ labelled peptide‐8 bound to the PIBF‐receptor and was internalized in a time‐dependent manner.

Conclusions:  These data suggest that the receptor‐binding region of PIBF might be a conformational structure that includes remote sequences.
ABSTRACTS: 9 Phenotype characterization of the anti‐inflammatory behavior of decidual endothelial cells
Authors: Agostinis C , Masat E , Bossi F , Lombardelli L , Tripodo C , Radillo O , De Seta F , Piccinni MP , Bulla R , Tedesco F
Published: June 2008

Problem:  During pregnancy, an adequate inflammatory control is essential for normal intrauterine foetus development. Vascular endothelium is known to play a critical role in regulation of inflammatory processes. We hypothesize a different ability of decidual endothelial cells (DEC) compared to endothelium from other districts to respond to inflammatory stimuli.

Material and Methods:  DEC were isolated and activated with inflammatory stimuli and their response in term of adhesion molecules expression, vascular leakage and cytokines production was evaluated. These data were compared to the data obtained with HUVEC and microvascular endothelial cells isolated from human skin (ADMEC) and from human endometrium (UtMEC).

Results:  Our observations indicate that DEC: 1. express low levels of adhesion molecules after inflammatory stimulation 2. are unable to respond to classic permeabilizing stimuli 3. present a different cytokine profile.

Conclusions:  Our results indicate that decidual endothelium has a different resting phenotype and shows an anti‐inflammatory behavior compared to other microvascular endothelium.
Reimplantation of primary tooth – case report
Authors: De Carvalho Rocha Maria José , Cardoso Mariane
Published: June 2008

Abstract –  This article reports a clinical case of a primary tooth avulsion followed by dental reimplantation and endodontic treatment according to the protocol established by the Federal University of Santa Catarina for the treatment of traumatized primary teeth. A patient, 2 years and 6 months of age, MR, suffered the avulsion of tooth 61 because of a fall at school. The child was given dental assistance within 30 min, and the avulsed tooth was stored in milk during the period. After radiographic examination, the tooth was reimplanted and splinted. This procedure was performed after having obtained the mother’s permission. Endodontic treatment was implemented a few days after the reimplantation because of the pulp necrosis that originated from a neurovascular bundle rupture. The endodontic treatment consisted of calcium hydroxide manipulated using glycol propylene dressings. After 12 months of treatment, the avulsed tooth presented the absence of periapical bone rarefaction in addition to a dry root canal, presenting ideal conditions for a definitive obturation. The obturation was applied using ZOE. The follow‐up procedures on the obturated tooth were performed until the total eruption of the succeeding permanent tooth had been achieved, with no sequelae. Reimplantation, followed by endodontic treatment performed according to biological principles, has proven to be a good option for avulsed primary teeth.
Management of horizontal root‐fractured teeth: report of three cases
Authors: Westphalen Vânia Portela Dietzel , De Sousa Maria Helena , Da Silva Neto Ulisses Xavier , Fariniuk Luiz Fernando , Carneiro Everdan
Published: June 2008

Abstract –  Horizontal root fractures frequently occur at the maxillary anterior region and sometimes may be healed without endodontic treatment. Diagnosis of horizontal root fractures is mainly reached by the information obtained in clinical and radiographic examinations. The report of three cases presents horizontal root‐fractured teeth, at different thirds, which were healed satisfactory with and without endodontic treatment, rigid splint and carefully monitored.
Aspiration of an avulsed primary incisor: a case report
Authors: Leith Rona , Fleming Paddy , Redahan Siobhan , Doherty Pat
Published: June 2008

Abstract –  This case report describes a 7‐year‐old boy who avulsed and inhaled a primary maxillary incisor. Over the next number of weeks, he developed a persistent, productive cough, which was unresponsive to antibiotic therapy. Radiographic examination revealed a small radiopaque tooth‐shaped object in the right hilar lung region. The aspirated tooth was subsequently successfully removed by bronchoscopy under general anaesthetic. Despite the delay in diagnosis, there was an excellent outcome following removal of the aspirated tooth.
Mineral trioxide aggregate for obturation of maxillary central incisors with necrotic pulp and open apices
Authors: Pinar Erdem Arzu , Sepet Elif
Published: June 2008

Abstract –  There are few reports on treatment of necrotic pulps with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) for apexification. Five immature teeth with necrotic pulps were treated with the use of an apical plug of MTA for apexification. All teeth were central incisors that had premature interruption of root development caused by a previous trauma. According to the treatment protocol, the root canals were rinsed with 5% NaOCl; then calcium hydroxide paste was placed in the canals for 1–6 weeks. The apical portion of the canals were filled with MTA. The rest of the canals were obturated with lateral condensation of the gutta‐percha applied with a canal sealer. At 6 months, 1 year and 2 year follow‐up periods the clinical and radiographic appearance of the teeth showed the resolution of the periapical lesions and continued root end development in all except in the one case in which the MTA was extruded out the apex. MTA can be considered a very effective option for apexification with the advantage of reduced treatment time, good sealing ability and high biocompatibility.
Recurrent trauma histories of two ‘unlucky teeth’: 42‐month follow‐up
Authors: Kırzıoğlu Zuhal , Özay Ertürk M. Semra , Altun A. Ceren
Published: June 2008

Abstract –  The root fractures occur relatively rarely and account for 0.5–2.5% of all dental injuries. The fracture type, severity of dislocation, mobility of fragments and diastasis have negative influence on the healing process. The aim of this study was to describe the treatment and the 42‐month follow‐up period of three trauma histories in a 12‐year‐old patient in 1 year and to emphasize the negative effects of recurrent traumas on the healing pattern and prognosis of root fractures.
Attention profiles in autistic children with and without comorbid hyperactivity and attention problems
Authors: Sinzig Judith , Bruning Nicole , Morsch Dagmar , Lehmkuhl Gerd
Published: June 2008

Objective:

Psychopathological, neuropsychological and genetic findings indicate an association between ASD Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The goal of this study was to compare the neuropsychological profiles of attention functions in children with ADHD and with ASD and without comorbid ADHD. The hypothesis was that either ADHD and autistic children with comorbid ADHD symptoms were more impaired in inhibition and sustained attention performance and that all individuals with ASD show more deficits in divided attention.

Method:

Children aged 6 to 18 years old with ADHD (n = 30) or ASD with (n = 21) and without comorbid ADHD (n = 20) and 30 healthy children were included consecutively. Psychopathology was evaluated using the KIDDIE-SADS and symptom checklists for ADHD and ASD according to DSM-IV. Assessed neuropsychological functioning included inhibition, sustained as well as divided attention and alertness tasks.

Results:

Age and IQ-corrected z-scores were used. Statistically significant group effects were found for the variables sustained attention median (F = 3.2, = .02), hits (F = 3.3, p = .02) and false alarms (F = 3.9, p = .01), divided attention hits (F = 3.3, p = .02), errors (F = 3.1, p = .03) and false alarms (F = 3.3, p = .03) and alertness false alarms (F = 2.9, p = .04). Pearson Correlations revealed associations between ADHD symptoms and sustained attention in the ADHD group and between ADHD symptoms and inhibition in the ASD+ group.

Conclusion:

Our hypothesis was partly confirmed as ADHD children showed more deficits in sustained attention and ASD children in divided attention tasks. However there was no evidence that children with ASD and comorbid ADHD symptoms have a specific profile in comparison to pure ASD children.
Ionic strength and magnesium affect the specificity of Escherichia coli and human 8‐oxoguanine‐DNA glycosylases
Authors: Sidorenko Viktoriya S. , Mechetin Grigory V. , Nevinsky Georgy A. , Zharkov Dmitry O.
Published: June 2008

An abundant oxidative lesion, 8‐oxo‐7,8‐dihydroguanine (8‐oxoG), often directs the misincorporation of dAMP during replication. To prevent mutations, cells possess an enzymatic system for the removal of 8‐oxoG. A key element of this system is 8‐oxoguanine‐DNA glycosylase (Fpg in bacteria, OGG1 in eukaryotes), which must excise 8‐oxoG from 8‐oxoG:C pairs but not from 8‐oxoG:A. We investigated the influence of various factors, including ionic strength, the presence of Mg2+ and organic anions, polyamides, crowding agents and two small heterocyclic compounds (biotin and caffeine) on the activity and opposite‐base specificity of Escherichia coli Fpg and human OGG1. The activity of both enzymes towards 8‐oxoG:A decreased sharply with increasing salt and Mg2+ concentration, whereas the activity on 8‐oxoG:C was much more stable, resulting in higher opposite‐base specificity when salt and Mg2+ were at near‐physiological concentrations. This tendency was observed with both Cl− and glutamate as the major anions in the reaction mixture. Kinetic and binding parameters for the processing of 8‐oxoG:C and 8‐oxoG:A by Fpg and OGG1 were determined under several different conditions. Polyamines, crowding agents, biotin and caffeine affected the activity and specificity of Fpg or OGG1 only marginally. We conclude that, in the intracellular environment, the specificity of Fpg and OGG1 for 8‐oxoG:C versus 8‐oxoG:A is mostly due to high ionic strength and Mg2+.
Long-Term Safety and Efficacy of Tadalafil 5 mg Dosed Once Daily in Men with Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Porst Hartmut , Rajfer Jacob , Casabé Adolfo , Feldman Robert , Ralph David , Vieiralves Luiz F. , Esler Anne , Wolka Anne M. , Klise Suzanne R.
Published: June 2008

Introduction

With once-daily administration of tadalafil, dosing and sexual activity would no longer need to be temporally linked for patients with erectile dysfunction (ED).

Aim

To evaluate long-term safety and efficacy of tadalafil 5 mg dosed once daily for the treatment of ED.

Methods

Patients ≥18 years of age with ED of any functional severity or etiology received tadalafil 5 mg once daily for 1 (N = 234) or 2 (N = 238) years during the open-label extensions of two previously reported studies. Patients who completed the 1-year open-label extension concluded with a 4-week ED treatment-free period. Baseline was defined as prior to receiving any study drug.

Main Outcome Measures

Safety measures included adverse events, electrocardiograms, and clinical laboratory measures. Efficacy measures included the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)-Erectile Function (-EF), -Intercourse Satisfaction (-IS), and -Overall Satisfaction (-OS) domain scores, and the Global Assessment Questions (GAQ1: improved erections; GAQ2: improved ability to engage in sexual activity).

Results

Overall, 208/234 (88.9%) and 139/238 (58.4%) patients completed the 1- and 2-year open-label extensions, respectively. No study drug-related serious adverse events were observed. Treatment-emergent adverse events observed in ≥5% of the patients during the first year of either open-label extension were dyspepsia, headache, back pain, and influenza. No clinically meaningful abnormalities associated with tadalafil were observed for electrocardiograms or clinical laboratory measures. Mean IIEF domain scores improved from baseline to the conclusions of the 1- and 2-year open-label extensions, respectively: -EF, +10.4 and +10.8; -IS, +4.0 and +3.7; and -OS, +3.0 and +3.2. At the conclusion of the 2-year open-label extension, 95.7% and 92.1% of the patients reported positive responses to GAQ1 and GAQ2, respectively.

Conclusions

In these long-term, open-label, once-daily dosing studies, tadalafil 5 mg was well tolerated and effective, making it a viable alternative to the current on-demand dosing of tadalafil for men with ED.
Changes in employees' attitudes at work following an acquisition: a comparative study by acquisition type
Authors: Guerrero Sylvie
Published: June 2008

The purpose of this paper is to examine how employee reaction varies in the event of an acquisition, and ultimately, to show that it depends on the acquisition context; specifically: (1) the legitimacy of the purchasing firm's identity, and (2) the extent of the organizational changes or discontinuity resulting from the acquisition. The research hypotheses considered are tested using a single questionnaire administered repeatedly over a five‐year period to the employees of 85 sites belonging initially to three different firms: ABC (the acquiring firm), EFG (the firm taken over in a friendly acquisition) and XYZ (firm absorbed in a hostile acquisition). The results mainly show that employees working at sites belonging initially to EFG have higher organizational identification scores than those at sites belonging initially to XYZ. Insecurity scores increase at all sites after the acquisition period, even for employees who originally belonged to ABC. Finally, a temporal link is seen between organizational identification, insecurity and job satisfaction.